Jacob nodded slowly. “At first they said I was being held for questioning about a raid on a grain shipment. There was, of course, no such raid. It was clear I was framed to get me out of the way. They made it seem as if I was cooperating in order to coerce me into furthering their goals, but I refused. I think the only reason I’ve kept my head is that my mother has agreed to work with them.”
“I can’t believe Lady Nal’Thain would side with the Dark Knight over her own people,” said Millet. “She would rather die.”
“You’re right,” said Jacob. “But it was my life, and not her own, that she was protecting. That’s what they do. They use the people you care for against you.”
“How long have you been in prison?” asked Maybell.
“Six months,” he replied. “I was released once, but immediately rearrested. When I was jailed for the first time their troops were just arriving. Now they are at least two thousand strong.”
“What do you intend to do?” asked Millet. “If you go back you’ll be imprisoned - or worse.”
“What I told you earlier,” said Jacob, “was not entirely truthful. I will most certainly not abandon my mother. I do believe she still lives. But I am indeed going to Baltria. I have friends there who can help me. Then I’m going to get her out of Angrääl.”
Millet thought for a moment. “In that case, I’ll go with you.” He turned to Malstisos. “You and Maybell go back and tell Lord Starfinder what has happened.”
“I don’t need you slowing me down,” said Jacob.
Millet laughed. “If you are who you say you are, then you will need my help. I traveled with your father for many years and am far more capable than you might think.”
Malstisos smiled. “You should listen to your elders, young one. Millet is far more traveled than you. Besides, I doubt they left you with any coin. How do you intend to eat and lodge?”
“I can hunt,” said Jacob stubbornly. “I’ve learned to survive on my own.”
“That may be,” said Millet. “But I serve the house Nal’Thain and have an obligation to see to your well-being.”
Jacob met Millet’s eyes. “You serve my father, not the house Nal’Thain. He gave up his right to use that name when he abandoned us.”
“You speak from ignorance,” said Millet. “But now is not the time for me to enlighten you.” Millet straightened out his bedroll. “I am going with you.” He then turned to the others. “We’ll take the road east to Manisalia. There is a crossroads a few days from the city. We’ll split up there.”
Maybell’s eyes lit up. “Perhaps we should see the Oracle?”
“You can try,” said Millet. “But I would not tarry long. If she will not see you right away you should move on.”
“I too would relish the chance to see the Oracle,” said Malstisos. “She is well known to my people.”
“I think you will be disappointed,” said Jacob. “The rumor is she has left Manisalia to escape the armies of Angrääl. I even heard that she is dead.”
“I hope you’re wrong,” said Maybell, settling into her blanket. “It would be a great loss to the world. Her wisdom has helped guide the world away from destruction for many decades.”
“Decades?” said Malstisos. “My people have tales of her that go back to before the Great War. I have always assumed her to be more than one person, the title passed down, but perhaps not.”
“You think she is that old?” asked Maybell. “She is human, after all.”
“Are you so certain of that? Our stories always describe the same person, always looking the same way. That in itself means nothing, but I’ve also heard human tales of her. Recent ones. They are too similar in her description to think it a coincidence. At least, it seems that way to me.”
“Maybe you can ask her if she is still there.” Millet pulled his blanket over his chest and yawned. “We still have a long journey ahead. We can continue this discussion tomorrow.”
Chapter 3
The next day they rode in silence. At midday they stopped to eat and rest the horses. Several groups of soldiers and a few local farmers passed, but all of them ignored their presence. The temperature had dropped substantially, and a strong north wind cut straight through the group’s clothing. Soon they were underway once again, but it quickly became clear that they would need to risk a town and an inn.
“No need for us to hide at this point.” Millet’s voice trembled from the cold. “Whatever their plan, it’s obvious they do not intend to hinder our departure.”
“I agree,” said Malstisos. He glanced over at Maybell who was riding in silence, her eyes down. He couldn’t help but worry. Despite remarkable resilience for a woman of her advanced years, he knew the elements must be taking their toll. “In fact, I intend to remain in plain sight for as long as possible,” he added.
Jacob chuckled and slowly shook his head. “It would do no good to run. They have trackers from Angrääl following us even now. Of that, I have no doubt. Where we go, they will follow.”
Millet grunted with displeasure. “When we split up they may have a harder time of it. I have a feeling it is you and I who they will be following, and my skills in evasion should not be underestimated.”
Jacob sniggered.
“You should not let your eyes always be your judge, child,” scolded Malstisos. “Your father has great confidence in Millet. And thus far he has shown his worth more than once since I've traveled with him. I daresay his skills and usefulness outweigh yours.”
Jacob suddenly halted his horse, his face twisted in anger. “Mind your tongue, elf.” His hand slid to his sword.
“Don’t be foolish.” Malstisos’ voice became low and dangerous. “I will not be threatened, no matter who your father might be.”
The two stared at each other intensely for what seemed like an eternity.
“Enough of this!” Maybell’s voice echoed over the trees. The ferocity of the woman’s tone startled the others.
Malstisos bowed his head. “I am deeply sorry, sister. I know you must be cold and tired.” He turned to Jacob. “I’m certain we can conduct ourselves with better manners.”
Jacob continued to fume, but nodded sharply. “For now,” he grumbled.
Maybell snorted in disgust at the scene. “How much farther to the next village?” she asked Millet.
“Two days,” he replied. “But there’s a hostel we could reach before sundown if we keep our next rest short.”
“Good,” said Maybell, trying to hide her relief.
Abruptly, Malstisos’ back stiffened. He drew his long knife.
“What is it?” whispered Millet.
“Something follows.” The elf dismounted.
“I told you” scoffed Jacob. “They have sent trackers. Weren’t you paying attention?”
Malstisos shook his head. “This is no tracker. Whatever it is, it smells wrong.” He closed his eyes for a moment and sniffed the air. “Stay here.” He placed his hand on Millet's shoulder. “If I do not return in one hour, flee as fast as you can.”
“Where should we go?” asked Millet, alarmed.
“Stick with your plan,” the elf replied, then turned to Maybell and smiled. “Don't worry. I may only be chasing shadows.” He disappeared into the nearby trees, leaving the group behind.
Many minutes passed before anyone dared to move. Finally, Millet reached into his pack to retrieve a loaf of bread and passed it out to the others. Maybell reluctantly took a piece, then found a spot a few yards from Millet and Jacob to sit alone and nibble.
“What do we do if he doesn't return?” asked Jacob through a mouthful of bread.
Millet met Jacobs’s eyes. “We'll do as Malstisos said and continue to Baltria. There I will contact your father. Now, if you don't mind, I would rather not speak until Malstisos returns.”
“If he returns,” muttered Jacob.
Millet shot a furious glance and stormed away.
Minutes seemed like hours as the group stared into the surro
unding forest, hoping to see Malstisos return. Finally, just as Millet was about to tell the others it was time to leave, he caught sight of the elf, head bowed low, holding what appeared to be a severed head in one hand and his long knife in the other. Maybell gasped. Millet and Jacob stared in horror as the elf tossed the head to the ground beside the horses. The elf's knife and hands were covered with thick, black ooze, and the stench of rotting flesh filled the air. The head resembled a human man, but its features were distorted and grotesque, as if burned by fire, its hair tangled, stringy, and covered in filth.
“What is that thing?” whispered Maybell with a shudder.
Malstisos looked at Jacob. “I was hoping our young friend here might be able to enlighten us.”
Jacob’s eyes went wide. “Me? How should I know? I've never seen such a creature.”
Malstisos studied Jacob, then looked down at the remains. “I found it about half a mile behind us. It was clearly following our trail. I tried to approach unseen, but it must have had a keen sense of smell because it knew I was there the moment I saw it. I am no seeker, but no human I have ever encountered, save perhaps Lord Starfinder, could have heard my approach. When I knew I was discovered, I decided to withdraw, but the thing was on me in an instant. It moved as quickly as any elf, though not as graceful. It struck at me with bare hands, but with power beyond human strength. As it was unarmed, I had the advantage and buried my knife in its heart.”
“Then why cut off its head?” interrupted Jacob. “And why bring this disgusting thing here?”
“Like I said,” Malstisos replied in a low tone, “I was hoping you could help to identify it. You have been here throughout the entire occupation. Have you never heard of such a creature?”
He reached into his saddlebag to retrieve a flask and small cloth and began cleaning his hands and knife. “But that's not the only reason I bring it with me. I have the creature’s head because it was the only way I could kill it. My blow through its heart served only to enrage the beast. As I pulled my blade loose, it charged in yet again with a ferocity I have never before encountered. Again and again it charged. I was barely able to avoid its blows. I slashed away at every part of it, and watched in horror as my strikes had no effect. It wasn't long before I knew I had to either kill this beast or flee, so I waited for it to charge one last time. Then I brought my blade across its neck. To my great relief my stroke fell true and the creature died.”
“What should we do now?” asked Millet. “If there are more of these things around we don't stand a chance.”
Malstisos dried his hands and wiped his knife with oil. “If there are more, then we are in mortal danger.” He checked his pack and sheathed his knife. “I cannot protect everyone at once. Still, I don't see that we have any other choice but to continue with our plan. If we are lucky, there will be no more of these things about. If there are, then I'll do my best to kill them before they are upon us. Now that I know how to kill it, one will pose me little danger. And with only Maybell at my side, I should be able to keep her safe.”
“It's settled.” Millet mounted his horse. “The crossroads, then we will part ways. By then we should know if there are more of these...creatures.”
The party rode on through the rest of the day in silence, and it was nearly sunset when they arrived at the hospice. This was little more than a small cabin with a small adjoining stable, but the smoke from the chimney and the aroma of roast pork filled their hearts with joy. Millet dismounted and motioned for the others to wait. “I'll see to our accommodations,” he said. “I won't be but a moment.”
The interior was as he expected. The single room was large enough to hold a dozen beds and a roughly made dining table. A fire crackling in the hearth was the sole source of light, giving it a comfortable, albeit dim, atmosphere. A thin young man sat at the table carving a piece of roast pork. His blond hair and fine features indicated that he had not seen many winters. He looked up as Millet opened the door and frowned.
“If you're here to rob me, I have nothing to take but some roast pork and a half bottle of wine.”
Millet stopped and bowed low. “I am not here to rob you, young man. My companions and I seek a bed for the night.” He scanned the room for signs of other people, but saw none. “Are you master here?”
“I am,” the boy replied. “At least, until my uncle returns.” The boy stood, wiping his hands on his trousers. “I'm Gerald. And you are welcome here, though I have little to offer.” He walked to the hearth and stirred the fire. “How many are you?”
“Four,” Millet replied. “And we ask only for a bed and perhaps a bite to eat.” He fished three coppers from his pocket and placed them on the table. “This should cover our expense.”
Gerald’s eyes widened as he retrieved the coins, clutching them tightly. “In that case, you are very welcome.”
Millet smiled warmly. “If you would allow me to stable my horses.”
“Of course,” said Gerald. “I'll do it for you if you’d like.” He headed toward the door, still clutching the coins.
Millet grabbed the boy gently by the arm. “That won't be necessary. But I would be grateful if you could prepare us a meal.”
“Yes, yes,” said Gerald. “It will be waiting.”
Millet thanked the boy and returned to the party. After they’d unpacked and stabled the horses, they entered. Four plates and cups had been placed around the table. Malstisos was careful to hide his features beneath his hood.
Gerald whistled merrily as he placed blankets on the beds. The roast pork, though a bit plain, was well received, and soon they were laughing and talking as if they hadn't a care in the world.
“Hostels in this area are usually filled to bursting this time of year,” said Millet once his belly was full. “Why are you so empty?”
Gerald's face twisted in anger. “Angrääl,” he spat. “It's because of those damn soldiers. Most people are too afraid to travel, and the few that do are agents and officials of the invaders. They take what they want and leave us to starve.” His hands trembled as he drank from his cup. “This hostel has been in my family for three generations. We’ve never had much, but donations from the temples and travelers kept us fed and clothed. We were able to help hundreds of people who might have otherwise perished on the road. I always took great pride in the work my family has done here. Now I can barely survive.”
“You mentioned your uncle,” said Millet, his voice filled with compassion. “Where is he?”
“Hunting,” replied Gerald, regaining his composure. “We can't afford to buy food most times, so my uncle hunts for what we need.” He nodded to the leftover pork. “Without it we'd starve.”
Maybell reached over, took Gerald’s hand and said softly: “You're very brave to stay here alone.”
Gerald managed a weak smile. “It's my uncle that's brave. The forests are riddled with bandits and thieves. So far he's avoided them, but it's only a matter of time before I fear his luck runs out.”
“I'll pray for you,” said Maybell, tears welling in her eyes.
Gerald jerked his hand away. “Save your prayers,” he uttered sharply. “The gods care nothing for me.” He stood up and faced the wall. “I'm sorry.” His voice cracked as he forced back his tears. “I know you mean well. It's just that it has been so long since hope has been in this land. I've prayed and prayed, but I think the gods have abandoned us.”
“Perhaps not,” said Millet. “Perhaps help is on the way.”
Gerald turned and sighed. “I hope you're right.”
They soon retired for the night. The earlier cheer was overcome by sadness, and none slept peacefully.
Chapter 4
Lee sat by the fireplace in the main library of Valshara, reading quietly. Over the past eight days it had become his favorite way to pass the time, and the only thing that took his mind off his wife and son, not to mention Gewey and Kaylia. He had always been proud of his own collection of rare books, but Valshara held treasures beyond hi
s imagination.
When he wasn't in the library, he spent time with his mother. She told him of her life in the temple and recalled memories of his father. It soon became clear to him the love she held for the man, and the pain she felt after his death. He found it difficult at times to fight off feelings of guilt for the anger he had felt toward her for so long.
Gewey and Kaylia had shown no signs of reviving. Lee visited them at least twice a day, but was only allowed to be in the room for a few minutes at a time. The healers clearly thought any intrusion an imposition, and Lee was not inclined to argue. Besides, there was nothing he could do, and he did not enjoy feeling helpless.
Dina spent her time recounting her experiences in her journal. Selena had held a small ceremony signifying her elevation to full cleric and then set her to task. Lee had scarcely seen her except for when they happened to run into each other on their way to check on Gewey and Kaylia.
Word had come that Linis was seeking out Theopolou, and that he hoped to have the sage there soon. He’d arrived in Althetas two days after the battle between Gewey and Harlando and had been contacted by Valsharan agents. Lee took comfort in this. He knew if anyone could hasten the arrival of Theopolou, it was Linis.
The door to the library opened. Lee looked up and saw Ertik. His face was grave, and he was dressed in white ceremonial robes, something Lee had only seen at Dina's elevation to cleric. Lee placed his book on the table beside his chair and rose to his feet as Ertik strode over.
Ertik bowed. “Lee,” he said in a respectful tone.
Lee smiled warmly. “Why so formal today?” He reached out and shook Ertik's hand.
“Theopolou has arrived,” he replied. “The High Lady asked me to tell you that we will be meeting with him this evening in the main receiving hall. Appropriate clothing has already been brought to your room.”
“I see,” said Lee, noting Ertik's demeanor. “How many are with him?”
“He has brought an escort of a ten elves. Linis is also with them.”
Lee nodded. “I'll be there.”
The Godling Chronicles : Bundle - Books 1-3 Page 39
