They nodded their heads, the one on the left, spoke up.
“Yes, that is true. However, Jankin is no longer in charge here, and he has enlisted new restrictions.”
“Who is he?”
I didn't have to wait long for the answer. To the right a tall man dressed in light traveling leather came jogging up, with his hand out to me.
“Vhadrah, head of the Holy City's Order of Dark Valkyrie, I am Myan Grungess, honored to meet you.”
I shook his hand, which was becoming common courtesy, but his face held me for a moment. There was something there that was disturbing my soul.
Maybe it was the tattoos of leaves under the corner of his eyes, or how his pupils were the same shade as shadows among the trees, just before sunset. That dark shade just before green turns to back. Yet, a flash of vibrancy when hit by the light. I couldn't quite place it, but something was seriously triggering my inner alarms. I just didn't have the time, or energy for the game of niceties, and formalities. I got right to it.
“Myan, you realize that restricting visitors into the outpost is a direct violation of the Safety from Nature Code enacted and enforced by the upper levels of the Holy City?”
His body language was not one of remorse, or even understanding. It was arrogance, and his tone was equally matched.
“The Holy City has no authority here, anymore. I am in charge now, and will run this outpost as I see fit, and for the benefit to those who live within these wooden walls of protection. I will not apologize for that, Dark Valkyrie.”
As an elder of the Holy City, due to my stattus as Dark Valkyrie, I had many options of authority I could enforce. However, we also needed to survive out here, and truthfully, I had much bigger fish to fry. Of course, I couldn't let this go. Myan could lead to the deaths of innocents by simply rejecting their pleas for sanctuary here. I had to do something, but I didn't have time for this to turn into a full blown, over-scale dispute.
I adjusted my weapon, gazing over at the lives, currently, in my hands. No one spoke for a moment, all recognizing my leadership and responsibilty to this matter. Plus, we were all exhausted, and a physical fight might be too much. I had to take that into consideration as well.
When I glanced back to the guards, I noticed they were completely uncomfortable and nervous, as their gazes went from me to Myan. I decided to try dipomacy. If that didn't work, and this guy continued to be rude, I mght just have to lop his head off. We will see either way.
“Myan, as an advisor, and elder, from the Holy City, I think we need to have a little chat. There is much I need to know. The Holy City has never faltered in it's protection to anyone, so if they have failed you, there must be a reason.”
Myan nodded in agreement."Yes, a chat is long overdue."
It was the first sign that perhaps, he's not what I perceived. With that settled, I was hopeful.
“Thank you. Please allow me to see that my friends have gotten settled, and I can meet with you later. Will this suffice?”
Again, Myan nodded, and added, “Yes. I have some much-needed business I was tending to when my aid advised you were here. You can find my quarters at the end of the village, in Jankin's old hut. I will be retunring upon the hour, I'll wait for you there.”
“I know the place.” I said, “I will see you shortly.”
With that, Myan and the guards moved and let us by. I motioned to all of them to head to the Inn, separate relaxation would have to wait.
The Wyld Traveller
The Wyld Traveller Inn was packed, and loud, which was expected. What wasn't expected were the amount Ukneaks gathered in one spot. This was disturbing to say the least. Another problem added to already vastly growing list of concerns.
I sat us at a table closest to the door, and furthest away from the fray of people. Lalynn asked the question, I knew was coming.
“What are those? Are they wearing costumes? Is there a festival somewhere?”
She was pointing to the colorful, mishapen group of beings. I answered.
“They are known as Ukneaks. The Magi of Pirahous, as I mentioned, play at creator and that is a small group of their expirements. Based off their large, overexaggerated muscles, and weapon fused extremities, I would say they were working with the Warlords of Pirahous Mages."
"What are Warlords of the Pirahous Mages?" Humberland asked, "Sounds like they are war generals, is that close?" I nodded, " Very close. They are a group of Magi dedicated to creating weapons of war, for commanding warlords, and generals.”
“Why would they do that to themselves?” Lalynn asked, astonished.
“Some of them don't.” Wexx added. “I heard a large portion are captives, they have no choice in the matter.”
I nodded again, “Yes, some are captives of battles they lost agianst the opposition. Some are lost souls looking for a purpose, while others sign up because they are bloodthirsty, and hungry for war. The Magi don't descriminate when it comes to expirementing. Humans are not the only race, or creature, that is subjected to this torment.”
Lalynn was in tears, “Why does Odin allow such things? If he knows this exists, why allow it to continue?”
I sighed, “I don't know the answers, as I am not Odin, and would never presume to know his reasons. He sees what I cannot. However, based on what I have witnessed, I would wager there are many reasons. At the top would be balance. There cannot be light without the dark.
Therefore, there cannot always be good without the opposite. Not to mention, what is considered wrong from one, is not viewed that way by the other. Trust me when I say, most of those Magi believe they are doing good.
That their work is for the betterment of the realm. It is all about perception There are those who do it to feed the evils that dwell within their souls, some for glory and power, and some to be a part of something.
The most disturbing thing for me, is not that they exist, but that they have been cut loose to roam the realm. They are dangerous, even the ones not out to feed the chaos, but who are trying to not be used as weapons.
Each and everyone of them only knows of the power they were told they have, what of the power they don't know exits within them? Some will do harm because they are unaware, while others will do harm trying to unlock more of the power they have.”
“Are you saying, they should all be destroyed?” asked Captain Wexx
“No." I urged, "They need to be in a safe environment until they learn their limits, and how to control the power they possess. Not just for the safety others, but for themsleves as well.”
Vahneal chimed in, “I have read many stories of Ukneaks trying to unlock a secret power they think they posses, and destroy entire villages, or even themselves. Most of these, I will say, are those who are ashamed of the power they are given, or the power hungry, looking to gain power through chaos.
Both are extremely dangerous, while those in the middle either hide or are used by others. It's sad for all involved though, even those who asked for it. They don't really know what will happen. They are only told what the Magi believe will happen.
Magic is a wonderful source if used, and sought out correcrly, but when it is twisted, and corrupted, it becomes something way more than anyone bargained for.
These Ukneaks are a perfect example of that. All of those that you see, are the rejects. The weapons created that did not produce what they hoped or were too much to control.
So, they were tossed out, and left to their own devices. It is disturbing that this many have gathered in one place, because that indicates, the darkness is working overtime to build something devestating, and realm ending. And that whatever they're looking for, isn't working.”
“Sounds to me like it's saying we can't stay here for very long.” Humberland voiced.
I agreed, “Not long at all. We will need to make this quick.”
“Something doesn't make sense,” Lalynn pointed out, “If they are dangerous, why wouldn't Myan keep them out over regular travelers?”
&n
bsp; I smiled, “Exactly the question I hope to find an answer to when we speak. However, sometimes, you can gain the most honest answers from those living it, rather than those controlling it.”
I raised my hand, signaling the Inn Keeper, who also happen to be serving food and ale. A quick smile, and empty mugs made it to table in record time. The Elven Inn Keeper was stockier than most Elves I had ever run across, but just as happy.
This one you could tell was rasied among humans, possibly had Human reletives. Some of the harder features suggested such. When he spoke perfect common tongue, it was there too.
“Welcome travelers, how can the Wyld Traveller aid your travels today?” he asked cheerfully, “My name is Lothian.”
After the initial food, drink, and lodging chit chat, I struck up a conversation.
“Lothian, this is a nice Inn, have you been here long? Business is good?”
“Yes, it is as of late, but I don't why. Although, I don't ask questions either. Coin is coin, and if I'm to survive, I need lots of it.”
I motioned for him to join us, “That is understandable.” I pointed to large group at the end of the room, “I noticed there are quite a few Ukneaks in here, is that usual?”
He fidgeted a bit, perhaps unsure if he should answer. I waited and let him take his time. It wasn't a long wait. I thanked the Gods for that, as my patience was very short.
“Yes and no. I've been running the Wyld Traveller for many years, so from that point, no it's not usual, but as of the last year, it has become quite common.”
The last year...
“Wonder what has caused them to flock here. Are they from Pirahious?” I asked, although I was sure I already knew that answer. His answer surprised me.
“No, they are from all over, actually. What I have heard is that there has been an open call for Ukneaks in Drakkin Reach. Something about visiting the port for open jobs, and assignments. So, they stop here on their way. Most that pass through here are just looking for honest work, and a normal life. They don't cause trouble. There have been a few that caused hellish incidents, but not many.”
“Hellish incidents?” asked Captain Wexx, “I have encountered a few, and they can be quite...temperamental. The wind blew the wrong way, and it would set them off.”
Lotian was shaking his head. “Yes, that is how these behaved. I had to rebuild my inn after they were here. Out of business for months, but since the frost has passed, I have had no issues.”
Something wasn't right. None of this made sense. On the one sword, I was happy to hear the Ukneaks were not causing tons of chaos, but on the flip side of that sword, that's exactly what they made for. I sighed deeply, so many things that didn't make sense. Heading to Drakkin Reach was becoming more necessary by the minute.
“Lothian, has there been a lot of changes here, in the last year?”
He nodded, “Many. Some I like, most I don't.”
“Like what?” I prompted.
“The new leader, Myan for one. He is not like Jankin. While Jankin was runnign things, descisions were made together, with all of us. Myan just makes the decisions and enforces them. I don't care much for him, as you can see. Since he has taken over, there have been a lot of shady characters coming to trade here. In some ways, it has been good, but it has also been dangerous. Some of us have made more money, but some have been shut down, and tossed out into the Sthardust Fields.”
I looked around at the table, no one spoke, but I bet we were all thinking along the same lines. My biggest question still hadn't been answered, so I asked it.
“What happened to Jankin? If the Outpost was happy with him running things, why is he not still doing so?”
Lothian got very nervus when I asked that question. His mouth stopped moving, but the wringing of his hands began. His frame got stiff, and his eyes searched for a danger only he could see.
“Please,” he stammered, “enjoy the food and drinks, on the house. Your rooms are the two at the top of the stairs. I have other customers I need to tend to.”
I reached out and touched his arm, to stop him, before he got too far.
“Lothian, I am sorry, if I have unsettled you. That was not my intent.”
Tears filled the man's eyes, “I must go. I have said to much. He sees all.”
With that he whisked himself away, busying with other errands.
“Strage little fella.” Captain Wexx said.
“Frightened one if you ask me.” Vahneal pointed out.
“Odd, for sure.” I muttered.
Before too long, we gave into our hunger and ate earnestly, as this would be the last actual meal we could have for a while. Dried meat and fruit, or hunted game would sustain you, it's not wondrous on the taste buds.
We wasted about an hour, eating, and drinking. Not once did Lothian return to our table. His serving wench catered to us, for the remainder of time here. That man barely even looked our way. I'm not sure what happened, but it had my interest.
Myan and Gold Eyes
If memory served, Jankin's old residence was on the far side of this trading village outpost. On this day, I was happy for that. It gave me a chance to stroll through town, and observe as I made my way there, without looking suspicius.
I left the group at the Inn, or at least made it look that way. Humberland and Captain Wexx were both trailing me, under the rouse of vsiting shops, looking for wares. My position was to stay in the open. Vahneal and Lalynn were the ones getting what we needed to proceed to Drakkin Reach. I didn't know about Lalynn, but I knew my sister was very quick, and efficient, when it came to gathering supplies. Even some we might not know we need but find out later that we do. It was a unique art, I always admired her for it.
So far, things looked as normal as could be. It was easy to spot the travelers from those who lived here. The unusal part was that instead of the travelers looking nervous about finding the supplies they need to journey forth, it was the people who lived here who looked nervous. It was weird to witness, and harder to figure out. Folks were generally more at home on Home turf, than visitors. Here, the visitors seemed like it was home while the townies seemed very jumpy.
It made little sense.
Another thing I noticed was the lack of men, and young boys. Living at an outpost was harder than living in any other village. It was much smaller, and supplies were harder to find. Here, they relied on traders coming to market, or partners who brought back wares, and supplies, needed to survive. This Outpost was suffering.
Was Myan right? Did the Holy City forsake them?
The answer rested behind a door. One I was now knocking on, waiting for permission to enter. Three heartbeats, and two raps on the wood, and the door opened.
In front of me stood a young woman, covered in a bright violet robe. Her gold eyes stood out in contrast. Her voice was sweet, but the aura she put off was deadly. Like me, this woman was a warrior of some kind.
When I met her gaze, fear did not reside behind those pupils. It was cautious cofidence. She woulnd't start a fight with anyone, but she also wouldn't run.
I could relate to that.
She smiled once more and repeated her statement. “Come in, Myan, is expecting you.”
I nodded and stepped passed her. “I apologize for my delay in response, I was caught up in the gold of your eyes. It is not often you see that shade.”
“They were a gift from my father, when I was young.”
“That's quite a rare gift.” I said.
“The gold is but a side effect of the gift. I was born without the vision. My father, worried I would meet death as a child, rushed me to Pirahious to meet with a mage there. I do not know what my father bargained, but after two days with the Magi, I regained my vision.
On that day, when I awoke from the ceremony, my eyes were no longer white, and creamy, as they once were. They were the color you see now.”
“Wow.” I said, “That is amazing. A rare color for a rare feat.”
“Yes.” she mused, “
If you will follow me, Myan is in his study.”
Her tone was not one of warmth and welcome like I had witnessed on my last vist. Although, her and Myan weren't here either. Jankin and I had been freinds, lomg before the Outpost was thought of. Maybe, that was why he was alwasy freindly to me. I doubted it. Jamkin was a kinf man, one with a pure heart. A head strong fighter when he needed to be, but a gentle man nonetheless. He's gone and these two have taken over. So far, I had noticed any changes for the better.
I motioned for her to lead the way.
This shack was just as I remembered it. Plain, but stocked. Nothing seemed out of place, save the shelf of books was gone and replaced with a table that held specimens in jars, and a vision ball. One used by the Magi to see into their dreams, and futures. For most, they offered no benfit other than some smoke and mystery, used to fool the average farmer. Those with real power, however, could see much more. It was odd to see it here, although not so surprising based on what I have seen thus far.
Once in the study, Myan had his head down, reading some parchment. I watched his eyes move back and forth, as he hastily scanned the words. Miss Gold eyes motioned for me to take a seat, across from Myan, and wait.
“May I offer you some ale from the kitchens?” she asked.
I shook my head, “No, but thank you for the offer. I just came from the inn. I am alright for now.”
She bowed slightly, and shuffled away, leaving me in the silence as I waited to speak with Myan.
Fortunately, I didn't have to wait long. Once the parchment was read, he dropped it into the fire blazing the hearth, and turned to me.
“I assume...,” he got right to it, “That the fist thing you want to know, is what happened to Jankin?”
I nodded, “We could start with that, yes.”
Though he made sure to make frequent eye contact, he paced as one does when instructing. In my opinion, this would not make me take him more seriously. I was not a child in need of reprimand.
Vhadrah- Evolution of HiSkale Page 13
