Rise (War Witch Book 1)

by Cain S. Latrani

  "Yeah," Chara said slowly, both touched by the gesture, and embarrassed by it. "I'll have to put some thought into that."

  Grinning, the warrior nodded. She was pretty sure her friend would not, in fact, do any such thing. Chara was nothing if not practical, after all. Clever, brilliant, brave, and stalwart as well, she thought. Watching her sheath the weapon, she admitted to herself that she was very glad that the young woman was coming with them. She was an amazing friend, her best friend, and she knew, she didn't really want to make this journey without her.

  "If it's okay, can I sit with you until Izra gets back?" Chara asked. "Maybe you could tell me about Collette?"

  Ramora nodded and they sat on the edge of the bed as she told her best friend all about the woman who'd raised her to be a warrior.

  The next morning, with the sun still rising, the four left the inn, thanking Tia and Layrn for everything. The matronly old Halfling cried as they saw them off, her wife waving hard enough for them both. It felt strange, to be going, the small inn feeling almost like home to them.

  Making their way to the waterfront, they saw that reconstruction for the docks was underway, though the cleanup of the crashed citadel and the sunken ships was proving difficult, and slowing the process greatly. Over a dozen transports sat anchored farther out, their cargo being carted to the city by way of rowboat, a slow, grueling process that was hanging up the cleanup efforts even more.

  Standing by one small boat, they found Untar talking with a small man, his features distinctive of a Balekirk native. Only an inch taller than Chara, his narrow dark eyes matched well with the mop of black hair on his head, his face looking severe even when he smiled and greeted them all. Captain Nolar Armano, owner and commander of the merchant trade vessel Galepiercer, the man who would see them all to the southern continent, and one step closer to Draco.

  "Sorry for the cramped quarters," he said, nodding to the small boat, his voice tinged very slightly with a Balekirk accent. "I'm afraid this was as close as we could get to the shore."

  "We're just thankful that you're willing to help us out," Chara answered for the band. "We're in your debt."

  "More like I'm out of his," Armano chuckled, jerking a thumb at Untar. "Though, honestly, anything I can do to help, I'm happy to do. Damn Demon Seed are getting bold these days."

  "One in particular," Izra commented.

  "Yes," he nodded, face turning grim. "That one especially. Untar's told me a bit of your mission. I've lost some good friends to that armada of his, so when you guys find him, give him an extra stab in the face for me."

  "Face stabbing," Chara intoned to Ramora, who rolled her eyes.

  "The trip is going to be long, I'm afraid," Armano continued. "Our windstone is cracked, and we haven't been able to get it fixed. Plus, we have to lay over in Bask for a bit. Merchandise to drop off, and pick up. I hope you'll forgive that, but I've still got a living to make, and a crew to pay."

  Ramora waved it away, nudging Chara to let him know she was a Cleric, and capable of some magic that might help them on their way. The Captain watched her sign language for a moment in fascination, then nodded, glad to have a priestess of the War Wolf on board.

  "When you get to Jazda, present the Port Authority with this," Untar said, handing the warrior a letter sealed with the sign of his house. "They'll help you get to Isnar as fast as possible. It's only a three week trip from the port usually, but they know people who can get you there in two."

  Nodding, she thanked him as she tucked the letter away.

  "I guess we should get going," Armano nodded.

  "Right," Untar agreed, pausing to give them one last look. "May the Gods be merciful, and your retribution be swift."

  Shaking hands with Esteban and Ramora, the King got a hug from Izra and Chara both, to his surprise. They boarded Armano's rowboat, settling in with what gear they had, and waved goodbye to the King as the Captain pushed off.

  He was honestly sad to see them go, and hoped when next they met, it would be so he could hear the tale of how they defeated Draco. He was proud to know them all, for they were brave and selfless souls, giving their all in the name of Heaven.

  "They'll be back," Leena said softly, making him jump.

  "Do not sneak up on me," he chided.

  She gave a wry smile. "They'll be back."

  "I pray you're right," he sighed. "For all our sakes."

  Reaching the ship, they climbed the net hung from the side and stood on the deck as Armano's crew set about getting ready to depart. Chara had never been on a ship before, and watched with fascination as Esteban flattened his ears at the way the sailors eyed his beloved.

  "Here we go," Izra said softly, grabbing Ramora's hand.

  Squeezing it, the warrior turned her eye to the horizon. Somewhere, out there, her enemy lurked, unaware she was on her way to end him, to pay him back for all the misery he'd heaped upon her life. Somewhere, out there, she would find justice.

  "Okay," Chara said, clapping her hands as the sails were unfurled. "Let's go kill Draco!"

  Appendix

  The Gods of Heaven and Hell

  The Sky Gods

  THE SKY GODS are perhaps the most important of the Gods, for it is they who first created and shaped the World into what it is now. In the High World, they rule over the lands of the Sky and are Gods of Justice, Force, and all things True and Good.

  The primary goal of the Sky Gods is to neutralize the Demon Seed presence in the Middle World and lock the gates that allow the Evil Ones access to the Middle World, forever sealing them away in the Demon Realm. However, as this has already failed once, the great and powerful Gods are slowly being forced to admit that there may be no way to win the war without slaying their Divine Brethren, a fact few are eager to embrace.

  The Mark of the Sky Gods can always be found upon the forehead of those they Bless, for they wish their Blessed to walk without fear, to make themselves known and thus, stand against the Demon Seed openly.

  Grannax

  The Sun Tiger, Emperor of the High World, father of the Gods, firstborn of Rialda, and creator of the World.

  Grannax is the very embodiment of life, love, and all things pure and good in the World. No matter what pantheon a person of any race adheres too, Grannax is recognized as the Supreme Ruler of creation. In the battle against the Demon Gods, Grannax's compassion can be seen most clearly. While many have called for the absolute destruction of the Dark Ones, Grannax has sought some means by which they can be contained, not wishing to kill another Deity.

  Most often depicted as half-man, half-tiger wearing robes of pure white with the sun shining behind his head. Other designs show him kneeling by a stream, or holding the World in his Divine paw.

  As would be appropriate, Grannax's symbol is that of the sun. His priests wear a white sash to represent their adherence to the concept of purity of spirit and mind. Often, they also wear a necklace or pendant with the symbol of the sun.

  The Divine Gift bestowed upon Blessed of Grannax is the Sunspear. Considered the ultimate weapon against evil, it’s a four-foot long, two-headed spear formed of pure sunlight, appearing in the Blessed's hand upon will. Minions of the Demon Gods are often so overwhelmed by its appearance, they will flee rather than look upon it.

  His Divine Mark is the Tiger Paw.

  Isel

  The Moon Tiger, Empress of the High World, mother of the Gods, secondborn of Rialda, and wife of Grannax.

  As Grannax is the daylight, Isel is the light that shines in the night. Hers is the way of mystery, magic, and that which is veiled. Well-known for her loving and generous nature, Isel is the living embodiment of compassion, except for one area. Ker Zet, her sister, and the Demon Gods she spawned. For Isel, there is no quarter asked or given in the war. While she supports Grannax's desire to not slay the Demon Gods, she does not state that it isn’t acceptable, for her hatred of those birthed of treachery and deception is absolute.

  Most often depicted as half-woman,
half-white tigress wearing pale blue robes with the moon behind her head. Other designs show her holding a massive tome of lore, or surrounded by stars.

  Naturally, Isel’s symbol is that of the moon. Her priests wear a white sash with pale blue trim or tassels to represent their understanding that not all things are as simple as they should be, as well as their appreciation for the forces of magic Isel created. Often they will wear a necklace or pendant with the symbol of the moon.

  The Divine Gift bestowed upon Blessed of Isel is the Moonspear. Similar to the Sunspear, the Moonspear is also a four-foot, two-headed spear, but it’s formed of cold moonlight, and looks blue to the eye. Where the Sunspear is for warriors, the Moonspear is for Mages, and greatly augments their magical abilities.

  Her Divine Mark is the Tiger Head.

  Ixin

  The Bear Goddess of healing and medicine.

  Often hailed as the savior of the Six Races with her healing gifts, she is one of the most loved of the Gods and many temples have been erected in her name, serving as both places of worship and hospitals. Her name became a popular one for children for many years, people believing it would give long life and health. Secondborn daughter of Grannax and Isel, she is twin sister to Mahaat, Goddess of the Desert.

  Often depicted as a bear-headed woman holding a mortar and pestle, she is well known for her benevolence, tenderness, and mercy. She’s also the giver of all medical knowledge in the World.

  Ixin's symbol is the cup, from which it is believed all health flows. Her priests wear a white sash with brown trim or tassels to symbolize their medical knowledge and devotion to the ways of Ixin. Many also wear her symbol on a necklace.

  The Divine Gift bestowed upon Blessed of Ixin is the Great Healing. With this powerful healing ability, Blessed can mend even the most grievous of injuries and cure even the deadliest diseases. Some of the most powerful Blessed are said to be able to replace lost limbs, and even heal the mind.

  Her Divine Mark is the Bear Head.

  Ramor

  The Wolf God of war, honor and protection of home and family.

  The firstborn of Grannax and Isel. Defender of the High World and General of the Armies of the Gods. When the time for war comes, even Grannax defers to Ramor, for his battle prowess and honor are unquestioned even by the Demon Gods. More than just a soldier, Ramor is also the loving husband of Altimar and devoted father to many Gods himself, including Asdrid.

  Most often depicted as a werewolf in silver armor holding a great sword. There are very few other images of Ramor, but one does exist, depicting him in a red robe with small children gathered about his feet.

  Ramor's symbol is, naturally, the sword. While he very rarely has priests who adhere to his ways, those few who do wear either a white sash with red trim or tassel, or a plain red sash. Most prefer to wear his symbol as either a necklace or some other adornment. All carry the ceremonial dagger, though.

  The Divine Gift bestowed upon Blessed of Ramor is Sense Attack. With this Divine Gift in play, the Blessed 'sees' his opponent’s next attack before it happens, allowing him to counter it and take advantage of any openings left. Many have claimed it has also warned them of ambushes in the past, making Blessed of Ramor greatly feared by Demon Seed.

  His Divine Mark is the Wolf Paw.

  Asdrid

  The Fox Goddess, virgin guardian of the Gates of the High World and defender of women.

  To gain admittance to the High World, one must first go through Asdrid, whose martial ability is surpassed only by Ramor. Women often pray to her and are highly favored by her as well, enough so that no one can honestly say they’ve ever met a man blessed by her. The daughter of Ramor and Altimar, Asdrid came into being shortly before the rise of the Demon Gods and the separation of the Worlds. Sensing that the Dark Ones would find a way to free themselves of their prison, she quickly moved to take her place as the Guardian of the Gates, forfeiting a life beyond that simple duty. The High Gods never forget the sacrifice Asdrid made, or that she alone protects the very entrance to the High World with her body, and her very life if the need should arise.

  Most often depicted as a woman with a white fox head dressed in golden armor and holding the deadly War Maul, standing before a great gate. Other depictions show her as a half-woman, half-white fox, wearing golden robes.

  Asdrid's symbol is the arched gate. Her priestesses often wear a white sash with gold trim or tassels to symbolize their dedication to a higher purpose than their own lives. More often, however, they wear her symbol as some form of adornment.

  The Divine Gift bestowed on Blessed of Asdrid is Open the Way. With the Divine Gift of the Guardian of the Gates at their disposal, no Blessed has ever encountered a lock they cannot open. The Demon Seed may run from the Blessed of Asdrid, but they cannot escape them. More powerful Blessed have even been known to use this Gift to clear away cave-ins, walk through powerful Wall spells, and overcome the most powerful of mystic locks.

  Her Divine Mark is the Fox Head.

  Talsis

  The Spider Goddess of law, order and justice.

  It was this Goddess who first laid out the laws by which both the Middle World and the High World live. It was she who created the court system and it is she who is consulted by judges of all races.

  Most often depicted as a spider with the face of a matronly woman sitting upon a web. Other depictions show her as a beautiful woman with six arms working the loom. There’s little in the way of explanation as to why two such differing depictions exist.

  Her symbol is that of the spider, most often with the scales on the abdomen. Her priests and most judges wear a white sash with black trim or tassels to show their willingness to see the world in absolute terms. Judges wear the sash draped over their shoulders, while priests wear them around the waist. Some few wear her symbol as a necklace, but it’s considered vain by hard liners and frowned upon.

  The Divine Gift bestowed upon Blessed of Talsis is Sense Truth. With this Gift, no lie may be told in the presence of a Blessed. They can hear it for what it is. More powerful Blessed even claim to be able to 'see' the truth amidst the lie.

  Her Divine Mark is the Spider.

  Raif Malon

  The Squirrel God of humor, laughter, and trickery.

  While his sense of humor may be annoying at times, Raif Malon serves a powerful purpose, in that laughter is something the Demon Gods cannot bestow upon people. He’s also well-known for his devious nature and underhanded tactics in dealing with the minions of evil. For this reason, he has gained a lot of respect, as many people feel he’s willing to do more than other Sky Gods to protect them.

  Most often depicted as half-man, half-squirrel. Other depictions show him as a man with a squirrel’s head holding a flail.

  His symbol is the flail, though no one is certain just how this came to be. While it’s common knowledge that Raif Malon doesn’t have much in the way of a priesthood, those few who do follow that path wear no adornment to distinguish themselves from the common man. To do so would be to fall in line with everyone else, and Raif Malon endorses individuality first.

  The Divine Gift bestowed upon Blessed of Raif Malon is Hideaway. With the use of this bizarre Gift, a Blessed may put anything they wish into their pocket, leaving no bulges, as if the thing were pocket-sized to begin with. This Gift has been used many times to smuggle Blessed into Demon fortresses, the Blessed of Raif Malon turning an entire army out of his pockets once inside the walls.

  His Divine Mark is the Squirrel Head.

  Linnar

  The Falcon God of knowledge and magic.

  While Isel may have created magic, it was Linnar who refined it and first created the various Traditions of the Mage and laid out the laws they must live by. After the Mage Wars, Linnar stopped teaching new spells and has only recently begun once more since the Blessed have been created. In general, Linnar is well known to be greatly displeased with the Six Races and as such, he’s feared more than the other Sky Gods.

/>   Most often depicted as a falcon-headed man in robes of deep blue holding a book of lore. Very few depictions otherwise exist, but in rare cases Linnar is shown surrounded by a mystic circle.

  Linnar's symbol is the circle, due to its implications of completeness and perfection. His priests wear a white sash with deep blue trim or tassels. Many also wear a simple silver ring on their right index finger.

  The Divine Gift bestowed upon Blessed of Linnar is Know the Unknown. With use of this Gift, the Blessed becomes a temporary expert in all things. By simply focusing on the problem at hand, the Blessed receives Divine insight into the matter, and for the next few hours, is considered a Master at whatever he has chosen.

  His Divine Mark is the Falcon Head.

  Rajan

  The Dragon God of thunder, lightning, rain and storms.

  While Rajan is a very fearful God and not one to be approached without caution, he can also be very generous and loving. His Blessed reflect his temperament, and his kindness. It is unknown just when Rajan came to be, or for that matter, if he is truly a child of Grannax and Isel at all. The Great Storm Dragon is very much a mystery to most people, capable of watering crops and sustaining life with as much impunity as he sends tornadoes and floods to destroy. One thing is known, and respected. Rajan hates the Demon Gods with a burning rage nearly as powerful as that of the Lady Isel herself. Alone among the Sky Gods, Rajan has called for their absolute and utter destruction since the beginning, and at last, others are beginning to listen.

  Rajan is often depicted as a massive dragon of many colors, his great coils weaving in and out among each other, making his tail unseen and unknowable. This image has come from the very few who have ever laid eyes on the Storm Dragon, and claim it to be true, that the sound of thunder itself comes from the rasping of his coils upon one another as he constantly twists in rage at the presence of evil.