They exchange slight bows.
Robert Craig asks, “Where are you going and how can I be of assistance?”
Aden steps forward. “Our destination is the Yellow Toad Inn. Tell me where I can purchase a well-made saddle and reins.”
The Baroness’ son hesitates. “We have some fine saddles at our stable. They are slightly worn but finely crafted.”
After Aden describes what is needed, Robert Craig deftly swings himself up on the back of his horse. “I shall deliver the saddle and accouterments in less than an hour to the inn. Fare-thee-well.” He lightly spurs his horse and is off.
***
Mikal, Aden, Ebon Usher, and the one-armed dwarf enter the Yellow Toad Inn. The innkeeper greets them warmly. “Welcome, Mikal and companions.”
The White Wizard smiles. “It is good to see you again, my friend. We would like a room, and I insist that I pay for it.”
“No, no, not necessary.” The innkeeper holds up his hands. “When you last left, not one, but two impressive ladies instructed me that they would pay all your expenses upon your return. May I recommend the loft? It is spacious and has two beds and I can provide a third.”
Aden raises an eyebrow. “Not one, but two impressive ladies?”
A blushing Mikal accepts the kind offer.
“I'll send fresh food and water up presently.”
The proprietor directs the group to the aforementioned quarters. Upon entry, Aden opens the one window and scans the surroundings. “It would be difficult to enter through this portal and it provides an excellent view.”
Along with the two beds, the room has a wooden table with three chairs and a large trunk to stow gear. Within minutes, there is a knock on the door and the innkeeper's wife enters carrying a large tray with clear water and fresh food. She greets everyone with a smile and lovingly pets Majam’s head.
“I have not forgotten about you, my feline beauty. I'll bring you some fresh milk.” Majam purrs contentedly and the portly woman leaves the room. Mikal starts to pace and lines crease his forehead. “I thought there would be some word on Talon and my daughter by now. I am beginning to worry.”
Aden suggest, “Why don't you ask that night person, what is her name?”
“Marion Vetta?”
“Yes. That’s it. Would she not have contacts?”
The White Wizard nods. “You may be right, but I do not know how to contact her. She has always found me.”
Aden states the obvious, “Well then, I suggest we wait.”
Upon finishing the food and drink, a knock is heard at the door. The innkeeper opens it enough for his head to appear. “Excuse me, sirs, but there is a young noble lad in the main hall who claims that he has the items that you asked him to procure.”
The four descend the stairs and enter the main hall. Robert Craig, and two servants carrying the requested items, stands grinning with his arms opened wide.
“What do you think?”
Aden carefully inspects the gear. “You are correct. These are made with craftsmanship and attention to detail. They are not up to my standards, of course, but I believe they will suffice.” He faces Mikal. “With your permission, my master, I shall deliver them to Sir Rusel.”
Mikal nods. Ebon Usher surprises the White Wizard with a request of his own. “I, too, would like to present the enchanted armor to Sir Rusel to see if it is adequate. He must ride fully regaled so that his wonderful mount becomes accustomed to the added weight.”
Mikal hesitates. “Yes, the two of you together would have a greater chance of success. Kairn and I will wait here. I hope I soon receive good news. Good luck, gentlemen.”
Chapter 38
Aden Ferrum and Ebon Usher arrive at Sir Rusel's simple camp.
The Paladin stands as the Red Wizard and the Stone Mage dismount and display the goods. “Let me see what you have brought.” He inspects the commodities. “This is a fine saddle…and two brushes. I thank you. I have endeavored to explain to Snow…my name for my horse…about the saddle, the bit, the bridal and the reins. I believe she understands, for she is quite perceptive. But first I must treat her to a proper brushing.” Ebon explains why he brought the armor. “The horse and rider must adjust to the unaccustomed weight together.”
“I agree. But first, I must orient her to the saddle and gear only. Inform Mikal that I will be at the designated area one day before the combat.”
Aden joins the Paladin in brushing the fabulous steed. “I believe the White Wizard expects us to travel together.”
Sir Rusel hesitates. “You may be correct, but I won’t have it.” He scans the horizon. “I remember this area. There is a secluded glen not far from here. I shall go there and meditate and prepare myself mentally for the impending engagement. Thank you, my friends. Leave now.”
The Stone Mage says, “I almost forgot. I have the two apples you requested; one for your mount and one for you.” He tosses the fruit and Sir Rusel expertly catches one in each hand.
“They look very tasty. I thank you again.”
After the two wizards leave, the Paladin saddles his suddenly skittish horse and mounts the animal. He tentatively prods Snow to a slow canter. After several strides, the magnificent mount accepts the unaccustomed items upon her and soon horse and rider furiously race the wind. They gallop through a river and the white steed relishes the splashing as she crosses the flowing water. Her strides grow faster and stronger, her splendid mane flowing. Sir Rusel’s eyes water with the wind and both man and animal lose all sense of time and become one.
It is early evening before they return to the makeshift camp, not exhausted but exhilarated. The Paladin removes the saddle and gives Snow a loving brushing and offers an eagerly accepted apple.
He tearfully manages, “You are magnificent. Tomorrow I shall don armor and we shall go to a special place.”
***
The Paladin suffers a difficult night, sleep filled with bewildering dreams. He awakens often and the nightmares linger. A number of times he checks on his beautiful horse and reassures her that all is well.
He tries to will away the feeling of foreboding growing inside him.
Just after dawn, he awakens with a start. It takes a moment to orientate himself. He draws a deep breath and exhales slowly. “I am Paladin,” he reminds himself. “I need to focus on the task ahead.”
He wades into the river until the water becomes deep and warm. He is surprised to find his marvelous mare joining him in the calming river. He successfully captures a fish and has a satisfying breakfast while his steed grazes in the tall, golden grass. He meticulously dons the suit of armor and tightly fastens the black, leather straps.
He saddles Snow, mounts, and places the enchanted helm on his head. The two easily forge the river and travel until they come across an obscure, seldom-used path that leads to a narrow switchback trail up a short cliff. They conquer the difficult, ancient way, and soon a small, level area lies before them.
In its center, Sir Rusel sees an unnatural, large, flat rock. It reminds him of an ancient altar where sacrifices might have been offered. To the right of this formation is a deep impression set in the stone wall of the cliff that offers protection from the elements. On the other side of the boulder/altar is a spring bubbling forth, leaving a clear, small pool of water. It overflows and sends a narrow stream down the face of the cliff.
“We rest here,” he tells his mare. “There's some grass still growing and plenty of water.”
After seeing to his horse, he places the enchanted armor on the stone altar. He explains to himself, “I must remember my friends…my fellow Paladin. I will honor their names and memories. But I am forgetting more and more. Perhaps I have trod this land for too long.” He walks over to Snow and strokes her luxurious mane. “I know, I know. One of my primary goals is to return you to your land as soon as possible. You miss your family. It is difficult for me to even remember mine.”
Taking his broken-tipped sword in his right hand, Sir Rusel a
ssumes a fighting stance. He goes through a set motion of swordplay and tries to remember killing blows that he had delivered in former battles, and attacks he had successfully defended. He relives dangerous dances from the distant past. This goes on for hours. When he is satisfied that he has done all to prepare mentally, he walks to the cool, bubbling spring and drinks. He splashes the refreshing water over his body. He closes his eyes and enters a meditative state. His breathing is steady, his body relaxed. He extends his senses far. His eyes flutter open.
“He is out there, and not far away. I know his destination.”
Sir Rusel dons his armor and saddles his mount. He leads the horse down the switchback trail. He stops and looks into his charger’s eyes. “I may be able to do what I had only hoped I could do this very night.”
He mounts the mare and rides with purpose and determination. The sun has set and his progress is slow but his direction is true. He enters a dank swamp and spies the Dark Harold sharpening a vicious sword.
Sir Rusel Ironwood draws his weapon. “You! Foul creature, let us end this now.” He charges.
Chapter 39
“Excuse me, Master Mikal, but there are three women here to see you.”
The White Wizard stands and says, “Three, you say?” The dwarf smiles lopsidedly. “Please, by all means, allow them entry.”
The first to enter is not a woman at all, but a blond, powerfully built man who scrutinizes the room with vigilant eyes.
Three stately women appear in the doorway and step inside. There is Madam Burnshire, the Baroness Elizabeth Stannum, and a third Mikal does not recognize. She is of average height with black hair just starting to show a hint of gray. Her skin is smooth and her eyes have a sparkle to them. There is something…enchanting about her.
Madam Burnshire says, “Mikal Novastar, I present to you Josephine Regan. She has the ear of the Duke and deals with the physical, social, and mental issues inside his court.”
The intriguing woman offers her hand. Mikal gently takes it in his own… and time seems to stop. Vivid images flash through his mind. He sees pages of a book that is not a book at all. This woman has been a White Wizard for some time and does not allow her age to show. The healing arts are her specialty. As the White Wizard gleans information about the sister, he knows also that she has received knowledge about him. It all happens in an instant. They finish a simple handshake.
“Lizabetha,” she asks, “May we please sit?”
Mikal, finding his voice, mutters, “Where are my manners? Please. I shall fetch some tea for us… it is quite flavorsome.”
Madam Burnshire, with wave of her hand, interjects, “Allow me.” She motions toward her personal guard. “Arnold, would you be so kind as to ask the innkeeper for some tea? You may remain on the first floor. Go, now.”
The headmistress’ eyes linger as he leaves.
She looks to Kairn. The dwarf stands and, with an exaggerated wave of his good arm, he bows low. “Isle gowan keype the bee gwon cump panny.”
Mikal addresses the Baroness. “Your daughter is very brave. She helped to cure me and she was secure when I left her just days ago.”
“I thank you for those kind words. I am concerned about her.”
“As are we all,” Madam Burnshire mutters. She looks to Mikal. “If you have not heard, it appears that Brian Quickhands is now a free man and has left the City of Umbra. Hopefully, he will return soon.”
Mikal nods. “Yes, I did receive that welcomed information and am looking forward to that day. No doubt he will have a story or two to tell.”
Josephine addresses the White Wizard. “I have some confusing news.” Just then a knock on the door interrupts the enigmatic woman and the innkeeper's wife enters carrying a tray full of hot tea and a saucer of milk. She smiles, leaves the tray, and closes the door behind her. They take a moment to thoughtfully sip their tea.
“You are correct, Mikal Novastar,” Josephine says. “It is quite delicious.” She deliberately puts down her cup. “I have information on a mutual friend. It seems that Amadeus Whitestone's farm was burned to ashes.”
“Oh, please don‘t…”
Josephine holds up her hand. “Inexplicitly, all the livestock were found accounted for and roaming the grounds. There were no bodies.”
Mikal stands shakily. “I sent Talon to take my daughter there. I thought she would be safe.”
“We also received information from the School of Three Moons. A half-elf kidnapped a student from the school days ago. They have sent out search parties and a reward has been posted for the student’s return.”
The White Wizard ponders the information as he starts to pace back-and-forth. “Well, it would appear that Talon was successful in locating my daughter.”
Madam Burnshire asks, “Where do you think he would have taken her?”
Mikal thinks for a moment. “Maybe to the small town of Ulna. Yes, I believe he might have taken her there.”
The Baroness speaks, “If you provide directions, I shall send two investigators to see if that is so.”
Mikal responds, “I thank you. I recommend you have your riders stop at the library. Master Librarian Derrick Foxhill will provide them a map to Ulna.”
Josephine Regan requests, “Mikal, please sit down. You are making all of us nervous.” Mikal complies. “Now for another matter. The three of us have our own contacts and, how shall I say this…abilities. We sense something of great import on the near horizon. Do you know of what we speak?”
The White Wizard nods. ‘Yes, I believe I do. You sense the presence of a Dark Knight. I have summoned Sir Rusel Ironwood, a Paladin of old, to be my champion. He is to face the Ebony One in single, mortal combat.”
Madame Burnshire asks, “They both agreed to this?”
“Yes. And two nights hence they will engage in the Valley of Endorr. I procured an enchanted suit of armor for our champion and he has acquired a fine charger to ride into battle. We must find him a suitable sword or somehow fuse his broken-tipped weapon.”
No one speaks for some time. The Baroness softly asks, “And what if your champion should lose?”
Again a long silence. Mikal shakes his head. “He must win. But I am forced to admit, I have thought about this possibility. However grim things are now, I believe they could grow far worse. The Dark Harold is being directed to do what he does by an evil that surpasses even his own. It seems his servitude might soon be over, however, and this may free him to spread wanton destruction and fear at his own desire. No, the Paladin must not fail. The confrontation occurs in two days and I shall leave tomorrow morning. I will be there to bear witness. I have been aided by the Lady Evalon.”
The three regal women are surprised by this admission. Mistress Josephine speaks, “We all have heard of the lady, an Earth Mother, but we have had no actual dealings with her.” She pauses. “You are blessed, Mikal Novastar.”
The White Wizard smiles. “I am not sure if I would have chosen that word exactly, but your presence here is a blessing to me. I am in your debt.”
Madame Burnshire rises. “Again I say, you are truly a hero. If there is anything you need or desire, you have but to ask.”
Mikal nods. “We shall take our leave. Farewell for now.”
Chapter 40
The Dark Harold has no time to mount. Sir Rusel charges and slashes his sword downward with speed, but little power. It would not be proper to attack him when he is ill prepared. The blow easily deflects off the dark armor. The Paladin pulls up and turns his horse around and waits for his adversary to mount and gird himself. The Knight combatants hesitate to take measure of each other. Then they charge with abandon.
At the last instant, Sir Rusel directs his steed slightly away from his opponent. The dark-clad knight swings his sword, but to no avail. The snow-white mare circles her opponent. The Dark Knight raises a double-bladed axe and crashes it down on the Paladin’s shield, which cracks. Sir Rusel rides in closer and exchanges quick blows, then backs away. He leans f
orward and whispers in the ear of his magnificent mare, “One more time should show me his syle. Off we go!”
The ancient Paladin is shocked to see the Shadow Knight spur his glistening, midnight mount forward with a vengeance. Sir Rusel holds his shield high. The heavy axe hammers into it, and the Paladin feels the blow to his very bones. Then, maliciously, the ebony mount rears and viciously bites the white steed’s vulnerable ear.
Sir Rusel swipes at the mouth of the foul creature. As the raging horse’s front legs return to the ground, a bony hoof tears into the chest of the white steed. The dark leg continues downward and produces a glancing blow on the cannon bone of the foreleg. Sir Rusel is not immediately aware of these wounds.
“He has won this round and I've seen enough. Let us be gone.”
After retreating a safe distance, the Paladin detects a flaw in his mount’s gait. He pulls her into a tight circle and looks down and is shocked to see a crimson-colored fluid spattered across her chest.
“No!” he yells.
The Dark Herald is mounting another charge. The ancient Paladin refuses combat. “Let us see if you can outdistance them even in your wounded state.”
The green-hued clad knight gains a short lead, but cannot build upon it. “I pray the wound is not serious but you are still bleeding and he is still pursuing.”
Like a bright dawn, an idea springs forth inside Sir Rusel and he directs his mount left. Shortly, he advances toward a swiftly flowing river. He does not slow and they gallop into the flowing water. Halfway across, the river deepens and the horse must swim. Sir Rusel knows her love of water may be his best chance at survival this night. They cross the deepest part until he feels his mount’s hooves on watery ground. They struggle, but finally achieve the safety of the far side.
He turns to his pursuer. The Ebony Knight is kicking hard into the flanks of his dark steed who resists this water and its current. Despite persistent, vicious spurring, the horse does not pursue.
The Warrior and the Wandering Wizard (The Way of the Wandering Wizard Series Book 2) Page 23
