NationStates Jolt Archive

A flash of lightning brightened up the darkening sky, illuminating the world below before once again casting it into shadow. The rhythmic beating of raindrops hitting the hard land, drummed out its message for all to hear, one that requested all but the brave and the foolish to enter its veil. Suddenly, the sky screamed for attention, as the distant rumbling grew louder, thunder beckoning the arrival of another flash.

Pulling the cloak tighter, the shadowy figure walked through the deserted streets, head down keeping the rain out. Moving as quickly possible through the mud filled streets, there was only one destination that appealed, and only one place that kept its doors open to the weary traveller. Stepping quickly through the door, the figure stopped and looked about the inn, the other patrons seeing nothing but a very slight flicked of a hooded head; if they could see instead they would see bright eyes scanning them.

Having caused enough attention to be drawn, the hooded figure walked quickly to a table, where sat a man of numerous years, his weathered face telling more about him that could be conveyed in a million words. As the figure drew near, the old man raised his hand, and indicated the stool on the opposite side of the table from him. A smile flickering over his lips, as his eyes took in the shape before him.

“Are you going to show a little courtesy and reveal to me who they have sent?”

The hooded figure stood still for a moment, no movement or sound made, almost like a statue, then suddenly hands were raised to the hood, and pulled it slowly back, the movement sending a river of drops to run off the sodden material. As if released from a dam, a flood of golden hair tumbled down.

“This is a surprise.” The old man tilted his head, before returning his gaze to the lady before him. “And an honour.” The man’s smile grew, as he began to raise his hand, stopping and lowering it as his guest shook her head. “Ah, then this is indeed serious business.”

The woman sitting opposite him nodded her head slightly. “It’s a matter of life and death…” Her voice was low, and deadly serious. “For all of us.”

* * * * *

Dropping his axe to the floor, Kaleck sighed heavily as he looked at the pile of wood that had grown during his work, knowing that no matter how much he cut, it would never be enough. All for a bite to eat and a shelter over his head. Not that he would complain or grumble about what he had been given to do, grateful to finally be off the road, hoping that this time he could settle in one place, long enough to call it home.

Not that Kaleck had much memory of what a home was like. Searching through the images of his mind, a face, a place, something that would reveal a little about himself, for he had no past, or nothing he could remember. Where his past life, and ancestors should stand was nothing but a darkness, as if there was something there, buried deep inside, he just needed to find the key that would lead to the opening of his mind. And he had been searching, every day for as long as he could recall.

Sitting down on the ground beside his tool, Kaleck leant against a nearby tree, closing his eyes against the shine of high sun. It had reached the hottest part of the day, and no matter how much he may have wanted to continue, to finish this chore so that he could move onto the next, he knew that only fools battled the elements. There was no beating nature, no matter how strong and brave the warrior. So, as was always his routine, he downed his tools, and took a nap. He closed his eyes, and lost his bearing in the world, as he drifting into sleep…

* * * * *

She stood on a pedestal of green, the light of purity shining from her being, given her an ethereal appearance. The whiteness of her flowing gown, blowing lightly in the breeze, and the pale blonde of her hair, strands of hair dancing around her face, added to the image of a spirit, no one of mere flesh could look so beautiful.

“Come to me.”

The voice was little more than a breath on the wind, melodic and sweet, pure and honest. A voice that could command a soul to obey. A voice hypnotic in its calmness.

“The time has come.”

Behind the woman, the sky began to lose its brightness. Huge black clouds began to sweep over the sky, casting their shadow of the world, a sudden coldness filling the air. The woman raised her hands to the heavens, a golden glow flowing from her fingertips, holding back the feeling of death, her face contorted in her effort.

“I WILL RETURN!”

The bodiless voice bellowed, filling the sky with its sound, shaking the very foundations of the earth.

* * * * *

“I don’t think it’s even possible. I don’t think any exist.”

The woman leaned on the table, her eyes blazing, though her voice remained calm. “They exist, they are asleep.” She smiled a little. “Now is the time for them to awaken, and face their destiny.”

The huge statue that dominated the audience hall kept watch over the proceedings beneath, the Goddess’ eyes fixed upon the group that gathered below her. Two men in almost identical garments were having a deep conversation, so lost in their speak were they, that they did not see the third man who had entered the room until he was practically upon them, and then it was his voice that drew their attention.

“The preparations for the festival are coming along well.” Lord Hallacar smiled as he stopped before the others. “A week long celebration in honour of the ascendance of Lady Inzilbeth. Nin-In-Eilph displaying her glory in…” He stopped suddenly as he caught the look on the other’s faces.

The older of Lord Hallacar’s companions smiled slightly. “That is indeed good news.” Lord Cirdan frowned slightly then turned his gaze to the third man. “We have tales coming from around Mar-nu-Falmar. There is a stirring, as if something is about to happen.” Lord Vardamir flicked his eyes between the other members of the High Council. “Lady Inzilbeth is worried.”

Lord Hallacar grew quiet, his eyes revealing his effort to take in what they were saying. “Nan Dungortheb?”

The youngest of the three shock his head. “Not that we have heard. But Her Most Honourable is sending out a mission.” Lord Vardamir looked grim. “All we can do is pray.”

* * * * *

The flowing white gown caressed the form of the young woman who walked slowly around the group that stood before her in the middle of the courtyard. Around them there was a huge amount of activity, as stable lads and other retainers worked tirelessly to prepare the dozen horses that were scattered around the area. Her deep blue eyes seemed to touch each of the people standing before her, her pale blonde hair falling down her back, the slight breeze barely moving a strand out of place.

“These are dangerous times, and where you are destined is one of the most dangerous of all.” Lady Inzilbeth slowly moved her eyes between each of the soldiers before her. “I will not tell you that this is going to be an easy ride. The fate of Mar-nu-Falmar rests in your hands, if the stories are to be believed. Go with care, and may Kementari go with you.” She tilted her head slightly, as those before her fell onto one knee, their heads bent, before standing and splitting up to find their horses.

Standing slightly behind her to the left stood a lone man watching proceedings. She turned and faced him, a smile on her lips as she approached him. “Tal.” She watched as he performed a similar move to that of her soldiers. “I am glad that you have come.”

Rising, he gazed into the face of the Guardian. “Lady Inzilbeth. How could I have refused your call?” He stood silent, having made his greeting. Tal had been summoned to the capital on many occasions; each one seemed to herald the beginning of some impossible quest.

“Come with me.” Lady Inzilbeth smiled and guided them both into the Palace.

* * * * *

The old man grinned before breaking into a hearty laugh, drawing the attention to half of the other customers in the inn. “Ah, Jadira, that is the most amusing thing I have heard for a long time.” He picked up his tankard and took a large swig of his ale, remnants of glistening on his beard as he lowered it back to the table, before rubbing the back of his hand over his mouth.

“In three days, a man will come looking for you with a message from the Guardian.” Her face remained level, even if she was slightly angered by the man’s reaction. “When he arrives you will leave with him.”

The man stopped laughing and looked at the woman before him. “And where are we to go?” He shook his head and sighed loudly. “The Lost Ones have not been heard of for centuries. Over time even they are said to have forgotten who they are.”

Now it was Jadira’s time to smile. “Follow your heart. It will lead you to where you are meant to go.” She stood up from her seat, her hands resting on the table facing him. “A black time is ahead of us. Do not fail us.” Without another word, Jadira turned and headed towards the door.

The man sat and watched her go. Picking up his ale, he took another swig then laughed again, as he pushed the conversation to the back of his head.

* * * * *

Waking up from his sleep, Kaleck blinked open his eyes, then closed them again before slowly opening them again. What he thought was a remnant of his dream, was actually a person standing before him. Focusing on the face before him, he grinned, trying to brush away the thoughts of his dream, his cheeks reddening slightly as if she could see what was in his mind.

“I should have known you would be asleep.” Maralyna lowered herself to the grass beside Kaleck and smiled. In her hand, she carried a small basket, which she place between them. “I’ve brought you some lunch. I thought you might be hungry.” She lowered her eyes from his and began to empty the basket.

Kaleck smiled as he looked between her and the food she was picking out. He grabbed the cloth, and spread it over the floor, then aided her in arranging the lunch. “Thank you.” He grinned up at her. “Are you staying?”

Nodding her head slowly, Maralyna returned her gaze to his. “If you want me too?” She made herself comfortable on the ground beside him, knowing the answer before he gave it. They went through the same ritual every day, ever since he came to work for her family. “Mama has said I am to wait for the basket.” She laughed, as her cheeks began to redden as his had done earlier. “She doesn’t trust you, you know.”

A laugh emitted from Kaleck, loud and heartily. “I know, and yet she trusts me with you.” He picked up a piece of pie and bit into it. He ran his eyes over her, his heart beating loudly in his chest. They had become friends almost from the moment they had met, and over the months his feelings for her had grown, and he was sure, though nothing had been discussed, that she felt the same way about him.

Maralyna blushed even more. “But it is Mama’s favourite basket.” She giggled softly, as she lowered her eyes and picked up an apple, biting into it slowly. “And she knows that I can find my own way back.” She rested her hand in her lap, the apple cradled in her palm.

Overhead, the sun began to disappear behind a cloud, the darkening sky a sure sign of one thing. Moments later, the rain began to fall. On the ground below, Kaleck and Maralyna hurriedly threw the food back into the basket, their clothes quickly becoming wet. Grabbing the basket and Maralyna’s hand, Kaleck pulled them through the trees towards a small cave, getting them out of the thunderous weather.

A large crash and a flash of lightning heralded the beginning of a storm. Maralyna flapped her skirt trying to get rid of the access water, before ringing it in her hands. Kaleck stood nearby watching her. “I hope you aren’t expected back too soon.” He moved towards the entrance of the cave looking at the sky above, as she took the basket from his hand and began to unload it again. “I think we are in for a long one.”

* * * * *

In another inn, far away from the one that Jadira had left, two men sat huddled in a corner, the light of the inn low, making them almost disappear into the shadows. Their black cloaks aided in their blending, obscuring not only their faces but also any other telltale detail that might be revealed to any observant eye.

They spoke quietly, almost in a whisper, not wanting to share their speech with anyone else. One of them looked briefly around the inn, his eyes taking in everyone present; making sure that no one was close enough to hear. “There is a map, one that not only details the exact location, but also the route once inside.”

The other man frowned, even though the expression could not be seen. “I thought no one had come out alive.” His voice sounded credulous. “How can there be a map?”

Chuckling softly, the first man shook his head. “That is a myth to keep people out. Just like the stories that it is protected by demons and other strange things.” He smiled to himself. “We are going to be rich. Rich beyond our wildest dreams.”

* * * * *

Tal got onto his horse, and headed out of the Palace, his pace brisk. He sighed to himself wondering just what he had gotten himself into this time. Giving the horse its head, he raced off over the countryside, following the instructions given to him by Lady Inzilbeth.

Tag, for further reading

Taggity, you looking for any characters, or this just one author show?

Tal Khand kicked his horse into a gallop, wanting to make good time before he had to call it a night. Already he could see the sun begin its slow decline having reached its peak a couple of hours before. Ahead of him he could see a large expanse of greenery, in the distance a mountain range gave him the general location of the small town that he sought. He rarely rode in the open, the plains having a strange habit of tricking the unwary with bogs, but he had travelled this route long enough to be aware of the signs to look for.

Making his way in what would appear to any observer as a haphazard path, Tal slowed the horse an hour into his journey then stopped, allowing him time to survey his surroundings. The area was open to a large extent, with clumps of tall grasses protruding here and there, but his eyes were not interested in those, he was seeking the blood red flowers that grew around the bogs. Fortunately for the traveller in the know, nature had kindly marked out the danger.

Moving slowly, he guided himself around in a large arc, sweeping past an area of bog land on his right. His eyes flicked over the ground, before he was attracted to a sound before him of horses hooves, coming at quite a pace. Looking up, he saw the rider of a jet black horse racing towards him, or more accurately towards the bog. Behind them in the distance, a cloud of dust marked what could only be another group of riders.

“Stop!!” Tal called out at the top of his voice, unsure whether the rider was close enough to hear, or even whether his shout could be heard over the thudding of the horse’s hooves.

Before he had the chance to even move, the horse had ground to a halt as if it had sensed the danger ahead, unfortunately the rider was paying far less attention, and in a swift movement, they were flying over the horse’s lowered head, hitting the ground with a thump, their hand still holding the reins. Watching the scene for a moment, Tal could see that the rider was not moving and feared the worse, and if that were not bad enough, around the stricken rider, a bed of red flowers.

Tal looked ahead, judging the followers to be quite some distance behind, he kicked on his horse and raced around the path, hoping that he made it to the victim before the bog claimed the body.

* * * * *

Kaleck watched as another flash of lightning brightened up the cloud darkened sky. He kept up his vigil at the mouth of the cave, unsure exactly how long they had been sheltering from the storm, but watching as the light began to fade it seemed must have been quite a while. He sighed heavily to himself, praying to his Goddess for a break in the weather.

“I think we might be here for some time yet.” Maralyna moved over to where he was standing and placed her hand lightly on his shoulder. She greeted him with a smile as he turned to face him. “It was fortunate that Mama sent me with some food.” Flicking her eyes towards the sky, she watched the rain continue to fall, drenching the land beneath.

Letting out a laugh, Kaleck looked at Maralyna as he brushed a strand of hair that had fallen loose out of her face. “I’m not sure she would agree if we end up stranded here all night.” He pressed his lips to her forehead tenderly.

Maralyna nestled in his embrace, wrapping her arms around him. “It’s not Mama that you would have to worry about.” She looked up into his face and smiled. “Torig would have your head on a pole if he thought you had done something.”

Kaleck fell silent as he returned her gaze. “I think I need to pray harder.” He grinned, as he led her deeper into the cave to where they had laid out the food she had brought him earlier. Making sure she was settled on the ground, before making himself comfortable a little way away.

* * * * *

Two cloaked figures made their way out of the inn, and walked slowly towards the barn where their horses were being tended to. As they moved, their eyes flicked between the other people around them, as if they suspected them all of spying on them. Almost as one, they pulled their hoods further over their heads, blocking any chance of their faces being seen, as well as to keep the rain out.

Their feet squelch in the mud, already an inch deep, making their journey a little harder than they would have like, but it was not long before they had made it to the shelter of the barn. Silently they walked over to their horses, and prepared them for the off, mounting as quickly as they could. Tossing a coin at the stable lad as they passed, they rode out into the rain, making their way to the edge of the town.

“I hope this is not an omen.” Norhid shouted over a particularly loud clap of thunder to his companion. “I would have felt better if we had started with the sun lighting our way.”

A laugh could be heard from the other man. “You think the Gods smile down on people like you and me, Polfar?” His hood moved as he shook his head. “When we have the treasure, we will need the blessing of no one.”

The younger man of the two sighed slightly, a little concerned that his friend seemed to have given up all his sense. It was one thing to attempt what they had planned, but it was something totally bewildering to him for Norhid to ignore the Gods. He was starting to wonder whether this whole endeavour was a good idea, when the sky lit up brilliantly with a flash of lightning.

“You know, Polfar, I think this is the perfect weather for us.” Norhid kicked on his horse, pushing it into a gallop. “Who is going to want to follow us?” He shouted back over his shoulder.

Polfar grinned, as he galloped after his friend.

* * * * *

Tal reached the spot where the fallen rider’s horse stood nervously snorting a slight distance away from the bog, moving its feet agitatedly as if stopping its movements would cause it to sink. Dismounted from his saddle, Tal moved carefully over to the edge of the bog, making sure to stand on the right side of the red flowers. From where he stood he could see that the rider was still alive, although at the moment, they appeared to be out cold, and fortunately only resting on the edge of the death trap.

Running this hand over his brow, Tal began to assess the situation, trying to find the best solution that would not cost either the rider or himself their lives. He moved slowly towards the horse, still attached to its owner by its reins. He patted the animal gently, trying to ease its fears, as he whispered comforting words to it.

Suddenly a groan emitted from the body lying in the bog, and a slight movement indicated that consciousness had returned. Unfortunately, this also meant that there was a shift in the balance on the edge of the bog, sending the person off the ledge and into the murky water, a sucking noise filling the air as the thick water began gain a hold.

“Hold still!” Tal shouted, as the rider began to panic and fight against the motion of the bog. He rushed back to his own horse, and pulled a rope from the saddle, looping it around his arms as he returned.

“Help me!” The voice had not been what he had expected. Instead of the voice of a man, he heard the frightened sound of a young woman. As she struggled in the bog, her hood fell off her head, revealing long, dark brown hair and the deepest blue eyes he had ever seen. “Please, help me!”

Moving swiftly now, his own concern for her safety growing with the fear he could hear in her voice. “Grab this!” He tossed the rope towards her, keeping hold of one end, as she made a reach for it. The movement caused the bog to tighten its hold on her, as her hand missed by inches.

“I can’t reach it.” She let out a scream. “Please, hurry.”

Pulling the rope back to himself, he once again looped it around his arms, before preparing to throw it again. It seemed to travel in slow motion as it flew through the air, this time landing well within her reach. Her hand scrambled through the sludge, fingers finding and wrapping tightly around the rope, as she pulled her other hand towards it, keeping its grip on the reins at the same time.

“Try not to move so much.” Tal called out to her as he tied his end of the rope to the horse’s saddle securely. “Come on, boy.” He coaxed the horse slowly back away from the edge of the bog, keeping its movements steady, afraid that any jerky motions would cause the rider to lose her hold.

What seemed a lifetime to both, but in reality was little more than a few minutes, the bog finally gave up its hold on the young woman, as she collapsed onto the solid ground, her clothes covered in the thick greenie brown sludge. As Tal neared her, he could hear her breathing heavily from the exertion and fear. He crouched down beside her and looked her over, relieved to find no sign of serious injury. He placed his hand on her shoulder, and felt her flinch.

“I’m sorry. I did not mean to startle you.” He spoke softly as he let his eyes move over her form, trying to gain and clue as to who she was, why she was riding at such a brisk pace over a dangerous piece of ground, and why the other riders were interesting in her.

She looked up at him, and gave in a tiny smile, while her eyes held nothing but suspicion. “Thank you,” she barely whispered the words, as she began to work her way into a sitting position, not accepting any help from Tal as he offered her his hand. “I need to go.” She looked over his shoulder, her eyes fixing on the slowly closing in followers. “Right now.”

With no further words, she walked over to her horse, and mounted, making herself comfortable in the saddle. He stood up and grabbed the reins, tossing them over to her. “I don’t think you are going to get out of here on your own. You’d best follow me.” Tal began to make his way to his horse, when her voice stopped him.

“I don’t need you help.”

He turned around to her and smiled. “I beg to differ.” He indicated the bog that only a moment before she had been caught in. “You could have died in that.” He then pointed at the horsemen. “Are they going to pull you out of the next one?”

Sighing softly, she shook her head. “No.” She looked at him, realising she had little choice. “I would be grateful for your help.”

Tal shot her a smile. “It’s my pleasure.” He continued on towards his ride, quickly getting into the saddle and turning the horse back the way he came. “Do exactly what I do, and do not leave the path I take.”

* * * * *

Lady Inzilbeth stood lost in thought in her garden, beside her stood what looked like a bird bath, the sun reflecting lightly against the gently rippling water. She raised her eyes from the bowl as what appeared to be an image disappeared. A smile fixed on her lips.


[ooc: Thank you for your interest. This is just going to be a one author piece; a way for me to develop this nation and try my hand at writing a fantasy story. In future I hope to do more RPs with it]

The Great Audience Chamber was in silence, the flickering candles cast dancing shadows along the walls. The statue of the Goddess pulling Mar-Nu-Falmar from the depths of the sea stood in semi-darkness at the head of the room, looking down on the throne that rested beneath her watchful gaze. Sitting in the chair, eyes closed in thought, Lady Inzilbeth let her thoughts float far away.

The main doors to the chamber opened, and a set of solitary footsteps echoed through the room. The swishing of a cloak, as it brushed against the marble floor was the only other sound to fill the air. As the footsteps grew nearer, the Guardian’s eyes opened slowly, revealing one of the Falathrim. She rose from the seat and walked down the steps of the dais to greet him.

“Lord Vardamir.” As she spoke the man before her bowed his head, rising again to look her in the face. “You seem troubled.”

His Lordship cleared his voice. “I have been worried about you, Milady. This darkness that is coming upon us has…” He left the words in the air as she smiled at him, feeling a calmness spreading over him.

Lady Inzilbeth interweaved her fingers in front of her body, as her smile grew. “This has been a worrying time, Lord Vardamir. There are events happening that are beyond our control…all we can do is get the pieces into place, and watch as it all unfolds.”

“The Gods are playing chess.” Lord Vardamir snorted slightly, before lowering his eyes.

The Guardian released her hand, and extended it to him. Lord Vardamir looked at it for a moment before taking it gently in his. He closed his eyes, as his mind filled with a myriad of images, each passing as quickly as it appeared. His breath became ragged as he watched, barely taking in the pictures before him. With a large exhale, he opened his eyes, as the images stopped, and glanced into the eyes of the woman before him.

“Everything is in hand, Lord Vardamir.” Her voice was calm and soothing.

Nodding his head, as he released her hand, his Lordship fell to his knees. “Forgive me, Milady.”

Lady Inzilbeth placed her hand lightly on his head. “We all have our moment of doubt, Lord Vardamir.” They remained in this position for some, until the Falathrim felt he had atoned for his lack of faith.

* * * * *

Bringing her horse to a stop, Jadira looked over the plains that lay beneath her. Large open spaces as far as the eye could see, her destination being several days ride away. Up ahead, in the distance she could see huge black clouds, flashes of lightning sending bolts into the ground beneath. As if it knew where they were heading, her mount whinnied, protesting its lack of desire to take that path. Feeling almost as reluctant, Jadira kicked the horse into a walk, as the made their way down the side of the hill.

* * * * *

Maralyna sighed heavily, as she looked out upon the rain for the countless time that day, before turning back inside the cave to where Kaleck was making himself comfortable leaning against the wall. Moving over to him, she crouched looking somewhat miserable, her eyes showing her concern. She took his hand in hers and squeezed it, smiling to him, though the smile never quite reached her eyes.

“Mama is going to be so worried.” She looked over her shoulder at the sheet of rain outside. “Do you think we should make a run for it, and head back to the house?” Even as she spoke she knew what his answer would be.

“Mara, your Ma would have my guts for garters if I took you out in that.” He laughed a little as he shook his head, before growing more serious. “If it was just the rain, I would say yes, but that storm, I’ve not seen anything this bad for many a year.” He rubbed his thumb against her hand. “We will be safer here.” As if to back up his words, the sky flashed brilliant white, just before a resounding crash of thunder sounded overhead.

Sitting down on the ground beside him, Maralyna nestled against him, smiling as his arm slipped around her back, holding her to him. “I’ve just got a bad feeling…like something is going to happen.” She tilted her head and looked into his eyes, before smiling. “Storms scare me.”

Kaleck returned her smile then placed a tender kiss on the top of her head. “I promise I will not let anything happen to you.” He rested his head gently against hers. “Ever.”

Resting against each other, they watched as the storm continued to rumble and flash over them, as the ground was pounded by the fierce rain, beating out its tune.

* * * * *

Making their slow progress through the bogs, Tal Khand and his companion both looked sporadically at the following horsemen, who had also lost some of the distance they had been gaining. Although their interest in the other riders differed, one looked out of curiosity while the other looked out of fear. They continued the journey in silence until they were halfway across, when the female rider took her bearings and frowned.

“Where are you taking us?” She called over to him, stopping her horse suddenly. “We seem to be heading to Galaneth.” Her voice rose with frustration. “I’ve just left there and you are taking me back.”

Tal brought his mount to a standstill at her words. “Listen, Miss…” He shook his head at her lack of name. “I told you I would help you through the bog. Where you go from there is your choice, but you see, I am heading for Galaneth, and there is a path that comes out over there.” He pointed into the distance at a point midway between the town and the forest to which she was heading. “That way we are both happy.”

Her eyes travelled to the point that he had indicated then moved to the riders over her shoulder, who seemed to be losing more distance. “Just as long as we avoid Galaneth.” She turned back to Tal, her eyes fixed to his.

“You have no need to worry. I’m not foolish enough to take you back there, unless there’s a bounty on you, of course.” He looked at her menacingly, before turning to look ahead; as he did a grin appeared on his lips, one that she did not see.

As she followed behind him, she wriggled nervously in her saddle, knowing that she could not make her way through the bog without his help. The last thing she wanted was to become trapped like she had previously. She would watch him carefully, at the first opportunity she had, she would lose his company, yet in a strange way she felt oddly at ease with him. She shook away the thought, knowing that in order to survive she could trust no one.

* * * * *

Druet looked out of the door of the cottage, up into the black sky, as another flash of lightning flashed brightly, causing him to blink his eyes. He could feel tiny splashes of water against his face as the wind blew the rain into the shelter he was taking. Lowering his gaze, he looked around the surrounding area as he searched again for any approaching people.

From behind him he could hear footsteps only the stone floor. “I think you are wasting your time, Druet.” The sound of his mother’s voice caused him to turn. “Mara would have headed under shelter, so as not to be caught under this.”

The young man shook his head. “But she is out there with Kaleck.” He frowned to his mother, before turning his attention back outside.

“That’s good, Druet. He would not let any harm come to her.” She placed her hand on her son’s shoulder. “I cannot think of anyone I would trust her safety with.” The mother smiled, she had seen the growing feelings between her daughter and the young man who had come to work for them. “She will be fine…and no, I do not want you to go out there looking for your sister.”

Druet sighed heavily, and then smiled. “You have my word, but if he’s done anything to her…” He left the sentence unfinished as he looked at his mother’s face. As he heard her withdraw back into the house, he looked up at the sky, as another flash brightened the area, causing him to shut his eyes against the glare.

Opening them, he was surprised to see an orange glow flickering in the darkness. Suddenly the air became alive with shouts and screams. He rushed outside to see what all the fuss was about and saw that half of the village was going up in flames.

* * * * *

As Jadira made her way slowly over the plains, she saw the lightning strike the ground, followed by the telltale orange glow. She sighed heavily, kicking on the horse, knowing that she was too far away to make a difference, but rode hard just the same.

The flames were licking the sky, which seemed to have grown rapidly darker. Even the rain was having trouble stopping the fire from spreading across the village, as it leapt from house to house, the spark from one igniting the thatched roof of the next. Despite the frantic efforts of those around, and the water chain that spread from the houses to the river, with buckets passing quickly between hands, there was no change in the speed of destruction.

Druet had long since left the safety of the house, and was near the head of the water chain, throwing bucketful after bucketful of water onto the growing blaze. “We aren’t getting the better of it! This one is too far gone!” He shouted over the roaring fire as the timber of the building began to groan in the heat. “We have to pull it down that one.” He pointed to the unaffected dwelling next door. “We have to stop the spread!”

“We can’t do that!” Another voice called, fighting to be heard over the noise. “There is nothing wrong with it. We will be causes unnecessary damage.”

Turning, Druet stared at the speaker. “We have no choice. If this one sparks and hits that, we’ll just have a continuous chain…we have to remove one of the links or else the whole village is going to go up in flames.”

The man looked at the other dwelling, his mind working, going over what the younger man had said. “You are right. But we have to save some of the belongings inside.”

Druet nodded. “Make it quick, we don’t have much time.”

* * * * *

Maralyna walked over to the entrance of the cave, her face etched with worry. She looked outside, and saw to her relief that the rain had began to slow, and would stop shortly. As she was about to turn back to her companion, she spotted a strange flickering light, dancing against the darkening sigh.

“Kaleck! Come quickly!” Her voice resounded around the interior of the cave, bringing the young man to her side rapidly. “What is that?” She pointed off into the distance, where the orange glow was growing more pronounced.

He stared off into the distance, his brow furrowed. “It looks like fire.” He stared for a moment. “It’s the village!” Without another word, he dashed out into the rain. “Come on!” He looked back briefly before setting off at a pace.

“Kaleck, wait!” Maralyna watched as he ran off down the hillside towards the village, a moment later she was racing after him.

* * * * *

As she pulled her horse to a stop, and jumped down, Jadira’s eyes were flicking around the village, looking to see where her help would be best used. She stopped the water chain and headed towards the point where the water throwers were working. Off to one side, she could see a bunch of people moving rapidly around a house, emptying it of its contents. She raced forward, placing a hand on one of the women’s shoulders, drawing her attention.

“What is going on?” She screamed over the noise to be heard.

The woman looked a little bewildered, as if Jadira was talking to her in some strange tongue. “My house!” She pointed at the dwelling and cried. “They are destroying my house! Stop them, please!” The woman looked tearfully at Jadira, who nodded and patted her gently before moving off.

As she neared the entrance of the building, she almost ran straight into a man coming out, his arms full of goods. “That’s it! We can’t get any more!” His eyes flicked from the burning dwelling next door that seemed to be ready to fall any minute. “Bring it down! Bring it down!”

Just then a group of men took a unified step back; in their hands were two large ropes. Together they pulled, tightening the rope that had been attached to points at the base of the structure. Despite their effort, the two supporting poles remaining almost fixed in place, having moved a bare inch. Slackening the rope, the men took several breaths, preparing themselves then pulled again with all their might.

“Do you have any horses?” Jadira’s voice cut through the noise, as she looked at the man who had exited the dwelling. The man stared at her, just like the woman had previously. “I said, do you have any horses?”

“This is not the time for riding.” Druet retorted and pushed his way past her to free his hands of the burden he was carrying. “There you go, Grenia, we’ve got as much as we could.” He looked at the old woman, who was now in floods of tears. With a reassuring look to tell her all would be well, he began to walk over to where the men were pulling on the ropes.

Jadira place her hand on his shoulder stopping him in mid-stride. “I don’t mean to ride, you fool.” Her voice showed her obvious anger. “Tie one to the rope. It will help.”

Druet turned around and glared at the strange woman. “The horses are in the pasture, they were set loose in their once the fire was first spotted. If you want to catch one, go ahead…but I don’t have the time.” He turned and strode away. “Come on, men! Pull!”

Jadira sighed heavily, and run back the way she had come, quickly locating her horse. She pulled on its rein, but it refused to move in the direction of the burning buildings. Pulling her cloak from around her shoulders, she draped it quickly over the beasts head, feeling it begin to calm down. Giving it a moment, she once more pulled on the rein, guiding the horse quickly to the group of men, who were still battling to bring the dwelling down.

“Someone help me tie him to the rope!” She shouted as she neared the group. “You?” She pointed to Druet. “Reorganise the men, leave half with the horse, move the others onto the other rope.”

Druet looked at her stunned.

“Do you want to stand there watching as your village burns?” Jadira pointed to the men. “Get them organised!”

* * * * *

Maralyna lost track of Kaleck halfway down the hill, not that she needed him to guide her to the village. Even if she did not know the way, the bright orange light made it easy to find. She continued to run, hoping to spot him, but he was long gone. As she placed her foot on the ground, her balance was lost as her shoe slide upon the mud that had appeared following the rain. Reaching out her arms, she tried to steady herself, but she was out of control, and the more she worked at straightening herself, the worse she moved against the slippery ground.

With a cry, she tumbled onto the ground, her momentum sending her fast down the hillside. Unable to stop herself, she rolled frantically down, until her body hit a tree, winding her and knocking her into unconsciousness.

* * * * *

The burning building was growing rapidly out of control, the water hardly touching the flames before it turned into a sheet of mist. The wooden frame began to creek loudly as it tried to keep the roof standing, but it was only a matter of time before the burnt wood would no longer be able to hold the weight.

The group of men had reorganised just as Jadira had requested, and she now stood at the back of the group, her hands holding firmly to the rein of the horse, as it once more grew restless with the noise surrounding it. “Get ready to pull!” Her voice rang out, the men taking up the slack. “Pull!” She tugged on the horse’s rein, feeling the strain of the beast as the rope pulled taut.

Slowly, ever so slowly, the building began to yield, letting go of its hold in the ground, the poles shifting little by little through the ground, until finally it dislodged the roof, sending it crashing to the ground. A loud cheer rang through the air, as the men released their hold on the ropes, and not a moment too soon, as a loud crashing sound could be heard, as the burning building gave up the battle, and followed its fellow to the ground. The sea of sparks touched the felled dwelling, but the small fires were quickly quenched by the ready and waiting water carriers before they could take hold.

As the group celebrated, working quickly to douse the still burning rubble, Kaleck finished his run down the hill, his breath rapid. He quickly located Druet, who was patting the horse gently on its back and smiling at Jadira. Kaleck caught him saying thanks to the stranger nearby.

“What happened? Is everyone alright?” He asked frantically, his gaze moving quickly around the damage.

Druet laughed. “Everyone’s fine.” He looked past the new arrival, his brow furrowing suddenly. “Where’s Mara?” He pushed past Kaleck, searching for his sister.

“She’s right behind me.” He turned, expecting to see the young woman following a little way behind. “She was right behind me.” He broke into a run, returning to the entrance of the village, the other man just behind him. “She was there. I heard her.”

Druet turned around and grabbed Kaleck. “You left her?” He began to shake the man, his anger evident. “On the hill when it is growing dark? Are you a fool or something? What were you thinking?”

Suddenly he felt a hand move between him and Kaleck, and a familiar sounding voice breaking into his thoughts. “This is helping no one.” Jadira looked at Druet, as her hand tried to pry him from the other man. “This will not find your sister.” She relaxed as she felt him release Kaleck, who she turned her attention to. “Where did you last see her?”

“The cave…the cave at the top of Lominian Pass.” He took several deep breaths. “We were sheltering there from the rain. She saw the flames and we came to help.” He looked at Druet. “She was right behind me, I swear.”

“If anything has happened to her, I’ll…”

Jadira cut him off. “We’ll go look for her. Everything will be fine.” She dropped her hands from their bodies and looked between the two, her gaze falling on Kaleck. “You’d best lead the way.”

With a quick nod of consent, he began to walk in the direction of the hill, his pace quickening as he went.

* * * * *

Maralyna blinked open her eyes and groaned as she tried to move, her body aching from the force with which she had hit the tree. Trying to pull herself up from the ground, she managed to hold her weight shakily on her arms, feeling them shaking slightly as they struggled to move. She had lost all idea of where she was; knowing no more than that she was on the hill path.

Getting slowly to her feet, she placed her hand on the tree, her head spinning madly. She took a step, just as her vision once more went black, as she fainted to the ground. As she hit the grass, she began to tumble away from the path, falling backwards down the hill a bit, until her fall was once more broken by a bush.

[Tag, interested in reading.]