“Good. You have the right instincts, but you need to be more aware, and more in control. Do you agree?”
“Yes, I know. I felt the panic there. But it was good to find a way out. That was horrible, by the way. Where did you come up with that?”
“I’ve listened to a few good stories in my day, thought you might appreciate it.” Ashra grinned.
“You could say that.” Alrion turned when he heard footsteps. It was Lara.
“I couldn’t really see much, until that burst of light. Was that you, Alrion?”
“Yes. I think I passed?” He looked at Ashra. The wizard nodded.
“Good. Did it help?”
“Yes, it did. I must admit though, I didn’t expect that.”
“What did he do this time? Another illusion?”
“He outdid himself. Black figures with long dark tendrils advancing on me and smothering me.” Alrion saw Lara recoil. “My reaction exactly.”
“Ashra, you have a wicked imagination.”
“Thank you for the compliment.” Ashra bowed then walked past them. “We better get moving, you don’t want to get stuck out here.”
“Agreed.” Alrion started walking, Lara by his side. Images from the recent confrontation kept bubbling up but he pushed them away. There was something terrifying about it that he didn’t understand. For another time.
They found their way back onto another trail. It was slow going along the path, up and down dunes. Suddenly Ashra stopped and waited for them to catch up. Once they had, he reached down and pulled up a trapdoor.
“Wow, that’s sneaky,” Lara said.
“One day I’ll forget how to get back here,” Ashra said. He gestured at the ladder down. “After you.”
Alrion climbed first, creating some orbs of light to dispel the complete darkness. They were in some sort of stone underground structure. Ashra closed the hatch and climbed down, before leading the way. They passed through nondescript passages until Ashra slowed, inspecting a wall.
“This way.” He led them around a corner and there stood a Wizard Gate, glowing and at the ready.
“This is where we part ways. This gate only goes to one location. It’s a small town that will get you close to Valrytir.”
“Thank you.” Alrion held out his hand and shook Ashra’s.
“It was a pleasure. I look forward to your success.”
“Thanks again,” Lara said. Alrion reached out and activated the gate. It flashed and shimmered into existence, showing a dark scene beyond.
“Any last words of advice?” Alrion said.
“Say hello to your mother when you find her. Also, be careful. I suspect you’ll meet that mysterious wizard that’s been following you around once your quest is done.” Ashra wasn’t giving anything away with his expression. Before Alrion could ask a follow-up question he found himself tumbling into the gate.
Alrion found himself in darkness. Only the light of the gate was illuminating the area. Luckily, Lara was with him.
“That Ashra, can’t help himself,” Alrion said.
“He’s just trying to help you. And look, we definitely made it here. Wherever here is.” Lara started to explore, so Alrion created more orbs of light and attached them to the walls. He noticed stairs leading up to somewhere else, somewhere where there was light. As he approached the stairs, he noticed two shapes waiting up the top. They started to descend, one of them was carrying a torch.
Lara gasped before Alrion could see them. But he soon saw why. The one carrying the torch looked like an old farmer, the other was clearly a Shade. They seemed to be working together.
“Well, well, well. More through the gate,” the farmer said. He licked his lips and looked nervously over at the Shade. The creature didn’t notice, it was fixated on Alrion.
“I think we can work with this,” Alrion said to Lara. He then turned his attention back to the farmer. “Before we start, I’d like to hear about a woman who passed through here recently.” Alrion noticed the farmer’s eyes widen.
Time to get to the bottom of this.
42
The Prodigal Daughter
Alrion emerged into the room, full of curiosity. It looked oddly familiar, the stacks of books and the small selection of equipment in the corner. Once he spotted a wizard, he knew where he was.
“This is a Wizard Store,” Alrion announced. The wizard flinched, a look of annoyance passing over his features.
“Another one? Is that becoming a thoroughfare now?” the wizard grumbled.
“A woman passed through here recently?”
“Yes, are you related to her?” The wizard looked suspicious.
“It’s his mother,” Lara said. The wizard looked like he remembered something.
“Oh yes, she was on the trail of another wizard. She found a lead for a local inn, and I haven’t seen her back.”
“Glad to hear she passed through here. My name is Alrion, and you are?”
“Magnus. I’m the caretaker here and representative for Valrytir.”
“Great to meet you. I may need to call on your help.” Alrion gave him a small bow.
“Of course, anything for a fellow wizard.” Magnus inclined his head slightly to acknowledge Alrion and went about his business.
“Let’s go find this general that needs convincing.” Alrion noticed Lara’s features pale a little. Even though she seemed onboard with his plan, she seemed quite nervous about the whole thing. He started off towards the door, just as he was about to open it, he heard Magnus again.
“Sorry to be a bother, but what is that?” Magnus pointed to the large wooden box floating behind Alrion.
“Oh, it’s just a magic trick for the general.”
“High General Wynston? Commander of all the forces of Valrytir?”
“I believe that’s the one.” Alrion grinned.
“He’s not one for magic, son. Or tricks. Or anything not rooted in reality. I don’t know where you got your information.” Magnus sighed.
“Don’t worry, he’ll love this one.” Alrion smiled and opened the door. Lara left soon after, and the box floated out after them.
Alrion took a moment to revel in the scene. Valrytir was a huge city. There were clearly different districts and styles of buildings. But everywhere was busy. What drew his attention most was the large keep at the rear of the city. It gleamed white and sandy, the two types of stone used in its construction.
“I take it we head into the keep?”
“We should, but perhaps it would be wise to make one stop beforehand.”
“Such as?”
“There’s an elite unit of special troops in their own base within the city. Winning over their commander would help your cause.”
“If you think it’s worth the stop, I’ll do it. But he or she would need to come along with us, I’m not wasting this on anyone less than the general.”
“Fine, hopefully, we can convince him.”
“Lead the way.” Alrion waited for Lara to head off. He kept close but continued to marvel at the sights and keep tabs on his box. He was getting some attention for it, but clearly, the population weren’t that surprised by wizards and they went back to their business.
After a brisk walk, they were in another district. It seemed more sedate and reserved than the one they had been in. A bit more polished as well. Lara confidently led him through the streets until they reached a large building. It looked almost like a school. He saw a lot of people his age going in and out in special uniforms. It reminded him of the academy.
That was a lifetime ago, and such a brief stay. Could I go back there?
Alrion’s train of thought was interrupted.
“Alrion!” a voice shouted. He looked over and saw Alyx waving and running over.
“Alyx! You made it!” He couldn’t believe it. Alyx was already here! And she was wearing the same uniform as those training.
“Lara, good to see you too,” Alyx said.
“I see you signed up.” Lara was sizing up Alyx�
�s outfit.
“I used to be a member, it made sense given that we need their help.”
“How’d you get here?” Alrion said.
“That gate went straight here. I’ve been trying to prepare things as well as I could.” Alyx paused and lowered her voice. “Did you get what you needed?”
“Yes, I did.” Alrion didn’t add any extra detail and he maintained a straight face. He could see Lara giving him an odd look but ignored it.
“Has Lara filled you in on Valrytir?” Alyx said.
“Barely. But she did suggest quite rightly that we would need military assistance to approach the source of the Blight, and that the general would need some pretty strong evidence of our mission.” Alrion noticed Alyx give Lara a questioning look, but it passed quickly. Alyx went on.
“As it so happens, I’ve started the campaign for you. Brady, the commander of the special unit, has agreed to voice his support, as long as you can demonstrate evidence of your need.”
“That’s amazing!” Lara said, genuine surprise on her face.
“We had a stroke of luck. Vincent and Brady know each other from a long time ago, that tipped the scales in our favour.”
“My father is here? Already?”
“Yes. He’s working on a special project. And Certan is here too?”
“What?” Alrion couldn’t believe it. What were the odds of everyone being here?
“Your team is coming together when you need us the most. It’s how it should be.”
“Have you seen my mother?”
“No, can’t say I have. Vincent didn’t mention anything either. Is she here?”
“Yes, but maybe she hasn’t been lucky enough to run into you all yet.” Alrion took a deep breath. “Alright, well we can’t just stand around in the street. I need to go see the general. Do you think you can get your commander to come along?”
“Absolutely, just let me get him. And I’ll send a runner for Vincent as well.” Alyx jogged back over to the large building.
“It’s really happening.” Alrion sighed. He was so relieved that his friends were there to support him. But part of him had hoped he would have more time to get things ready before he moved ahead. It looked like he wouldn’t have much time at all.
The more time you wait, the more the enemy can prepare as well. Maybe this is for the best.
“Are you sure you want to do this now?” Lara said. She looked anxious again.
“I don’t really see another option. How long are we going to lug this box around?” he said.
“I suppose you’re right.” A look of resignation passed over her face. Alyx didn’t take long to return. She had Certan with her, and a man with grey hair and a moustache. Clearly the commander.
“So, you’re the wizard I keep hearing about?” the commander said. He held out his hand and Alrion shook it.
“That’s me. Alrion, nice to meet you.”
“Brady. And likewise. I’m very curious about what you can do.”
“All in good time. Let’s go see the general.”
“I’m sure he’s keen to see what you can do as well.” Brady chuckled. “I’ll follow your lead,” he said to Alyx. She nodded and took two steps away, before stopping and returning.
“It’s time you had this back.” Alyx unbuckled the Runesteel sword and handed it back to Alrion. He hesitated before accepting.
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, it has served me well, but now you need it back. Don’t worry, I have other options.”
“If you insist, I won’t say no. I can see the value in having it back.” Alrion adjusted the belt and slung it over his shoulder. Alyx started off again, leading them through the city towards the keep.
“Certan, I’m so surprised to see you here.”
“It’s great to see you,” Lara added.
“Thank you. My heart is warmed to see you restored. I must apologise to you for not helping you more. I realise now that you needed my help more than the temple did. It’s a mistake I won’t repeat again.”
“Don’t worry, I had enough help and you had an opportunity to reclaim your life. What brought you back here?” Alrion let his attention lapse momentarily, taking in a giant gate that they were going through. They were passing through a much more fortified area of the city, the keep had to be close.
“The elders insisted. They said it was a job unfinished. I cannot return until you are successful with your quest. I’m afraid you’re stuck with me.” Certan smiled and Alrion returned it.
“That’s a fate I can live with.”
“One other thing.” Certan paused and made sure he had Alrion’s full attention. “I passed the Vault of Silence.”
“Wow, that’s amazing. We’ll have to compare notes a bit later.” Alrion could see Certan’s eyes light up.
It’s a simple thing but having someone to talk to about it will be quite novel. I wonder how much our experiences differed?
Alrion returned his attention to the environment. They were drawing near the keep now. Alrion could see the giant stone entryway. It was guarded by two very heavily armoured soldiers. One had his visor up and was conversing with people going in and out. The other just stood perfectly still, waiting for something.
“Papers,” the guard said as they approached.
“We don’t have papers,” Alyx said. She pointed at Brady.
“Commander Brady, of the special forces unit. We need an urgent audience with the high general.”
“Absolutely not,” the guard said. “Only people with pre-approved business with authorised paperwork are getting in today.” The guard folded his arms to reinforce what he was saying. Alrion was about to say something when Lara strode to the front. She looked the guard up and down.
“Francis, cut the act and let us in.” Lara glared at him, and his face drained of blood. He looked completely white.
“Certainly, please make yourselves at home.” Francis made a quick bow and walked over to the other guard, giving them plenty of space.
“What was that?” Alrion said to Lara.
“We go way back.” Lara led the way, walking into the door. Alrion followed, ensuring the box stayed close.
“Uh, I’m going to have to look inside that box,” Francis said. Alrion stopped and let the box rest on the ground. Lara walked up to Francis.
“Are you sure?”
“Yes.” Francis licked his lips. “Sorry.”
“Be my guest.” Lara gave him a wicked grin, and Francis walked over to the box.
“I wouldn’t open it all the way,” Lara advised. Francis pried the lid open and raised it just enough to look inside. He suddenly let the lid drop closed and stepped away.
“Uh… alright. Go on.” Francis spoke in a broken fashion and joined the other guard.
“You heard the man.” Lara took off, and Alrion followed closely behind.
This is all very strange. The gate guard is scared of Lara? And we’re meeting the general in the keep? Wouldn’t it make more sense to be in a military building?
Alrion wasn’t that familiar with Valrytir and pushed his concerns aside. This was a meeting they needed to get. They entered a large reception area, with a main hallway leading into another great room with big doors. A finely dressed man stood in front of the door, his dark hair slicked back. He smiled as Lara approached.
“Welcome back, milady.”
“Thank you, Rogers. Kindly open the doors please,” Lara said. Rogers nodded and threw open the giant doors. Alrion’s mouth gaped open. It looked like a throne room. It was long and narrow, with various nobles clustered on the sides, discussing things amongst themselves. At the back of the room, an older man sat on a giant silver throne, looking bored. A couple were retreating from the throne. Rogers ran ahead.
“The Lady Lara attends with retinue,” Rogers announced. There was a silence that passed through the crowd. Alrion drew close to Lara.
“What’s going on?” he whispered.
“Later. Trust me
.” Lara strode forward with confidence. She walked halfway up the carpet leading to the throne, paused and bowed.
“I am here to present myself and my companions to his highness, Regent of Valrytir.”
“No need to be so formal, my daughter.” The man stood and walked slowly over to her.
Daughter! Isn’t he the king? Or acting king?
Alrion was stunned. He looked at his companions. Alyx didn’t seem surprised, Certan was his usual reserved self. Alrion heard footsteps behind them. He noticed his father rushing in.
“Apologies for my lateness.” Vincent gave a bow at the entrance to the room then joined them. The Regent was conversing quietly with Lara.
“My daughter says that you have business here with Valrytir. As a thank you for ensuring her safe return, I will hear your business.”
“Thank you, Your Highness.” Alrion hoped he wasn’t making a fool of himself. He had never addressed a king before.
“Please, I prefer my name, Wynston. Or if you must, use my regular title: High General.”
“As you wish, High General.” Alrion collected himself and started to speak again. “My name is Alrion and I’m a wizard. I’ve come a long way to be here, and my quest is almost at an end. Your daughter has been instrumental in helping us reach this point.”
“And your quest is?”
“Cleansing the Blight.” Alrion saw Wynston raise an eyebrow.
“That’s quite a quest. Is it a real quest? Or a fanciful waste of time?” Wynston looked at Lara.
“It’s real. Alrion can demonstrate so.”
“Ha! The only way he could do that is cure the Blight in front of my eyes. Who are these other people?”
“All these people can vouch for the importance and legitimacy of this quest. This is Alyx, a formidable fighter. She is best known for destroying the Skull King.” Alrion hoped that Wynston was impressed. But his face darkened considerably.
“I am quite aware of ALL her exploits. Who else?”
“This is Certan, a master monk that hails from the desert temple. And this is my father, Vincent. He is a master blacksmith, one who can work with Runesteel.” That point captured Wynston’s attention.
Soul of Light (The Hidden Wizard Book 4) Page 31
