Runefell: Crossroads

by Shawn Sodman

“Wait,” Laura interjects. “They didn't know what a cannon was?”

  “Up until this point,” Kyle explains, “The Red Dawn had never faced the power of a cannon. It was a new weapon to Runefell, brought to the world by the goblins. The goblins found that they were too dangerous and did not want to sell them to the other races.”

  “So that was what they got from the goblin ship,” Josh concludes.

  “Yes,” Kyle answers. “When the orcneas heard about this new weapon they decided that they had to have them and when the goblins refused to sell them the orcneas simply took them.””

  “So what did they do?” Haley asks, sounding worried.

  “It's okay, Haley,” Laura says, as she puts her arm around her sister trying to calm her. “I am sure they'll be fine.”

  Kyle says, “Okay, so the orcneas just fired the cannons...”

  *****

  The incoming shots tear into the Red Dawn's deck. Men go flying and there is panic everywhere as the men begin to scatter.

  One of the iron balls flies over Torgus as he ducks. “What the hell was that?” he yells.

  Fernando answers, “I have seen them on a goblin ship before, however I have never seen them used.”

  “Well, they are damn powerful, whatever they are!” Torgus yells. “I couldn't catch it.” Torgus looks back at Eveoh who looks confused as well.

  The orcnea ship now passes them by, and the orcneas begin to reload the cannons.

  Ariella yells, “Where the hell are the elves?”

  No sooner than the question is asked, the Silver Tide comes into view. They are right behind the orcnea ship and begin to fire several spells at the orcneas. The smaller and faster elven ship starts to pull up alongside the orcnea ship.

  “They are going to get torn apart by those weapons,” Ariella says. “Bring us about! We have to stay in this fight.”

  Chris spins the wheel as everyone watches the orcnea ship and the Silver Tide continue to close in on each other. The elves continue to attack the much larger vessel with their spells. By the time they are next to the orcneas, the orcneas have prepared the cannons for another round. They open fire with a volley that shreds the main deck of the Silver Tide. The main mast falls and the elven ship is heavily damaged.

  On the Silver Tide, elves are assisting the wounded and look bewildered. Resif is pinned down under some debris. He frees himself and quickly stands up. Angrily he casts a fireball then throws it recklessly at the orcnea ship. The orcneas scatter and dodge the incoming ball of fire. It then strikes a barrel full of black powder behind them and it catches fire.

  Before the orcneas have a chance to react, the barrel explodes violently. Everyone on the Silver Tide and the Red Dawn are startled at the sudden giant fireball that almost rips the orcnea ship in half.

  Captain Resif then yells out, “All those who can cast fire, take aim at those barrels!” Several elves who are high enough on the smaller ship to see over the rails of the much larger orcnea ship, now throw fireballs at the barrels.

  As the captain of the orcnea ship realizes what is happening he orders, “Shamans, protect those barrels!” Several shamans try to reach the barrels, but before they can arrive, the elven fireballs hit three more barrels that are unprotected. The orcneas turn and run as the barrels are engulfed in flames. The barrels explode, destroying the orcnea ship completely.

  The crews of the Red Dawn and Silver Tide watch as what is left of the orcnea ship burns. On the Red Dawn, Drake says to Leon, “Well, it looks like you still don't get to fight any orcneas.”

  Leon sheaths his sword and says, “Only because they were too cowardly to come over and fight. If they had I would have shown them.”

  Fernando looks back at Allen who looks relieved to be putting his sword away. He walks up to Allen and pulls him aside and asks, “Are you alright?”

  Allen looks at him and says, “Yes, I am fine.” It is clear that he is unsettled.

  “You know, it's alright to be nervous,” Fernando says, “I have often found that those who crave battle the most are the ones who usually find death sooner.”

  “I guess,” Allen says looking down. “I just don't know if I am cut out for this.”

  “My friend,” Fernando says as they walk across the deck, “Even I get nervous in battle. The important thing is doing what must be done when it is necessary. I have watched you put yourself in harm’s way to save Leon. Then charge into the Captain's quarters to save Marie from danger.”

  Allen smiles and says, “I guess so. So, you still get nervous?”

  “Of course,” Fernando says with a smile. “Let me tell you about the time I was in the Rusty Dagger in East Artos.”

  Fernando and Allen walk off as Ariella surveys the damage. Then looking at Chris and Torgus she says, “We need repairs soon.”

  Meanwhile, north of Sheathelm, Chance glides high above on the wind currents. He is looking for his daughter and the princess. Finally he spots the small group of people on horseback pulling a wagon. He makes his descent and lands ahead of them and transforms.

  Ya'leigh looks at him and says, “Father? What are you doing here?”

  “I am here to tell you to go back to Sheathelm,” Chance says. “The orcneas are back and are planning an attack on Northwind in two days.”

  “Two days!” Kianna says. “Is my father sending troops then?”

  “We are, Princess,” Chance says, “but they will not get there in time. I am going to go and start an evacuation. I want you all to return to Sheathelm where it is safe.”

  “Can we at least finish delivering the supplies in the wagon to Troven, and then return?” Kianna asks. “They are much needed medicines.”

  “Very well,” Chance says. “You do have a gate stone to the palace do you not?”

  “Yes,” Kianna answers holding out an amulet made of sandstone, “we do.”

  “Good,” Chance answers, “If we are correct, the orcneas are not going to be in the west, but just in case we are wrong don't hesitate to use it. I wish I could stay longer but I must get to Northwind as soon as I can.”

  “Wait!” Ya'leigh says, “If the orcneas are attacking Northwind then I want to go with you.”

  “Absolutely not,” Chances replies, “I am only going there to scout the orcneas and if necessary, start an evacuation. We do not plan to fight them there. We are not prepared. Arioch is gathering troops and we plan to regroup and to take our stand south of Northwind River.” Chance walks up to the wagon and hugs Ya'leigh tightly. “Be careful, and I will see you soon. I love you.”

  “I love you too, father,” Ya'leigh replies. As Chance transforms and flies off, Ya'leigh asks Kianna, “Are we really going back after we deliver the supplies?”

  “Well,” Kianna says, “he did not say that my father ordered us to return. Besides, if the orcneas are going to attack Northwind that means they are coming from the east. So then our plan to enter the old orcnea lands from the west should still be relatively safe.”

  “I am not sure about this,” Garrin says. “There may be too many of them for us to handle.”

  “I understand,” Kianna answers, “but with the orcneas coming down from the east, they may leave themselves open. We may be able to get behind the enemy lines and cause them a lot of damage. Believe me, tactically this is our best option. Besides, Ya'leigh and I wouldn't be allowed in the fight if we go back. This way we at least can do something.”

  Ya'leigh adds, “If we run into any real trouble we can still use the gate stone.”

  “It sounds like a crazy plan,” Isen says, “so you know I am up for it.”

  “So then,” Kianna asks, “is it agreed?”

  They all nod and say, “Agreed.”

  Later that day, on the deck of the Red Dawn, the crew is finishing the cleanup from the attack. They are tethered to the Silver Tide. Ariella is talking with Captain Resif.

  “Well, Captain,” Ariella says to him, “thank you for your assistance.”

  “You are
welcome,” Resif replies. “Are you going to be able to make it to your destination?”

  “Yes,” Ariella says. “How about you?”

  “Well,” Resif answers, “we have taken a lot of damage, but I think we will make it. So until next time, Captain.” Resif nods to Ariella then makes his way back to his ship. When he boards he signals the elves manning the ropes. They untie the ships from each other and soon they are separated.

  Fernando approaches Ariella and says, “Well, this made for an exciting day.”

  “Indeed, Mr. Greythorn,” Ariella replies.

  Fernando then says softly to Ariella, “Perhaps, Captain, you would like to make an interesting evening as well.”

  Ariella smirks and says, “Why, Mr. Greythorn, what exactly do you have in mind?”

  “Well, Captain,” he says as he moves close and puts his arm around her, “why don't we have dinner tonight. Just the two of us and I'll show you.”

  Ariella takes a step back and puts her arm out to keep Fernando back and says, “Perhaps tomorrow night, Mr. Greythorn. I am just looking forward to getting some rest tonight without a storm chasing us.”

  “As you wish, my lady,” Fernando says as he kisses her hand. He then bows and walks off.

  Ariella turns and yells up to Chris, “Set our heading for East Artos, and then let the night crew take over so you can get some sleep too.”

  “Aye, Captain,” Chris says.

  As night sets in over the land, far to the north Chance has had a very long day. Having flown all night and throughout the day, he lands just outside a large keep within the city of Northwind. After he transforms back into his natural elven form he calls up to the two watchmen at the guard tower window, “Good sir, I am Chance Na'Moon of Sheathelm I am here on very important business. Please, allow me to enter and speak with the lord.”

  One of the guards checks with the other, “Did he say, Na'Moon?”

  “Yes, he did?” The second guard answers. “I'll go get the captain.” He hurries off as the first guard watches over Chance.

  A few moments later the guard returns with their captain. The dark haired captain looks down and says, “Chance, it’s been a long time. How are your two sons?”

  Chance smiles and replies, “Levin, my two daughters are very well. Along with my only son.”

  Levin laughs and says to one the guards, “That's him. Open the gate.” He turns to the other and says, “Go make sure Lord Damion has not turned in for the evening. Tell him Chance Na'Moon is here.”

  “Yes, sir,” the guard replies.

  Soon the gate raises and Levin greets him at the entrance.

  “I assume you are here to talk to Damion about the orcneas,” Levin says as they begin to walk across the courtyard to the main hall entrance.

  “Yes,” Chance replies, “you are all in great danger.”

  Levin leads Chance into the hall where a dark haired man wrapped in a long blue silk robe sits in a large chair behind a table.

  “Greetings, Lord Damion,” Chance says.

  “Chance,” Damion says, “What brings you here? I was just getting ready to turn in for the night.” Damion stands to greet Chance. He is much taller than Chance and Levin.

  “I wish it were good news,” Chance replies, “however, I must inform you that we believe that in two days orcneas will be invading from the north.”

  Levin says, “So it's true, they are back.”

  “Yes, they are,” Chance replies, “Arioch is sending what forces he can but they will not arrive in time. I will know in the morning if the orcneas are indeed on their way. If they are, the plan is for an evacuation. You will head south until you meet with the forces of Sheathelm. Any able body men are to then join Arioch and his men. You will then turn back, and with your combined efforts take the fight to the orcneas.”

  “Can't we just stay and fight them now?” Damion asks. “Just like old times.”

  “I am afraid we would not last long,” Chance answers. “Remember, we were not alone then. Drakesbane is now on the other side of Bruen, teaching at Dicean. Arioch will be here soon, but not soon enough, and I have not heard from Thordir in years. The walls of Northwind are strong, but I am afraid with all the shamans they have trained they are more powerful than ever. They will most likely attack from the sky as well, and you have no defenses if they do.”

  “I understand,” Damion says. “Are you sure about the attack?”

  “We are certain they will attack,” Chance says. “It is just a matter of when. In the morning I will head north and see for myself before heading west.”

  “What is in the west?” Damion asks.

  “I have to look after a few of my sisters who were sent to scout the orcnea lands,” Chance replies.

  “Sisters?” Damian asks with a laugh, “How old are they?”

  “Just coming of age,” Chance says glaring at him, “and too young for you my friend.”

  “I had to ask,” Damion says with a smile. “You must be tired, I'll make sure a room is prepared for you.”

  “Thank you,” Chance says, “but first, if I may bother you for something to eat. I am starving.”

  “Of course,” Damian says, “Follow me. I was just about to get something to eat before I went to bed. So tell me, how have things been?”

  Damian, Levin, and Chance walk off down the corridor as Chance begins to tell him about the last few days.

  Chapter 13

  Day 5

  Morning till Dusk

  It is morning aboard the Red Dawn, and Fernando walks across the still damaged deck. The skies are clear and the sun is at their backs. “A beautiful morning isn't it, Mr. Greythorn,” Ariella calls down to him from the helm.

  “Yes, Captain,” Fernando replies, “but not nearly as beautiful as yourself.”

  Chris, who is behind Ariella, shakes his head.

  Ariella smiles and asks, “You never quit do you?”

  Fernando replies with a grin, “Quitting is not in the Greythorn's blood.” Fernando walks up the stairs to the top of the quarterdeck and asks, “So, are you feeling up to having dinner with me tonight? Just the two of us?”

  Ariella steps back and thinks for a moment before answering, “Very well. If we have an uneventful day, and I do not have to turn in early, then yes. I would have you join me tonight.”

  “Thank you, Captain,” Fernando says as he takes the Captains hand and kisses it. “Let us hope that today is a quiet one then.” He then turns and walks away with a smile.

  Behind Ariella and Chris, Marie is watching them through the porthole of the Captains lounge. She turns and says to herself, “Ariella was right. You are a bit too nice, Mr. Greythorn. I'll be keeping my eye on you.”

  In the city of Northwind it is also morning, and Chance is preparing to leave. Damian is with him and says, “So, I will continue with the evacuation unless you return and tell me differently.”

  “Yes, my friend, I will travel along the coast. It is the path they are supposed to take,” Chance explains. “If I find nothing, I will return, and we can call it off. If I do not return, however, assume the threat is real and continue the evacuations. I'll be making sure my sisters are not getting in over their heads to the west.”

  “Well then, I hope to see you soon,” Damian replies.

  “Me too,” Chance says, he then turns and changes into his eagle from and takes flight.

  Chance flies north along the eastern coast. After about an hour of travel he comes upon a large orcnea camp. Thousands of troops stretch across the land. Chance veers to his left and begins to fly inland across the mountains.

  As midday approaches, far to the west, Princess Kianna, Ya'leigh, and the rest of the caravan arrive at the small town of Troven. Three men approach them. One of them steps forward. He bows and says, “Welcome, Princess Kianna. It is good to see you again.”

  “Steven, it is good to see you two,” Kianna replies. “How is your father?”

  “He is well,” Steven replies.
“He will be glad to hear the medicines have arrived. Thank you for coming all this way to bring them.”

  “You are most welcome,” Kianna replies as she climbs off the wagon.

  “My lady,” says Steven, “is it true that the orcneas have returned?”

  Kianna answers, “The latest information is they are marching toward Northwind now. There is no word on any other plans at this point. My father is rallying troops for a counter attack. If you have any extra men, it would be wise to send them.”

  “Of course, my lady,” Steven answers. “I tell my father at once.”

  Isen removes the cover of the wagon and discovers two extra passengers. One is a young elven female in her early teens. She has strait blonde hair and a very thin build. The other, is a young elven boy. He looks to be a couple years younger than the female. He is also thin with blonde hair, however his hair is full of curls.

  Isen says, “Ambra, Kelik, what are you two doing here?”

  Ambra ignores the question and says, “Hello, Isen.”

  Isen calls to the others, “Ya'leigh! You may want to see this.”

  Ya'leigh walks over to the wagon and she finds two familiar faces. It is her brother and sister and as they climb out of the wagon she yells, “Kelik, Ambra, what are you doing here?”

  “Isen already asked that,” Ambra replies with a grin.

  Isen says, “Your father will not be happy with you two when he finds out.”

  Ambra looks up at him and says, “I know. Just don't tell him.”

  Ya'leigh angrily asks, “Why did you come with us! Aren't you supposed to be taking the summer courses at Dicean?”

  “Well, we were supposed to go,” explains Kelik, “but we wrote them a letter telling them that we would not be able to attend.”

  “So,” Ambra says, “everyone at Sheathelm thinks we are at Dicean and everyone at Dicean just thinks we are at Sheathelm.”

  Kianna walks over and asks Ya'leigh, “So, what do you want to do?”

  Ya'leigh, still glaring at her siblings, says, “Well, I don't want to go back now, but it is too dangerous to bring them.”