ã€ŠThe Shadowlands: Farraã€‹


 Chapter 1: Enslavement and Opportunity

    A black stone glowing a faint purple smacked against the ground. The crash created by the impact echoed throughout the endless dark, lit only by large braziers separated along winding walkways. Faces turned to observe the source of the noise, a line of people halting behind a petite and pale girl, while the individuals ahead of her continued forward in carting a large amount of similar stones. The sound of metal cracked against the ground, two figures clad in armor from head to toe began moving along the line from the front. One craned its head, fixed on the girl.

    ¡°What''s with the hold up? Pick it up and keep moving.¡±

    The small girl bent over, her arms shivering as she tried wrapped her hands under the stone, trying to pull it up using all her back. Her hands slipped, and the stone to crumbled back to the ground, the girl only managing to pull her bare feet from the impact in time. She looked up at the armored figure speaking to her, shaking her head in response as she gazed back down to her battered hands.

    ¡°Can''t even carry a damn rock? Then get out of the way.¡± A gauntlet belonging to the impatient voice grabbed her wrist, pulling her from the line and throwing her to the ground. ¡°Look at her. She''s small, weak, unfit for any labor and too skinny to even make decent feed for the animals.¡± He turned to the rest of the line, numerous other wary individuals immediately turning their heads forward from the sight and moving along the trail heaving large stones.

    ¡°What''s your name girl?¡±

    ¡°Farra.¡± She spoke hushed, holding the wrist she had been yanked by.

    ¡°Head up to the tents and don''t leave. If you do, you''ll be killed. There''s gotta be some use for you.¡± The man stepped to head back to the front of the line while making two hand motions. One toward an individual behind Farra to pick her stone up, the other for his fellow patrol to walk toward the back of the line.

    Farra continued to rub her wrist, no other attention being paid to her as she picked herself up, turning to a jagged stone bridge that stretched across from the winding path. Farra carried herself along, looking down to see another winding path where she could see large humanoids swinging pickaxes against stone. Behind them were smaller ones, some frail like Farra, scurrying to pick up the chunks of stone that came loose and deposit them into a pile lying to the side.

    She looked back up to see another armored figure walking up to her.

    ¡°Where are you going girl?¡±

    Farra shrank, her ears flattening and tails dropping down. ¡°I was instructed to return to my tent.¡± She murmured, trying to hold her head up toward the helmet, while her eyes shied away from the slits in which eyes lie behind. ¡°Return to the tents? Why? That''s a waste of time.¡±

    ¡°Because I dropped a rock.¡± Her head sunk, shivering as the voice hastened.

    A hand reached, taking hold of Farra''s own and squeezing around it. The fingers traced back and forth, feeling the grooves of her bruised hand. ¡°Too frail even for carrying stones huh? Though I shouldn''t be surprised, a beast like you is better at magic.¡±

    She panicked, shaking her head. ¡°I am not like my kin.¡±

    ¡°Oh? No good at magic either? Maybe you''re just worthless then. Either way, head to the war hall instead, tell them Gare sent you. Don''t lie or wander or you''ll be punished.¡±

    Gare waved a hand, turning and observing all along the quarry from the stone bridge.

    Farra hurried, wanting to avoid run-ins with any more armored peoples. The stone bridge connected directly to solid ground elevated above the rest of the winding paths. As she climbed up, numerous tattered tents pitched around a large structure made of blackened stone came into immediate view. The encampment''s faint lighting made it difficult to discern figures, however Farra had no desire to try and run. She stepped forward to the hall. She could feel the eyes of a sentry standing atop the building, staring at her for a moment before the eyes turned their attention elsewhere.

    Farra''s heart beat. Between the eyes of the sentry and her being sent to the war hall, she could not imagine what would happen to her. However she did know that it was pointless to turn elsewhere. Even if she went unpunished for her failure to comply with orders, she would die out in the black wilderness.

    The ground under her began to smooth. The feeling of crags and protruding stones faded as she furthered herself from the quarry, feeling a dry and sandy dirt shift beneath her feet. Though the lines were dreary, she shivered as cold began to creep through her tatters. The quarry descended down into the ground, and between the people and braziers, managed to trap heat inside. It was something welcome compared the dark plains, yet it wasn''t the heat or people that fought her shivering. Farra rubbed her arms, gazing at the endless dark before turning back forward to the hall.

    From within the hall, flickering light was visible. Over the entrance a single lantern hung providing guidance as she shuffled across the stone floor. As she turned the corner of the entrance, she found the war hall stretching far back, elongated and furnished with crude, makeshift tables that could be mistaken for being carved from the ground itself. Numerous stones glowed with an unnatural violet hue within stone baskets shaped from the side of pillars that supported the entire structure.

    Farra crept forward, soldiers of various shapes and sizes, some with tails or horns, and some with no outstanding features at all scattered throughout the hall. They sat and stood, discussing and paying no mind to the diminutive girl who had wandered inside. She turned, facing a hulking figure that bear facial qualities similar to a lizard.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± His voice boomed.

    Farra''s ears and tails jumped, despite being entirely aware of his presence, the voice and uncomfortable environment was enough to make her body quiver while her arms remained fixed at her side. ¡°I was asked to come here...by a man named Gare.¡± Her voice shook at the feeling of a harsh gaze, looking up and seeing it realized by two narrow, dark eyes.

    ¡°What for?¡±

    The heads of nearby groups of soldiers turned to the girl and hulking warrior.

    ¡°I was sent back to my tent by an overseer because I couldn''t carry stones any longer. And I ran into Gare on the way back. He told me to come here instead.¡± Farra glanced around nervously, the gaze of every single individual felt as if it was fixating on her, judging her. Her hands shook as each pair of eyes gazed at her, shifting up and down, examining every quirk, every scrape, and even taking note of her shivering. She felt each set of eyes judging as if to see if her appearance made her story believable.

    One of the warriors standing in aside in a group chimed in, ¡°Sounds like Gare wants the warlord to examine her personally. Don''t know why''d Gare even chance at wasting his time like that.¡± He turned back to his fellow band of soldiers who scoffed in approval.

    ¡°Is that true girl?¡± The presence in front of her bellowed and pointed toward the back of the hall toward a figure seated on a chair crowned with three blades, surrounded by numerous standing soldiers. ¡°Go on then.¡±

    ¡°I don''t kn-.¡± She attempted to speak, tucking her head and turning when the warrior''s tail slapped against the ground with a crack. She scurried forward, watching her step as she felt the laughs of soldiers began to unnerve her. Farra would pass different people sitting and eating some semblance of a meal, either too engrossed in their food or turning only to cast a sharp glance at her. Her heart pounded. She could extrapolate the thoughts of every soldier casting a glance through their movements.

    Farra approached the group of soldiers blocking view of the individual seated. Like a rush of mental daggers, they turned to her, creating a path for her to see the sitting man. Farra eyed his blackened armor, etched with elaborate deep-crimson markings. His helmet remained on like most other soldiers, but in his gaze she could feel an individual, calculating from the very moment he set his eyes upon her. She felt an aura different from him compared to any other she had met, one filled with overflowing ambition and confidence.

    Every one of his soldiers around him fell silent, keeping their gazes on Farra, none parting their lips while they waited for the man to speak.

    ¡°A beast and child.¡± He stretched his neck. ¡°A feirin even. Are you capable of magic?¡±

    Farra shook her head.

    ¡°Speak up.¡± His voice raised, demanding an answer.

    ¡°I can''t use magic.¡± Farra stammered

    ¡°Why are you here?¡±

    Farra caught her breath, speaking quick enough to almost choke on her words.

    ¡°Gare told me to come here. After I was sent back to my tent. After I dropped a stone and couldn''t pick it back up. In the quarry lines.¡±

    He leaned back into his chair, nodding to himself.

    ¡°You''re obedient.¡±

    Farra gazed on, the man''s voice changed.

    ¡°Why did he send you then?¡± His voice calmed, a hint of interest rising as he placed a hand on a large blade besides his chair, unsheathed from its scabbard, twisting it around and grinding the tip against the stone floor.

    ¡°Because...because I was useless. I couldn''t pick the stone up even when I tried.¡± Farra held clenched her tatters, afraid her answer was insufficient.

    He looked to the soldiers standing around him, then leaned forward toward Farra.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    ¡°Why couldn''t you pick that stone up?¡±

    ¡°Because...I''m weak.¡±

    ¡°Tell me your name.¡±

    Farra looked up to the man gripping the handle of his sword. She did not feel threatened. She could feel the subtle approval of her answers and intrigue in his voice.

    ¡°Farra.¡±

    ¡°Farra. You are magically deficient though you''re a feirin beast, and you seem to lack physical strength which is typical to your kind. I''m not a fool to where I wouldn''t attribute part of that to your being malnourished. But I don''t see you making any grand displays of strength under more favorable circumstances either. So tell me, what talents do you have. You have been given the opportunity to impress not just myself, but some of my most trusted court.¡±

    Farra swallowed the saliva building in her mouth.

    ¡°Mind you, we were just discussing the resources I need gathered from this quarry. It is a simple part of war and unfavorable conditions. All must do their part. I require nearly double of the ore currently being mined in the immediate future, if that means working slaves until they drop dead, then it must be. We will concern ourselves with replenishing numbers after the fact.¡±

    He looked up to the soldiers around him, speaking in a voice full of absolution, issuing a decree to his audience.

    ¡°Even if picking up and moving one of those stones kills you, it will be better than being a slave with no purpose. Even if you move one of those stones closer to where it needs to be, that will help the effort. But you are a feirin beast, and being the pragmatic individual I am, I refuse to believe it is your purpose to be carrying those rocks in a quarry until you die. So tell me, obedience has brought you this far, what other qualities or talents do you possess?¡±

    Farra glanced around to the various soldiers, a few of whom had turned away only to affirm they understood their leader''s order. Their gaze was fixed upon her, awaiting her response. She turned back to the seated man while taking a breath.

    ¡°I-I''m not magically gifted, but I can still understand some spells. A-And I can see things¡± The man''s head turned as Farra stammered on. ¡°I mean that I can see movements. A bit before they happen.¡±

    ¡°Can you now?¡±

    Farra shifted to the side quickly a moment after man finished his words, lifting the blade he had been handling during the conversation, bringing it down with a crack on the ground where Farra previously stood.

    ¡°I slowed my strike. Perhaps you were too afraid to move too close to one of my soldiers.¡± He stood, towering over Farra. ¡°For a useless and weak girl who lacks magical prowess to dodge to the side like that. Interesting.¡±

    Farra looked at the ebony blade, engraved with numerous arcane markings that did not resemble any denomination of magic she knew of. A single inscribing glowed a gentle blue, Farra could feel it fade as she turned from the blade back to the man.

    ¡°We will see what you¡¯re suited to.¡± He waved his hands to his soldiers. ¡°Inform Gare we will depart after rest. One of you attend to Farra; get her a passable meal and clothing. Ready two dahra with the necessary supplies for the southern expedition.¡±

    He stood, pulling his blade back, the entire length standing taller than Farra before he sheathed it, hanging the blade over his back with a thick rope.

    ¡°You all have your assignments as discussed earlier. The forges require twenty crates of ore as soon as possible, it¡¯s Lord Valen¡¯s request. Ensure that no slave or soldier slacks.¡±

    One warrior bowed his head, speaking in a voice reflecting urgency.

    ¡°Lord Erres, if I may impose, why an expedition to the southern frontier now?¡±

    ¡°Until the drums of war roar, my presence is largely unneeded. It is an opportunity to attend to matters that otherwise would go unresolved. I trust each of you here perfectly capable of conducting all necessary tasks without my hand. A curious opportunity has arisen in this girl, and I will not squander a chance to strengthen us. The expedition is to be valuable reconnaissance, Farra may prove the instrument we needed.¡±

    ¡°I understand, then what shall we tell Lord Valen if he calls for you?¡±

    ¡°To be patient, he will see no issue. Bring a whetstone to my quarters.¡±

    Erres stepped forward, the circle of soldiers creating a pathway for him to exit the hall. Farra looked on as the soldiers convened for a moment, followed by the sounds of greaves, sabatons, and boots filling the hall. A thin soldier, lightly armored looked down to Farra, extending a hand covered in silvery metal. Farra gazed back up.

    A gentle voice escaped the helmet. ¡°I will see to your meal and clothing.¡±

    Farra stretched her hand, the soldier curling her fingers around Farra''s before pulling her along the hall. The structure had cleared, most soldiers exiting following Erres'' troop.

    ¡°Can you get up?¡± The soldier looked about for a few moments, letting go of Farra''s hand.

    ¡°You''re a girl.¡± Farra whispered in a hush, managing to hoist herself onto the stone bench, the seat as high as her stomach. The child gazed back down as the soldier took her helmet off, unsure if she had spoken out of turn.

    ¡°I am indeed. Though that doesn''t matter.¡± A head of dark and short hair escaped the helmet, her eyes dark in the dim room. ¡°I wear the helmet so no soldiers bother me because of my rank. Stay here.¡± Her boots clicked to the stone, periodically grinding against the uneven floor. The war hall was empty. Aside from the noise the soldier made, Farra''s ears only picked up the ethereal ringing of the magical stones lighting the room. Looking down at her pale palms, she curled her fingers back into the scrapes and bruises from trying to carry the rock. A sting shot through her hand, her face wincing in pain. She kicked her feet for a moment, feeling them dangling in the air. Farra''s ears perked as the sound of boots grew closer again.

    ¡°This should be enough.¡± The woman smiled, setting down a crude earthen bowl, filled with several stringy roots and cut tubers adorned with a hunk of white meat. Along side it she tossed a tunic from which a silvery mail and other articles of clothing protruded. Farra looked to the food and clothes laid in front of her before picking up one of the tubers with a hand and biting. Her stomach growled despite her eating slowly. She glanced back to the woman, watching her as she sat to her side.

    A brow of the woman raised, catching Farra''s gaze. ¡°What, you don''t trust me?¡±

    She shook her head. ¡°I trust you.¡±

    ¡°Then what is it? You don''t trust the meat? It''s iliomat meat.¡±

    She shook her head again. ¡°I never thought I would have food like this. Or clothing.¡±

    Farra continued to bite and chew bit after bit.

    ¡°How long have you been a slave here for?¡±

    ¡°About one moon.¡±

    The woman shifted, craning her head. ¡°A single moon? What the hell was it like for you before this?¡±

    Farra choked for a moment as the woman raised her voice, breathing heavy when she received a firm slap on the back, coughing the bit she had not chewed back up.

    ¡°Eat slower.¡±

    ¡°I''m sorry.¡±

    ¡°Don''t be, but we probably should hurry along. A meal won''t do you any good without rest.¡±

    Farra remained silent, chewing on her food, shifting her eyes from remaining rations to the clothing on the table. Her tails betrayed her feelings. They waved up and down with every bite, snow white with black tipped hairs, complimenting the color of her disheveled hair. The armored woman leaned on her fist, deciding against pressing the girl with questions. She instead quietly observed the beast eat, taking note of the features specific to her race, including a small upward-curving mark on each cheek. She reached a hand toward Farra, setting it on her head and petting the tall black-tipped ears.

    Farra swallowed the last bit of food.

    ¡°Why do you all wear armor all the time?¡± Farra pulled the package of clothing toward her, feeling its weight.

    ¡°To be ready for battle at a moment''s notice. It may seem cumbersome, but we thrive through war and battle. When danger is difficult to identify and can come from a number of places, it only makes sense to be prepared.¡±

    ¡°Then it''s not because you''re a girl?¡±

    The soldier chuckled, pressing her hands to the table and pushing off, clutching her helmet in one hand. ¡°To hear something like that is quite uncommon.¡± She paused, slipping her helmet back on and taking the empty bowl. ¡°Though I think I understand, perhaps such a thing is not so uncommon among beast tribes or other societies. However here it is only your very skills, talents, and merit in battle that determine your worth. I personally pay no mind to wearing my armor so often, it avoids unwanted attention from lower-ranking soldiers who may go out of their way for my favor.¡±

    Farra nodded, jumping from the stone bench, clutching her clothing.

    ¡°I find no shame or disadvantage in my womanhood. And so nor should you. I''m glad you asked, it was for this very reason I was decided as your escort.¡±

    She tossed the bowl into a stack of similar earthenware at an adjacent table, motioning to Farra to follow. ¡°Was it like this in your tribe?¡±

    ¡°I don''t think so. The head of my tribe was an elderly woman.¡±

    The cold darkness surrounded the both of them as they exited the hall, the knight took Farra''s hand, steering them from the tents and instead toward a second outlying structure that rose higher.

    ¡°It wasn''t very nice there, at least for me. My parents were eaten by creatures while scavenging for food one day. And because of how scarce everything is, no one wanted me.¡±

    ¡°Did the elders of your tribe not step in?¡±

    ¡°I''m not sure. I don''t think I was worth their time since I can''t use magic.¡±

    ¡°I suppose it may be something specific to your tribe or species. Most I''ve ran into seem rather defensive of their own.¡±

    ¡°Do you visit a lot of tribes then?¡±

    The woman placed a hand on Farra''s back, urging her forward as the two neared an opening, an armored soldier leaning against the wall cast a glance before sinking his head back down.

    ¡°To enslave them more often than not. It can be difficult to discern all their customs and traditions in battle or while raiding.¡±

    A silence fell over Farra and the woman, unsure of where to guide the conversation next. The two turned numerous corridors, traveling down dark labyrinth-like halls lit by more violet-effusing stones. They entered a room, dimly light only by light glowing from the hallway. Carved from the walls were two stone beds covered with a cloth.

    ¡°My name is Verrika by the way, I am a soldier from outside these lands. I came here after Lord Erres happened upon me.¡± She began to remover her armor, placing it in the corner of the room, pulling a thin, sheathed blade from her waistline and setting it down. ¡°I was skilled enough with my rapier to pique his interest, even though I and many others pale in comparison to him. He seems less of a mortal and something above the rest of us. Still, he is compassionate and our leader.¡±

    Farra removed her tatters, her albino body reddish and purple even in the dim light.

    ¡°You''re quiet aren''t you?¡± Verrika leaned down, rummaging through a open crate to pull out a roll of bandaging. ¡°Stay still.¡±

    A finger slid across Farra''s back, feeling several cuts, bruises, and sear marks across her body. Cloth touched Farra''s feet as she heard a small bubbling, wincing as a damp cloth was wrapped across her back and stomach. ¡°It''s an oil, if you know what that is. I would have called a mender over if I knew your body was like this and most everyone wasn''t resting now. It''ll help your body heal.¡±

    Farra stood quiet, letting out quiet breaths as bandages were tightened around her stomach, arms, thighs, and feet. She looked at the tunic, minimal but more welcome than her tatters.

    ¡°Do you see anything in me?¡±

    Verrika laid back on the cushioned stone, crossed her legs and laying her head back.

    ¡°If I''m being honest I don''t know. But Erres and Gare seem to have thought otherwise, and so I will trust their judgment to see where you take yourself given the opportunity. Rest Farra, we both need it.¡±

    Farra rummaged through her clothes, finding two long black socks. She wrapped the rest into a ball, placing it to a side of the stone bed. She sat bare and pulled each sock on, ending well beyond her kneecaps. Her tails bounced, uncomfortable against the stone, she pulled her old tatters up, pulling one over her back and the other on her head as she laid face down into the pile of clothing.

 Chapter 2: An Expedition South

    ¡°Even then, you left a hole in practically half her clothing. Should she even consider armor at that point?¡± An individual shrouded in robes carrying a large gnarled stave walking to Farra''s right flank laughed.

    ¡°Farra has more tails than most other beasts, feirin seem to be somewhat of an abnormality in that regard. Still the hole is not as big as you''re making it out.¡± Verrika sighed, glancing down to check Farra''s expression, then turning to a fully-armored Gare with an over sized axe fastened to his back.

    He glanced back, catching the glint in Verrika''s eyes then looking forward again. ¡°There''s a level of practicality that needs to be considered with anything. Farra has no combat prowess we know of and a weak frame. Having her put on any kind of heavy armor should her tails allow it would do nothing but restrict her movement. And movement is probably her best defense given what you''ve told me about her. Then there''s the fact of not knowing what we will run into. Still, a standard light mail and tunic shouldn''t weigh her down any and will provide protection against the environment. If the mail happens to dampen the strike of a stray blade, claw, or tooth, then it''s worth it.¡±

    A silence fell after Gare''s long-winded and satisfactory answer. Verrika smiling and indulging in the mage''s quiet. The dark plain was filled only with treading greaves and boots, mixed with a quiet crack of hooves against the ground. The dhara let out periodic bellows to one another, trailing behind the Farra and her new acquaintances.

    ¡°It''s quiet.¡± Farra commented, keeping her head forward.

    ¡°Is that uncomfortable to you? You struck me as preferring it that way.¡± Verrika chimed back.

    Farra glanced about. Behind her the fleeting moonlight shining down on the land served only to illuminate the outlines of towering landmasses, mountains, and hills. But in front of her the land remained flat as far as she could discern within the darkness. A swallowing black abyss full of the unknown, forbidden for any individual with good sense to trek.

    ¡°I was told stories by my parents about the darkness. How the nothingness will start to eat away at you. They said there were evil spirits, unseen by the eye, lurking and waiting for people who strayed too far. But the evil spirits stayed away from groups, if you weren¡¯t alone, they wouldn¡¯t bother you.¡±

    She paused for a moment, swallowing and casting a long look into the boundless dark.

    ¡°Feirin live for a long time. Another child would be too much to look after in these lands, so when my parents passed away I think that''s why it felt like my kin looked at me like I was a burden. The adults in the tribe would go out and gather together, sometimes barely bringing back enough for themselves and their family.¡±

    ¡°And how did you endure?¡± An inquisitive but entreating voice, urging Farra to divulge more details came from an Erres that had been walking to the side of the trailing creatures.

    ¡°My home was on the edge of my tribe''s camp. It never worried me when my parents were around. But I would stay close to the heart of the camp when they were out gathering food. The outside of the camp wasn''t lit by magic because it would be too easy to see in the dark. After my parents died it felt like anyone who wasn''t my age wanted to forget I was there. I stayed in my home, but the dark and quiet didn''t feel safe. Other children would come and give me scraps from their meals, or the elder if there was little food.¡±

    Verrika placed a gauntlet over Farra''s head, shifting it side to side and ruffling her hair.

    ¡°Did you ever venture out alone?¡±

    Farra shook her head, ¡°Sometimes when my tribe would go to wash, I would follow at a distance. Our home was closer to a spring at least. I would wait until everyone else finished before taking a moment to wash. They would not wait for me, so it was in those moments I was probably the closest to being alone in the darkness. But there were at least small plants that provided some light around the spring. I would hurry back home as fast as possible after finishing if they left already.¡± Farra''s ears twitched as she snapped up to Verrika. ¡°How do all the soldiers wash?¡±

    ¡°Magic mostly. Raw untapped elemental energies is the one resource abundant in these lands, and as such it''s necessary to make use of it.¡±

    ¡°Do the slaves wash?¡±

    ¡°Yes, although not as often. I suppose in this case, the limitation is not the resource itself so much as the individual to make proper use of it. There simply are not enough mages or any other sort of caster versed in that denomination of magic to be sending them everywhere giving slave baths.¡±

    ¡°I guess I wasn''t around at the camp while it happened then.¡± Both Verrika and the mage surrounding Farra laughed.

    ¡°You were there for such short time it would''ve been an incredible coincidence. They only make the rounds for such a thing every so often. The priority lies with transportation of various resources and of course food. I personally would not be opposed seeing everyone cleaner. Though it still doesn''t compare to a long bath back at the temple.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps then Verrika, you ought to try your hand at magic yourself. Every spell and incantation requires an attention to detail to put it to proper effect.¡± The mage tapped his stave against the ground as he spoke, waving his left hand in a grandiose manner, the long robe he wore slapped against Farra''s face. ¡°To be relegated to helping people wash. I do not envy such a duty.¡±

    ¡°Why don''t you use magic to feed people too?¡±

    A silence fell over the mage and Verrika, Erres speaking in place of the void.

    ¡°The same reason your tribe very well did not feed you food from magic. To respect your being feirin, and not something else. Using magic even as a temporary way to stave starvation renders the mind and body vulnerable. It fails to ward the feeling of hunger, and the consumption of elemental energies in such a fashion will damage the body. Unless you are willing to change yourself and become something else, that exposure will eventually poison you. It¡¯s a question of what it means to be living. Should we all forsake what we are in exchange to survive? Perhaps that is what this world wants us to do, but I will not oblige. Instead I would rally us to accommodate one another¡¯s strengths and weaknesses, and cut a path through this darkness¡±

    Farra kept walking, her breath paused as she synthesized Erres'' words. From them she felt a glow of confidence, of certainty in a land rife with despair.

    ¡°Verrika mentioned a temple, does that mean it''s true that there is a civilization in the mountains? And a god is inside?¡±

    ¡°That is mostly wrong. I take it those are rumors that float about the land. It only makes sense as there is no reason to partake in trade. There is a temple west within our lands. It lies close to but not within mountains. It was created before any of our lives, by the very two warlords that still preside over these lands. Tell me, what do you know of the gods and goddesses of these lands?¡±

    Farra paused, recounting in her mind the little bits she had come to hear from her tribe.

    ¡°My tribe believed in the goddess of beasts, that she would watch over all of us and protect us from the darkness, whether you are a feirin or any other beast. And that a goddess of shadows lies in the darkness, waiting to ensnare you if you wander too far.¡±

    Dust rose from the ground, swishing about as the mage¡¯s robes and Farra''s tunic clung to their bodies. An eerie howl filled the air, wind blowing across the blackened plains. A shiver shot down Farra''s spine, the dark feeling becoming that much colder even when in good company. Without a word the mage took notice, stepping back toward the pack creatures, patting the side of one as he ruffled through a container, pulling out a thick cloak. He approached the girl, smiling down and tossing it around Farra''s shoulders.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    ¡°Fire magic may be problematic in such winds, on top of being a light in the darkness.¡±

    The party''s formation closed, the creatures became restless from the harsh wind, calming only once Erres and another silent cloaked man brought them closer to the rest of the traveling band.

    ¡°As far as I know, no goddess of beasts has ever made herself known. This is a land where if a divine entity exists, their presence is felt. Still, if it is something that unites and rallies people behind a common cause, it would be haphazard to discount the repercussions.¡±

    Farra''s ears sank, clutching the cloak given to her in an attempt to mask her disappointment.

    ¡°Does that sadden you Farra?¡±

    She murmured, inaudibly for a brief moment, aware her whispers would be unable to reach Erres in the quietest of nights, let alone through harrowing gusts. Farra''s eyes focused on each step in front of her, contemplating the existence of such a deity in her mind. Truly, she thought, for such a goddess to exist she must be extraordinarily weak or uncaring. To let her parents fall in the darkness, to let beasts scatter across the lands and become enslaved. To worship a goddess such as this she thought, would be no more than clinging to some falsehood for a sense of hope and security. It only served to keep the mind level when things are awry. Her mind rumbled through various thoughts as Erres finished his sentiment.

    ¡°If such a goddess exist, she may very well be our mortal enemy given our actions.¡±

    Verrika cast her gaze Erres way, icy and disappointed. ¡°Have some consideration Lord Erres. There is no need for that kind of talk now.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± Farra remarked, hushed. ¡°He is right. The goddess of beasts has done nothing for me. I do not feel any particular devotion.¡±

    Verrika bit her tongue, clutching her gauntlets in a fist before drawing her rapier in a flourish.

    ¡°Do not feel disheartened Farra. If such a goddess does exist, then it will give you the opportunity to tell and show her how you feel. For being silent for so long.¡± Farra''s eyes momentarily looked to Verrika''s noble stance and flourish, one of a knight prepared for a duel, before fixating on her rapier. The weapon was unlike all the others she had previously seen, delicate in design, glowing a gentle and almost eerie blue to accommodate a pearly blade. It felt appropriate that it would be none other than Verrika wielding a weapon such as this, one reflecting skill and finesse more than the hulking power that she had seen typical of so many other soldier''s weapons.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

    ¡°Put it away before something sees the glow.¡± Gare grunted, the shrouded mage laughing after.

    ¡°Sorry, sorry, I seem to have gotten worked up a bit.¡± She bowed to no one in particular, smiling and obliging Gare. The rapier slid back inside its black sheathe, not producing a single sound til the guard hilted with an icy crack, echoing and being carried by the wind.

    One of the pack creatures let out a bellow, signaling its growing discomfort with the weather, becoming less and less inclined to move forward. Erres slapped one hand over a groove in its harness, urging it forward, his other hand patting the rough skin across its head.

    ¡°The dahra are becoming discontent with this wind. Kaladin, how far have we come from the quarry?¡±

    The man that had been silent the entirety of their journey spoke up in a voice so deep as to make Gare''s own sound mild by comparison. Farra glanced back to observe the shrouded individual, seeing two nearly ivory horns with bluish tips protruding from his forehead, his skin dark enough to be difficult to discern the hue of without a ready source of light.

    ¡°Allow me a moment.¡±

    He tapped his staff to the ground, the head of it ringing as if calling to the wind. The ground beneath it began shimmering with a magnificent white glow before it flowed through the metal rod. Various symbols, foreign to Farra''s eyes traveled like shifting inscriptions upon the stave, the spellcaster shut his eyes as the group continued walking forward in a quiet filled with the humming of a spell.

    ¡°We lie far south of any of our outposts now, least three moons travel away, southeast of the temple. I would say we are now firmly in the heart of wilderness, in the southernmost part of Lord Mellor¡¯s territory. No longer Valen¡¯s territory certainly. The Oracle still has a clear gaze toward us, however our ley lines become more impossible to tap into with every step. This may be a prime opportunity to test the range of Valen''s magics. Shall I chart our location by parchment?¡±

    ¡°It is unnecessary, be mindful of our distance in relation to the posts, but all this wilderness is a plain. The creatures and animals in the darkness have stayed clear of us, and there is little of interest in establishing a foothold here unless something lies beyond.¡±

    ¡°As is much of the land, my Lord. Should we travel two more moons, we may find ourselves out of the Oracle''s eye, in the case we encounter danger.¡±

    ¡°We will stop to rest after half a moon. From thereon we will soon feel the ground change, from stone to sand. Seeing beyond that is our goal. I cannot see us traveling through the dunes for more than a moon. The Oracle''s reach should not be an issue, danger is our concern.¡±

    ¡°As you say.¡±

    Kaladin returned to silence. Despite his intimidating appearance under the cowl, Farra figured him to be the most reclusive of the group, likely only speaking when asked. His voice was polite and formal, something unlike any other individual in the war faction she heard speak so far. Perhaps it was because of his stature as a sort of mage. The individual whose name she did not know standing next to her was also kind and lighthearted.

    They continued traveling in quiet, the harrowing winds had settled some, but still made communication troublesome. Verrika would turn to shift and tug on Farra''s tunic, only to have the girl turn prior to being touched, looking up through the visor with weary eyes. She blinked before returning to looking forward, focusing her energy. Though she did not envy the prospect of further work at the quarry, it had been two moons since she last rest. Farra had come to understand through conversation that slaves were cycled rather efficiently, being allowed enough time to rest before returning to work ordinarily. The higher-ranking officers saw them as resources, and unneeded abuse failed to further any cause.

    But that was not the case here. Farra was traveling with warriors who have an objective. There were no rocks to be lifted or line to stand in while walking. They traveled as practicality allowed. Given the circumstances it occurred to Farra, if she was not with them they may have been covering much more ground that much faster. The lingering thought of what they expected of her remained in her mind. She did not feel gifted, she was a hindrance more than anything else. Stopping to rest earlier than intended would be only another hindrance to those around her, even if her feet were aching and eyes became heavy, she could not permit herself to fall to fatigue now.

    The air settled. Traveling on a rocky plain had its conveniences, the lack of dust being carried by the wind prevented annoyances for the eyes. Being able to hear her own thoughts again reinvigorated Farra, but just as her second wind came, Erres spoke.

    ¡°We''ll stop and rest here til the moon is half full again, it won''t be much longer before we reach the desert. Proper rest is needed.¡± Farra turned about, watching as the soldiers all shifted back, soothing the dharas as they rummaged through supplies. Erres tasked both mages to pitching tents for the night while Verrika and himself were to ration food and maintain the dhara. This left Gare to instruct Farra how to hold a smaller weapon before she slept.

    And so Gare stood towering beside her, it had not struck Farra til now how mighty and proud Gare stood. Though he was not as tall as some less human soldiers or Kaladin, his frame more than compensated, making him the most intimidating. Despite the size of a man who surely could wield a massive war hammer, in his hands was a small short sword reaching slightly farther than Farra''s arm length. The feeling of cold metal against Farra''s skin sent a shiver through her body.

    ¡°Hold it. Become use to it. You''ll live and die by a blade.¡± Farra swallowed, perhaps it was because she felt exhausted that her hand shook, that this metal dagger felt chilling to touch. She shook her thoughts away. It was not because of any coolness or lack of sleep, rather Farra was unfamiliar with a blade. A soldier had not brandished a weapon for any reason toward the slaves, least from what she had seen. She was plucked from her tribe with no use of force. Erres'' mighty blade, the one she avoided instinctively, was the first her eyes laid upon. This dagger was the first weapon she held, let alone touched the blade of. The thought that it was a tool to take the life of another raced through her mind. But she was to heed Gare''s instructions and learn to hold this weapon.

    ¡°Hold the handle firm, touch the blade with your other hand. It won''t cut you so long as you don''t slide the blade or your...¡±

    His instructions were cut off by a small ''Tch'' from Farra''s lips. Her face wincing as a trickle of red oozed from one of her pale fingers, gradually painting it a deep crimson.

    ¡°It''s good that happened.¡± Gare''s voice carried an earnest scoff. ¡°You''ll learn from the pain. Hold the dagger outward like this, you want to keep a firm grasp at all times. Never lose control of your weapon unless you want to risk being disarmed.¡± Gare staggered his feet ever so slightly, holding the short sword with the back of his hand upward, bending his arm back to his chest. The feirin clenched her bleeding hand, steeling herself and clearing her mind of the stinging. She mimicked Gare''s stance with the dagger, a suitable downsize when compared to the short sword the soldier held. Her palm sweat, fingers shifting around the dagger''s handle, swallowing her spit continuously as she focused on stilling the blade.

    ¡°A dagger is better suited for self-defense, unless you''re trying to catch someone by surprise. But with your frame, I wouldn''t be shocked if you can''t hold anything heavier. Follow my movement.¡±

    He thrust the short sword forward with ease, repeating the same stabbing motion over and over before cutting upward from the last thrust, then returning to the starting stance. Farra watched, observing every movement before clutching the dagger tight and stabbing forward. Her body lurched forward with the blade, the handle wrestling itself from her fingers for a brief moment. A heat began to flow throughout her body in embarrassment, before beginning from the initial stance to repeat the thrusting motion twice more, taking care to not throw her weight behind the next jab. Mindful of the previous mistake, she cut upward from her last thrust in a slow swoop, maintaining a firm grip on the dagger''s handle. The noise of any remaining wind, of other setting up camp, the feeling of pain, hunger, and tiredness, all had been drowned out by her focus. Gare would nod or shake his head at each movement, going through various sequences of motions for Farra to mimic each time. Silence fell between them, but still Farra understood his instructions and continued to follow, mindful of how her body would adapt to replicating Gare¡¯s movements.

    She began each exercise slow, taking care to feel each movement''s interaction with the weight of the dagger. Gare would repeat a movement with his short sword if he desired for Farra to practice the sequence at a quicker pace. Only after Farra managed to emulate each motion at a sufficient speed would Gare change the way he swung or stabbed with the sword. Sweat began to trickle across Fara''s forehead, her grip becoming clammy when Gare finally rested the sword to his side.

    ¡°You should always be mindful of your opponent''s weapon, that determines how you have to attack, if at all. Now try to repeat some of the movements with this sword.¡± Gare rolled his shoulders, craning his neck in a stretch, holding out the hilt of the sword to Farra with one hand, signaling to return the dagger with his other hand. Farra set the dagger into his open gauntlet, reaching for the short sword with both hands and beginning to grasp the handle when Gare released the blade. She fell forward for an instant, catching the weapon before its tip struck the ground. With a heavy breath she held the short sword in the same stance she had wielded the dagger. The blade wobbled the further it was from her grip, her hand was quaking in an attempt to support the blade. Before attempting to stab, she opt to lower the sword with both hands in a stance she felt more comfortable, similar to how one might wield a long sword.

    ¡°I can''t,¡± Farra spoke in a brief, hastened breath.

    ¡°You might have hurt yourself if you were stubborn enough to try. Know your limits and it''ll prevent embarrassing mistakes or worse. I didn''t expect you to be able to hold the sword like you did the dagger to begin with. And without enough training that we won''t have time for anyways, you won''t be able to use the short sword in any other way yet either.¡± He reached out, taking the short sword from her, her fingers uncurling from around the handle. ¡°Everyone has some sort of weapon most suitable to them, even if they don''t say so. But there are times when it can be best to abandon what you know for some other sort of advantage. That''s all we have time for now, let''s go back to the others and eat.¡± He craned his neck again, this time at the camp. Farra looked down to her cut finger, despite there still being a sing, the wound had begun to close and heal. She looked back up to a Gare that had already forward, scampering forward to catch up as the white black-tipped tails with dark streaks all along bounced up and down.

    ¡°Did she show promise?¡± Verrika chimed, handing the sleep-deprived Farra a ration, the feirin''s eyes sported black bags underneath coupled with muck-covered cheeks. Each bit of dirt on her face was easy to discern against the white skin.

    ¡°Well enough with a dagger, nothing spectacular. She''s limited by her strength and frame for anything bigger.¡± Gare bit into a hunk of cooked white flesh, tearing away from it with his teeth.

    ¡°A dagger is great. It took me sometime to find a weapon I felt was my own.¡± Verrika hung over Farra''s shoulder as the latter bit into a tuber, nibbling with a reddening face, feeling the knight''s proximity to her own. The praise Verrika so often provided her felt uncalled for, but it succeeded in flattering Farra every time nonetheless.

    The meal was quiet. Kaladin and Gare were both men of few words unless prompted otherwise. And though the mage and Verrika had shown to both enjoy chatting up until this point, they took to savoring their food after Verrika concluded charming Farra. Erres quickly ate and retired to his tent, from which the sound of a blade being dragged across a whetstone could be heard. Verrika leaned over, whispering to Farra about Erres, fawning that although the lord was charismatic and often surrounded by his soldiers, he would often mull over strategies and battles in private.

    The dhara calmed to a quiet hum, laying between all the tents after all meals concluded. One soldier after the next retired. It would be the first hint of rest for any in the group since departing the quarry. Farra laid to the back of a silent Verrika who rest with the majority of her armor on. The feirin then turned to her side to face the woman she came to regard as something of a friend. Her tails length and size would not allow her to comfortably face away given the space inside the tent. But this wasn''t an inconvenience, In Farra''s mind to be a soldier meant to endure conditions such as this when necessary. To refuse would be a nuisance, and entreat the alternative of being a slave.

    Any thought of danger scarce linger on Farra''s mind, it was the lessons of wielding the dagger, the talk of magic by Kaladin, and stories shared by Verrika and the mage that filled her mind before she drift off into sleep.

 Chapter 3: The Accursed Lands

    Protesting roars filled the air, the dhara grew more restless with every step forward. Even Erres could no longer urge the creatures forward. To take them any further would be a detriment. Only hours passed since the band woke and set out, but as Erres said, it wasn''t long at all before they neared a foreboding destination. Rock had begun to scatter among sand, and even though there was still enough to make for a hard surface to walk upon, it not too long they would be traveling upon dunes.

    ¡°Gather the armaments and armor of your choice; consume the remaining rations if you¡¯re hungry and ensure we have the necessary magic prepared.¡± Erres turned, pulling crates from the back of the dhara, rummaging through them. He pulled from them a whetstone and dagger, beginning to sharpen it as the others began their own searching. Farra tugged on her mail-shirt beneath her tunic, adjusting it to better fit her tails. She glanced over the mage''s shoulders while he rummaged through a particular crate Farra knew to hold the dagger she practiced with. He turned around with a smirk, feeling the presence of the feirin hanging over his shoulder, procuring a large knife stashed in a leathery scabbard.

    ¡°Looking for this?¡± He smiled and handed the weapon off to Farra, turning back to continue searching. After Farra took a moment to examine the dagger, unsheathing and examining the sharpness, she re-sheathed it to observed the numerous arcane trinkets and oddities the mage sifted through. Parts of creatures, herbs, scrolls, and most of all, ink. Most inks were black given the lack of light, but Farra was able to perceive some marking upon each, likely to label what each might be.

    ¡°Farra go over to Kaladin and ask him what the elemental originations are for the triangulation rune.¡± Her ears twitched, unable to comprehend the meaning of what the mage said, but committing each word to memory. She turned back, continuing to observe the other soldiers as her feet carried her across softening ground, toward Kaladin. She caught Gare''s eye, whom sat atop a crate, eating. ¡°Make sure you''re not hungry, going into danger distracted is a mistake.¡± She smiled back, using both her hands to catch a tuber Gare tossed her way, taking a moment to stop and bite into it as she continued on. The feirin did not feel hungry, but at the same time she was wary of how long they may be traveling for without food or rest again.

    The tallest member amongst them remained hunched over a crate, his hand holding his chin as if in deep thought. ¡°Truly we have brought a touch too many supplies. In the mind of Erres it must be better safe than sorry I suppose.¡± He muttered under his breath, some vials clinking against one another when Farra neared.

    ¡°Kaladin, what is the elemental origination for the triangulation rune?¡± He turned, furrowing his brow and inspecting Farra for a moment, matching the words he had just heard to the individual. ¡®Teilve must have request it,'' he thought to himself. ¡°Take these, one for yourself, four for the others. It is a dust we regularly use to rouse the dormant enchantments whether they are upon scroll, surface, or blade. The origination is both water and earth conjoined with sky, for it is water that flows through land, paving it how it please. It is earth that forms the frame for which we travel upon. Then it is through the sky, back to the Oracle, upon which we will spirited away. Utilizing the blood of the iliomat as a medium will suffice.¡± Farra blinked, nodding her head and taking the sacks of dust, attempting to recount Kaladin''s words to herself as she stepped back to head over to the mage, the bags of dust she held weighing on her. She found their weight to be heavy compared to the dagger or even the sword she tried to hold prior to resting. And so on the path back to Teilve, she opt to drop a bag off for each member.

    Erres took the dagger from her belt, unsheathing and examining its edge. ¡°Drop the bag here and return after you finished those deliveries.¡± He scraped the dagger across a whetstone possessing the slightest of glimmers. Farra very much liked the dagger how it was, but she found no reason to contest the lord''s words. She nodded, turning and meandering to a Verrika apart from the group, who was absorbed with sweeping flourishes and skillful maneuvers.

    Farra''s eyes twinkled, admiring the grace and finesse with which she seemed to glide across the ground. Despite her wearing greaves, each of her steps made not so much as a sound. Rather than practice, it felt like a performance for Farra. The rapier in Verrika''s hand would elicit a faint faded-blue glow only when her motions sped. A reverberating icy whisper traveled along with that blue glimmer, the cold more inviting to Farra than what was becoming of the darkness. At last Verrika¡¯s stance and movement became lax, turning to Farra. Despite her face being covered by a silver helmet, Verrika''s glee from having Farra as an audience was unmistakable, and despite her words surely being distorted to some degree by the helmet, to feirin''s ears they came clear.

    ¡°...Farra, hello Farra.¡± A gauntlet rested on Farra''s shoulders before she blinked.

    ¡°Ah, sorry. I was distracted. I came to give you this, Kaladin told me to.¡±

    The knight opened a gauntlet, taking a single sack and securing it to her belt. ¡°Many thanks, continue on.¡± Verrika turned back, stepping back out from Farra¡¯s proximity and continuing her exercises.

    Farra''s encounter with Gare was remarkably short compared to either of the previous two. He turned his head, holding out a hand once identifying the sacks Farra held. Without a word, only a nod from each party, she set it down in his palm. She stepped back to watch Gare now digging through the a crate that was of an elongated length, dwarfing the other crates in terms of length, but not height. From it he heaved an axe with a haft more than twice Farra''s height. The head was wide with an impressive outward-spanning arch. A protruding spike adorned the top of the axe, as if continuing the handle a bit further, possibly serving as a means to impale if a situation called for it. Toward the back of the axe the metal darkened, emblazoned with several markings that Farra had similarly seen on both Erres'' blade and Verrika''s rapier. The short sword with which Gare chose to train Farra remained in a scabbard attached to Gare''s waist. All along Gare¡¯s belt Farra saw numerous other weapons, of sizes similar to her dagger. The only object that was not an armament was the sizable brown pouch Farra had given him.

    She turned away, the load in her arms much lighter after dropping off three of the four sacks, the fifth given to her was secured to her waist by means of a hook.

    ¡°Your name is Teilve?¡± She inquired quietly, walking up behind the mage who had seem to come no further in deciding how to organize the number of trinkets he was bringing. ¡°Ah. Did Kaladin tell you? It is not my real name, but one taken as a mage.¡± Under his cowl there was a smile, his hands reaching to relieve Farra of another pouch. ¡°Does that mean then Kaladin has a different name as well?¡± He shook his head, returning to sorting small, glimmering beads engraved with the markings of Farra observed many times prior. ¡°Kaladin is of demonkin. Even if by most accounts he would qualify to be a mage, he is in fact not. Not to suggest demonkin can¡¯t become mages, they just tend to naturally possess traits that others would confuse for that of a mage. With enough bad luck, you may see the differences between us soon. But I understand it can be quite confusing to anyone not particularly privy to our ways.¡± Teilve chuckled. ¡°Oh that''s right, what did he say?¡±

    Farra halted for a moment, then trying to piece together the number of words Kaladin uttered. ¡°Water and earth, conjoined with sky...because water flows and earth is the land. Then we travel through the air?¡± Her voice drifted into uncertainty, looking to Teilve for some measure of confirmation. ¡°Was that all?¡± He looked back to the crate of goods, reaching for certain inks. Farra mustered her voice once again in a hushed and embarrassed voice. ¡°I forgot many of his words, though now I recall, he said something about iliomat blood.¡± Teilve''s movements quickened like someone piecing together the rest of a puzzle. ¡°Yes yes, iliomat blood, that all makes sense. I apologize Farra. When he speaks, Kaladin can be quite long-winded. But that is something that sets us apart already. I wouldn''t have the patience for recounting every detail necessary, even when mages sometimes need to. Take this.¡± He smirked turning and handing her a purplish herb. ¡°Eat it to sedate yourself if necessary, you see in the lands beyond ours, some things can become quite unnerving. We''ve found it to be rather helpful to have this herbs on hand to keep our wits about us.¡±

    The feirin swallowed, ¡°Sedate? And what kind of things.¡± Teilve chuckled again, ¡°Sedate means to calm your senses. Things are strange horrors that sometimes lack a common description of any creature or otherwise we regularly come across. Or even harrowing dreams that can occur outside Belthemot''s dominion. Speaking of which, how did you sleep?¡± Farra remembered Verrika and Erres both asking the question when she first woke, she had not come to think much of it, and neither elaborated on the matter further. ¡°As sound as I have since arriving at the quarry. Is there something more to it?¡±

    ¡°Interesting, I think elaborating on it now would be the proper time if any, though it might make you a bit paranoid. Within our lands and company the very aura of Belthemot repels nightmares so common in the darkness. As one ventures outside lands of Belthemot¡¯s dominion further and further, we''ve found some soldiers begin to ramble and unnerve, even some of us have had...peculiar dreams. Still, we''ve come to approach it with the idea that if you commit yourself to our protector, his favor will be an aegis for you in kind. Whatever malevolent forces reside in this world, it seems to prefer picking at lone individuals and staying away from the influence of our god. When you explained your time as a lone child at your tribe, it was a very impressive survival instinct in you, staying out of the darkness when you could.¡±

    Farra slipped the purple herb into a pocket of her tunic, taking to heart every word Teilve uttered. ¡°Would this mean there is some evil god in the darkness?¡± The mage handed her another clump of herbs, one more purple, but the others of varying colors. ¡°The red suppresses pain, the yellow provides a bit of energy if you are hungry, and blue will provide the slightest amount of healing. Don''t rely on them, knowing when you''re feeling pain or discomfort your body trying to tell you something after all. And hunger will eventually get to you even if you try to stuff yourself with the yellow ones. And to answer your question, it''s not impossible. Finding out something like that could be part of the reason were out here with Lord Erres.¡±

    ¡°And the other reasons?¡±

    ¡°To test you of course, and find whatever is beyond these sands.¡± Teilve stored numerous objects within his robes, an additional bag wrapped over his shoulder that he began to stuff with herbs, vials, and more trinkets. He smiled again toward Farra, speaking hushed, ¡°Farra, the fact Lord Erres has brought you out here with us, given the danger, in place of what could be another soldier should inspire a bit of confidence in you. I know not how the others feel, though we can all guess Verrika''s thoughts, but what little Erres has spoke of your gift for prediction I feel is remarkable. Whether it be you not wanting to return to being a slave or you wishing to show your worth, settle those thoughts for now and simply focus on what is ahead.¡±

    The solemn words crept into Farra''s ears, Teilve had been the most grandiose and joking member of the band to this point, and so hearing these words made the hairs on Farra''s tails and ears crawl ever so slightly. ¡°I need to return to Erres for my dagger.¡± She remembered, nodding at Teilve with neither speaking a word more. The mage rose to his feet, standing tall before looking in Verrika''s direction and calling out, ¡°Maybe you should eat again after all that dancing.¡±

    Farra hurried with a light step around the side of a dhara, finding Erres situated behind, twisting the dagger about to examine every side, giving one edge two long scrapes against the whetstone. ¡°Did you choose this dagger because you trained with it?¡± Erres spoke without turning around, dipping the dagger into a crude bowl containing some liquid. He took care to not scrape any edge of the dagger along the bowl, instead twisting and shifting the bowl around, eventually turning It down to dump the liquid down along the blade, letting it seep down to the shaft before wiping the substance away with a cloth. She spoke to the lord with a murmur. ¡°Maybe. It felt the most comfortable for me.¡± His hand reached into the sack Farra earlier delivered, pulling out a generous lump of dust and trickling it along the blades edges. A soft purple glow began to emanate. ¡°Then in that case your decision cannot be faulted. Keep the dagger sheathed unless you need to defend yourself, though I doubt it would happen, the dagger may betray our position from the light. This enchantment will simply ensure the dagger''s fine edge is kept longer. It''s the only weapon you have, it would be troublesome to find it useless.¡±

    The lord rose, a faint red hew glowing out of his blackened armor, he picked up the same blade Farra saw him with at the quarry, not nearly the size of Gare''s axe, but far out-sizing any other weapon beyond it. ¡°Farra, we won''t be counting on your ability in its entirety. Given the time we''ve been together, even if we knew you had a great mastery over it then our communication would prove troublesome. When we are in the desert, we will be silent unless an order needs be given or happening needs communicating. You however, are to call left flank, right flank, below, behind, front, along with one of our names if you see anything approach.¡± With every direction said, the lord pointed with his fingers, to ensure no misunderstanding of directions. ¡°Keep your words brief, a single moment in combat often decides the outcome. Should your ability extend the way we might expect it, then it could help avoid a grievous injury. I''m sure the coward Teilve is, he already gave you a purple herb. Do not hesitate to imbiber it if you think it may help your concentration. Pride can be the downfall of any warrior.¡± Erres glanced back into the crates, then reaching and unraveling the rope from around the dhara before speaking aloud for the entire group to hear. ¡°Set the dhara free, finalize what you wish to bring, leave what we cannot and lay it over an entrapment.¡±

    ¡°Yes my lord.¡± All four affirmed the order, Farra standing at Erres side in awe as they rushed about, not running but with a pace that vindicated the lord''s choice in a guard. In less than a minute, the dhara were free of any restraints. The crates were gathered and left sitting atop numerous pieces of symbol-inscribed parchment.

    ¡°What will happen to the dhara?¡± Farra looked the direction of the creatures, traveling directly opposite of the desert. ¡°They are resilient creatures that once lived in the darkness. They will find their way back to one of our outposts, knowing it is a reliable place for food.¡±

    The two turned to the desert, the wind was silent, but the lack of noise made the darkness all the more foreboding. While the rocky plain was shrouded in shadows with the occasional formation protruding and mountains discernible by the outline of moonlight, ahead was a blackness whose only outline was rising dunes.

    ¡°Farra will be centered between us. Teilve and Kaladin in the rear. Verrika left flank. Gare right flank. I will stay in the van.¡± All affirmed the order, including Farra with a quieter voice. They stepped forward, and in less than a hundred steps the softening gravel beneath them disappeared, each step became heavier as the sand provided a softer footing.

    Erres tread forward onto the shadowy dunes. Following not far behind was Farra with the rest of the soldiers forming a winged formation around her, Gare and Verrika a bit farther from the group than the rest.

    An ominous yet gentle wind set in. Dust scattered about Farra''s knees. The shoes and trousers Verrika chose for Farra did well to shelter against the blowing sands. Even when the soft sand gave way to every one of Farra''s steps, the feirin''s feet were light enough to avoid a heavy imprint into the ground before taking another step. The bottoms had a certain looseness allowing Farra to freely shift as if not wearing any leggings at all while still providing protection. Verrika had told her that though many of the soldiers wear what seems to be excessive and uncomfortable armor, they in fact wore the amount each individual warrior felt necessary without being too compromising of comfort or movement. The knight stressed that regardless of the scenario or task, while movement had its obvious advantages, if one lacked focus due to improper or weighty attire it would give way to uncharacteristic openings.

    Farra kept her eyes forward with a sharp gaze. Through her mind the steps of the soldiers she had come to regard as friends flowed. Their motions, from periodic coughs or their heads turning to twitching movements in some manner, all were within Farra''s mind. She constantly observed their impending actions. But Farra took care not to stress her mind by considering the minuscule details or what these small maneuvers might lead to. It was a more tiring ordeal than she was accustom to, but the occasion invigorated and demanded every bit of her focus.

    Coming to perceive the immediate future was her only gift that set her apart from anyone else she felt; but even then its uses had seem so limited until now. Her tribe saw no purpose in it, no reason to consider it a compensation for her lack of magical talent. She lacked any sort of method or means to simply ''turn it off'', and so over her thirteen years of life, for as long as she could remember, her mind became familiar and comfortable with the mental processing. But at this moment she was utilizing it unlike she ever had previously. She was taking care to observe, not her friends small movements, but the possibility of attack, and how she should react if attack happened. The direction it would come from, what she would say, how her body would react as well. She lacked the strength to make use of her ability herself, but it occurred to her that Erres intended for them united, to utilize her sight.

    A cloud of worry filled her mind. ¡®What if I fail to tell them what is happening. What if it isn''t enough? What if my sight fails?¡¯ She swallowed, clutching at her tunic and focusing back ahead. Erres explained the directions for this reason, to bridge a lack of communication the group may have with Farra. If they had spent a longer time together, becoming familiar with and use to each others actions, then perhaps Farra could provide better guidance. But this simply wasn''t the case. They were vesting their trust in her by willing to bring her into the midst of danger when instead, they could have brought another capable and trained soldier when their lives seemed to be at stake as well. She had no choice but to trust in their abilities as well, though she had little idea of what they were.

    By this time since waking, they had been crossing the desert longer than the rocky plains. The silence was devouring. Erres would at times reach for the handle of the blade secured to his back, seeming as if he expected an attack at any moment. Verrika would glance Farra''s direction with a nod. Despite a lack of any threat presenting itself, the quiet and focus of each soldier both stressed and encouraged Farra to be vigilant. Time could feel no slower for the feirin in this unfamiliar danger, reminding her of shying away from the dark when residing alone. It was at this same moment she felt the darkness carry a faint whisper, an unrecognizable and indiscernible whisper that sent a chill through her body. She hastily slept her hand into a pocket of her tunic, fingers brushing and beginning to curl around one of the purple herbs given to her. Instead, she pulled her hand from her pocket holding nothing, pausing for a moment to take a deep breath and calm her senses. Her tails batted up and down. All but Erres stopped and looked to her.

    Verrika called, ¡°My lord, please halt for a moment to let Farra...¡±

    Farra''s ears perked, glimpsing something within her sight as Erres turned from slightly ahead of the group, at the same time as Verrika was speaking to grab his attention, and the rest of the soldiers had a brief moment of relief from walking.

    Its nature, form, and shape, Farra''s mind put together as many details as it could. It matched the description of a monster Teilve and Erres had described in shape, but the features felt different.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.

    The feirin screamed. ¡°Verrika, left flank.¡± Farra cut the knight''s words short. Without any hesitation, Verrika turned, drawing her rapier and dashing back.

    ¡°It''s some kind of worm.¡± Farra continued, before silencing herself to focus on the movements around her. The sands churned. From them a large worm-like monster with a toothed maw surged forth from the ground with a piercing screech. Connected to its gaping mouth were four claw like-mandibles, sharp to a point. Verrika felt Farra''s distance close behind her, the maw closing in. The knight reached a silver gauntlet into the sack, flinging forth dust followed by a swift stab of her rapier just as the mandibles would reach her. The blade shined a brilliant light blue, and from it a blockade of cold and hard ice emerged outward from the rapier, halting the worm''s drive and encasing each of the four claws in a connected brick of ice. The worm tried to push forward, then retract back. Its mandibles squirmed the smallest amount within the prison. The moment afforded each soldier a closer look at the creature, Teilve and Erres both rearing their heads with apparent disgust. Verrika stepped aside, pulling her rapier from the ice extending from it.

    ¡°Step aside,¡± Gare spoke curt. He found a gap between Farra''s position and the creature, rushing forward. Farra shuddered, fazed by the horrendous monster before glimpsing the result of Gare''s actions. ¡°Wait. Don''t cut it¡ªmove back now Gare after you''ve cut it.¡± She conveyed her words in a panic, but in sync with every one of Gare''s actions. In the midst of leaping on top of the ice prison, bringing down his axe on the worm, he succeeded in halting its momentum to where it only delivered a light wound to the top. His eyes squinted in examining the cut for the briefest moment, then dodging to the side and avoiding a flailing clawed tentacle that emerged from the flesh. ¡°What do we do then?¡± Gare swung his axe sideways, slicing the tentacle off before stepping off the ice. The remains of the fleshy appendage dissolved into its frame, while the cut tentacle writhing on the ground melted into the form of a worm with a clawed mouth.

    ¡°We flee. Fighting this and whatever else lies in these sands isn''t what were here for.¡± Erres motioned the soldiers forward, Farra shivering before Teilve reached into her pocket, forcing her to imbiber a purple herb. ¡°Your ability is something. Though I cannot imagine how hardened your mind must be to see things when they don''t turn out well.¡± Farra''s body steadied, managing to swallow as every soldier was able to look at the flesh monstrosity. Teilve walked closer to the small wriggling worm.

    ¡°Allow me a moment to test on this disgusting thing Lord Erres.¡±

    ¡°Then make it quick, we have no business lingering here.¡± Erres turned, continuing toward a rising dune. Farra walked at the urging of Verrika, the feirin keeping her head back and observing Teilve muttering something. Farra knew what she was going to witness in those next few moments. From the head of Teilve''s staff spewed forth a cone of fire, spilling onto the smaller worm and incinerating it. The mage turned, picking his step up to catch up with the walking group. ¡°Fire seems to work well.¡±

    ¡°How long will the ice keep?¡± Erres glanced to Verrika to address her, turning back forward to focus on what might lie ahead. ¡°Long enough, it is a question of whether we can make enough distance for it forget about us, it didn''t seem to budge from it any significant amount.¡±

    Kaladin spoke. ¡°That is if it is a creature that forgets. Forgive me if I remember incorrectly my lord, but that worm, aside from shape, seems nothing in the likeness of which you and Teilve discussed.¡±

    ¡°Then it was put here by someone?¡± Verrika replied,

    ¡°Pick up our pace. There is nothing to say that it was not a wild monster transformed by the darkness or some other twisted manner.¡± Erres drew his blade, holding the large sword in one hand.

    As they descended the dune, each looked at the vast darkness lying before them.

    ¡°Farra, how are you feeling?¡± Erres turned down to her.

    ¡°Fine I believe. That worm was terrifying.¡±

    ¡°Make us aware of impending danger just as you did before, we will handle the rest, anything more will strain yourself unnecessarily. We will hold a quicker pace for the time being, to distance ourselves between us and that worm. There''s no point in rushing lest we fatigue ourselves or wander into a trap, there may be more ahead, and we know not when this desert ends.¡±

    They walked with a stride down the dune, resuming the formation they maintained before, albeit closer this time. The feeling of urgency carried in Farra, the encounter with the nightmarish worm and the prospect of there being more. The darkness crept, even though her friends were close by, she felt an eerie whisper like the one from before.

    ¡°Please, talk. A bit.¡± Farra said with a curtness similar to Gare''s.

    Verrika glanced in her direction, looking back to the left.

    ¡°I''ll allow it.¡± Erres affirmed her request. ¡°Do not drop your guard.¡±

    Teilve unabashedly took the opportunity. ¡°That thing was of nightmarish origin. You all saw it as much as I did. The way its skin was like a flesh wall, scales similar to what we expected of a worm were along some of its length.¡±

    Verrika blinked in her helmet, dropping her head for a moment, ¡°Teilve, when Farra asked us to talk, I don''t think she meant about the encounter we just had.¡±

    ¡°Anything is fine. Just don''t be silent.¡± Farra cut in, a shiver in her voice. ¡°I''m hearing these strange whispers when it''s too quiet.¡±

    ¡°I''m glad you pointed that out, I hear them too. I think something doesn''t want us to be here.¡± Teilve rummaged through his bag, pulling scrolls and beginning to tuck them into various openings tucked within his robe. ¡°Does anyone else hear them?¡±

    Verrika and Gare both shook their head, Erres responding with a curt ¡®no¡¯.

    Kaladin spoke in the same manner as always. ¡°I do as well, though I have taken to blocking them out, they seem to serve no purpose other than irritate and intimidate.¡±

    ¡°Then two people proficient in the magics and the feirin. I would say someone or something has a penchant for things magical, but Farra has no such capabilities.¡± The mage turned, speaking to Kaladin.

    ¡°If that is your vein of thinking, then perhaps Farra''s sight is enough to attract the interest of such an individual. Or perhaps it could be because she is young.¡±

    ¡°Now that you mention that, there''s just too many possibilities with Farra, but Gare, Verrika, and Lord Erres not hearing anything while we do certainly suggests something.¡±

    ¡°Yes. Would you associate the appearance of that monster with the whispers Teilve?¡±

    ¡°There''s all sorts of things in the unknown darkness, I wouldn''t necessarily count it as such, but the timing is a bit inconspicuous. Suppose it was. Who went and turned a worm into that, or raised that thing? What kind of magic would that even be?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps Lord Valen would have knowledge to share with us in this regard. Farra''s capability is undoubtedly a boon as well. Though Lord Erres anticipated the advantage of knowing a burrowing creature¡¯s direction of attack, having a walking stick when blind is an even greater blessing.¡±

    Teilve nodded. The wind died when Gare drew his axe. ¡°Feels like every time something changes we ought to be ready. Maybe one of you should pay attention to those whispers, see if it''s giving anything away.¡±

    ¡°Easy to say for someone who-¡±

    A shriek echoed from underneath the sands in front of them.

    ¡°How kind to make its presence known.¡± Erres, clutching his blade held the shaft with both hands. ¡°Kaladin, enchant.¡± The demon obliged, holding the metal staff forward and filling the edge of Erres'' blade with a crimson glow. Each rune engraved along the blade began to shine a maddening red in the dark, mixed with one faint blue rune. ¡°Belthemot, bestow your children with your might.¡± Erres screamed. Faint red winds enveloped all five soldiers as the lord''s war cry filled the darkness. The whispers vanished from Farra''s mind. Her eyes widened when a worm, bigger than the last surged forward and out of the sand, preparing to consume Erres in one dive. Verrika dashed to the feirin''s side, pulling her from the way of any sort of collateral the knight believed would result. With a swing of his blade, Erres let loose a raging cyclone of crimson flame. His blade cut through and tore two mandibles from the worm. The ferocity of his swing and fire halted the worm''s movement, it collapsing to the ground as nightmarish sights began to unfold. Flesh after piece of flesh attempted to peel away and become its own, but the flames continued to envelop and wrap the worm.

    ¡°The shriek may have been a cry to others. We will run now, be ready to execute the teleportation spell should the need arise.¡±

    ¡°We cannot run nearly as fast as you or Verrika, Lord Erres.¡± Teilve shrugged, beginning to run forward, taking hold of Farra''s hand and pulling her along. ¡°Show me why you¡¯re a soldier Farra.¡± Teilve smiled under his robe, turning and examining the horizons when Verrika and Erres quickly caught up along side them.

    ¡°I will keep the left, Verrika press ahead, and Gare hold the right. Teilve and Kaladin are responsible for Farra. She will communicate what needs be as possible.¡± Verrika nodded and blitzed forward past the side of the burning worm.

    ¡°If you cannot run, tell me and I will carry you.¡± Kaladin spoke to Farra as they began a rush behind Verrika alongside Teilve. Gare kept in pace along their right while Erres glided along their left with ease.

    The high-pitched shrieking of the worms filled the air again, deafening for the moment they persisted. Farra overcame her sensitivity to the noise. ¡°One left flank, two ahead.¡± She had little time to think or convey what she saw, names would have to be forgotten for the moment, she felt smaller worms rushing to them in larger numbers. Verrika filled her hand with dust, finding the worms as they rose from the ground, scattering it on their flesh and mandibles, freezing them with a flourish of her rapier then continuing forward. Farra watched in amazement, from the corner of her eye a brilliant crimson flame beginning to burn. She had subtly doubted the capabilities of each of these soldiers, but began to understand why Erres was a lord and these others were his trusted court.

    ¡°Three right flank. One left flank.¡± Another crimson glow filled the corner of her eye, while Gare swept with his axe through the worms. Their flesh rolled forth, attempted to claw at the armored man, scratching against his chestplate to no avail. With a second swipe of his axe he hacked the flesh from their bodies to a state where it was no longer a threat. The flesh remnants of the worms began to crawl toward each other, congealing together.

    ¡°Let''s not stick around to find out what happens shall we?¡± Teilve turned his head back forward and ran alongside Kaladin and Farra, pacing his breath between words.

    ¡°if you go too far... I can''t see as quickly.¡± Farra yelled with an exhausted breath. She lacked the training for this sort of running, and between rushing and trying to be mindful of the actions of each soldier and the way the very sands shifted, her mind tired. She reached into her pouch, pulling from it a yellow herb, trying to bite into it while she ran.

    ¡°You need only say you are tired Farra.¡± Kaladin swept the feirin from her feet, seating her on his shoulders. ¡°Though I practice magics, a demon such as myself is of fine physical physique. Running like this, though I can only move so fast, bears less fatigue than it would others.¡± Kaladin spoke without a trace of effort, as if he had been resting the entire time. But it was true as he said, despite this, his pace was much slower than that of Verrika or Erres. From the perch, Farra felt her focus return, no longer having to be concerned with the physical stress, instead focusing on her mind. But despite all her focus, there was perfect quiet within the sands. She became worried, perhaps they were coming en mass all at once. Or perhaps her ability had begun to falter from all the stress.

    The thought of how far they had crossed the desert entered her mind, how long would they have to continue like this. She pushed the thought aside, but as she did the hairs of her tail stood, Kaladin jerked from feeling the twitch in her movements.

    ¡°What is the matter?¡±

    ¡°Beneath us.¡± Farra stammered aloud. The three soldiers turned. ¡°Behind you all as well.¡± Kaladin and Teilve had already begun to move, the mage throwing a scroll at the ground beneath them and the other caster reciting an incantation. Farra felt a knot in her stomach, Her vision of everything within both eyes and mind blurred as the surroundings jerked. She had been instantly turned the other direction, or so she felt. She fell from Kaladin¡¯s shoulders, kneeling over on the ground, puking as she tried to look about in tears. Where they once stood, a worm, exceeding the size any other previous rose from the ground. A behemoth, large enough in size to have devoured the mages and Farra all at once. Teilve smiled as it let loose a screeching cry, from within its flesh a red glow emanating. He turned back to Farra, handing her a red herb. ¡°We had considered this possibility long before, our apologies for subjecting you to the discomforting magic that is short-range teleportation. It has very limited uses, as you may be able to tell why.¡± Teilve knelt over, dripping sweat from his face. Though Kaladin stood tall, the jerk in movements pushed him to take deeper breaths. ¡°Such an accursed magic.¡±

    The worm obstructed their vision of both Erres and Verrika. They turned to Gare who finally had resorted to the engravings along his axe, and from it a blackened-gold back half of the axe formed. He swung it without relent, slashing at worm after worm with his double-sided axe. The enchantment was not of fire, and so the worms momentum would stop, and they would launch again at the man in an attempt to bite into him, only to be met by surprisingly quick successive swings of the axe.

    ¡°You have to burn them you fool.¡± Teilve pounded the sand before standing to his feet, pulling another scroll and spilling dust across it. A long sword conjured purely of flame rose from the scroll. Teilve thrust it Gare''s direction at a worm in such a fashion that showed a lack of finesse. The long sword nonetheless struck into the length of a worm, in a perfect position for Gare to draw and use.

    They turned back to the giant worm that had sat still as a pillar erect in the air, it finally let forth another screech, beginning to reel itself back into the ground. ¡°Easy as they might be to burn, there''s just too many, we need to depart at once, especially before that big one returns.¡± Teilve brushed his robe. Kaladin picked up Farra as she remained curled over the ground, sweating and gathering herself. Verrika came into view as the worm buried back into the ground, ice and fire ornamented the sands.

    ¡°I made a misstep. I apologize.¡± Verrika walked, a deep gash lie on her gauntlet, signs of her forearm being pierced. ¡°I still can use my rapier, let''s not dwell on this.¡± She stepped forward, Gare coming back closer as the long sword dispelled.

    ¡°Where''s Erres?¡± Gare let out a grunt, feeling the dissipating flames singe his armor and hand.

    ¡°Over yonder. He found something.¡± Verrika pointed with her arm, the fifth of them pulling together and headed to a Erres who stood tall, looking out at something. It was when they neared they immediately stopped, discovering the gaping abyss Erres was staring into stretching as far wide as the eye could see. The sand ended, barely hardening into a cliff.

    ¡°We head home, prepare the teleportation ritual.¡±

    Farra looked on with dismay, the prospect of another teleportation, this time long-distance as opposed to short from what she understood. Still, the idea of being out of danger was far more enticing, enough to shake her discomfort away. Kaladin and Teilve delve into the vials of liquid they brought, beginning to mix it with half the dust Kaladin had saved. Teilve spilt dust across a scroll, creating a makeshift platform of earth on the sand upon which they could work. A circle was inscribed with blood, followed by numerous runes. Varying trinkets were placed upon the circle, removed at different times once symbols were complete.

    ¡°From below.¡± Farra muttered. Excluding Farra, the soldiers scattered from the cliff side and from atop the thin platform of stone. In an effort to dodge the worm. Farra scrambled over the ground, unable to move her legs quick enough. Verrika turned back, dashing forward as the ground sank, the platform of earth along with it.. She grabbed Farra''s hand with her capable arm, attempting to pull her from the maw before it consumed the both of them. As she reached back with her pierced arm, one of the mandibles sliced through her gauntlet, cutting the knight¡¯s arm. Farra looked in horror, attempting to balance her feelings with what her mind was seeing. Her body was frozen as they dropped toward the grinding maw, but her mind and instinct told her what needed to be done.

    When Verrika''s arm was being cut, Farra reached for her dagger, slicing the pouch of dust that had been full to this point, spilling the contents inside the gaping mouth. She let go of the dagger dropping it into the consuming darkness, reaching for Verrika''s rapier as they descended and taking hold. The rapier felt light to the touch, it was no harder for Farra to wield than her own dagger. She focused her mind, swiping it as they fell. The dust scattered all about them. The air glowed a brilliant blue as ice extended forth in every direction, impaling all around and freezing the flesh of the worm. The ritual circle it devoured had accelerated its unmaking, the dust scattered all the way down, causing a gradual freeze all along the worm''s innards. The worm could not retract into the ground, instead it crumbled limp along the sands, Farra and Verrika tumbling within its maw. They were covered in blood, fluids, and ice, nearly being clawed by monstrous teeth. Erres jetted forward, seeing the ice formed all around, beginning to hack at the teeth in his way. Gare and Teilve both followed swiftly. Teilve reached, pulling a Farra, shrinking away in horror covered in viscous fluids while holding the rapier. Her eyes shriveling with a terrified gaze. Erres dropped his blade outside of the maw and ventured in, wrapping his arms around Verrika and pulling her from it.

    ¡°I-I''m sorry.¡± Farra whispered to Teilve, shaking and curling on the sands. He shook his head, turning and throwing numerous different trinkets he had held onto until now. He crumbled a scroll, throwing it inside the maw, holding his stave up high and setting a fireball forth. It erupted, melting away the ice, but before the worm could make anymore movements from its injured and defrosting wounds, before the flesh could reform or split, its entirety caught ablaze. ¡°Grab her.¡± Teilve turned to Gare. Erres had already set out with Verrika''s arm wrapped around him toward Kaladin who stood toward where the circle once was, new sand already replacing where the earthen platform once stood.

    Gare carried Farra, behind them another blaze lit the darkness, searing over the flesh of the worm, burning all along the sands.

    ¡°Kaladin, is there any way to complete the teleportation?¡±

    ¡°With uncertain ground, I fear not. I fear that if we fail it once more we will be doomed here given our limited supplies.¡± He shuffled through a bag, pulling from it more vials then pointing to the dust at Erres'' side. ¡°With what remaining dust we have left, and we will likely need all of it for the ritual; there is still the issue of proper footing.¡±

    ¡°Can you or Teilve not just procure another platform with your energies?¡±

    ¡°That we would have been wise enough to bring a second scroll. But even then there is the method of simply setting sand aflame. But I fear neither of those protect us against the possibility of the ground they lie on once again becoming undone. Even a single shift or mistake in the ink may doom us."

    Verrika rose her head with a smile, her eyes conveying an intense agony. ¡°Where''s my rapier?¡±

    ¡°Here.¡± Gare handed the blade to her, pristine and shining despite the predicament she and Farra emerged from.

    Verrika pointed the rapier toward the cliffside where they stood over when Erres interrupted. ¡°You can''t, your body is in no shape for using your own magical energies.¡±

    ¡°Shh...it has to be done. This rapier is affixed to me. I am just a knight after all. You are our Lord and future of the War Faction, Erres.¡± Her body shimmered and the rapier glowed once more. A perfect circle of flat ice materialized, floating off the cliff¡¯s side. Verrika slumped over on her rapier, pulling her helmet off and tossing it to the side. Her breathing grew heavier with each moment the circle maintained itself.

    Kaladin spoke before beginning to etch the symbols, stepping onto the platform. ¡°Verrika, though you are in no condition, I fear I must ask that you suppress your magics to the perfect amount to not emanate from the platform and only within and below ice. If they spill onto the runes and activate them prematurely, then the effort will be in vain.¡±

    She nodded, blood dripping from her lips. Kaladin began to inscribe the circle and runes upon the ground, Teilve joining the inscribing with a grave look after returning from incinerating the worm. Verrika spoke, seeing the shivering Farra and her comrades all with dismal expressions across their faces. ¡°Besides Lord Erres, you know this girl Farra, she''s quite something. I bet Valen would take a liking to her.¡± Farra''s terror subsided, her nerves calming as she came to understand the situation, seeing the blood flow from Verrika''s mouth. All remained silent, allowing Verrika to speak as she pleased. ¡°To die in service to you Lord Erres, that is the greatest pride for me. So please, continue that dream of yours.¡± Her lips shut, hand clenching around the rapier. Teilve and Kaladin nodded to one another, all of them felt a gaze on them from a distant place, somewhere inside an arcane sanctum. They stepped inside the fluorescent lines of the circle, Erres pulling Verrika inside to ensure she would be caught in the spell, the rapier remaining behind lodged within and sustaining the ice. The lines of the circle glowed in a brilliant white light, the darkness of the sands faded, and everything within the circle disappeared.

 Chapter 4: The Temple Grounds

    Farra rubbed her eyes, feeling a knot in her stomach when she tried to pick herself up off the ground. Her thoughts were scrambled, and even though her sight continued discerning her immediate surroundings, her mind could scarcely process the noise and footsteps around her. It wasn''t until she looked up, eying Verrika laying on her back. The first individual she had come to regard with warmth since the passing of her parents now lay completely still. A tear formed in the feirin''s eye, she attempt to pick herself up again while crawling closer. She made enough distance before collapsing back down to see her friend''s lifeless eyes. As more tears flowed, she turned, becoming privy to the rush of boots around her. Voices arguing and contesting one another was the only noise that could be heard between the scrambling of numerous bodies. Erres stepped from the noise, kneeling down. His fingers, clad in armor, brushed over Verrika''s eyes and shut them. He turned to Farra, her tearful eyes meeting his. The red piercing gaze when she first met him was not scrutinizing her. His eyes were soft and full of remorse, of that much Farra was certain. She sniffled, then a gauntlet laid on top of her head, patting before Erres stood back up and took his leave. Some of the voices yelled after him, but he continued on.

    An unfamiliar voice spoke over her.Ablack greave stepped next to her, followed by a gentle, echoing voice that was short of yelling, but demanded the silence of those in the room. ¡°The act of grieving, though different between individuals, is a characteristic found within all souls. Rest Farra, your body has pressed its limits, and Verrika is in a peaceful slumber now.¡±

    As she heard those words, her eyes shut. The last thing she could hear was the same voice commanding individuals out of the room, before she drifted into unconsciousness.

    Some time must have passed when she woke. Her eyes opened, staring toward darkness. An attempt to lift her arms was met with immense soreness, shuffling her legs resulted in an aching pain, and even her still feet burned after the long trek. She had been laid flat on her stomach, and this darkness she stared into was soft on her face. Her fingers curled, digging into fabrics, this bed was comfortable unlike the one back at the quarry.

    ¡°Enjoy it. Even for the highest ranking soldiers, a rest in a bed like this is hard to come by. It''s kept for those who return from combat sustaining significant injuries and need time to recover.¡± Farra could see the familiar twitching and heard his laid-back voice. Her face managed a smile, relieved at the sight of Teilve through her open eye. She buried her face back into the pillow, tilting her head to its other side.

    ¡°What happens now?¡± Her voice escaped, muffled by the pillow.

    ¡°A number of things I imagine. I am a mage of Lord Erres'' dominion, however here we are at the temple. There will be dissenting opinions based on our findings and what occurred. I hold little respect in the eyes of many individuals here with the exception of Lord Valen whose tower we are currently in, and who you¡¯ve already met. I can only imagine that in light of Verrika''s death and our findings, combined with the decision of bringing you on our expedition, Erres will be encountering a deal of resistance with other lords and their officers.¡±

    ¡°Did we fail?¡±

    Teilve chuckled, standing from the stool he sat and stretching his limbs. Farra turned her head back, a single eye remaining open and observing the room without moving her body.

    ¡°My teacher would implore upon me the meaning of failure. I don''t think we did. We lost a dear friend, but we found what lies south of the desert; though I can''t figure it''s what Lord Erres wanted it to be. And though undeniably, you came with some disadvantages, I think you did every bit we could have expected from you. We all may have encountered an unfortunate end if not for you. It lies to our lord and the rest during council to decide what is and what isn''t failure.¡±

    ¡°Is it my fault what happened? Are we going to be punished?¡±

    Teilve paused sitting back down with a gentle click of his staff on the stone floor.

    ¡°I tend not to think so. And it is doubtful. Between Lord Valen and Lord Erres, though the latter will be admonished in front of his peers, both hold a great deal of favor with the Warlords much to others dismay. The lord is a warrior through and through, with unbridled ambition and bravery and the stratagem to reinforce it. Lord Valen''s research and magics is a great boon to the entirety of our army. Those two both are cause for inspiration and envy as a result.¡± Teilve bit his lip, pausing again and gazing back into Farra''s single bulb, dimly lit by the dim magical glow in the room. ¡°I know not what Gare and Erres think of what happened. In that moment we split without taking care to help you, and it was Verrika who had the instinct to try and make the best of it. Mayhap Lord Erres would have been able to cleave the monster in two from the inside and save the both of you, but that simply isn''t what happened in that moment. I had the opportunity to talk with Kaladin after dispersing from the Oracle, and we both think it miraculous you managed to halt the worm.¡± He smiled, voice raising in grandeur. ¡°Just imagine, a behemoth worm, ready to consume both the beloved Verrika and novice Farra, only for the latter to take an experienced warrior''s weapon, wield it flawlessly and bring the creature down from the inside. Not even two moons before that were you able to wield a weapon.¡±

    ¡°But Verrika is still dead.¡± She attempted to wrest herself from her elongated and flat position, teeth clenching as her body screamed from the soreness. ¡°Whatever I did wasn''t enough.¡±

    With both eyes in full view, Teilve saw each, full of water. He took a breath before lowering his stave, and tapping it upon Farra''s head. ¡°Such is life in this world and these lands. You know it, even prior to that. If it counts for anything, Verrika died because she expended herself for our escape. We could''ve took the risk of conducting the ritual on unsafe ground one more time. But you shouldn''t push yourself over such things, rest for a bit longer, you''ll have plenty of opportunity to exert yourself in the coming days.¡±

    A tear trickled down her cheek before she crumbled back into the bed, shutting her eyes. Teilve lowered his cowl, unwrapping the cloak from his body and tossing it over her without another word.

    When she awoke, Farra had flipped to her side, causing a ruffle on the bedding. Teilve sat, head tilted down, wrapped around and leaning on his stave held over his shoulder in a slumber. It was the first time Farra could see his features in the faint glow of the room, realizing she was covered by his cloak. Teilve was of a particularly gangly frame with a tattoo beginning at his cheek and running well down past his neck. All along the otherwise straight design, were numerous spikes, branching out from one another like that of a tree. His hair even in the flickering light was a clearly a light brown. Farra shuffled more, her soreness though still immense, was no longer immobilizing. She roused from the bed, feeling her abdomen scream once again before hearing the sound of a knuckle smack against stone when she shifted her hand. Immediately she pulled it back to mouth, licking the back of her knuckle after a crack, realizing the source of her pain was a bowl filled with food set by her side.

    She took the bowl, cradling it on her lap, using her finger to pick at bits of the meat and tubers inside, idly nibbling as her eyes floated around the room. All around were arcane trinkets and tools, various desks loaded with tomes and other devices. The walls had inscribing all along them, connecting in a myriad of complex ways as if the entire room was built with the purpose to conduct an immense ritual. On various desks and within walls she saw the source of light. It was the same stones as she had seen in the quarry¡¯s war hall, small rocks that glowed softly with faint light. Baskets of weapons sat beside bookcases in numerous quantity, being of no remarkable design. Others had markings similar of the weapons she had seen the soldiers use. In the middle of the room etched into the ground was the circle on which they arrived through. The image of Verrika''s lifeless body flashed in her mind for a moment as Farra bit into a chunk of food with a deep breath. Her eyes continued on, observing, her sight continuing to watch for any traces of movement but discerning nothing but Teilve shifting in his sleep.

    Before long she reached the bottom of the stone bowl, her nail tapping against it, alerting her there was no more food. Setting the bowl to the side she unraveled Teilve''s cloak from her, digging her fingers into the soft bed one last time before launching herself from atop it and onto the cold ground. She was barefoot she realized, and changed from her tunic into a softer cloth taking the form of a short robe, perhaps for the purpose of better examination of any wounds she might have unknowingly sustained. Still, she shivered from the feeling of cold against her feet. She had come to enjoy some protection wrapped around them. She took the cloak from the bed, laying it back over its owner before turning to the room.

    ''It would be best to avoid touching things.'' The thought occurred in Farra''s mind when she passed Teilve, stepping around ritual circle centered in the room. Though she had little talent for magic, Farra could not help but feel intrigued by the designs all around her. From stands adorned with armor bearing markings, to small jewels and stones inscribed with symbols upon them lying on desks. It was apparent that the act of treading into this place uninvited might be cause for issue. The feirin spotted a groove in the wall with an eventual segment in between, realizing it was two doors fashioned from the same material of the towering walls rising remarkably high. Both lacked handles and looked far too heavy for just any person to press open. Her gaze instead turned back toward an open tome lying upon a desk. Inside were numerous markings filling the entirety of the page, nothing resembling any sort of language. She flipped the page only to find more runes, eying a few repeating formations that she had seen on weapons prior. It wasn''t long before the book began to feel heavy in her arms, beginning to wear at her sore shoulder when she held it before she decided to set it back down with a thud, immediately rousing a Teilve who looked all around him.

    ¡°Farra?¡± He spoke with a slight disorientation in his voice before turning to see her blinking back at him with wide eyes.

    ¡°I''m sorry, I decided to look around a bit.¡±

    Teilve continued to shake off his drowsiness, pressing his stave into the ground and bringing himself up. ¡°Not a problem, it''s just a book, though you should be wary of touching some of these things. You probably wouldn''t blow anything up or anything of that sort, but someone may get upset if an item is not in a place they left it.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡± She stepped back from the desk she was beside.

    ¡°This chamber is the base of the Oracle. There will likely be an infirmary set up outside close by, now that we know the results of the teleportation. But for this time, Lord Valen request this bed to be set up for you. As you can probably see, this tower is primarily a lab for research, though the Lord¡¯s library and quarters lie upstairs.¡± Teilve pointed to a slab of black concrete, half Farra''s height. Her eyes widened when she realized it was a step, and past it was another step, spiraling upward. This detail had completely passed her, for each step was so big enough that it could practically be a wall to one her size. A magical stone hanging in an alcove high above the ground was positioned to as to actually provide lighting for the staircase.

    ¡°We should not venture up there. I like to think I am on amicable terms with Lord Valen, but he likely wouldn''t appreciate us taking this opportunity to scamper around his study while he is away. Even higher beyond that is the peak of the Oracle, a place where Lord Valen can oversee much of the surrounding temple grounds.¡±

    Farra shifted her head about, examining crossing lines that traveled up the wall like separate circuits.

    ¡°Lord Valen sounds rather important.¡±

    ¡°It would be difficult to overstate his role. Whereas Lord Erres has become a binding and rallying cause with the desire to unify us, Lord Valen enables us to stand on equal footing with the unknown.¡±

    Farra rubbed her arms, turning from craning her head up the rising tower and toward the door resembling more of a massive seal.

    ¡°Are we locked inside? The door seemed too heavy.¡±

    Teilve dragged his hand across his face, wiping his eyes and shaking off his drowsiness. ¡°It is one of the few proper gates or barriers we use. Naturally we don''t want just anyone walking inside. Despite that, it''s not all quite sealed away as one would think. You simply need to be in possession of a trinket that Lord Valen lends to individuals at his discretion. Then the door is quite effortless to move. You see it is not just Lord Valen''s knowledge and efforts that are a remarkable boon to our cause, but also his willingness to share and divulge his knowledge. So it is quite normal for qualified and even aspiring mages and scholars of our ranks to find their way in and out of these doors with minimal supervision. As it is Lord Valen himself who puts together most these volumes, should someone remove one it wouldn¡¯t be an irredeemable loss. And escaping with such knowledge, but lacking the means to utilize or learn it makes theft seem more than a futile endeavor.¡±The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    ¡°We are on the temple grounds now aren''t we? What is it like outside? Can we look?¡±

    Teilve nodded his head. ¡°We should take care not to wander too far, you still seem stiff, and I am embarrassed to admit that if you collapse, I may have a bit of trouble pulling you back to your bed. And there is the matter of not so friendly fellow soldiers.¡± He sighed, pulling a crude ring etched with symbols. ¡°The air does get a bit stale in here for my tastes, though the outside is not too much better.¡± He touched the ring to the gate; engraved runes on the door began lighting up and pulling the heavy stone apart from the middle, retracting into the tower''s walls.

    They stepped out into the open with faint glows hanging from pillars adorning a paved walkway. Though it was still difficult to see through the overwhelming darkness, Farra could discern the shape of some structures fashioned from stone at an elevation below where they stood. "To think somewhere in this world people would build things as big as these. My parents told me stories, but those were stories they heard from their own parents." Her breath betrayed her amazement before she turned, hearing yelling in the distance across the spanning pathway. It was the sound of two warriors disagreeing over some issue.

    "Unfortunately, a tour of the capital domain should likely wait, it was my own and others fears that there would be some amount of discord after recent events. Lord Erres would likely be the recipient of most of it, least from any ranking officer. But that doesn''t mean you might not be the object of some ire either." Teilve lowered a hand around Farra, urging her away from the voices. "Still, we need not return inside yet, this walkway goes perfectly fine the other way as well." Behind them the tower''s gate sealed with the loud crash of two stones clinking together. Amid that same noise, Teilve took the opportunity to pull Farra along, maintaining some level of ease in his step to not aggravate any injuries or soreness in her body.

    "Shouldn''t we stay close you said?" She winced for a moment, feeling her sides ache and make it difficult to turn, taking a breath and stepping on as she gazed out toward the temple grounds.

    "Yes, we won''t be going too far, just out of the immediate sight of the possibility of unsavory interactions in order to spare ourselves the trouble." Teilve pointed past and around the tower where bare stone lot, smoothly paved remain undisturbed. "Perhaps it would have been more prudent to remain inside the tower until others came to pronounce it safe, but admittedly I can only take the stuffiness for so long. Here, if you''re going to sit, do so on my cloak, I wouldn''t want the ground to cause your body any complications." He bundled up the thick cloak Farra had become accustom to wearing over their little time together, tossing it onto the ground for her. She obliged with a smile, finding the cloth to provide a cushion, not as comfortable as the bed she was in, but quite welcoming in comparison to what she was use to. She lay tilted on her side as to not crush her tails beneath her.

    Farra looked up into the dark sky, the only bit discernible in it was the moon centered over lands in the distance. Her head tilted back, able to glimpse needles rising high into the sky from behind where she sat. Each needle rose like a great stone spire carved from the land, acting as a natural deterrent to any that would seek to explore the opposite side.

    "What''s on the other side of these mountains?" Farra stretched her arms out across the ground, looking at the sky above her.

    "From what we understand-" Teilve sat beside her, holding his wooden stave against the ground and over his shoulder. ¡°-it seems to be a spanning mountain range, much of the same design as these closest needles you see here. We haven''t exactly seen firsthand, but through the use of some magics. The Warlords have put in some thought into the matter personally from what I am to understand. It would be a bit problematic if enemies could come flying over what we presumed to be a natural defense after all. But it seems more than likely that isn''t the case. We''ve not heard of any sort of flying creatures or individuals freely flying that high through means of magic yet, and one would likely be impaled or trapped trying to traverse over it otherwise."

    "It feels like were locked inside of a cage doesn''t it?" Farra looking into the sky squarely.

    "Hm?" Teilve tapped his foot to the ground. "I suppose it might feel that way wouldn''t it? A desert with unsightly creatures to our south, with only what seems to be the end of the world beyond it. An impassable mountain all along our west, stretching as a natural border for much of these lands. And not to mention the least of which is this land itself, bearing its fangs at us from the creeping shadows."

    A silence fell between the two, their breaths audible between the faint disagreements of voices far on the other side of the tower. Teilve dragged the end of his stave in circles, idly practicing the etchings for some runes, looking up and gazing over the temple grounds and into the moon. "It''s why relying on Lord Erres and following his dream is the best course of action. There''s no room for divisions in times and conditions like this. Mistakes and mishaps will happen, but we have to push on for any chance at breaking free from the prison this world has us set in. That is why regardless of the outcomes, discord, and uncertainties, even when the best option seems no better than the worst at times, we just ought to remember that''s the way these lands are." Teilve picked a pebble from the ground, flicking it up into the air and catching it. "Least that''s my reasoning anyways. Perhaps you will have some other; or be one of the ones who disagree with his way of going about things. But even if you are I''d hope you understand standing divided is just impractical entirely."

    "Death happens. If not for Lord Erres I might be dead long ago." Farra spoke bluntly, continuing gazing upward into nothing.

    "You speak like no child Farra, and I don''t know if that''s necessarily a good thing. It makes me shiver." Teilve laughed, catching the pebble and tossing it over the walkway, falling down into the lower ground below beyond their sight. "Maybe you''ll grow into a commander giving us all the orders."

    "I can barely hold a weapon, I don''t think I would be someone anyone would look up to." Her voice spoke quiet, solemn as her head dropped from the sky, looking toward her folded hands and rubbing them to the uneven gravel.

    "Yet look what you did out in the dunes, barely able to hold a weapon and all, having to overcome any inhibiting senses in the moment. Give it some time, I''m sure as far as Lord Erres is concerned, you''ve proved your mettle." Teilve stood, hoisting himself up by stabbing the staff against the ground. "And that''s to say nothing of your ability. Seeing things before they happen? I can''t imagine it mattering too much you can''t hold the biggest sword when you can swing a blade just right every time." He swung the gnarled stave in a long arc with both hands, losing his balance briefly and catching himself on the back of his heel, taking a flustered breath before speaking. "Really, you''re young after all, pay your physical attributes little mind, you have plenty of growing to do."

    Farra pulled her head up and down without a word, blinking at him before gazing back to the moon lying in the incalculable distance. For some reason, even setting her eyes upon it filled her with a sense of melancholy.

    ¡°Teilve.¡±

    He turned from inspecting the twisting tip of his catalyst.

    ¡°Yes Farra?¡±

    ¡°When traveling, Erres spoke of the moon being a goddess.¡±

    ¡°That''s right, perhaps that''s one of our most well-founded deductions, that and there lying some sort of god far northward of our lands, possibly past where even the lands of moonlight lie. Well other than everything we know about our own god of course. Besides those things, there''s purely speculation about the goddess of-¡±

    ¡°I''ve never taken time to think about this moon in the sky. Others from my tribe never paid much thought to it. But when you look at it, the moon seems like someone. It shined down brightly on us in the desert like I had never seen it before. But if this goddess helped us there, then why do so many still suffer?¡±

    ¡°Because simply Farra, even the divine have their limits. We are a faction of war, and ultimately she may be our enemy. But whether she knows that or not, she must have decided in that moment that helping us was her best course of action. If you¡¯re suggesting that granting us light in the desert was her way of helping us. But there is too much I don''t know as well.¡±

    The constant bickering far down the paved path became louder, a sign of the soldiers nearing. It became increasingly obvious they were in fact discussing Erres position as a lord, and any matters that pertained to it. Farra looked up, batting her eyes. ¡°Should we get back inside?¡±

    ¡°Nay, if they wish to speak ill of our lord, we will not reinforce any distasteful opinions they have by stowing ourselves away in the tower. The council and other meetings are likely concluding soon for the time being, so they won''t be long here at any rate. Still, steel yourself a bit to not mind a bit of yelling.¡± Teilve smiled back as several soldiers garbed in plate, carrying helmets at their side came into sight from around the tower. Rather than bickering, it was more a reinforcing of negative opinions, as they agreed unanimously about every ill word spoken.

    Teilve stood silent, stave held to the ground at his side. The lack of a source of light inside the lot of stone they rested in concealed the two for a moment, however all three soldiers turned, recognizing the mage in the shadows, and spotting out the feirin they heard stories about sitting down. A human man was straddled on each side by two more intimidating frames. Farra discerned another to be a demon of sorts, with notable differences from Kaladin. However, the third she was entirely unfamiliar with. Despite being taller than the human, he was remarkably stocky with swelling muscles exposed between gaps of armor, and a grayish skin that almost seemed to blend with his tarnished plate. The human began to speak.

    ¡°Look, two of Lord Erres'' faithful soldiers, or maybe half a soldier considering one is a mage and the other a beast wench he took interest in.¡± The way in which he uttered the word ''Lord¡¯ carried such contempt and vile feelings that it would have been more respectful to leave the title out entirely. To Farra, his voice was none at all inspiring, reassuring, or commanding of any respect like the voices of numerous soldiers she had heard up to this point. They were that of a man who was bitter and envious, grasping at perpetuating negative sentiments. Farra lacked any decent understanding of the relationship between various figures in the faction, but from her past experiences, she could feel the animosity and disregard.

    ¡°To think you would speak ill of the studies of magic. All we mean to do is bolster our fighting force you see. Isn''t that much something we can agree on?¡± Teilve held a smirk on his face, waving his open hand as if preaching to those beneath him. ¡°Surely any soldier can understand that much.¡±

    The human handed his helmet off to the demon, posturing in front of Teilve, casting a foul gaze at a Farra who looked back blankly. ¡°We don''t get to experience the benefits of such magic on the eastern front, it seems for all your research and advancement here in the capital and western lands, none makes it to the soldiers that ought to use it. It gets reserved for petty projects that end up in failure. Verrika was a fine woman.¡± He nodded. ¡°Guess this sow is gonna have to grow into something and become her replacement, that''s all Erres will let her be.¡±

    The hulking gray individual at his side opened his mouth, ¡°Don''t insult the females of other races.¡± All three began to laugh and chuckle, Teilve clicked his teeth, tapping the stave to the ground. ¡°Fortunately for you, she''s young enough to not know what you meant with your foulness, otherwise I would daresay you all find yourselves in graves outside the battlefield. However on the matter of magical armaments making it out to the lands of Lord Raom, I would say that if you and his lordship perhaps supported Lord Erres and Lord Valen''s proposals for unification, then it would be easier to provide you with such supplies, rather than treating us like some estranged family.¡±

    Farra sat and continued her silence, she knew that every word being exchanged was in some way an insult or demeaning to other side, however she could tell in Teilve''s voice he had a rather honorable approach in his words. The only thing making her reel was the gazes the man would cast her direction in between the bickering.

    ¡°Lord Erres'' attempt to have everyone cast his lot with him? The same Erres that shunned more good soldiers in favor of a a mage and slave? The same Erres that was unable to protect his soldiers or father?¡± With every word, a glare became Farra''s once neutral face. Teilve caught the sharp eyes in the corner of his own, waving a hand within his grandiose manners to signal to calm.

    ¡°In that case, it is my hopes Lord Raom takes the time to come and tell us how he fails to lose a single soldier in every incursion and defense. Or is the eastern front that quiet in reality? Or do you care so little about your fellow soldiers that you don''t recognize when one is felled?¡± Teilve''s words drifted into a sourness. ¡°Perhaps Lord Raom should come visit the temple himself, rather than sending proxies who lack proper strategic understanding to be having words with the other lords. Or those of a stature befitting little more than fodder on the lines. I daresay a slave has more purpose.¡±

    Farra stood, speaking quiet and concise. ¡°Teilve, he will attack.¡±

    ¡°Is that so mage?¡± The human paying little attention to Farra''s words, took a step back to draw his sword. The soldiers at his flanks backed off, making no effort to take part in that moment. Teilve took Farra¡¯s advice, swinging his stave into the arm drawing the blade, bashing it into the man and pushing off to create distance between the two as a flame began to flicker in the head of the catalyst.

    Before another movement was made, a boot crashed against the stone, similar to a distinct one Farra heard after teleportation. A towering figure in every sense of the word, armored head to toe, came from about the tower. His frame was gaunt yet beyond thrice the height of Farra. Adorned with a slim helmet, it only accentuated the feeling of a tower overlooking oneself. Various pieces of blackened cloth lie tucked beneath the pauldrons and gauntlets, hanging like small capes blowing from the slightest wind, creating a haunting visage. A long, torn kilt, seemingly ravaged by countless battles, cut from the same cloth as those on other parts of armor, hung around his waist side. It loosely covered even more obsidian-black armor underneath. Any and all previous individuals Farra had ever encountered pale in comparison to this monstrous knight''s size and menacing stature. Without another moment, the flame from Teilve''s staff vanished, and the man sheathed his blade.

    ¡°Disperse if you have no business with me.¡±

    The aggravated man cast a scowl Teilve and Farra''s direction before taking his helmet from a fellow soldier''s arm, storming off past the way opposite from which they came, his accomplices following behind.

    The figure, clad in black, spoke in a tempered voice which still demanded fealty, creating the impression his voice was booming. ¡°Inside. We will talk of what happened.¡±

 Chapter 5: Valen

    Valen waved his hand, commanding the various magical stones lighting the room with a fleeting glow to brighten; yet it was still insufficient to light the various dark nooks of the room. The three individuals remained silent. Filling would-be silence was Valen''s movements. With the shift of his foot, a desk with stacks of books on top scratched against the stone ground as it moved. Every step he took was a loud crack against the ground. Farra watched in awe, taking note of how heavy each of Valen''s movements were. Whereas Erres and Verrika effused confidence and sailed in the wind, whereas Gare had precise and calculated movements, Valen felt overpowering.

    "Is he upset?" Farra whispered to a Teilve standing by her bedside.

    "I don''t think so, I''m not quite sure what the lord is doing."

    After finishing shifting the heavy desks and chairs around, Valen took a jar in his gauntlet, clenching his hand into a fist and crushing it. The shards of the jar fell to the ground, mixing with the white dust the jar once held. Using a single large finger, he shifted the crushed pieces around, forming a rune from their pieces. With a wave of his hand, a blazing flame emerged, illuminating what the magic stones could not. Farra wiggled where she sat, feeling the heat from the flame flow to her, a feeling she could scarce remember.

    "It would be a slight amount problematic if any pupils belongings caught aflame. And a waste." Valen turned, towering over the both of them. The longer Farra was in his presence, the more she understood just how this was in fact, Valen''s tower. From the heavy stone gate, accommodating his towering frame, to the stone stairwell winding up the tower which proved a modest size for each of the lord¡¯s titanic steps. He looked down to Farra. Behind the tall black helmet shaped into a diamond, Farra could feel no gaze, only a presence directing attention toward her. Valen''s head turned, and with a slight crouch, a long arm reached down not too far before its palm touched the ground. When he retracted his hand back, a crude stone chair of a size befitting the lord erected from the ground.

    "I think this to be a better position to speak cordially." He sat, both gauntlets folding over his lap.

    Farra sat and looked on without a word, glancing to Teilve whom she had assumed would speak, only to find Valen''s attention and words directed at her. Her lips parted, but the feirin found herself at a loss of words. Pale fingers grasped at the bed sheets as Farra''s eyes shook, in her mind she knew this to be one of Erres most stalwart allies and perhaps friend from what she had come to understand. But still, she had not spoke with Erres himself since arriving here. Perhaps after what transpired, his opinion of her changed. Perhaps this overpowering behemoth in front of her already was privy to any negative opinion Erres might have of her.

    ¡°I''m sorry.¡± She murmured, her voice choking, ¡°I can''t find words right now.¡± Valen kept still, fixated on her like a giant curiously examining a smaller creature.

    ¡°Are you nervous?¡± The voice, echoed from underneath the armor in the same manner as before. It demanded to be heard, even when speaking in a hushed tone. Farra nodded her head, feeling her face fluster at her obvious intimidation.

    ¡°Take time to find your voice. Many find me a monster, but you are in Erres¡¯ closest court, and therefore you are in mine.¡± Her head raised, searching for a way to respond. She glanced from side to side of Valen¡¯s helmet. Her thoughts failing her, but coming to find one concern at the forefront of her mind.

    ¡°I have not spoken with Lord Erres since arriving here. Is he not upset with me?¡± She blinked into the abyssal helmet in front of her.

    ¡°It is understandable, you having such concerns and doubts. Rest assured, while the Lord is still mourning the passing of one of his dearest retainers, it will not cloud his judgment or give rise to any unnecessary hatreds regarding you. Rather, in the end his anger will be directed at these lands, the very place which has thrust us all into hardship, and the dark goddess who oversees this world from the shadows. The young feirin girl who he chose to associate with for belief in her gift, she is not the object of any of his ire.¡± He paused, grasping at the edge of his seat, crumbling the stone to a coarse dust. ¡°I have existed long enough to know my words will not assuage all your feelings. Only your own reflections upon what you''ve experienced, coupled with time spent with the young Lord himself will do such a thing. But at least know that I hold no reservations toward you. Rather I am very curious to understand and learn more, not just of your peculiar ability, but your own circumstance.¡±

    With every word Valen¡¯s voice became less intimidating to Farra. The calm and understanding behind it could be felt, a desire to know was present, akin to the first time Erres met with her. Yet in that inquisitiveness was a discrepancy, Valen''s felt as if it stemmed out of a want for simply knowing more, understanding more. It occurred to Farra, that perhaps this was a contrast between the two Lords who considered one another close allies. One was an inspiring warrior through and through, the other a scholar and practitioner of magics. Valen still possessed a profound charisma through his very aura, but he also brought an enigmatic feeling of knowledge around him.

    Farra bit her lip, looking about for a moment, pondering over how to answer his inquiries.

    ¡°I don''t know where to begin.¡±

    ¡°We are not too pressed for time, I believe this to be something of greater import. Any would be guests and pupils have been informed the tower''s access will be closed for the time being. So please, start from the beginning Farra.¡±

    ¡°The beginning?¡±

    ¡°I wish to understand more about your tribe and species, and your arriving at the quarry in hopes it enlightens me as to your position. Speak as you please.¡±

    Farra held her breath for a moment. Valen sat still, unmoving like a statue, lacking any breath or other sign of life.

    ¡°I¡¯m a disappointment. But my mom and dad still loved me...in my tribe, magic and using it was probably the most important thing. Feirins are suppose to be a long-lived beast who are exceptional with magic, but I was called deficient when I couldn''t create fire.¡±

    ¡°Fire, why that element in particular?¡±

    ¡°It is the one all feirins can do. When I couldn''t, my parents and the tribe''s elders tried to teach me to use other elements. I couldn¡¯t though. Our elders distanced themselves from me and my parents. From that point on they had to work harder and separate from the tribe. They would go out and hunt more often for food to feed us when others wouldn¡¯t hunt with them. I think other families started to distance themselves from my mom and dad because of me.¡±

    ¡°I find it curious, when was your ability for foresight discovered? Was it not of any significance to the tribe?¡±

    She shook her head.

    ¡°The elders called it an aberration. My parents just said it meant I was bit different, but from the point on I heard that word, I didn''t feel the tribe''s adults thought of me the same way. I was probably too different to deal with, they were use to magic and not something like what I had.¡± She paused, finding herself trailing with her words and beginning to stammer. ¡°Ah, I think I first realized what I was doing when I could first remember anything. My dad said even when I was young, I would sometimes avoid and try to wiggle from their attempts to pick me up, before they even touched me. And then I would start to cry if they were going to pick me up anyways. My mom thought what I could do was special, and my dad believed it too. Even when they learned I couldn''t use magic, they started to look and care after me even more.¡±

    Her head sunk, tears forming in her eyes and beginning to quietly flow. Teilve who had sat in silence put a hand on Farra''s head, ruffling her hair furiously. The force distracted her, looking up with bangs hanging in front of her wetting eyes. ¡°I''m sorry, I just had never thought about my mom and dad all too much until now. Every day after they were gone, I was worried about if the darkness would eat me away, if I would starve each day, and if the others might accept me.¡±

    Valen broke into movement for the first time upon seeing the feirin''s face streaking with tears, sitting back against his chair in silent contemplation, listening to Farra¡¯s sobs before speaking.

    ¡°You mentioned that feirins live for quite some time. Certainly you would be a mouth to feed for some time, and in their eyes, unable to carry on the traditions of what their tribe or a typical feirin represents. But I sympathize with your position. I take no pleasure in seeing a broken child, one without sense of belonging or love, Such actions are oft the beginning of tragedies. Tell me, were your parents magically inept in any regard?¡±

    Farra shook her head, attempting to stymie her tears.

    ¡°A curious thing then. But not one I would condemn a child for. But perhaps your tribe¡¯s understanding or perception of magic is narrow. Your body may be magically deficient, but you have used magic.¡± Valen cracked another edge of his seat with his gauntlet, holding the crumbling stone in his hand, squeezing it into dust and sprinkling it to the floor before Farra.

    ¡°Whether you choose to see it as such is your decision.¡± Valen etched runes into the grounded dust on the ground. ¡°It is not the perfect conductor, but behold.¡± He held a remaining clump of the dust in his open palm. From the heavy black gauntlet a soft and transient white light came. The once crumbled chunks of stone shimmered with a brilliance beyond that of the dust Farra previously saw in the desert.

    ¡°Open your hands, and pour this upon the rune etched below.¡±

    Farra held her hands out together, feeling the dust ground from stone falling against her skin, shining in the dark room.

    ¡°Do not be deceived, it is the dust¡¯s brilliance in fact, that betrays the inefficiency. For the magical energies are improperly stored, pouring out into the surroundings.¡±

    She nodded, feeling the coarse stone bits roll over her palms. She parted her hands, turning and letting the dust fall against the rune, watching the rune glow with an earthen brown light. From the etched marking erupted a stone spire the height of Farra.

    ¡°An impromptu weapon.¡± Valen reached at the base of the spire, his hand crushing it into a handle, shaking it away from Teilve and Farra to fashion it into a crude stone lance. ¡°What you just did would be something most consider beyond a novice level of earth-aspected magic. But because of the knowledge and material from which our runes can be created, you simply only need a magical catalyst to procure the effect.¡±

    Valen heaved the spear, tossing it toward the tower''s entrance with a loud crash, failing to crack any bit of the conjured weapon. ¡°Do not think less of the process, it is through our knowledge we perform magic. It is as a unit, an army, that we enhance one another''s strengths and alleviate our weaknesses. You are incapable of drawing magic from your own body, but you are not at all incapable of using it in a readied form Farra. As for your strength-¡± Valen sat back into his seat with another crack. ¡°It too can be accounted for. But before I fill your head such thoughts, I wish to make certain of both your devotion and attributes.¡±This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    The tearful Farra nodded, swallowing the rest of her sorrows, managing to speak despite a choked throat. ¡°I am weak. Beasts I think are usually strong, but feirins are weak, and I am even weaker.¡±

    ¡°Raw strength, power, is both its own blessing and curse. One who never knows weakness will never know when it is time to withdraw. The individual will never be able to overcome the feeling of adversity, to stare into imminent defeat and still emerge victorious. One who is weak but becomes strong understands the value of strength, understands the feeling an enemy has when cornered, for they themselves were once cornered. Matters of the mind aside, your physical frailty is exaggerated in these lands, as it is for all living things. Whether it is the miasma itself, a lack of nourishment, or constant exhaustion, victory often will not come to those who are the most powerful, but prepared. A foundation of strength is important, but the accompanying preparation is even more critical.¡±

    ¡°But that foundation of strength--how long will it take for me to become strong?¡±

    ¡°Far too long, as is the case for most things we desire. To rush matters is often a grave mistake. I have not finished hearing of your journey in surviving up until this point. But I have felt your desire to be apparent enough, I have heard of your exploits even when facing dire straits, and I already bore witness to your loyalty and care outside this very tower. You are young and full of not just the opportunity for growth, but to be forged as an ideal soldier and student. Though there are countless individuals who come to study rune magic, they do so in limited or too specific scope. While our most open-minded lords and officers are amicable to ideas, they scarce have the time to indulge in an enigmatic, yet sensible field. Instead they choose to bicker over whose might surmounts whose. Bicker over vain honor and glory while they clutch to their control over forsaken lands. We are of the war faction. To wage war is to conquer, defend, and crush, whether it be by means of blade or spell. We are allies against those who would oppose us. Those, such as those ones following Lord Raom, fail to comprehend such a notion.¡±

    A quiet roar in the form of Valen''s voice could be heard, his distaste for other elements of the war faction becoming obvious as the air carrying his disfavor drifted like a fierce gust.

    ¡°Farra, you will have much work to do, but I wish to come and see you as a proper apprentice.¡±

    The feirin''s ears shivered and bristled, Valen''s words resounding in her twitching ears.

    ¡°But...Lord Erres would surely want me as a soldier would he not? For all he has suffered?¡±

    ¡°Undoubtedly so, but you mistake being my apprentice and his retainer as discordant. You will make all the better a loyal and trusted soldier for him, should you be properly trained beyond what any other warrior is.¡± Valen turned to the mage who sat quiet the entire session. ¡°Give word to Erres that I will be tutoring Farra for the remainder of this moon. I expect him to come and personally find her a suitable means of combat now that he has returned to the temple. Given what has happened, we may well have an idea already.¡±

    Teilve stood with a suave bow, no less unabashed in Valen''s presence than any other. ¡°Now that I have the chance, may I ask how the first council went before I depart?¡± He made a slow strut back, cloak in hand.

    ¡°As you could expect, some other parties took it as an opportunity to belittle Erres'' call for unity. The notion of failure is unacceptable until it is one''s own. They fear to capitulate any shred of loyalty, for fear it lessens their power, ignorant of what an ally is.¡±

    ¡°And ignorant of forfeiting their clout by not accepting Erres'' offer.¡± Teilve chuckled, turning with a stride over the stone weapon, touching his ring to the gate.

    ¡°Teilve, be wary of unruly soldiers, needless confrontation does little for our cause, even with the support of the Warlords.¡±

    With the gate parting, the open night and temple lying before Teilve, he waved a hand, stepping around the door¡¯s edge and out of sight into the darkness. Farra turned back to Valen, only for Teilve to poke his head back for a moment. ¡°Don''t worry, it''ll be far easier without that fearsome feirin around making everyone jealous of her talent.¡± The gate clasped shut when he again stepped out of sight.

    Valen rose from his crumbling stone chair.

    ¡°Do you feel uneasy with Teilve''s absence?¡± He did not wait for an answer, instead moving toward a makeshift bookcase that stood fastened to the spiraling stairs. As large and cumbersome as his figure might be, Valen was meticulous and deft. Farra blinked, watching him maneuver around the various desks and would-be entrapments scattered around the room with ease. Despite a comparatively large gauntlet, she realized that on the index finger of his gauntlet was a fine point, allowing him to shuffle through and search the bookcase, occasionally taking a book and flipping through its contents with relative ease.

    ¡°I do, but I think time will change that. We have been in the same company for most my time since meeting Lord Erres. Though it was only so long, the time feels very meaningful.¡±

    ¡°Meaningful. A curious way to describe it, though I suppose you mean to suggest that the little time you have had together with those in Erres court has been a significant part of your life.¡±

    ¡°I think so.¡± Farra pressed her palms to the bed, lifting herself up and off, feet touching the stone ground, pulling back for a split second, feeling the discomfort of uneven broken stone beneath her soles. Valen continued to flip through tome after tome. At times he would stop on a particular page as if musing over the contents, sometimes clasping it shut and returning it to its place, other times tossing it onto a desk below him. After a short period of meandering over, the feirin spoke again.

    ¡°Forgive me if it''s not my place to ask, but you do not use Lord when you speak of Lord Erres, whereas you did for Lord Raom, why is that?¡± Valen turned, glancing at her for a moment before returning to perusing the book he held open in his hand. He flipped the page before shutting the book and setting it onto the growing stack of books.

    ¡°A peculiar detail to inquire about, though considering your age not a question that should come as unexpected. Familiarity is your answer. After long enough time, you find repeated use of titles to be tiresome and a waste of words. Lest we are trying to keep appearances, Erres and I both share a mutual respect and standing to where there is no need to refer to one another as Lords among our loyal court.¡±

    ¡°I do not quite understand what you mean Lord Valen.¡±With careful steps, Farra came closer to the desk holding a growing mound of books, looking over the exterior spines. Her voice hushed when she spoke, ¡°I do not think I can read either.¡±

    ¡°Has it occurred to you yet Farra, that though you''ve encountered a variety of races by now, you have little issue in understanding or communicating ideas with one another?¡± She nodded her head, Valen taking note of her affirmation when he reached to an adjacent bookcase, pulling a book possessing more girth, setting it in front of Farra.

    ¡°A curious design isn''t it? One that I lack an explanation for. One would certainly think such a variety of beings would have different manners of communication, as they certainly do traditions. Doubtless some mage would come in and bridge the language barrier before long with some manner of spell, but that it is not an issue to begin with should not be forgotten.¡±

    Valen flipped the cover of the book, various symbols lying on the next page. ¡°The same however does not apply to reading. Fortunately you can envision runes as a language to be learned. So long as we can communicate the idea behind each rune, then you will come to understand the language without written guidance. Many of these books for this reason, would be nigh impossible to understand without proper instruction, resulting in a need for excessive experimentation.¡±

    Farra''s mind held doubts, glossing over the first page composed of numerous runes of varying structure and shape. ¡°Lord Valen, if you were to unleash magical energies upon these pages, what would happen?¡± Valen halted, turning to her. ¡°Many pupils would be fearful of asking such a question that seems to question my work. However, I cannot look upon you with any feeling other than an innate desire to know and understand the very workings of my magics. The answer here is simple.¡± He reached for another book, this time on the opposite shelf. ¡°Critical to rune magic is not only the runes themselves, but also the various catalysts and conditions, extending as far as to the aspect of magic with which they may be activated. These pages most simply put, are not composed of a catalyst that would cause a reaction.¡±

    ¡°Then the stone rune that was just on the ground you had me use was...?¡± Her ears perked.

    ¡°Inscribed upon my armor are various runes. And from its metal the properties necessary to create runes can be exuded. Within my being is magical energy, and though my interests lie within rune magic for various reasons, I am a mage proper. I possess the means to construct most runes of my choosing, within my knowledge, on a whim. Has your soreness subsided?¡±

    As she heard the words, a pain Farra had become overly familiar with gnawed at her body. ¡°I had nearly forgotten it.¡±

    ¡°My apologies then. It is curious what one''s focus and interest can do to help them forget their woes. Keep to the bed when you study for the time being, the chairs and desks here will do no proper good for your recovery. Begin with this book, its contents are depicted in such a manner as to allow one to be self-taught.¡±

    Farra raised her head for a moment, but Valen continued to speak, already anticipating her next question. ¡°I will remain here contemplating over something that has piqued my interest as of recent. Feel free to ask me questions as you feel necessary, but I also wish to see how your interest does when allowed to wander for itself.¡±

    ¡°Lord Valen, did you not want to know of my arriving at the quarry?¡±

    He shifted, taking long steps toward the stairs. ¡°It will wait. Erres has already debriefed me on what he came to know around the time of meeting you and onward. Recovery will do us better for the future rather than dwelling on your previous strength. Your penchant for seeing into the future raises a slew of questions that we scarce have answers to, but Erres will take the time to train you and pin down details of your capabilities.¡± The voice faded as it proceeded up the staircase. Farra remained left with a stack of books which she would have to climb onto the table to pull from, and the single tome, thinner than the rest Valen directed her to read. She took it in her hand, finding it relatively light, albeit heavier than the armaments she felt comfortable with. Its binding was beige and completely blank. ¡°Lord Valen probably knows whats in every single one of these books without looking.¡± Farra murmured to herself, holding the book with both hands, carrying it back over to her bed and taking care to not wander too close to gently burning fire that illuminated the tower floor.

    Everything Farra glanced at relating to the runes raised questions, questions she hoped to find answers for. When Valen explained things, everything made sense, so surely there must be some answer as to why this flame remained burning as long as it did, something that was not unlike her tribe''s magic. She flipped the cover open, finding that it was as the lord said. In the book was a lack of words, but instead crudely drawn pictures suggesting what a rune might mean. The first page was simple, four runes of different and simple design, next to a corresponding picture that was without a doubt an element. One next to fire, another next to water, another next to wind, and a last next to stone. Just as she had come to understand mages to use magic often corresponding with these four elements, for each element there was a corresponding rune of representation.

    She looked over the design of each rune, having clearly remembered the runes for both fire and water in other contexts. She flipped the page, rustling into the bed where upon numerous other runes, some of which she had seen but taken little notice of, were inscribed all over the page. The temptation to ask Valen for the meaning of each floated in her mind, but she dismissed the thought, heeding his words and desire to see what she could figure for herself. She had come to feel Valen was one with wisdom, and would not have thrust such an open-ended task upon her unless he felt she could benefit from it.

    Beside each of the new runes on this page were ones she knew represent the elements now with tiny alterations to their design. However the origin of each was clear, and if overlaid with the runes on the previous page would fit almost like a puzzle if scaled correctly with markings then appended on. Beside these were pictures of a similar shape with small accents and pigmented to suggest it took on a different element in each case. Farra glanced back to the runes, realizing that the bit appended onto each elemental rune was in most regards the same. She flipped the page, desiring to compare it to the previous page, shuffling around the bed and losing her other thoughts in the aspiration to know more of rune magic.

 Chapter 6: The Aspiring Feirin

    The moon rested, waning in the sky. The door to the Oracle shut behind Valen and Farra, echoing throughout the darkness enveloping the temple grounds. The enchanted stones hanging upon pillars served as a gloomy light in their attempts to provide guidance in the darkness, but also seeming to underscore the very shadows around them. The faint moonlight mostly served to highlight the outlines of the various spiraling mountains behind the western back of the temple grounds, or the low-sitting cliffs in the distance which rose from an elevation below. Valen and Farra both spoke between the clasping of the gate, exchanging hastened and hushed words carrying over from a conversation within the tower.

    ¡°I will sleep in the top of the tower then?¡±

    ¡°Yes. It simplifies matters for the time being.¡±

    ¡°It will not be seen as any sort of special treatment?¡±

    ¡°It certainly will, however as much as the war faction lauds and attempts to award soldiers on the grounds of merit, it would be imprudent to not consider the possibility of one who cannot realize their potential without ample investment.¡±

    She nodded, and the two carried off across the promenade, toward the direction in which a large shadowy structure Farra presumed to be the temple rose, dwarfing every other building. It was the first time Farra took time to look upon it, and her mouth could not help but gape in awe of the marvel that should be impossible to exist in a world like this. Though she had gone from mere huts to a quarry, a significant shift in surroundings already, this temple seemed as if it simply defied what could exist in these darkened lands.

    ¡°Valen...ah excuse me, Lord Valen.¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    Only every few steps Farra took could be heard, the rest were muffled by the smack of Valen''s greaves to the ground. Farra was garbed in a fashion similar to what she wore on the expedition southward. Because they were on temple grounds and Farra would be training with Erres, she was not sporting any mail, rather keeping an outfit that was light and focused on allowing movements.

    ¡°The temple...that''s it isn''t it? How does that exist?¡±

    ¡°Did you not observe it before? It is a structure that has long since been erected at the apex of these grounds. The Warlords saw to its construction with aid from soldier and slave alike. It serves as none other than the bastion for our faction, a place where no warrior, friend or foe shall disrespect. There are plans to append certain lodgings either conjoined with or close to the temple, for the purpose of promoting solidarity. Although warriors travel far to meet on these sacred grounds, we in fact lack the necessities that would support a lengthened stay. It is mine and others beliefs, that this can be a cause of division, for rather than seeing one another as warriors fighting under the same god, many merely see one another as common warriors.¡±

    With another nod, the both continued to walk on in silence. The promenade curved a slight amount to accommodate both the mountainside and hilltop. As they passed an intersection from which a road stemmed into toward the temple''s daunting entrance, Farra could feel the gaze of sentries upon Valen and her from atop a staircase leading to the stronghold. But Valen had told her that visiting the temple would come another day, one when it was time to acknowledge Farra¡¯s progress as a soldier.

    Some point after descending down the hill upon a stone staircase, Farra and Valen came around to a pit carved from the ground. Around it was a bench all around, fashioned from the same stone as the ground, elevated to act as seating. Two perfectly symmetrical partings in the stone came to present the square pit as an arena of sorts, likely for duels. To the far side a figure that was in part masked by the darkness leaned against the wall. Farra knew this to be Erres. Beside him was his blade, tip lodged inside a crack in the pit''s flooring. Opposite to that side were two blades, both shorter than his sword, but longer and slimmer than any armament Farra had seen save for Verrika''s rapier.

    ¡°Lord Erres.¡± Farra called in a hushed voice, stepping down into the pit. Valen followed with one leap, his jump catching Farra''s attention even when she saw it beforehand, feeling his sheer size blowing up the dust lying on the ground. Erres picked his blade off the wall, walking toward the both of them.

    ¡°It is good to see recent events have failed to make either of you worse for wear. Unfortunately, recent events have also resulted in a more pressing schedule than we otherwise anticipated.¡± Erres spoke, holding his blade out to Valen, who reciprocated by reaching, taking hold of the handle then holding the blade in both his hands, looking over its structure.

    ¡°If we had not issued an increase in the pace of the ore mining, then we might have found ourselves in a compromised position.¡± Valen affirmed, touching a finger to inscriptions on the blade and causing a soft red glow filling the surroundings with a sweltering heat. With another touch the rune faded, and the cool dark returned.

    ¡°It only provides a brief diversion. Dividing elements feel emboldened by the results of the expedition. I''m disgusted to say they would perhaps be less aggressive if we had not found what lies south to the desert at all, instead they would think only a vain death for Verrika to be more purposeful.¡±

    Farra''s body twitched uncomfortably at the mention of Verrika. She could not understand the full context of the conversation, but to hear the mention of Verrika from Erres himself could not help but unease her.

    ¡°You do Verrika a disservice by suggesting her death would be vain if not for the discovery young Erres.¡± Valen secured Erres'' blade through a ring in the waist-side of his armor. ¡°You must do better to not be so shortsighted and conciliatory. It was in part because of Verrika that Farra has come this far. It is because of Verrika''s death that both of you harbor the feelings you now do, and so you should use that to steel yourselves and form a bond just as Verrika would have wished for. Fools will seek to dispose Farra as being a burden and our favor being misplaced. My expectations have been appeased thus far, and I trust your initial judgment that she possesses a potential that would bolster our ranks. Verrika herself deemed it worthy of taking the plunge in a monstrosity for her.¡±

    ¡°Your counsel has been received Valen.¡± Erres said succinctly, a sign to Valen to drop the matter.

    ¡°I will take your blade and make the requested modifications to the runes. There is ten moons until the next council. An order has been issued for Farra''s attendance as we expected. They desire to evaluate her abilities.¡±

    ¡°She will wield a blade proper in four.¡±

    ¡°Then it will take eight. I must have her for studies each day.¡±

    ¡°Eight then.¡±

    Farra looked on, quiet as the two exchanged curt words back and forth. She felt a tenseness not only for the situation, but in Valen''s lecturing toward Erres.

    Valen departed, ascended the height of the pit with another leap and returning back to the direction of the ground''s summit. Erres stepped back with a crimson eye that crossed Farra''s own indigo orbs, then taking the two blades remaining against the wall. The metal of each blade was dull and sealed tight within the heft. Erres handed it to the girl, facing the tip down toward the ground.

    ¡°They are both arms of identical design that fall from favor with any of our soldiers. Perfect for the purpose of training someone of your size. Each time we train, I will swap the two blades we use, that way you personally feel the advantages and disadvantages of varying sizes and lengths for yourself.¡±

    Farra clenched both her hands around the handle, stepping back and measuring the balance of the weapon in her grasp. The handle was not over-sized. It was akin to that of the dagger and Verrika''s rapier, small enough for both her hands to wrap around together. Despite the blade being longer than to what she was use to, it was short enough so that a downward swing did not send her plunging after the blade. She looked forward, seeing Erres holding the same blade with a single hand as if wielding a knife.

    ¡°I will ensure you know the basics. However in our sparring, you must come to the conclusion using your own talents and capabilities what is the best way to approach a fight. You shouldn''t expect any two opponents to be perfect replications of each other, and so I will be changing up the weapons I use and the way with in which I use it in an attempt to instill that in you.¡±

    Farra affirmed the words as Erres spoke once more.

    ¡°Make no mistake Farra, we are training with actual weapons even if dulled. I will take care not to kill you, but even in training you may end up wounded if not treating it in a serious manner.¡±

    ¡°I understand Lord Erres.¡±

    Her tails bounced as she shifted to the side, holding the blade out in both hands and recording how it felt to shuffle in a lateral motion while maintaining her grip. Erres chuckled under his armor, rushing forward and swiping at the blade from the side.

    Farra''s mind focused, she saw the intent behind his actions, and though Erres was more than a quick combatant, she knew him to be holding back some amount, enough to discern his actions for her own interpretation before each resolved. It was a swipe meant to disarm the blade from her hand. The feirin stepped back, pulling the blade back with her to ensure it evaded the edge of the sword. Just as she made this motion Erres changed his movements, slamming the blade down on top of her. In a panic she held her blade forward and above her, steeling herself when the edge caught Erres'' own blade, sliding along in a clash.

    ¡°Be wary of the adjustments your opponent can make in an attack. Don''t trap yourself into a maneuver if your enemy hasn''t committed fully. Fix your positioning quicker if you don''t have the strength outright to compensate.¡±

    The blade pulled back, Farra knew it would not have come to cut her, but the feeling of it hovering over her body, separated only by her fleeting strength remained with her.

    Swallowing with a nod, she adjusted her stance. Erres swung again, Farra recognizing it to be the same disarming strike. She stepped back, creating distance between them. Erres rushed forward with another downward swing. Farra stepped to the side, not committing to any motion and instead watching Erres movements for his next action. The lord turned about his heel for a swift and elongated swipe that would have glanced Farra''s cheek if not for her opting to duck the blow. She leaned her blade downward and with a kick of her legs, dashed forward. Erres side-stepped the blade, pressing his free hand down on the blade''s back and catching Farra.

    ¡°Better.¡±

    He pushed her back, creating distance between the two, opting to hold his blade with both hands this time. Despite his initial stance, Erres turned the blade in Farra''s mind, readying to unleash a flurry of slashes. Farra knew her strength to be no match. Before Erres tilted his blade, she stepped from the side she foresaw the strikes coming from.

    ¡°Hold.¡± Erres relaxed his stance, Farra following suit.

    ¡°Along the same lines of you avoiding an attack if you see yourself unable to handle it, you can also lay your own trap should you see an attack you can take advantage of.

    Farra nodded her head, and both resumed combative stances.

    Training proceeded for unknown time, but Farra would not allow fatigue to better her now. Erres would rush forward again, Farra would be confronted with an ever-increasing number of options and factors to consider with every variation to Erres'' motions. Most often Erres would fight her into a corner using a series of quick movements that eventually trapped Farra into one singular defense. Occasionally a bout would occur where Farra managed to perceive Erres next movement to betray his defenses, and so she would come close to a blow that Erres deemed worthy enough of conceding it a victorious effort. Their movements evolved into a match of wits. Erres stressed strategy as much as he relied on his brutality, constantly forcing Farra to consider how close her back was to a wall, or whether Erres could outright overpower her which he sometimes did.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

    ¡°Lord Erres, I understand this is training in many aspects, but you could not have possibly expected me to do anything but crumble before that blow. I am not strong enough.¡±

    ¡°And there will be times in battle where you won''t know if you''re strong enough.¡±

    ¡°But I do know in this situation if I am strong enough¡ªand I am not.¡± A flustering Farra spoke, her blade scraping against the floor. Her teeth gritted as her head sank to Erres'' feet.

    ¡°Raise your head.¡± She obliged, her indigo bulbs peered into Erres'' crimson eyes. Both remained silent before Farra gathered the resolve to continue on.

    ¡°It must be difficult to hold back from fighting how you are truly use to, but please my Lord. Keeping up with your strength and speed right now, I simply cannot.¡±

    ¡°Then you must consider another manner of approach.¡±

    ¡°What options might I have my Lord? This arena hardly favors one who must continually dodge. And often that is all I can do.¡±

    ¡°This is why we are training you, you will in time realize how to confront adversaries given your limitations.¡±

    Farra''s hand shook, clenching the blade. Her breath was audible, her head sinking again as tears dripped down her cheeks. Erres stood still when she grabbed the hilt of her blade with both hands, swinging forward at Erres. He held his blade at a side with one hand, holding the back of it with his other, catching Farra''s strike that carried all her ferocity and frustration. Erres sized her strike, taking note before pushing off, deflecting her blade. Her force sent her body forward after the blade was deflected. Erres held a fist out with his free gauntlet, low enough to where Farra landed her stomach on it, effectively absorbing a punch as she began to reel in painful tears. Her blade dropped, clinking against the ground several times before she fell along with it, clenching her teeth and holding her stomach.

    ¡°Lord Erres.¡± She spoke in wincing and short breaths, filled with a mixture of pain and sorrow. ¡°I feel so much less than other soldiers, than Verrika. I am sorry.¡±

    ¡°Many are less the soldier, companion, and friend than Verrika was. Not just to me, but to many.¡± Erres crouched, setting the blade down beside the other before shifting to sit next to her as she recovered. ¡°Allow me to apologize, I could''ve caught you rather than let you gut yourself. And apologize for the maybe unreasonably harsh approach. But I firmly believe this is within your reach. Whether or not you make for the same companion or friend Verrika was, that''s not something I can say. But I think you will surpass Verrika as a soldier given the time.¡±

    ¡°I am sorry again Lord Erres. I cannot help but feel that I am meant to fulfill a void her death has left.¡± Farra winced on the ground, her voice struggling between catching her breath and choking.

    ¡°Carrying out your training or life in such a manner will only disappoint you. You are not and will never be Verrika. But that doesn''t mean you can''t surpass her. It is true that many others of our faction are seeking to paint you as a sort of replacement, but do not let their foolery misguide your thoughts. They will look at your potential for being a soldier for numerous reasons, not for your being a soldier as you are now, lest anyone is pitiful enough to compare themselves to a child for comfort in their own lacking capabilities.¡±

    Farra picked her head up, wiping her tears and sitting back onto her legs.

    ¡°Lord Erres, I wish to ask a poor question.¡±

    ¡°Go on.¡±

    Silence settled in for a moment, Farra taking a breath, partly continuing to gather herself through a cracked voice.

    ¡°Why do you think Verrika died?¡±

    Another silence set in. Erres turned from Farra''s inquisitive gaze, looking up toward the walls of the pit. He took the blade he just had set down.

    ¡°Don''t throw it into the wall, it would be wasteful.¡±

    Erres scoffed, setting the sword back down before glancing back her way.

    ¡°For you to not shy back in fear, but instead reprimand your superior. Maybe I was wrong, you¡¯re a bit more like Verrika than I previously thought.¡±

    ¡°To see this side of you my lord, it is quite unexpected. But I think that I saw a bit of Lord Valen''s side as well. It is reassuring to me, to see the both of you passionate. I was very afraid at first, but it was only because I was more afraid of what would happen to me if I chose to remain the quarry and be useless. The fear gave me the energy to keep up with everything. Then Verrika helped carry me forward, and then Teilve and everyone else. Everything until then had felt similar to how it was back in my tribe, handled in a manner that felt cold and disregarding. But...I think I would say you are more interested in what''s best for everyone than my tribe was.¡±

    Farra''s tears subsided. Her voice carried an ache and stomach felt a soreness coming over it, but she found herself able to look past it.

    ¡°Verrika was a loyal soldier and good friend whose radiance at times seemed out of place in this dreary world. She was more than a faithful companion, whom at times I found frustrating and out of line. I couldn''t bring myself to punish her idle banter or antics. As Valen said earlier, I have been unbecoming of one who seeks to unify and lead us by dwelling over her death in such negative lights. I would have called it irony that in an attempt to recognize and bring up one who would have lived and died as a slave to have been rewarded with tragedy. But to curse fate in such a way would be no more than forfeiting blame as a leader. In that fleeting moment, I made a move that jeopardized both your and Verrika''s lives, and it was Verrika who took the initiative wherein I failed. The battlefield is fraught with unpredictability and danger. You warned us, as per my directions. Yet I failed to fulfill my duty in kind. To answer your question, I think she died because of my failures as a leader.¡±

    A sorrowful smile managed upon Farra''s lips, looking toward Erres with shut eyes before glancing back away, head tilted into her knees.

    ¡°I see. I must disagree my lord.¡±

    Erres'' gaze tilted toward her.

    ¡°That is your rightful answer, as our leader. To take that blame on yourself, and to see where you could have done better. But as a soldier. I must point to Verrika being weak.¡±

    The lord found himself at a brief loss for words.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Farra pointed to the blade in front of her.

    ¡°I think...the job of a weapon is to strike and obey its master however that turns out. But if the weapon is dull and breaks, then it is the weapon that failed the master. The master could take the blame for having chosen to use the weapon or whatever other reason. But the weapon broke. You trusted us to conduct ourselves as soldiers. Verrika chose to save me. I was too weak to save myself, and Verrika was too weak to save the both of us. I don''t know what instinct came over me, I feel it is a miracle that we did not die in that very moment. But it doesn''t change how things are now I feel. You can blame yourself all you like Lord Erres, but Verrika chose to take an action she was too weak for. And so I want to make sure I am strong, so I can take the actions needed, on your behalf.¡±

    The feirin''sears perked, hearing an uncharacteristic sound. Erres leaned his head back up into the sky, starting with a chuckle, then beginning to laugh. Farra sat blankly, looking on and unsure how to respond.

    ¡°The things you say, they piss me off. But you are a child, speaking truths from your heart that most others would be too fearful to ever say. We will conclude training until tomorrow, I fear I''ll shatter your blade with another strike.¡±

    Farra gulped, wary of his remarks as Erres sat up.

    ¡°Farra. Promise me something here and now. To hear this kind of frankness from my own soldier, it is refreshing and enlightening. Something I fear I might have lost with Verrika. Do not let this conversation make you shy of speaking your mind to me, rather I would appreciate it.¡±

    A last tear rolled down Farra''s cheek, smiling it away and nodding fervently.

    ¡°Of course my lord.¡±

    As agreed upon earlier, the two concluded their training and Erres escorted Farra back to the Oracle. The trek back was uneventful. Farra felt a change in the eyes of those who acted as sentries for the temple grounds, recognizing certain gazes that changed locations. Upon reached Valen''s tower, she held her hand out, touching it to the gate which glowed and parted.

    To her surprise, a familiar face she had not seen since coming to the temple grounds was inside.

    ¡°Ah Miss Farra, I have heard you are hard at work, it is quite well to see you in good spirits. It is my understanding you are staying this tower?¡± She nodded at the demon who maintained every bit of gentlemanly quality since they last spoke. ¡°It is good to see you are well too Kaladin.¡±

    ¡°Quite, there are ever things to learn and time does not slow. Valen asked me to procure a certain book for you to take with you upstairs, he is awaiting there for your arrival. I must confess my envy at the our lord''s dedication to you, however in his eyes it must be a ripe opportunity for ensuring the passing of knowledge in the manner he most desires.¡±

    ¡°Thank you Kaladin.¡± She took the book from his hands, glancing a smile before looking about the room, filled with a handful of individuals who did no more than cast a sideways glance before returning to their studies.

    ¡°I will return the next moon for you. Treat Valen''s teachings as serious as you would your training.¡± Erres remarked, giving Kaladin a nod of acknowledgment before turning from the tower and exiting.

    Kaladin returned to his desk, opening an intimidating book with a spine thick enough to where one could imagine its ability to guard against a strike. The tower floor felt busy as opposed to usual, but Farra found it pleasing to see that the individuals here seemed to pay her little mind given the importance that was placed upon her and the expectations for the next council meeting. She sighed, looking at the large spiraling stairwell designed for Valen. She set the book on the first step, raising her knee to her chest and hoisting herself up the step, repeating the process each time. She made sense of the studious individuals below paying little mind to her. From what she understood it was a number of people antagonistic to Erres and Valen whom would most likely hold animosity toward her. And though she knew both the lords to strive for unification and share of resources from how Teilve spoke, it seemed unlikely that any opposing elements would come to study Valen''s arts in his own tower. Farra peered over the edge of the stairwell, finding a myriad of different lights below, followed by a small crackle before one pupil began to frantically shift about, another rushing over to extinguish the rune that had been roused.

    Upon reaching the top, Farra found the tower''s highest room to be glowing a distinct amethyst shade. Across a table lie Erres'' sword upon which every rune glowed softly.

    ¡°Though you may not understand runes fully yet Farra, with each additional bit of knowledge you add profound meaning for how they interact. Erres'' blade is one of my finest and most joyous works, and I am pleased to find he has decided to seek an alteration of its enchantments.¡±

    ¡°You''re making it stronger?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Lord Valen.¡± She sat into a desk specially set up for her next to an alcove. In the alcove was a small window, outside of which there was only darkness. In lieu of the view, she decided to stack all her books that she was taking time to go through, finding that she needed to cross-reference many books at a time depending upon the content in order to understand the applications of certain runes.

    ¡°Can you make me stronger? With runes?¡±

    ¡°You will accomplish just that with your studies.¡± His response was surprisingly curt, to the point and betraying the intent behind his words to her.

    ¡°I mean could you make me stronger, not just through knowledge but in body as well.¡±

    He turned his attention from the blade sitting on top of the table, the towering figure turning his full attention toward Farra.

    ¡°It can be done. It would fall under the umbrella of augmentation, though I would more closely relate it to a form of affixing and live experimentation. It is dangerous, and a lack of knowledge and respect for any procedure involving such gravity could end in tragedy.¡±

    Farra gazed back into the abyss of his helmet.

    ¡°You are the one doing it are you not? Is there anyone more knowledgeable in rune magic than you?¡±

    ¡°I cannot speak of what I do not know, but I could perform the procedure yes. I have performed such experimentation before, but I¡¯ve also come to deem it far too risky given the benefits. Most soldiers stand not to benefit from such strength as they do a faithful and proper weapon or armor. The issue of knowledge regarding such runes is not with the one who applies them so much as the one utilizing them. In which case you would be. A lack of respect toward both the sensitivity and power of the runes on your part could kill you.¡±

    Farra, glanced down to the book ajar in front of her, looking over its filled pages with markings she still needed to come to understand.

    ¡°Then is that not what my studying is for? For becoming familiar with and learning how to respect these magics?¡±

    ¡°I will not lie to you. The thought has occurred to me that you may benefit greatly from such an enhancement. But at the same time you are young, your strength is not yet realized, to approach such power so early would be more than hasty.¡±

    ¡°Why has the thought occurred to you?¡±

    Valen gazed back into Farra''s eyes, an intrigued intensity becoming more and more palpable.

    ¡°I have only tampered with affixing onto live beings so much, and to varying success. Truly there is but one case I can boast of being a tremendous success. Nearly all others have yielded mixed if not inadequate results. I retired studying that aspect of rune magic out of a shift in purpose. With something such as what you are requesting, I find it more than feasible. But am I willing to risk one I have come to treat as a dedicated pupil to pass my knowledge to, one that both Erres and I are vesting so much into? I know he would be displeased with the notion.¡±

    Farra bit her lip and returned her eyes to the book.

    ¡°Lord Valen, what was the one success you would brag about?¡±

    ¡°Even to you young Farra, it is not something I can disclose the detail of for the time being.¡± Valen turned back to the blade upon his worktable, setting a jar of black ink closer to the blade.

    The feirin decided against pursuing the matter further, though the thought lingered in her mind as she read through rune after rune, wishing to understand the use for runes as a means to dispel her weakness.

 Chapter 7: A Council and Trials

    Nine more moons passed. The next council meeting was soon at hand. Throughout the time training Farra felt episodes of fatigue and chose largely to avoid communication with all but Valen and Erres. Each pushedhis teachings and training respectively upon her, ensuring she was versed in both rune magic and swordplay.

    Erres remained true to his word over the course; though he had become more thoughtful of Farra''s circumstance after their dispute over Verrika, recognizing the need to let the girl grow into her own not just with the blade, but also aspirations. He changed the weapons with which they sparred constantly early on in their training, exposing Farra to a number of swords that could possibly suit her preferred control over the blade. She came to favor a smaller, slightly curved blade with a single edge. Its heft was smaller, designed specifically to accommodate her smaller hands, but still long enough for her to grasp with both hands. Erres contested for a moment, that she was choosing it simply for ease of use, and perhaps she shouldn''t overlook advantages other weapons may offer. Her response was practical. ¡°There is no need for me to choose a blade needing significant mastery, the goal is for me to display I''m a capable soldier isn''t it?¡± Erres conceded to her reasoning, and in response, from that point on he came to confront her favored blade with numerous armaments, testing how she managed against each weapon given her choice. Her movements became quicker and more precise. Though she relied upon her sight to inform her of what was coming, her body began becoming accustom to having to react to what she saw in a decisive manner.

    Valen''s teachings were rigorous through and through, challenging Farra''s ability to focus mentally when she was already physically exhausted. As Farra progressed, coming to understand more than basic runes and how they are conjoined with others for varying effects, she felt the need for actual experimentation and practicing etching. While the need to scour through various books for information remained, Valen and his students seeking to expand their knowledge would assist Farra with exploring some of the effects of runes when a particular combination seemed potentially hazardous for the tower''s enclosed space. Valen himself became less and less cryptic, or perhaps it was Farra who came to understand more and more what the implication of Valen''s words were. His desire to know Farra would be studious herself was satisfied, and so he would take the time to spare her needless pains in scouring books for a particular piece of information that would rectify her understanding if she brought the question to him. A secondary goal lied in her studies. Valen desired for Farra to inscribe the blade she became acquainted with, to dabble in augmentation for armaments. Among a few of the pupils who were particularly interested, a time was set aside where they all gathered and observed Valen guide the feirin through a process, involving engraving the blade, applying a specific ink to best amplify each rune, and then apply a coat to ensure its longevity. The end product was simple, but demonstrated where Farra''s studies carried her. When enchanted, the blade glowed with a molten heat that was able to whittle away at the durability of what it touched coupled with two other runes. One meant to influence various runes output without altering the runes themselves to a limited extent, and the other to simply serve as a support to reinforce the blade¡¯s retainment of magical energy after being enchanted.

    While a wide array of other knowledge remained with Farra, the practicality of her using it in the midst of any kind of engagement was unlikely. While she could certainly help inscribe runes of various purpose and power given the correct tools upon a multitude of surfaces, a perennial problem remained. That was carrying the tools on oneself without limiting movement as well as finding the opportunity in combat to conduct the procedure.

    She mused the idea, testing it against Erres for herself, finding his aggressiveness and the size of the pit they trained in to be far too limited. It was in one bout she succeeded in using her foot to inscribe a large rune upon the arena flooring, in fact luring Erres in his movements to complete the rune himself, activating it and procuring a gust which blew her own self out of the arena and off her feet. Erres stood impressed that she managed the feat, but reprimanded her after for not considering the possibility of it backfiring.

    The intent was to throw Erres off balance, but some misgivings about its design caused it to backfire. Farra well understood why armaments were the preferred application of rune magic after the event. However, the thought lingered in her mind, of moving past armament augmentation and to more augmenting her own physical abilities.

    But tonight those thoughts were vanquished from her mind, replaced with trepidation of how aggressive the council might be. Her blade was sheathed at her side. She sported her typical tunic, lacking any mail underneath, complete with leggings providing mild protection from the cold. Her shoes were of a simple design, small and leathery as to allow her movements. An unusual thing Farra had never done before was brush her tails. It was something that feirins tended to do when preparing for ceremonies of any kind. She took the time to ensure they were properly tended to, scraping and washing away any bits of dirt. The process felt troublesome and lengthy, but this council felt as much about appearances as it did anything else, Farra would be representing both Lord Erres and Lord Valen''s work, it would hardly do them justice to appear unbecoming. She brushed her flowing hair with her fingers, giving it attention similar to that of her tails.

    ¡°It¡¯s time we depart.¡± Valen remarked succinctly. His hand pressed to the wall of the Oracle, a chunk of the wall in the form of a grand panel glowing with the large inscription that laid across it. It opened, and behind it lie a sword so mighty that Farra put forth her best effort to not gawk. After all, surely other soldiers at the council would be awe-inspiring and fear-inducing, though maybe none perhaps as Lord Valen she felt. The sword was less any kind of blade, and more a gigantic obsidian slab with crude edges. Inscriptions of which some Farra understood were etched all over its flat, different across its two sides. Valen lifted the weapon onto his back where his armor secured it. The wall''s panel shut. Farra nodded, touching her hand to the door to unseal the tower. The gate parting filled her ears, after which constant clamoring of boots filled the darkness.

    ¡°It is quite noisy.¡± Farra remarked, turning onto the promenade.

    ¡°No doubt because of the council today. It is a meeting between lords and other high-ranking members of the faction, but often one will delegate someone to attend in their stead to represent them. And often they bring with them warriors for no other reason than intimidation. It leads to a restless feeling within the temple grounds, as those of lower rank will not be tolerated at the council. Thus you have soldiers wandering about, seeking to pass time but not knowing how, tying the temple guards'' hands with ensuring no discord occurs.¡±

    ¡°Would I not be considered a lower ranking soldier then?¡±

    ¡°You are one of interest at this council, the exception has already been made.¡±

    ¡°Then I am certain some of these soldiers might look at me with annoyance.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps so. But you cannot help that, and if it comforts you any, a number might have no inkling of what your involvement in today''s matters will be.

    Valen traveled closer to the center of the road with Farra on his outside. Soldiers would pass by, some able to put rumors to Farra''s appearance, craning their heads before turning forward to avoid any reaction from Valen. A darkness sat on the temple grounds, hazy and obscuring the distance. Farra heard the continual treading of greaves against the ground, the rattlings of metal armor and clashing of blades.

    ¡°It would seem some have decided to engage in some sparring to pass time before the council''s beginnings. Troublesome.¡±

    ¡°Why is that my lord?¡±

    ¡°Some will not concede easily when they have lost, and can carry that bitter climate to the time of the council. It is more an issue among soldiers accompanying their commanding officers or lords.¡±

    The two drew near, and Farra could see an ornate structure emerging from the darkness. Within the variety of sounds coming from numerous individuals, Farra distinguished the sound of flowing and falling water. The structure was circular and open on one side, positioned up against the rising mountains to where it seemed as if part of it was not built because of the obstruction. Stone pillars rose all around, supporting the structure across its various floors. As the two nearing closer on the bending promenade, a road stemmed off to the entrance of the council''s meeting place. Across the crude stone ground off road, swords and other armaments smacked together in battle. Some stopped their fighting, turning and peering at Lord Valen, then Farra walking beside him.

    She could sense a mixture of emotions from their gazes, not turning to acknowledge their observing her, keeping her head forward as some looked with curiosity, others with animosity.

    ¡°It is perhaps not the best time to mention this Lord Valen, maybe one of these warriors has very good hearing.¡±

    ¡°Hold your thoughts for now then.¡±

    She nodded, keeping her eyes forward again as they closed toward the entrance. Up close the structure was just as impressive and regal in design. A guard stood on each side of the rising gate, wearing armor that shimmered with a pristine shine in comparison to a number of the other armors. Their weapons were sheathed at their side, but even the scabbards themselves were emblazoned with runes.

    ¡°Lord Valen, it is an honor.¡±

    ¡°Ours as well, warriors of the temple.¡±

    Valen spared only words, not pausing or shifting his head. Farra glanced to the side with the slightest bow of her head in acknowledgment, the soldier offering no motion in return. The interior stemmed three directions, an incline to each side rising into the second floor, and a way forward that led into the center, where Farra presumed most cast their attention.

    ¡°We will go ahead.¡±

    ¡°Into the middle?¡±

    ¡°Around the side is more seating.¡±

    She affirmed with a gulp, traveling through the tunnel that seemed to accommodate Valen''s size and no more. Farra walked behind him, almost completely enveloped in darkness. Her mind wandered, the amount of presences nearby felt overpowering to her foresight, she did her best to block out all the movements from her mind, knowing they were of little interest. Before she realized, Valen''s figure disappeared left around the corner, and the center of the council structure came into view. Her lips parted for a moment, but she clasped them back shut, containing her awe. Two figures stood in the center, one taller than the other, garbed in ornate armor of a profound design, and the other stockier with more muscle, wearing an armored raiment that possessed an otherworldly glisten. But it was not those two that made Farra look on in awe, it was the structure itself. The water she had heard earlier flowed down into the ground level. The center was composed of rings alternating between water and solid stone, with a sizable circular stone platform in the middle. Where the water came from, where it went, she had no idea. But tiny creatures danced along it, illuminating the darkness. Further into the structure, she saw a single tree, growing inside the flowing water, against the mountain upon which the a stone path extended out to partway before ending abruptly.

    ¡°Farra.¡±

    The call of her name broke her from the stupor, turning to her left to find Valen, Erres, Kaladin, and Gare situated beneath an alcove that acted as the seating for the first floor. She glanced around the other floors, finding some eyes that were at the appropriate angle looking down at her, but a number also absorbed in their own conversations. She hurried to her familiar party''s side, unaware of the eyes of the two center figures set upon her.

    ¡°I apologize.¡±

    ¡°It''s fine, seat yourself.¡± Erres spoke back, a space available between him and Valen.

    ¡°How long have you been here Lord Erres? And Gare, it is pleasant to see you again.¡±

    Gare gave a grunt to acknowledge her presence when Erres spoke again.

    ¡°Not long, it will be a little before matters commence. It typically takes Lady Bathalian and Lord Raom, or least his delegate a bit more time to arrive. And the meeting will not begin before they are represented.¡±

    ¡°Lady Bathalian?¡±

    ¡°She holds command over the northern and central territory of the war faction, simply she is the female equivalent of a lord.¡±

    ¡°A female equivalent.¡± Farra, placed her blade between her legs to make her sitting more comfortable. ¡°How many lords are there?¡±

    Gare mused over from Erres other side, ¡°Did you want to become one, why so surprised?¡±

    ¡°Please I have no interest in such things, my desire is to serve and be a dutiful soldier for Lord Erres.¡± A fluster overcame Farra before she smiled, feeling more at ease around the familiar warriors since arriving.

    ¡°There are five territorial lords in total, Lord Raom to the far east, Lady Bathalian in the northern and central lands, and Lord Mellor to the southern and central lands. Lord Valen and I oversee the southern and northern lands surrounding the temple grounds respectively.¡±

    ¡°Five in total then... but there seems to be many more here than just five lords and their parties.¡±

    ¡°You underestimate the size of their court, and ours. This entire left wing of the first floor and some of the right wing is occupied with high-ranking officers from within my own and Lord Valen''s territory. You haven''t become familiar with too many of them, but surely you remember our first meeting with many of my officers standing around me. Many of them are here. And just as they are here, in similar and exceeding numbers the other lords have officers present. And that is to say nothing of officers or individuals who are treated strictly to lie directly under the Warlords'' command.¡±

    ¡°Who might they be?¡±

    ¡°A varying amount, they''re something between the rank of the lords'' officers and the lords themselves. They are those trusted enough for important duties and operations the Warlords deem worthy, while not holding a grip on any territory.¡±

    ¡°I think... I begin to see what you mean Lord Erres, still it is quite an amount to understand.¡±

    ¡°It''s nothing you should be overly concerned with at any rate, do your duty as a soldier, do it well, your good conduct and expertise will be rewarded.¡±

    ¡°Wait, where is Teilve?¡±

    ¡°Attending matters, we can¡¯t pull every single officer, there are still tasks to be done outside the council.¡±

    She nodded when a woman with pointed ears just beyond Erres'' stature rounded the wall, poking her head at the two lords surrounding her with a wry smile, then at Farra.

    ¡°So this is the feirin you two have been enamored with?¡± She stepped under the alcove, closer. Her hair was long and silky, her body garbed with a tight robe, composed of a flowing material that seemed of a rare quality. She leaned over to examine Farra, the feirin maintaining a straight face and backing her face slightly to avoid the woman''s chest obscuring her view.¡±

    ¡°Lady Bathalian?¡± Farra inquired, shifting back. Farra could feel an aura of elegance, if not vanity around this woman. One more interested in status than any sort of higher meaning or purpose.

    ¡°Oh, good. You know my name then. I suppose even Lord Valen and Lord Erres are not so bold as to forgo mentioning their equals existence.¡±

    ¡°Please do not stand so close, it makes me feel uncomfortable.¡±

    The woman''s eyes sharpened, scrutinizing Farra.

    ¡°Have Lord Erres nor Lord Valen taught you how to remain obedient to a superior?¡±

    ¡°Lady Bathalian, I request it only out of a desire for respect of my space. I apologize if it comes as something else.¡±

    An irritated smile cracked back across Bathalian''s lips, finding Farra''s straightforward and difficult to misdirect answer an annoyance.

    ¡°Very well.¡±

    Valen spoke in place of Farra''s quiet, immediately bringing the conversation to something of his interest. ¡°Lady Bathalian, have you perhaps come to agree to some common goal towards which to work prior to the meeting? To have the Lady, an individual of your power standing with us, it would be a great boon to the faction as a whole.¡±

    ¡°To deem subservience to this young Lord Erres?¡±

    ¡°That is part of it yes, of course you would see an increase in your power as well with a new flow of weaponry, spells, and knowledge. But you should not see it as subservience to Lord Erres, but the opportunity to work with and further his cause which will in turn help our own.¡±

    ¡°Subservience is far less empowering than whatever manner of war good or benefit you would provide. I and many others of my territory are more than capable of conducting magics that do not need to rely on your creations, just as so many others do in this world. The supposed need to unify the faction and begin spreading use of rune magic en masse is a narrative you and Lord Erres push to further your own agendas. My opinion on the matter has not changed from the past meeting, nor will it change now.¡±

    Farra felt her body tense at the calling of Valen''s magic useless. She took a breath, looking up at the woman who revealed her combative nature. But Erres spoke before any other could.

    ¡°Your individualistic thinking divides us. We are not enemies or adversaries with one another, there are those outside these lands that would be gleeful to see us rip one another apart.¡±

    ¡°Your pleas fall on deaf ears Lord Erres, for you have procured no evidence of a tried and true enemy. Only scuttling with random creatures of the darkness. To the east lies the moonlit lands, where savages hold a grasp over resources only by virtue of a goddess. Lord Raom if any of us, has the most experience in dealing with thinking enemies.¡±

    Farra raised her head, speaking before Erres could.

    ¡°You implied you were a mage did you not Lady Bathalian?¡±

    The woman paused.

    ¡°I am a mage indeed yes. Do not think that discounts me as a warrior.¡±

    Farra shook her head. ¡°I would not dare assume such things after setting my eyes upon Lord Valen. What I mean to ask, is that if you are a mage, have you not heard the whispers?¡±

    ¡°Many of us in these accursed lands have heard the whispers; if you are talking about what I think you may be. Whatever meaning they hold, whatever significance they might have, those whispers are too weak to reach within our territory.¡±

    ¡°But those whispers are of the enemy, don''t you think?¡±

    ¡°An enemy that assumes no true form, an enemy that is as much of an enemy as the darkness itself, which is to say, only if you allow it to be. I did not think you would take such an easily frightened girl under your wings, lords.¡±

    ¡°And I did not think you were so blind to not fathom the concerns of a girl and former slave who survived in the darkness. What experience have you venturing it alone Lady Bathalian? What she speaks of may be none other than a goddess of darkness, something that is a true enemy as any other. You decide to be ignorant when we know evidence to suggest as much, as well as word of the Warlords themselves.¡±

    Bathalian raised a finger, tapping it against her cheek, looking on with apparent annoyance at the young Lord Erres.

    ¡°Then procure such evidence young lord.¡± She glared daggers at each of them, when a call came from the center grounds. A powerful voice began to bellow.

    ¡°Return to the seating of your choosing at once so we can commence this meeting. Dawdle and you can find my axe in battle.¡±

    Without another word, Bathalian left the alcove, moving across one of the stone rings to a sloped that spiraled upward, linking all floors of the structure together. Since their conversations the structure had become a deal more packed, most notably on a particular wing from which Farra could barely see from her seat, but could clearly the increasing ruckus coming from it. The stout figure in the middle yelled again for silence. Farra could see now this individual had gray rough skin, like that of the individual she met outside the Oracle when with Teilve.

    ¡°We gather here as an extension of the last meeting. We will further discuss the implications of Lord Erres'' findings on his southern expedition and the events that transpired, address the concern the moonlit lands pose toward our eastern front, and dispose guidance regarding the roaming beast tribes that have been of recent discovery across the territories. We will conclude with discussions of various resource sites and deliberate how to allocate the slaves among them. Warlord Ranalian.¡±

    Farra saw the slimmer of the two figures, one who also had pointed ears with flowing, ghastly blond hair, even within the dim light, step forward, clearing his throat before speaking. The man was slender, with a certain regality that matched that of one unfit for combat. Despite that outward appearance, on each side along his similarly ornate armor, were smaller bent blades with Valen''s handiwork inscribed.

    ¡°Thank you Warlord Nirkosh. I can see that Lord Raom has delegated to elect one to stand for his presence, as such it is critical to hear your input on the proceeding matter delegate. We will first discuss the the moonlight lands to the East. As per the last meeting, you claimed there was increasing aggression by followers of an opposing goddess. Through methods I shall not disclose, I have sent loyal sentries to determine the accuracy of those statements. They have been corroborated, but not with the entire accuracy you represented them with the previous meeting. To elaborate one must first understand what we have held the composition of the moonlight faction to be. They are lands that fully promote tribalism, or at the very least, do not oppose it. As such, one cannot entirely ascertain whether it was aggression by an opposing faction or simply an unruly tribe being aggressive. The eastern front has indeed been assaulted, but you must offer a measured response to avoid aggravating a force of greater power.¡±This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    From highest floor of the structure, a delegate dropped down, bending his knees and diverting the impact of his fall. Farra sighed, relieved that it was at least not the man whom Teilve and her had a run in with outside Valen''s tower. But to her surprise she saw a beast, a man with low, heavily-furred ears and a thick tail to match, resembling that of a wolf.

    ¡°I, Sievin will receive and deliver messages in Lord Raom''s stead today. Warlord Ranalian, it is with utmost respect that I first inquire of your language. You said ''you must offer a measured response.'' I would ask if that means not only must we strike back at the tribe without aid, but should they assault our lands, does Lord Raom''s forces stand alone?¡±

    ¡°In the case our lands are truly assaulted by a force befitting that of another god or goddess, the faction would of course lend its aid, under command of the Warlords no less as per our code. However for a matter such as this, a tribal incursion, you are expected as your territory to fully handle the problem on your own. Should you desire to request assistance of the other lords or their officers, that is your choice. But myself nor Lord Nirkosh will call the entirety of our army to war over such petty matters. If you wish for such a united front, might I suggest you consider to deliberate with Lord Valen and Lord Erres. Their lands are closer here to these temple grounds and far closer within our sight. Lord Nirkosh and I both see the benefits of their actions and how they bolster each others forces.¡±

    An unrest built among the various floors, a gargle of words that Farra could hardly have hoped to discern any particular voice through, until a voice befitting of Lady Bathalian pierced the rest.

    ¡°You mean to suggest we entrust ourselves to Lord Erres¡¯ way of things?¡±

    ¡°I know not of the exact conditions with which Lord Erres and Lord Valen conduct their matters. I see that they both lend each other aid when it is needed, and help one another even when it is not. The enchanted armaments Valen procures are undoubtedly a boon for even maintained forces. That said, It is still Sievin''s place to speak.¡±

    ¡°Thank you Warlord. For the time being then, I shall deliver these words back to Lord Raom, along with your suggestion to settle matters within our territory unless ample danger should arise threatening control over our lands.¡±

    Ranalian bowed, Sievin returning the motion, followed by Ranalian waving his hand to signal the beast to return to his court.

    ¡°Perhaps then with those words said, it would be best to proceed on a similar note, that is to discuss the straying beast tribes within our territories. This comes less as of a matter brought for contentious discussion, but the Warlords'' command upon which a brief open forum will be had to discuss our recommended course of action. Several lords, Lord Mellor, Lady Bathalian, and Lord Erres all have brought to us the awareness of wandering beast tribes within our lands. None that pose a threat according to reconnaissance, but could be a nuisance, or even a boon. Because of recent operations we have diminished our slave supply. The suggestion has been brought forth to allow these tribes to cultivate, before raiding and inducting them into our ranks whether it be for slave labor, in the case they can make proper soldiers, or simply use as a resource for our existing forces. To simply kill them off would be a waste of life, so consider this course of action a strong recommendation before you speak. Be mindful also, that someone most harvest the resources at our various sites, if not slaves then lower-ranking soldiers most likely.¡±

    Quite grumbling ensued before a voice unfamiliar but hardened and aged, spoke over the rest as his side quieted.

    ¡°Warlord Ranalian. Your suggestion for the tribes comes as no surprise nor unwise to me. I only wish to hear you further divulge your thoughts on one detail in this matter. You float the idea of slaves making for soldiers. While in theory I do not see why such a thing would be considered impossible. But surely both warlords have contemplated such an approach throwing the balance of our faction''s ranks and how slaves see both themselves and others into a manner of contort?¡±

    ¡°Allow me, Warlord Ranalian.¡± Ranalian stepped to the side for Nirkosh.

    ¡°Lord Mellor, your concerns are warranted and understandable. And we both perceive that your question not lies in concern for yourself, but the stability of our faction in its entirety. In our discourse over the years, Warlord Ranalian and I held one belief steadfast. That for a warrior, for any fledgling, there is an opportunity to prove oneself. Slaves are not void of this right. Should we induct a tribe into our ranks it involves killing those that oppose it, taking their resources, and assimilating their strength for our own. Part of that assimilation can come in part by discovering whether or not the individuals would make for faithful soldiers tried and true, perhaps more capable than some we have now. These lands are ever-changing, ever-evolving, and to sit and presume we can persist without a manner of change at all is foolery. It is because I am an orc, and Warlord Ranalian is an elf, that we in part represent the potential for which this faction which sees past much of its racial divides can accomplish. Treating and inducting a tribe to be slaves without care for their strength speaks to ineptitude. It is by merit alone with which our faction must be compromised. We will welcome no more words on the matter.¡±

    A protest came across some floors of the structure, before Nirkosh slammed the pole of his axe into the ground, screaming for silence as a shockwave flowed through the air, silencing every bit of noise within the winds. Each lord knew not to protest, the action intimidated the various officers who continued protesting into silence.

    ¡°Then if you would allow me Warlord Nirkosh. I shall speak of the next matter relating to Lord Erres and his incursion south of our lands. To remind those from the last council, Lord Erres detailed the events of the expedition southward, including the Silver Knight''s demise, the monsters with which his ensemble encountered, Farra''s talents as a combatant, and the Oracle''s success with mass teleportation.¡±

    Farra swallowed, she had been listening to the exchanges and matters being discussed so intently, the reason she was here slipped her mind. For every previous issue discussed, she felt as if something could vaguely be referencing her or relating to her being here.

    ¡°I will state now lords and officers alike, this shall not be the place for petty quarrels to supplant the true issues at hand. We shall not speak ill of a passed soldier for expedience-¡±

    An undesirable voice spoke, just as Ranalian was beginning to bar certain aspects of the matter.

    ¡°Warlord Ranalian, I too understand the distaste with which it is to speak of a fallen soldier who no longer stands here to defend her own self. But to think we have nothing to gain of discussing her demise still is hasty. It is not my intent to supplant the core issues with distasteful discussion, but we now have the view of another member who was at the expedition, and in fact Verrika sacrificed herself to save. Surely that would add value to keeping the Silver Knight''s demise open for discussion.¡±

    ¡°Very well. However if I or Warlord Nirkosh perceive words to be as nothing more than slights against Verrika''s good name, we will silence you at once.¡±

    ¡°Yes Warlord.¡±

    ¡°The monsters have been taken note of and cataloged, as said previously, and venturing into the desert makes for a particularly dangerous task. Any Lord, particularly you Lord Mellor as you are closest to the desert, should proceed with due caution. Before we conduct a test of Farra''s capabilities as Lady Bathalian, Lord Raom''s delegate, and numerous officers requested, let us address the matter of teleportation now that Lord Valen has had time to look over the results. Lord Valen if you would please come and address the council.¡±

    ¡°Yes Warlord.¡± Valen rose, ducking his head to not bump it against the roof of the alcove, treading out into the open with mighty steps, his body rising toward the second floor.

    ¡°Upon further introspection into the process, I and students have concluded it to be a potentially viable way of moving large forces around with less wear than traveling would be. The side effects of teleportation while potentially painful to some, is more than valuable. It is likely in the worst of cases, teleportation may require a frail individual a full day of recovery. When traveling great distances it is more than sufficient. I would propose establishing beacons to traveling around our lands quicker, unifying movement across them. When considering using mass teleportation as a means of escape, I suggest against it. Due to fluctuations in conditions, inscribing the proper runes necessary to initiate teleportation cannot be properly relied upon. It is no secret that the unstable ground was what originally caused the issue in the desert, and so something one can fail to account for can happen just as easily in battle. At the very least.¡± Valen''s voice shifted from one of strategy to one that was incredulous. ¡°Do consider it for making occasional trips to the temple grounds shorter, particularly those of you in Lord Raom''s domain. That concludes my findings. I will accept any questions should lord, officer, or you Warlords have them.¡±

    There was silence. None took issue with Valen''s findings, and none found it advantageous to discuss the vein in which he recommended the utilization of the magic. He conceded its shortcomings before any could, not trying to present it as a means more than what it could fulfill. Farra already knew now that using the rune magic in the midst of combat was quite more problematic than it would initially seem.

    ¡°Then we now request Lord Erres and Farra both come forth.¡±

    Farra and Erres stood, proceeding from the alcove, more grumbles could be heard. Farra felt an uncountable pairs of eyes observe her, taking note of the feirin which Valen and Erres supported. Valen passed the two back to the alcove in silence, and now Farra stood before the Warlords in quiet. Despite what she had anticipated, these two did not seem to hold any harshness toward her, rather looking her up and down, glancing to her blade and observing its form. Their eyes felt far less harsh in fact, than any of the lord''s had initially. She took a breath, feeling her heart pound within her chest.

    ¡°Be at ease girl.¡± The orc spoke hushed to where none outside the center could hear. ¡°We mean not to antagonize a warrior so young, but circumstances have brought us to this.¡±

    Ranalian stepped forward to address the council. Farra turned, various figures on numerous sizes garbed in armors and robes. Though she had felt it in her mind, to see the scowls and judgment across faces with her own eyes tested her resolve.

    ¡°Continuing from the past council, many voiced their concern that Lord Erres so willingly took a fledgling slave under his wing, trusting her abilities over that of a seasoned warrior, and by doing so suggest it was the reason the Silver Knight was felled in battle. I will take a moment to say bluntly, that in all my years in combat, the battlefield is wrought with danger and tragedy, that it is never to simple to attribute an outcome to one single factor. However, it is within the right of a warrior and soldier, to call into question the capability of their leadership in whose lives they trust, to be making the proper decisions. As requested by many of you, we shall see whether Farra is one showing the workings of a promising soldier, or that Lord Erres and Lord Valen are misplacing their faith. We have construed a manner by which to trial Farra with approval various parties as to ensure it was deemed a proper test. Before we commence, are there any words to be had for Lord Erres and Farra, regarding any relation to expedition? Be succinct and do not embellish your questions.¡±

    Without hesitation, Bathalian stood among her court.

    ¡°Farra. Have you contemplated the consequences of Lord Erres decision to bring you on such a dangerous expedition? Did his request seem reasonable given the time of knowing and testing you, or was he hasty and in doing so sacrificed the life of a soldier dear to all of us?¡±

    ¡°Do not embellish.¡± Ranalian spoke curt, before Farra stepped forward to answer.

    The feirin glanced around, seeing so many alien faces of various races looking upon her, judging her to their own specifications, seeing whether or not she had the makings of a potential warrior, knowing it was through her both Valen and Erres would be judged..

    ¡°Lord Erres has granted me an opportunity that I wish to take advantage of...I was just a slave, and before that even as a member of my tribe I was undesirable. It is not my place to judge Lord Erres actions right or wrong, of being in good sense or not. As his soldier and weapon, is it my duty to trust in his decisions, and best see to his success. I have little experience to speak of in the way of true battle. But if you wish to know how I felt out in that desert, I was afraid. But I had no choice to trust those around me and do what they expected of me.¡±

    Farra glanced downward, before looking back up to a snide Bathalian.

    ¡°I did not ask Verrika to save my life from the mouth of that monster. And in her attempt to save me she made a misstep that I somehow managed to pull us from...by only a miracle of instinct and the desire to survive.¡±

    ¡°Then you claim that she threw her life away?¡±

    ¡°I do not claim anything of that sort.¡±

    Farra stepped forward, gazing back at Bathalian with sharp eyes.

    ¡°Then what is your stance on Verrika''s decision?¡±

    ¡°She wound up sacrificing herself to save me. She could not save both of us because she was too weak to do so. I will carry on her memory by becoming stronger than her, somehow. I don''t think I am stronger than her now, but I will get there. And Lord Erres and Lord Valen both have defended and trust me up to this point. Even if I became stronger than either of them, I would still follow their wishes, for I have seen with my own two eyes they are interested in the best for the War Faction and these lands.¡±

    ¡°An outspoken brat.¡± Bathalian sat with a chuckle, pleased with rousing Farra.

    The feirin''s voice dropped to a hush whisper, the adrenaline from her argument being replaced with a heated fluster. ¡°I am sorry Lord Erres.¡±

    ¡°You have no reason to be, rather I should be for having my action''s defended by one as young as you. I am once again acting unbefitting of a lord.¡±

    Farra shook her head side to side with a smile aimed back at Erres before another voice interrupted.

    An officer besides the delegate from Raom''s domain stood.

    ¡°Why is a slave like her looked upon with such favoritism by Lord Erres and Lord Valen? What is to say they don¡¯t seek to replace must of us outright with weaker and less capable hands so long as those hands serve their interests?¡±

    Clamor ensued, before Nirkosh motioned for silence.

    ¡°Your cries of envy and insecurity do naught but embarrass Lord Raom.¡± The man sat at the Warlord''s words.

    ¡°I will assume that no one else has words for Lord Erres and Farra save for attempting to belittle either of them. We will commence the agreed upon tests. Lord Erres return to your seat.¡±

    ¡°Yes Warlord.¡±

    Erres passed a glance to Farra, obliging and slowly stepping from the center platform, back to where Valen sat. With Erres'' absence, Farra felt a slight nervousness about her, worried she had spoken of turn, and would fall short of expectations.

    The elf warlord spoke next. ¡°Lord Valen and Lord Erres have took to training Farra, seeking to draw out her potential. Thus we will conduct three tests. One to test the veracity of her ability. A second to test her knowledge. And a third to test her potential as a warrior. None may object to this.¡±

    Ranalian paused, motioning in the direction of Mellor''s court.

    A woman with vibrant purple skin, even in the darkness, stood at Mellor''s side. Farra presumed her to be a demon from two short horns protruding from her forehead in addition to another singular horn curving in a spiral from the right side of her head. On the other end was the beginning of what looked like a horn that was cut off. The woman tapped a long metal staff to the ground before lifting into the air and descending down onto the middle platform on a graceful wind.

    ¡°The first test will be simple. Some doubt the legitimacy of Farra''s ability, and some wish to see it with their own eyes. In these rings of water are several leaves floating atop. Estelle will raise the leaves at her discretion using her magic. Farra is to display a competency in showing she can without any doubt, discern each movement of the water before it occurs.¡±

    Ranalian and Nirkosh stepped back.

    ¡°Do you need to stand in the middle to do the magic?¡± Farra asked Estelle whom responded with a shake of her head eyes open and exposing within her soft blue bulbs that the white of her eyes was in fact black. Farra paused for a brief moment, comparing in her mind the differences between her and Kaladin. ¡°Please then, move off to the side, I will point my sword at the leaves so it is clear I see where each is going to happen. Even if I know where they¡¯re coming from, I don¡¯t think I¡¯m fast enough to cut all the leaves or anything of that sort.¡± Farra blushed, slightly sinking her head to the woman who nodded her own in return before obliging the request.

    Without further warning or notice of the trial beginning, Farra felt a shift in the waters. Her mind took a moment to adjust, trying to block out the shifting of the audience, feeling a ripple from her side. She unsheathed the blade, pointing it the correct direction when a spout of water moments after emerged, propelling a leaf upward. Another spout came, opposite of the first. Farra swapped the blade to her other hand, once again pointing. This time a round of spouts came. It felt confusing to distinguish the rippling movements of the water from one another at first when closely placed, but Farra''s movement began to pick up, predicting each spout earlier and earlier than the one prior, to the extent her ability would allow. All looked on in silence, listening to the water propel up, falling back down, and the movements of Farra''s small feet shifting about when needed as the sword began to dance in her hands, pointed at the moment of every single leaf before it propelled into the air.

    ¡°That is enough.¡± Ranalian spoke, walking back center. ¡°It was more than clear to my eyes that you were predicting the movements of the water with an accuracy impossible to be called luck.¡± A simper broke across Farra''s lips.

    The demon woman bowed to Farra with a smile, then floating back to her seat, seemingly pleased with the feirin¡¯s performance.

    ¡°We will proceed to the next test. A trial to see Farra''s proof of focus and capability for learning. Though we are to understand her to be magically deficient, rune magic in many regards cares not for the magical prowess of an individual so much as their intellect and dedication. Farra, this test will be open-ended. Demonstrate to us what you have learned.¡±

    Kaladin stood, stepping forward in a monotone march and holding a bag of magical dust and jar of ink. He handed both to Farra, not making any other gesture before turning and returning to his seat.

    Ranalian stepped back again.

    ¡°Anything.¡± Farra murmured to herself, swirling the jar of ink, examining how much might be inside, bouncing the bag of dust with her other hand.

    Murmurs began among the council as Farra shifted to each part of the central platform, dipping a finger into the ink and drawing onto each quadrant of the central platform a myriad of runes that only Valen''s pupils could appreciate. ¡°Flame.¡± She murmured to herself, making the familiar fire rune. ¡°Ascend.¡± She appended onto the same rune varying bars, signaling the motion for the spell to take. The process continued, until the central platform was etched with the entirety of the jar of ink, nearly painted a deep black-red instead of its gray stone.

    ¡°This blade''s runes are not very elegant. But they are of my own making.¡± She unsheathed her blade, numerous officers and Bathalian looking on unimpressed. ¡°I think it isn''t very practical, but at the time it felt like a proper idea. This blade is etched with runes that allow it to act as a conductor.¡±

    She stepped back from the various runes on the ground, opening the bag of dust, spilling it onto her blade which began to shimmer. She stepped forward, then pranced, gliding her blade along the ground and touching each rune in a specific order. One began to glow red, another brown. Their colors transferred like a circuit line before the entire platform lit the darkness with markings. Holding her blade with both hands, Farra lifted it into the sky, and with it a trail of fire followed from the runes, congealing into a ball of flame which she launched into the air with a poke of her blade. The fireball ascended, rising high above the highest floor of structure before bursting, scattering laterally in a multitude of directions and fading into the darkness.

    ¡°None of you were probably too impressed...but I used my sword to manipulate the flow of the runes, letting the power swell into something I could control. If I had thrown the dust onto the platform, it would have just blown up in a ball of fire.

    ¡±Some members of the council looked on incredulous. Valen chuckled from his seat, as did Ranalian who walked center of the council.

    ¡°Perhaps not the most practical design, but certainly demonstrating of your passion for knowledge given only ten moons of studying.¡±

    ¡°Thank you Warlord.¡± Farra bowed her head, catching herself when Ranalian motioned her upward.

    ¡°Then we come to final trial. One to test Farra''s mettle as a warrior. I shall reiterate the agreed upon conditions. Lady Bathalian has selected a warrior of her choosing for the purpose of this trial. The battle will strictly take place on this inner most platform. If either combatant moves outside or falls in the water, they lose. Warlord Nirkosh will stand close to mediate the bout. If he suspects a would-be deciding blow, then he still halt it, and declare the appropriate victor. Beyond that there are no limitations. Farra is a fledgling warrior, and this bout will be considered with such in mind.¡±

    Ranalian stepped back toward the tree. Nirkosh stepped onto the edge of the inner platform. From the sloping walkway a warrior shrouded in black cloth from the mouth downward stepped forward. At his side were two long, slick blades. Farra could discern from her sight and his movements that he had a mail underneath the cloth, coupled with lightly padded trousers and boots. Her mind raced, Bathalian selected an individual like this with the possibility of her foresight in mind, seeking to make it as hard as possible to rely upon knowing the enemy''s movements. Her opponent was dressed for the occasion as well. There was little purpose in any sort of armor here, a would-be fatal blow would not land so long as Nirkosh did not allow it.

    The man walked past Farra to the side Nirkosh stood on, pulling his blades from the straps they hung on by his side.Though she had trained with a ruthless Erres, she still felt fearful of fighting against an unknown opponent in front of so many.

    Ranalian''s voice called.

    ¡°Commence.¡±

    He edged forward drawing his blades, shifting side to side in an attempt to rouse some movement from Farra. The feirin''s ears twitched, attempting to block the scowls and aggressive motions of each individual seated along the bending rows. She exhaled, and took another breath in. Her sight narrowed to her most immediate surroundings and upon the man. She foresaw him springing forward, trying to back her against the boundary of the duel. She paused for just a moment, immediately shifting the side as he sprung, out of reach from his far arm so there was only one blade to contend with. But her blade did not come forth. She was fearful of the man''s possible strength, of being able to simply shrug off a strike with one blade and counter with the other. He turned, craning over her like one would when huntingand cornering prey. A stab with just one blade was coming. Farra had no choice but to sidestep the strike, not fighting into his conservative movements, interpreting them as a means to bait out an attack from her.

    She felt Nirkosh step back from behind her, avoiding interfering in the match before it was determined in any way, Farra and the man having twisted their positions about the platform.

    ¡°Running the entire time?¡± The man smirked.

    Farra swallowed her spit, feeling helpless against the unknown opponent. Every action available to her carried immense risk, the likelihood of her being overpowered. The magical energies lingering in her blade served no purpose without a proper rune to trigger. While her blade lit with a soft flame, she could not count on connecting her blade with one of his, only to have the other deliver a counterattack. In such an enclosed arena, she had little room for any sort of misstep. But the thought occurred to her, that might be in fact what she needed. Yet it was too early to tell, and such a maneuver only would work once. Instead she kept a distance. The man didn''t feel particularly quick, perhaps he was concerned with accidentally plunging forward only to miss and find himself out of the duel, but his movements felt as if they were continually trying to force her into an unfavorable position, just as Erres had been. Farra saw in her mind moments where he would pursue a flurry of strikes, each time maneuvering away to dissuade him from pursuing the action.

    ¡°What is this charade? Crush her already.¡± Bathalian called from above, breaking Farra''s concentration for a moment when the man lunged. He attempted to stab one blade downward, guarding himself with the other. Farra angled her sword, clashing against it, hoping the man lacked the speed or presence of mind to counter the movement. Her feet stepped back when she felt his far blade begin to cut the hairs of one of her tails..

    ¡°Flame.¡± She yelled, the main immediately jumped back in a split moment, unsure of the meaning of her words, whether she was in fact casting magic or utilizing a rune, when in fact it was a bluff.

    She gathered herself, chuckles coming from the council at her maneuver.

    It was in that moment she felt his speed. He truly anticipated some sort of counterattack he had not known about, and so logically he did not hold back in trying to create distance.

    But even that speed was too much for Farra. He was no where near as fast as Erres, but it was still beyond her reach. She kept the blade steady in her hand, finding herself to be short for breath simply from nerves. One of the man¡¯s blade had made contact with her own, and so it also began to melt. But it was in nowhere near an unusable state yet, opening up no other options. The moment in which she had to perform her maneuver would be small, and in the immediate moment after she would have to try to interpret the man''s response in a window smaller than if he otherwise brought himself to he. Farra could not see the consequence of her own actions, only others. She stepped back again, ensuring for fear that the worst might come to pass, stepping back to be closer to Nirkosh rather than far.

    She slowly shuffled, enticing the man into an aggressive stature, edging back toward the water. Each of their movements became slower, waiting for the perfect moment with the distance between them closing. Farra stepped back one more time, her heel touching the edge of the platform, her body feigning the briefest stumble before the man snapped on the moment of her supposed recovery. Nirkosh budged closer as the man attempted to plunge his weapons from two angles at Farra, only to be surprised when she spun to a side, clashing her blade against and along the same damaged blade. The flame of her weapon melted it away and singed the man¡¯s hand. Her blade continued down, preparing to skin the man''s arm and sear his flesh. He dropped the extended blade in his other hand, pulling back. In the next moment Farra winced, dropping her blade and crumbling to the ground.

    In the end Farra''s physical limitations posed too great a barrier. In that moment the man dropped his blade, blocking her slash with the blade¡¯s guard just long enough to deliver a punch to her gut followed by the heft of his melted blade bashing against the back of her skull. Nirkosh blitzed forward, grabbing the man and tossing him away with a hand, declaring it his victory as he looked over a Farra bleeding from the mouth, curled on the ground.

    Her heart beat furiously. She was unable to control it, her sight perceiving the laughter of Erres'' opponents. Though she was on the ground, blinded in pain, she still felt the rumblings of various individuals, speaking with one another in words she could no longer hear. Her vision blurred, as she fainted on the ground.

 Chapter 8: Augmentation

    A petite, pale hand curled its fingers, pressing against the cold and dark stone underneath. A chilling air swallowing Farra¡¯s body as she lifted herself to her knees. She could feel the blood dried on her lip and chin, opening her eyes to see her blade laying beside her. Her stomach and head ached, but it bothered her less than the desire to know the fallout of the fight. She turned one way, seeing herself to be laying outside the council¡¯s structure, hearing back and forth yelling coming from the other side. She turned to her other side, finding Gare standing over her. Her eyes shied away out of disappointment in herself.

    ¡°You weren''t expected to win. Your feign at losing your footing was a good attempt, likely your best option. But you lack the strength or speed needed to take down an opponent like the one Bathalian sent after you.¡±

    The words she knew to be true stung when realized by Gare''s blunt and harsh voice. She picked herself up to her feet, leaning down and stumbling for a moment as she reached for her blade, finding her balance and sheathing it in her scabbard inscribed with the insignia of a red sword.

    ¡°What happened? Because of my failure.¡±

    ¡°After you fainted, Warlord Nirkosh declared your loss. Lord Erres rushed forward to your side and requested a mender see to your injuries. The council still hasn''t concluded, I was asked to take you from the meeting now that the affairs involving you concluded, and make sure nothing happens to you while you lie unconscious.¡±

    ¡°But¡ªwhat happened to Lord Erres and Lord Valen, and the conversation after?¡±

    ¡°The council was given time to deliberate over the bout. It was in that time you were examined and I brought you out here. So I can''t say for sure, when I exited the matter proceeded how I expected it would. If you¡¯re concerned that your defeat here made shams of the lords, then don''t be. Anyone in the council who isn''t simply serving their own purposes saw enough to know your abilities and work ethic are worthy of a soldier. It won''t free many from the worry that Lord Valen and Lord Erres'' hold you in too high esteem, but it was more than enough to demerit talk of you being pushed further. I¡¯ll say your comments toward Bathalian about Verrika came as brash though, especially considering you lost.¡± Gare smirked with a hearty laugh. ¡°It seems arrogance finds its way everywhere.¡±

    Farra blushed, relieved to hear her defeat at least had little ill consequence for her lords who had put so much effort into her training.

    ¡°As embarrassed as you may feel about your defeat after all that talk, your devotion to the lords didn¡¯t fall on deaf ears. Unlike Bathalian who twisted your words, others felt moved by your desire to serve Lord Erres. That is to say nothing about Lord Erres and Lord Valen''s own court. Many officers were biting to rush to your aid.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a relief to hear your words Gare.¡± The hairs on Farra¡¯s ears and tails ceased their nervous bouncing, her thoughts drifting from concerns of her having tainted her lords'' names, to the failure she proved to be in combat. ¡°I will return to the Oracle then, there is no point in me moping out here.¡± Farra brushed the dust lingering on her tunic, wiping her eyes and attempting to scrub away bits of the dried blood marking her lips and chin in the process. She blinked, feeling her eyes water again, rubbing the sleeve of her top against them, turning from Gare to try and mask her disappointment, using the water to wash the blood.

    ¡°I''ll escort you then.¡± Gare stepped closer to her for Farra to turn with a shake of her head.

    ¡°No. I can make it there myself. I have been afraid of being alone in the dark. But on the temple grounds I don¡¯t think I feel that.¡±

    ¡°It''s not a matter of the darkness, but other soldiers potentially causing trouble.¡±

    ¡°I would like to see what it is like to enjoy a lone walk, without fear of something creeping at me from the shadows.¡± She managed a smile despite the bits of dried blood still adorning her pale skin, another tear streaking down her face when she wiped it away.

    ¡°I will return to the council then.¡± Gare turned, waving a hand and stepping back toward the entrance where two guards remained posted.

    She found her way onto the road stemming between the structure and promenade. Gare turned back to examine her surroundings and peer into the distance, looking around for any would-be potential issues, conceding to Farra¡¯s wishes as he turned back to the council¡¯s hall.

    The trek back to Valen¡¯s tower was quiet. But Farra relied upon it being the temple grounds to soothe her concerns regarding dark and quiet. She peered to the side, out toward the moon which had begun to softly shine down. She gathered from the council that those serving the moonlight were enemies, but despite that, the moon felt all too much like some impartial force in the sky. It seemed as if it looked past alliances and factions, instead shining its brilliance down and reminding one the lands were not all darkness. Her steps continued along the pathway. Farra¡¯s steps were slow, taking the time to look out to the plateaus surrounding the temple grounds, thinking that placing a light among their cliffs might leave a beautiful light in all the darkness. Her thoughts were inconsequential, but this moment she had to herself after such embarrassment provided solace. If not for the people who had come to stand for her, she would never have had the opportunity to have such an experience of simply walking alone and embracing solitude. If not for her lords or their officers, she would have lost her life many times over most likely, often lacking the strength to stand for and protect herself. Another tear streaked down her cheek at the thought, the desire to not be someone dependent but rather that could properly serve her lords and be someone they looked to for aid burned within her.

    The magical stones seen in so many other places lit the pathways with soft lavender light, giving some illumination to the shrouded structures on the bluff below. She could see the figures of individuals, going about their business below. She turned ahead, looking into the distance at the Oracle, rising against the barrier of mountains to its back, paling in height only to the temple itself. Perhaps enough time had passed to fatigue soldiers after a long trek to the War Faction¡¯s capital due to the quiet. None were coming to or from the council other than herself. Farra reached a split where ahead lied the road branching into Valen''s tower, and to the right was a staircase that connected to the bluff below. Her eyes and sight identified a group walking up. Farra froze for a little only to find all four individuals simply walk past her without a word, turning toward the direction both the tower and temple lied in. Farra decided to remain behind and not follow their footsteps, stepping toward the beginning of the staircase to overlook the grounds below. Her hair and tails blew in the gentle wind. Despite the darkness being cold like it did any other time, her body did not shiver, the chill of shadows failing to seep into her body.

    The footsteps of the group faded into the distance, and then Farra in the same direction they had. She lifted her head back, looking up at the size of Valen''s tower. From the outside it felt like something of a marvel, yet once inside she felt every bit of it was busy and easy to accidentally bump into unexpected objects. To a small extent, she dreaded pulling herself up all the steps to the top of the tower. But her tails bounced and she picked up her stride, eager to make her way to the top of the tower and resume her studies, hoping to find some answer to her helplessness. She touched her hand to the Oracle''s gate, the gate shimmering in the darkness when it unsealed. She stepped through, followed by the usual loud clasp the of gate.

    She glanced about to find no one inside. Her skin heated at the thought of Valen¡¯s other pupils seeing her fail in battle. But, if there were group in the War Faction she felt she could be comfortable around, then it was likely Valen''s students. She walked toward a desk, placing a cork on an ajar vial that shimmered. As soon as it was properly sealed an incandescent emerald light began to shine took the place of the shimmering colorless light. ¡®They really should be a bit more careful,¡¯ Farra mused while meandering to the bookcases, pulling a chair to stand on top of as she scanned through the rows of tomes. Many of the books were labeled with runes themselves to bypass the issue of language. She could now understand the meaning of some of these, and what they implied the contents of a tome to be. There was one in particular she was scouring Valen''s library for. She half-suspected that he had not placed or constructed one with the contents she desired to explore. Row after row of things regarding controlling the flow of magic and elements, a somewhat intermediary application of runes, were all her eyes could discern.

    Reaching toward the top of the bookcase would be more than difficult using any kind of prop. Farra looked behind the case, finding them to be embedded into the tower wall. Her smaller size and footing allowed her to balance on each shelf, climbing up and exploring what might be detailed on each spine. The tomes she found were too complex for her to understand the meaning of yet. She was looking for anything related to the matter of augmentation, remembering Valen say that it encompasses the subject of what she desired to know more technically. But numerous amounts of the spines had no sign of what they might be about at all, and given Farra''s position, she could not pull any of the heavy books from their place on a whim without being hard-pressed to return it to its place. She descended the bookshelves, taking care not to lose her footing, finally jumping down once she felt close enough. Her stomach stung from the impact of landing on the ground, holding herself while crouching over and recovering.

    From that position, Farra turned slightly, and it was upon turning she glimpsed the spine of a book that caught her eye on a shelf as low as it could possibly be. The shelves were not equally spaced she saw, this one was shorter than the rest, and its contents seemed a bit more hidden in one sense. One would have to touch their head to the ground in order to read the spines. Despite its label, the design of the book was unassuming, red like so many others. But the runes were unmistakable, it was those suggesting enchantment, which equated to augmentation for runic purposes. The proceeding rune represented life. The rune of life was one she was by no means familiar with or understanding of its purpose, but Farra knew what it implied the contents to be. Her hand placed her hand on the book, taking a moment to dislodge it from the shelf. It was stubbier than many others, what it lacked in height it made up for with width. Farra flipped through briefly. The pages were particularly worn, more than nearly every other book she perused thus far save for the very first tome introducing her to rune magic.

    She took the book and ascended the staircase, placing it on top of each step before pulling her body up. She ached, and her head felt a slight pounding, but her desire was nothing more than to view the contents of the book up in the makeshift study put together for her.

    The light left in the top room was of a pale blue, the same it was when Valen and Farra departed for the council. She set her weapon to the side, laying the book onto her desk and opening to the first page. The runes were complicated with an immense amount of symbols directing flow and motion of magical energies within runes immediately. Farra reached for a book set in the window''s alcove, flipping it open and finding a page that had corresponding runes, it was a book she was heavily engaged in prior to the council meeting. She proceeded through, comparing each rune as she could, scribbling down with ink onto separate parchment what she could not understand. Her stomach began to grumble, but she disregarded the feeling, relishing the opportunity to study despite a tear-stained face and her body¡¯s protests.

    Time passed, and eventually Farra found herself surrendering to fatigue that had built across all the preceding days of training. When her eyes finally opened, Valen sat at his desk, examining and enchanting another weapon. Farra shifted at the sight for a moment, her hair disheveled as she roused from her sleep.

    ¡°Lord Valen, how long was I asleep?¡±

    He turned for a moment, then looking back to his work. ¡°Nearly a moon now. You were surely drained. A meal sits on the alcove left of your desk.¡±

    The pain from both the gut punch and knock to her head were gone, her stomach howled at the mention of food. She looked down at the ground, well aware Valen would know the contents she was reviewing prior to falling asleep. She pulled her chair back, setting down and pulling the earthen bowl to begin eating a ration. The room remained silent, the only noises were Farra''s quiet nibbling and when Valen shifted the weapon on his desk.

    ¡°Lord Valen, did I disappoint you?¡± She took another bite of a tuber.

    ¡°Yes and no. You have exceeded my expectations Farra.¡± He held the axe up on his table, examining it in an amber light.

    ¡°If you mean in reference to what transpired at the council, it was in a way unavoidable. Lady Bathalian sought to make an example out of you, and so she did. But whether that example helped her cause and hurt ours or not remains to be seen. I suspect it may work against her in time.¡± He stopped talking for a moment, setting the axe down with the crack of metal against metal. ¡°Unless it''s dealt lasting damage to your psyche, then we should have little to be worried about in that regard. The third trial was a farce. Perhaps my disappointment stems in a lack of your willingness to utilize your knowledge of runes for some disastrous effect in battle. But it was likely better you did not.¡±If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    Farra smiled, taking another bite before the lord continued on. ¡°Was there anything else of your concern?¡±

    Farra coughed, swallowing her food and setting the rest to the side.

    ¡°Lord Valen, I am sure you saw the book upon my desk.¡±

    ¡°Ah yes, that reminds me of why I was disappointed.¡± Farra froze. ¡°Not in your unyielding desire to know, but the hastiness with which you approach it. Are you so hungry for power that you might risk your own life in pursuit of it?¡± Valen turned from the axe, stepping over to his apprentice and kneeling down to look at her closer.

    The feirin caught her breath, seeing the book remaining on the same page from where she slept, pushed to the corner of her desk.

    ¡°Lord Valen, I wish to become a capable soldier to help your and Lord Erres'' cause.¡±

    ¡°Not all soldiers need to fight.¡±

    ¡°But if I possessed the strength, is that not what you and Lord Erres would have me do?¡±

    Valen stood, shifting over to a spherical apparatus lying in the corner of the room, containing what seemed to be a small storm inside of it, a storm composed of vibrant varying and twisting color. His hand laid upon it and as it did the storm churned all the more violently inside, as if tearing away at its own self in a rainbow of color.

    ¡°I have read partway through the contents of this tome Lord Valen. Would it not be better to perform the process now as opposed to later, so I become use to it sooner than later? You said it would take time and knowledge to properly utilize the runes once applied. But in that same vein, with the more time passes the more I grow accustom to my body as it is now¡ªof how I wish it wasn''t.¡±

    ¡°Your point is not lacking, but suppose the procedure fails, or you find yourself to regret the decision.¡±

    Farra shook her head with a smile at her lord.

    ¡°Lord Valen, then please perform the augmentation. I have faith in your abilities, if it you are not up to the task then no one is. And just the same way my parents died, the same way I live on now knowing that Verrika died to save me, I will persist despite any discomforts.¡±

    Valen turned back from her, scanning the shelves of the study carrying varying amounts of supplies, looking back into the orb which he held his hand over, the feeling of a low roar spilling out from his armor as the storm despite all its fluctuations, came to a serene swirl of a gradient of colors.

    ¡°Then it will be for the purpose of enhancing speed and strength.¡±

    Valen''s words voiced his capitulation to Farra''s wishes. He lifted the hand from the sphere, the energy within the orb returning to a chaotic storm. He reached toward the wall of the tower, and upon touching a rune, it lit and sent a lucid white glow traveling in a line downward according to one of the tower¡¯s etchings, letting out a quiet whistle meant to grab ones attention. He then stepped to one of the storage shelves inside the room, scouring for inks and trinkets. Despite his reservations toward disposing Farra to the procedure, the researcher inside of him knew it was a momentous opportunity. The same side of him that had brought rune magic to where it now lies within the War Faction was sparked. Brashness, experimentation, and exploring the unknown. Though this would not be uncharted territory in a strict sense, it was still dangerous, telling, and an opportunity to learn.

    ¡°Lord Valen, your request?¡± A man covered in a tunic and hood spoke, one Farra knew to study in the tower often. ¡°Send for all pupils interested in augmentation. We will have a lesson none will want to miss. In fact, send for all pupils regardless of their focus. You will need to crowd around. I require you also to bring our most precious inks and rare trinkets up for me to review. Send for the smiths to create a needle with a point finer than any edge forged only from our purest ore reserves. Nothing else will suffice.¡±

    ¡°Yes my lord. At once.¡±

    Valen picked the axe up off his workbench, setting it to the side. He inscribed a rune onto the surface, touching his palm to it and pulling back when steam spewed forth from the rune. He reached under the bench, pulling a cloth he used to then wipe the table down.

    ¡°Eat if you are hungry Farra. You will want as little distractions as possible. It will be some time before the pupils who are available can gather, and all the necessary instruments are brought here.¡±

    ¡°Lord Valen, I wish not to ask too much, or show any bit of hesitation. But should I want the runes amended or improved, is it possible?¡±

    ¡°Farra, just how much power do you desire?¡± Valen lifted a hand, a finger to the amber light hanging from the ceiling, changing it into an illuminating white light.

    ¡°As much as the faction needs me to have.¡±

    Valen looked upon his bench before turning back to her.

    ¡°It is possible in theory, though I have never attempted to alter or append runes on an already inscribed living individual. Even that is beyond my current knowledge.¡±

    ¡°I see, that is good to know then.¡±

    Without another word, Valen continued to adjust his workbench, looking through his supplies and contemplating the possible application of each. Farra returned to eating her food.

    Hours would pass before the first pupils began to gather, including Kaladin. Then the individual that first came to the top of the tower brought back with him the needle Valen requested.

    ¡°My students, I am elated to see you have not squandered this opportunity to learn. This girl''s wishes inspires my inquisitiveness for exploring potential applications of runes that in light of bolstering our armies, I had forgotten my passion for. Today I shall be partly reigniting my own curiosity, not in a way I have no knowledge of, but in one that I had abandoned in favor of other methodologies. I will be augmenting Farra''s flesh and body with runes. This provides you all a rare opportunity to observe perhaps one of the most arcane and dangerous uses of rune augmentation.¡±

    ¡°I will begin by numbing Farra''s sense to pain. Ordinarily I would recommend ensuring the subject is sedated and put to rest for two reasons. The first being it accomplishes the same task as numbing a sense of pain with the proper incantation. But also because one who has magical prowess may inadvertently activate the inscriptions being etched upon their body, resulting in a premature activation that could kill the subject or significantly harm others around them, if not both. However Farra we know to lack innate magical energies, so this shall not be an issue. She also is a fine student, and even as she is being operated on, this is a fine opportunity for her to gain insight to the process as well.¡±

    Valen inscribed a rune onto the workbench, which he directed Farra to lay upon. She obliged, climbing naked onto the table and laying onto her back. The discomfort of sitting on her tails struck her, but she paid it no mind, she figured it would soon be impossible to feel at all. Her pale and petite body glowed under the white light. Valen then raised his gauntlet, placing it over her bare stomach. It felt cold. The entirety of his hand was larger than her torso. She felt a knot in her stomach when the rune beneath her began to glow, then soon after felt nothing more. She could only see with her eyes and mind. Even if she attempted to move her body was no longer able to, the nerves in her body felt dead.

    ¡°The augmentation I will be performing upon her is to increase both her strength and speed when the runes are active. Just as you would assume for any other enchantment in runic language, strength stems from both the burning flame and unyielding stone. Speed comes from the flowing waters and ravaging winds. Because this is a momentous occasion, and Farra is a dear pupil, I shall expend some of our most precious resources in etching these runes to ensure a proper and strong fit. You would do this for any weapon you wish to be potent in its enchantments, but the necessity to do so for an individual is doubly so, for failure in their body''s runes could be more than just costly in battle.¡±

    Picking up a fine brush with various inks at his side, Valen dipped the brush in a jet black ink, as nearly all of them were if not the darkest shades of different colors. Using one hand to procure two trinkets that were in fact the bones of some creature, he set one upon each of the back of Farra''s hands. Around them he proceeding to drag the brush, effortlessly transcribing a complex rune upon each of her hand''s dorsal sides. He then touched the tip of his gauntlet to each, a gentle wave resonating throughout the ink, proceeding the process for the other.

    ¡°I have the convenience of being able to perform this spell with no sort of assistance, however in this is a very exact and critical detail. Do not let the ink transcribed upon the subject dry or distort, the latter for more obvious reasons. It is necessary to ensure the ink''s remaining wet, you will see why shortly.¡±

    Farra''s body gained no more sense back with the passage of time, the rune Valen utilized surely was more than potent enough to put her in a near permanent state of paralysis it seemed. Her body only naturally breathed, her heart relaxed as it felt no inkling of what was occurring. From her mind, she could see each rune Valen was choosing to transcribe upon her, numerous segments directing the flow of magic from one rune to the next, with conjoined elemental runes acting as the centerpieces of various parts of her body. Often a grouping of elemental runes were placed so close together, so exact, that Farra felt it could be interpreted as a combination of all four elements. But at times Valen would switch to an even finer brush, ensuring to distinguish the detail, picking up any drop of ink he felt out of place with the tip of his gauntlet. By the time he finished with the brush, Farra''s hands, feet, legs, arms, shoulder blades, and hips all possessed runic markings of varying sizes.

    ¡°It is important, when considering the augmentation of the individual, that you are not etching or enchanting an object, but rather one of body and mind. This is where most of your understandings will begin to wane, and we venture into territory truly associated with this process.¡±

    Valen continued by setting more varying trinkets upon Farra''s abdomen, forehead, and chest, then transcribing three runes of numerous markings and interconnecting symbols to form a single runic grouping upon Farra¡¯s body which Kaladin himself gawked at, unsure of Valen''s designs. Through her sight, Farra knew Valen to be utilizing in some way the same rune she saw on the spine of the book. It was life, and another was spirit, conjoined with various markings directing to the varying runes.

    ¡°You see though the means to apply strength and speed are simple in concept, when dealing with the entirety of the body then even within one such as Farra it is critical to consider how the power of the runes be transferred and balanced throughout, lest you want someone feeling as if their body is horribly contorted, agonizing, and to cause them to wish for a swift death.¡±

    Valen looked down, gazing into Farra''s eyes whom had steeled herself thus far, though she felt nothing and did not think the drawing of runes upon her was as intimidating as his words. His gauntlet hovered over her face, taking one more brush to etch three more runes, one upon each of her cheeks, the higher parts of each rune coming close to overlapping with her bestial birth markings. Valen brushed the hair from Farra¡¯s eyes, lowering a fine brush against her forehead to transcribe the third rune.

    ¡°We shall now begin the final aspect of the process. One that could be considered of similar nature to that of etching upon a weapon. It is at this point where you may no longer turn back once beginning, unless you wish to make someone''s body ever susceptible to magical exposure. I ask for this reason pupils, that all of you refrain from any sort of magics for any reason. To ensure her safety this light shall drain the air of residues.¡±

    The light that had been white until now above them turned into a lucent amethyst at Valen¡¯s touch, one Farra was familiar with. Farra saw Valen take the needle that was brought to him between to fingers, holding it with surprising dexterity given the size of his hands, lowering it beginning at her foot. The needle slid inside, pricking into her flesh and sliding along the wet runes, slicing her body in the shape of the rune whereupon the ink began to seep into her skin in the same formation. From her body blood oozed forth, but with his other hand at a position far away, he held the blood in place, forcing it to slide back into the parted flesh and bind with the ink inside of Farra.

    The feirin could only feel the tiniest of pricks on her end, but the sight of what was happening to her body caused her mind to shiver. Valen continued his work, bit by bit the ink he worked on last would fade into her skin, into markings that one could see if trying to discern a healing wound of near the same color as one''s skin. Some students reeled back, seeing the blood flow from Farra''s bare body. One student whispered to another, commenting on the tremendous amount of mastery Valen needed to be controlling Farra''s seeping blood as he did.

    Finally, Valen arrived to Farra''s face. She winced even though she could not feel. She fully expected the pain of a needle being threaded inside and dragged along her skin, cutting her flesh apart. The tip of the needle pricked and penetrated into one cheek, shifting along and cutting it. Her mind shivered then relieved at the needle pulling away from her cheek, only for it to stab inside and begin the process on her other cheek.Valen examined the final rune on her forehead, pausing for a moment. It was in that brief moment, that if Farra could ever feel Valen''s eyes they were gazing straight into her, but she knew not what sentiment they might have carried. His hand raised, the needle dropped, and the last rune began to complete itself when blood seeped. The blood, oozing and capturing the ink, retracted back inside Farra¡¯s forehead with the motion of Valen¡¯s hand.

    ¡°This completes a little over half the process. Because the composition of threading her wounds could compromise the design or latent state of the runes, I would recommend if at all possible, to let one lay and naturally recover. However, there is still her other side to do, and so we will now put her to sleep for the sake of finishing this in a single lesson.¡±

    Valen held his open gauntlet over Farra''s face, and she faded into sleep.

    Farra had no concept of how much time passed when she woke, but when she did her body ached in curious formations, as if the symbols etched upon her were stinging and not her body. Teilve sat on her desk, Erres leaning against the tower wall, seeing her begin to rustle from atop the workbench. The very same amethyst light remained filling the room, and so it felt to Farra that no time might have passed at all, though the change in presences in the room suggested otherwise.

    Teilve laughed, a bit differently than usual. It betrayed a sense of relief in him that Farra woke. Erres pushed off the wall, standing silent before speaking when the feirin raised her head.

    ¡°There was no need for this.¡±

    Farra smiled, a tear rising from her eye, knowing that she had in one way disappointed her lord. But it was her hope that this single disappointment would pave the path for opportunity to make amends for the woes she had already caused him.

    ¡°There is no way to turn it back now my lord. Forgive me.¡±

 Chapter 9: Burdens and Woes

    It wasn''t the fault of any memory or reservation. It was only practicality. Farra stood beyond the center of the council structure¡¯s court and beyond the platform extending toward where water flowed from the mountainside. She stood underneath the single tree that stood as a testament to the possibility of life within lands dictated by conflict. She was atop a large verdant pedal, floating on the water and seeming as if it could give in to the feirin''s slender frame at any point. Farra was clothed in a worn robe, fashioned in a style she had become accustom to as she grew, light and cut along the sides to not suffocate her arms. But in this instance the back was also open, exposing her pale skin. Her rear lie obscured by her tails that blossomed over the years passed. They were symbols of magical standing for any feirin, cherished among her kind as something to be proud of. But for her they were merely a nuisance, only battling more and more against the movement of their owner as time went on and becoming a target for her opponents.

    The water splashed onto her head and shoulders, rushing down her body. Her hair was drenched and flowing downward, parted by the bending of her arms. In one hand she held her curved blade, its edge shining by the glow of the creatures emitting their light and dancing upon the water. She squinted, gazing upward into the darkness. The blade nearing the base of her tails and tapping against them with grace. Farra breathed. Though she knew what others might think of this, she cared little. It would be painful, but it also felt necessary. It was another stepping stone to patching her weaknesses and making her stronger. With one hand holding the beginning of her tails taut, she clenched her teeth, followed by the twist of her other hand. It halted, then twisted further, encountering resistance several times. Her mind was numb with pain, holding its agony inside only to complete the task before her screaming filled the air. The blade cut through, slicing each of her tails off, stopping before reaching her wrist despite the harrowing pain clouding her mind. Each tail, representing a feirin''s natural beauty and majesty fell upon the leaf pedal, tainting it with blood. The edges of the pedal gave way to their weight, letting them drift off into the water below. Her blood flowed, painting her white lower back red, trickling down along her backside painting the bottom of her robe a dark red.

    Footsteps came charging down from the council hall¡¯s entrance to identify the cause for the screaming. Temple guards looked on in a mixture of confusion and disbelief. Her heart pounded. Farra''s body felt hot underneath the cool flowing water that was fruitless in the effort to soothe her nerves and mind, only masking the scarce tears flowing down her eyes.

    At least one concern in this moment of searing pain was alleviated; her tails had nothing to do with her sight. They were useless as she had come to suspect. Her head sunk downward and indigo eyes shut as the pain echoed throughout her body, spilling throughout her starting from the base of her chopped tails all the way to her mind and feet. Despite seeing the rushing footsteps in her mind accompanying the yelling of concerned soldiers, she couldn¡¯t pay them any attention. Instead she focused on quelling the pain and her screams, panting underneath the waterfall, adapting to the pain in her mind so she could at last manage words.

    ¡°Farra, explain yourself.¡± The guard standing at the forefront of the group spoke, his voice full of uncertainty as he slowly edged forward onto the pathway stemming to the waterfall.

    Her hand loosened, dropping the blade into the waters below, the blood adorning it washing off into the water. She took a deep breath, turning to face the soldiers.

    ¡°I require a mender at once.¡± She panted, her words coming in the guise of a struggling request and order, stifling her body¡¯s desire to scream.

    She lifted a bare foot, stepping to the edge of the pedal. When her foot came down, the pedal gave way, collapsing partway into the water, her body along with it. Only her head, perhaps the part of her that desired to be embraced by the cool embrace of the water the most, failed to dip inside. The water enveloping her body chilled and stung, wrapping over the bleeding stubs and stinging. By the time she picked herself from the water, most her hair was drenched when she began wading through in slow, shivering motions. Whether her trembling was from the water''s chill or the pain she was feeling was indeterminable. She reached a hand back, touching the air in place of where her tails once were, reaching closer to her back, feeling the blood flow from the stubs of varying shape.

    ¡°I was doing away with inconveniences.¡± She spoke curt and sharp, her voice shaking as she reached an arm up toward the end of the walkway. Two guards rushed forward, taking hold of her hands and grabbing her arms to help her from the water. Her robe dripping with pink-tinted water which became darker with every drop, draping down far enough to cover down only to her thighs. But despite her lack of covering, none of the guards present dare comment on her wardrobe or so much as think anything a lecherous thought of the feirin.

    ¡°How long is it until Lord Erres and the Warlords require my presence Tsaren?¡± Her breathing was harsh. A guard reached through his pocket, procuring a red herb and handing it to Farra. She took it with a quaking hand, consuming it without hesitation in an effort to inhibit the pain spanning throughout her. Another guard crouched, reaching into the water to retrieve her sword, gagging briefly when a bloodied white-haired and black-tipped tail drifted within his view.

    ¡°I was on the way to request you now. We were unsure of where you wandered until hearing the screaming.¡± Tsaren held a hand over the top of his helmet, tapping against it in thought.

    ¡°It was not as clean as I had hoped.¡± She gave a nod to each guard that aided her up before stepping past them with a trail of dripping blood following her.

    ¡°Farra wait for a mender at least. This is ridiculous.¡± Tsaren¡¯s voice rose in a protest, observing her blood begin to coat the council court¡¯s ground.

    ¡°I cannot keep them waiting. Have the mender meet me outside the temple.¡±

    The soldiers gawked as she continued on, only wrapping the back of her robe snug around her stubs to stymie the bleeding. The guard that fetched her sword rushed behind her, bowing his head as he extended the sheathed blade out to her.

    ¡°Why are you bowing?¡±

    ¡°Forgive me Miss Farra.¡±

    ¡°No formalities are necessary, and even then.¡±

    She took another heavy breath with a wince. The guard shrank away, confusing her attempts to control her pain with disdain. Tsaren pulled on his arm and whispered. The guard then rushed forward outside the council amphitheater, taking care to not step too close to the bleeding feirin as he passed her.

    Farra continued forward, the guards exchanging a mixture of concerned and fearful glances as they followed behind Farra, whispering among themselves.

    ¡°One of us should clean the blood shouldn''t we?¡±

    ¡°if we let it dry and the next council came, someone would be punished.¡±

    Farra halted, her hands clenching like claws, expelling a jolt of pain from her mind.

    ¡°If any of you have some sort of vial or any other means to gather liquid, collect my blood and send it to Lord Valen. I know he finds blood magic and its research detestable, but it would be a squandered opportunity.¡±

    Tsaren turned to a guard, handing a cloth and directing the individual to go soak up the blood at once in an effort to preserve it.

    ¡°Forgive me Farra, we will not so brazen as to the collect the blood...dripping from you.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t contest your decision. Another red herb, please.¡± Her head pounded, she held her palm to her forehead when she continued on, an uncontrollable tear leaking from an eye.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Tsaren stepped to her side, handing her a second red herb.

    The group continued outside. This pain she felt was merely another barrier to overcome. She had incurred numerous wounds over her years as a soldier and none proved grievous enough to leave lasting damage. The act of cutting her tails was merely another pain. She took a breath, crossing her arms and placing her hands upon opposite elbows, the draping robe covering her arms as she continued forth in her usual gait.

    ¡°Tsaren, it has been a short while since I''ve been on the temple grounds, has the construction of an additional garrison been facilitated?¡± She gazed out toward the grounds below the promenade, scrutinizing the bluffs for any newly erected structures before her gaze drifted upward toward a waning moon while she grit her teeth.

    ¡°The problem remains the same since your last visit, resources and all.¡±

    ¡°As a captain of the guard and quartermaster for the temple, where do you think this issue is stemming from?¡±

    ¡°I''m afraid I cannot discuss such matters outside of a council with someone who is only in the position of an officer, even if you are in Lord Erres and Lord Valen''s most esteemed court. And even discounting that, this is an improper setting for the conversation.¡±Tsaren¡¯s voice carried respect for the feirin, but drew a stern line in iterating where his responsibilities lie.

    ¡°Your response is enough to confirm my thoughts then. I have seen with my own two eyes a degree of the problem in the western lands. However there are numerous aspects I expect still need to be verified.¡±

    ¡°Farra, suppose all the projects both lords seek are completed, how do you suppose we sustain them? Lord Mellor has affirmed his alliance with Lord Valen and Lord Erres out of practicality of there not being a better alternative in his words, but that doesn''t mean this course is practical itself either. Ample food to sustain the temple is difficult enough to procure, if one intends to garrison a troop here then it will exacerbate the issue. The soldiers also require entertainment. Brothels are explicitly forbidden on the temple grounds, but without some sort of release they will become unruly. A proper arena for soldiers to test their might with one another could be ideal, but there is the fear that among certain elements of the faction, it may become a point of contention given its purpose and the admitted waste in resources expended for its construction. I will not speak ill of the temple as our holy grounds, however geographically it is in a position far from ideal for sustaining a large force. Would it not be better to establish a base in the central lands?¡±

    ¡°Your concerns are not invalid Tsaren, but even when you cite the cruel realities of these lands, you must not lose sight of the dark reality which forces action upon us. We are pitted here to suffer, and the only option we have is to endure, either until better times chance themselves, or until we seize it for ourselves. We can only minimize the suffering and search for ways to survive and amend our problems. If the day were ever come to pass when things are not so desperate, then, while these temple grounds will not be an ideal home, they will be a suitable one rooted in our culture and beginnings.¡±

    As they neared the entrance to Belthemot''s temple, a familiar and tall-cloaked man waved, alongside the two guards that scrambled for aid earlier, with a smaller and petite figure alongside them.

    The pain still clouded a part of Farra''s mind, but she had become use to it, focusing her thoughts and mind despite a part of them being numbed by the pain.

    ¡°I have no solution for you Tsaren, one will have to be found, whether temporary or permanent that will be suitable enough for the tastes of our lords and soldiers. I am only the blade Lord Erres and Lord Valen forged with the intent to cut through this darkness so that the opportunities for change can arise. Otherwise I have little thoughts on the matter.¡± She shifted from the head of the guards to the cloaked man, stepping forth to address her.

    ¡°Farra, what is this madness I hear of you cutting your tails? Are you trying to cement your reputation for being extreme?¡± The mag pivoted on his steps and attempted to tap the gnarled wood staff against the feirin''s forehead. Her hand shot forth, catching it with a long exhale, her eyes unable to help but glare back at her friend.

    ¡°How painful is it?¡± Teilve''s voice softened, pulling the staff back and craning his head to inspect the feirin''s back. ¡°Looks like you really outdid yourself yet again.¡± He sighed, waving the petite figure over as Farra began to mutter back.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    ¡°The entirety of my back is stinging, perhaps I could describe it as feeling part of me has been carved out. But I am suppressing the urge to scream.¡± She muttered, tilting her head downward.

    ¡°Well you aren''t wrong.¡± Teilve reached into his pocket, pulling from it a dark, purple-tinted liquid. ¡°We have a mender here for now, but hold onto this. I acquired it from a beautiful alchemist Lord Mellor stationed here as an act of good faith. It''s an early attempt at a potent mixture of blue and red herbs. I imagine you''ll get more use of it than most, and that beauty gave it to me as a gift anyways, so it''s mine to give away.¡±

    ¡°Hold it for me for now then, I will be changing into a new robe.¡± Farra held a hand over her face, feeling her forehead pound again. ¡°And thank you Teilve.¡±

    The mage smiled back as the small girl wearing a tunic, not unlike one Farra wore when she was younger save for its attached hood, peeked from behind Teilve nervously. Her ragged, moderately curly and brown hair fell past her shoulders. Atop her head was a small metal circlet embellished with a single amethyst-tinted stone, contrasting with her emerald eyes.

    ¡°A human? Her hair is not uncharacteristic of a beast. The number of humans capable of utilizing magic is a surprising thing.¡± Farra remarked, the girl briefly shying away as a consequence when Teilve set a hand on her shoulder, urging her forward.

    ¡°Us humans are resilient and magically talented individuals, what can I say?¡± The mage chuckled between his words. ¡°Gare actually happened upon her some time ago from what I understand. She''s been back and forth between here and as far as Lord Mellor¡¯s territory for tending to the wounded. Never in combat though mind you.¡±

    ¡°It''s impractical bringing someone into combat who lacks means to protect themselves, even if they are a mender.¡±

    The girl stepped forward, her head tucked as she looked past Farra''s pain-ridden gaze, gagging in her mouth upon seeing the mess of bloody stubs. ¡°I''ll do my best.¡±

    Farra made no motion to acknowledge her, only standing still to focus on scouring the pain from her mind. The girl shifted and twitched nervously, glancing to see soldiers rushing off in various directions at Tsaren''s orders, only a few including Tsaren remaining and ascending the staircase to the temple''s entrance.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting at the entrance to escort you Farra. The matters will be strictly private, Teilve and the mender are forbidden to accompany you.¡±

    ¡°Private?¡± Farra''s breathed heavily as she considered the implications, glancing to a Teilve who returned a puzzled glance. Her teeth clenched when her back began to sting intensely where her flesh was exposed. A mixture of warmth mixed with spikes of cold was spilling over her stubs and back, accompanied by turquoise light. Farra reached her hands out, latching onto Teilve''s shoulders and bracing herself against him. A fiery pain then flowed through her, feeling as if it was searing the nerves in her tail to nullify the pain.

    ¡°That should be it. Teilve we should bandage her tails. It doesn''t look pretty because of the blood, but I think it will heal.¡±

    ¡°Right.¡± He reached into a pocket, tossing a roll of bandaging past Farra and to the mender, the girl fumbling and bouncing the bandage several times before catching it, dropping her catalyst fashioned in the likeness of a chime in the process. It smacked to the ground with a hollow, wooden clink, briefly ringing into the darkness.

    Farra''s breathing steadied, letting go of the mage when a bandage soaked in oil wrapped around and bound her tails together in a tight bundle. A last tug to make sure the bandage was secure sent a twitch in Farra''s eyes.

    ¡°And with that it should heal naturally I think.¡±

    Farra stood back upright in a stature befitting a loyal retainer, turning her side to face the girl.

    ¡°What was your name?¡±

    ¡°My name?¡± The girl stammered. ¡°It¡¯s um, Naia.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for your service. Though you''re a jumpy individual, your confidence in your specialty shows. I''ll be off for now. Teilve will you still be on the temple grounds when the meeting concludes?¡± Farra gave the girl a subtle nod of her head, examining the thick bundle of bandaging that contained the remnants of her tails. She turned back forward, moving to ascend the steps despite her bloody attire.

    ¡°I''m waiting for orders myself, besides, I would''ve forced this potion upon you if I was going.¡± Teilve smiled and stepped back, slapping a hand on the mender''s head and adding another layer of discord to her hair.

    ¡°I will see you afterward then.¡±

    Tsaren awaited at the top of the staircase with two temple guards besides him. They stepped to the side once Farra cleared the last step, Tsaren motioning for her to follow behind.

    The walls of the temple were dark, and in a way, looked endlessly high. Despite an abundance of magical stones lighting the way down several hallways, the size of the temple and height of the ceiling was enough to make the walls seem as if they extended forever upward into the darkness. Each panel of walling lacked any significant designs, instead carrying an austerity which could confuse one''s sense of placement within the winding halls. After ascending another staircase and twisting around in the darkness, Tsaren and Farra turned to more branching hallways. Instead of traversing any of the long halls, they turned immediately right to come into a mighty chamber. The room¡¯s size was large enough to function as a place for others to meet and converse, spanning in a great circle whereupon on the opposite end lie another pathway.

    ¡°Is the temple entirely empty Tsaren? Save for Lord Erres and the Warlords?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I was informed the matters to be discussed are restricted, once I escort you to Belthemot''s Hall, I am to leave as well until you exit.¡±

    ¡°It sounds like many were inconvenienced by this. Surely the matters of slaves revolting are not this private.¡±

    ¡°I''m not aware of any details, in fact most weren''t even given a reason as to why they had to vacate the temple. Discretion has been taken, you''re not the first to enter here alone. But, given by some the reactions of some upon finishing, what they were told wasn''t all too warranting of all this secrecy.¡±

    They continued through the heart of the chamber, ascending a final staircase that winded about into a rising hallway. After several more steps an open hall lit by lavender candles atop a chandelier surrounded them. Directly ahead were two thrones. Several statues of armored figures rest along the walls. An elevated ground was beyond that of the thrones and largely obscured from where Farra stood.

    ¡°Maybe you should have changed out of that bloody robe before coming in the sanctum.¡± Tsaren spoke wryly in a whisper to Farra.

    ¡°The blood dripping from me is nothing but a sign of sacrifice to Belthemot himself, they will see little issue with it.¡±

    Tsaren turned back, going back down the hallway as three figures Farra saw to be Lord Erres and both Warlords stepped closer; Farra closing the distance between them in turn.

    ¡°Lord Erres, Warlord Nirkosh and Warlord Ranalian, forgive me for my hastiness, but for what reason have you called me into Belthemot''s sanctum with such secrecy?¡±

    Ranalian stepped in front. ¡°For now let us do away with formalities in order to hasten discussions. I would like not to give any an impression of the issues being discussed here having more gravity than they might initially perceive otherwise. Farra both your power and loyalty will prove an instrumental tool in quelling the several issues that have festered.¡±

    Farra nodded her head, her eyes turning to each of her superiors.

    ¡°Your task in and of itself is a simple. Slaves rioting and fleeing across our lands has left our stores of resources emaciated. Despite a majority consensus amongst the lords, we find reinforcing the temple grounds to be a proper seat of power for the War Faction impossible given the flow of resources. Lord Valen finds his territory unaffected by the events, however his lands are both the smallest and most inconsequential in terms of resources as well as slave labor. It is across Lord Erres'' eastern front, Lord Mellor''s northern reaches, and then both Lord Raom and Lady Bathalian¡¯s domains where the issues of slave uprising have occurred.¡±

    Ranalian paused, walking from Erres side to Nirkosh''s, arms crossed behind his back as he continued on in thought.

    ¡°Warlord Nirkosh and I are not fools. We realize the peculiarities of these occurrences by territory and location. We are not blind to the animosities plaguing our lords; something that has rendered all Lords'' council ineffective and created weakness in our faction. Lord Raom outright refuses to contribute a share of resources to the temple on the basis of distance, while refusing Lord Valen''s advancements in teleportation as a solution to that, even after the method has been refined. He is treating his territory like a vassal state, when it is in fact part of the War Faction''s lands as is any other Lord¡¯s territory. It is a matter before your joining Farra, however some time ago our lords did in fact cooperate and bind this faction together more wholly than it otherwise would have been.¡±

    The elf stopped, turning square to Farra, eying her stature.

    ¡°This current climate is a disgrace upon Belthemot''s name. But at the same time the established rules of our faction are in part why it functions and holds together as it does. To break them when convenient will only return to haunt us. Thus, despite the secrecy of this meeting your actions must adhere to Belthemot''s Code as any other shall also. Failure to follow them is nothing short of treason. Yet dancing on that edge is the amount of discretion your mission will require. So tell us Farra, what does treason constitute to you?¡±

    Farra took a break to choose her words, aware of her answer already.

    ¡°Warlords, my lord, treason is failure to take the actions that would best further the goals of the War Faction and the almighty Belthemot''s domain.¡±

    ¡°A fluid definition.¡± Ranalian paced again with a pause. ¡°One we expected and know you live by. However such fluidity brings us nowhere when deliberation comes, all will have their own interpretations. You are to strictly determine treason by the breaking of Belthemot''s Laws. And it will be in this instance that we vest our judgment with you as both judge and executioner. Should you find a soldier of equal rank to your own or below proving unfaithful to our laws, then you can enact punishment as you deem appropriate. If you find a lord to be unfaithful to our laws, then you must verify it with another lord before taking action to expunge the traitor. Are these instructions clear?¡±

    Farra bowed her head, Ranalian motioning an end to her bow as he stepped back.

    ¡°Then it brings us to your objectives. Fifteen moons is what you will be given. You will be given a troop at Lord Erres'' discretion and use it to patrol from the temple grounds, all the way east to Lord Raom''s domain. Any slave uprisings or tribes you encounter in your path we trust you will handle appropriately. You will be the commanding officer. Should you encounter any traitors, handle them as discussed. However, it is both I and Nirkosh¡¯s belief with this vested power you will wish pay visits to both Lord Raom and Lady Bathalian''s domains. Your time begins once you leave this room Farra.¡±

    A grunt came from the orc warlord''s mouth as he turned, his elf counterpart following suit and leaving Erres standing alone with his most loyal officer. Farra stood quiet, aware of the thoughts her lord might have given this opportunity to talk without formalities.

    ¡°You cut your tails.¡±

    ¡°You''re more than aware I always thought them a nuisance my lord. They are useless, and merely reminders of a past life that would never bear any fruit. Even as the pain still stings now, I can feel my resolution in having made the correct choice.¡± Her indigo eyes glimmered vibrantly within the lavender light, the pain in her mind had ceased sometime after the mending, her mind entirely focused on the opportunity presenting itself.

    ¡°To come in this sanctum with ruined clothing both bloodied and scant, it needs to be replaced.¡± Erres lifted his arms, taking his helmet off. Two resolute crimson eyes were in full focus, peering into Farra''s narrow gaze. A head of hair, black within the light and flowing into a reddish tint fell to his neck and past his forehead. It was unkempt and looking as if it had never been tended to. His face carried numerous scars, both from blade and flame.

    ¡°I will acquire a proper replacement before setting out then.¡± She bowed before him, it was not the first time she had laid eyes upon him, but to her seeing the man who so often led from underneath his armor was a sight she should pay her respects to. It was a man who led with his beliefs and was both stern and passionate. It was because of that very passion that Farra understood how he could lead those who might be mightier than he, but it was also how it could present opportunity for enemies. That was why in the feirin¡¯s mind, it was her place to expel the feelings that could otherwise dictate one¡¯s actions, and instead make herself the proper blade, one beyond what her lords had originally intended.

    ¡°No. The replacement you will wear has already been fashioned. Gare and Teilve will both set out with troops of their own to conduct their own missions. Neither are as discrete as yours. Farra, despite not being a mage you choose to do battle without armor out of preference. It''s reckless even if its become a signature of yours. If my most trusted soldier is putting her life on the line so boldly, then the least I can do as her leader is ensure she is given both the proper equipment and attire befitting her cause.¡± He stopped his words for a moment, turning around the room to look at the various suits of armor adorning the walls of the room.

    ¡°Farra, do you understand all the implications and opportunities within the Warlords'' instructions?¡±

    ¡°I do, and I''ve already devised my plan. I desire two spellweavers capable of activating my runes, and five soldiers. Their capability in combat is less important, I only require them as deterrents and not slowing the trek down. You may leave the more capable hands to Teilve or Gare. It is important I am not slowed down.¡±

    ¡°Then what is your estimate to Raom''s domain?¡±

    ¡°It will likely be seven moons. If I am to return here within fifteen, then I must leave ample time for the trek back, to which I morbidly suspect will be a quicker journey, but intend to visit Bathalian during. She is a meek individual despite her prideful behavior; if a blow is struck to Raom, then it will resonate within her court. However, it is not too late for either of their cooperation, strictly speaking my lord.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll count on your judgment then. If the opportunity arises, I would take pleasure in settling things with Raom.¡±

    ¡°I understand Erres, please inform Valen on my behalf then. I will set out at once. Where can I procure the equipment you''ve prepared for me?¡±

    ¡°The Oracle. You will need to make at the encampment northeast of here for your troop. One of the individuals who will act as your spellweavers is already here on the temple grounds. Take her with you when you leave. She will be waiting toward the pit.¡±

    ¡°Then the opportunity to strengthen our faction begins. And my lord, do not let your fury cloud your judgment.¡±

    Erres nodded, sliding his helmet back on, turning to walk back to the warlords seated on their thrones, glancing back to see Farra navigating down the dark hall without hesitation.

 Chapter 10: Grim Reality

    ¡°Sorry.¡± Naia bowed her head, apologizing with a stammer as they continued walking through the dark.

    ¡°It''s fine.¡±

    Farra paid little mind to petite human girl''s words. She twist her hands, continually examining the attire that had been crafted for her. It was not at all in the likeness of what she expected when hearing Erres discuss it. For every bit of respect she held for her lord, Farra did not think of him as being particularly conscious of others choices in clothing considering how many soldiers around him wore full armor. Maybe he did his research by consulting with Teilve or Valen, for each piece of cloth was indeed created with an emphasis on lightness while not sacrificing quality, taking into regard both her preferences and Erres'' embodiment of a soldier. But to leave the praise at that she knew would do her young lord an injustice. While the outfit was likely an early design on something that could be refined, woven within these fabrics were enchantments helping to amend practical shortcomings of the light clothing. It possessed minor wards against both metal and magic. Erres surely beseeched Valen himself to work with craftsmen in creating this raiment for Farra.

    Similar to the what she wore at a younger age, the outfit came with two simple black stockings made from a fabric likely fashioned from the webs of iliomats. Each sock rose high. covering more than halfway past her kneecaps. Meeting the leggings but also obscuring their end was the beginning of the her dark gray tunic''s hem. Along it was a deep-crimson lacing which connected to a multitude of runic imprints, and across her tunic''s breast was a single red blade. The tunic itself lie open, exposing halfway up her sides and to her armpits when she shifted her arms. To compensate for the exposure the tunic conceded was a tighter black top underneath wrapping all along her chest and upper back, composed of the same material as her tunic. A garment similar in purpose adorned her lower body starting at the waistline, resulting in what would have been no restriction to her tails, let alone the remaining stubs. She twisted her arm, seeing how the cloth drifted through the air as sleeves shifted. Each sleeve draped like a curtain, and when she kept her arms close to her body acted as more than enough to cover the exposed sides. The sleeves were loosely binded to her tunic; if necessity arose she was able to be detach the sleeves at a moments notice through two red ties that bound the outfit together. Emblazons decorated her outfit, sporting the knowledge and heroism of each of her dear lords, making it apparent her role as their representative.

    Black gloves covering all Farra''s fingers and thumbs provided cover for both half of her palm and half of the back of her hand; they were garments she had become particularly accustom to over the years. On her feet were two short black boots with a thick heel Farra was more than accustom to moving in. To complete the outfit however was a separate piece of clothing entirely. It was a long and black robe which despite being thin, she found to sometimes would clump with the flowing sleeves. It was a proper hooded robe that fell all the way past her knees and smothered her arms. Hastened stitching could be seen along the backside, likely an amendment after Farra had cut her tails. Farra knew in a moment upon seeing it how she was intended to walk with her arms folded while wearing it, something she built a habit of on her own. It shared its own enchantments she had been informed of, but they were merely for utility in shielding against various weathers, as the lords suspect she would not fight in such a cumbersome outfit. The designs on it were intricate, crimson and mauve just as the colors Erres and Valen typically preferred.

    ¡°...do you think the encampment is?¡±

    Farra blinked, realizing she had become lost in her admiration of the clothing, turning to the girl, one of the two individuals accompanying her from the temple grounds.

    ¡°Repeat that.¡± She remarked, fixated on Naia as they continued forward.

    ¡°I apologize,¡± Naia quaked again, ¡°I should have respected your personal thoughts.¡± The girl pulled her arms in around her stave, becoming ashamed and nervous under the feirin''s gaze, trying to shy away from it but feeling compelled to honor Farra''s attention.

    ¡°Nonsense. What was it you wanted to know?¡± Her fingers shifted, held together and obscured by the sleeves, pulling her head from the human girl''s direction after noticing signs of her uneasiness.

    ¡°I just wanted to know how much longer. Until the encampment that is.¡±

    ¡°We will be there before the moon shrinks any. Do you need help carrying that bag?¡±

    The girl waved her hands emphatically. ¡°No no, nothing like that. I can carry this bag don''t worry Miss Farra.¡± She clenched the strap of a brown bag she had been given to carry on their travel to the outpost Erres designated the majority of supplies and soldiers Farra required would be at. But within the bag and another the soldier traveling with them carried were supplies difficult to find outside the temple grounds. Inside of each bag muffled clinking cushioned by something could be heard, supplies Farra would require for purposes relating to runes.

    ¡°Miss?¡± Farra responded in a monotone voice, turning back forward without another word. The girl became unnerved by her officer''s sudden silence, searching for a way to restart the conversation.

    After a period of silence, Farra spoke, breaking through the quiet that discomforted Naia, and unknown to the girl, Farra as well.

    ¡°I haven''t received your name yet.¡± Farra spoke, looking ahead.

    ¡°Nai-¡±

    ¡°Keretas, Miss Farra.¡± The soldier carrying the much larger bag in comparison spoke. He was in nearly full armor as typical of soldiers under Erres, however his helmet contained two holes near the forehead, allowing two dark horns to poke through from the helmet.

    ¡°Miss Farra?¡± Farra repeated it inaudible to either soldier besides her under her breath in a slight sullen voice before speaking aloud. ¡°I am no Miss, nor do I possess any other noteworthy title. My understanding is you will be staying at the encampment as a sentry?¡±

    ¡°Yes Miss Farra.¡± Keretas tilt his head down in respect, continuing to march on beside them.

    ¡°I see, and you Naia will be one¡ª¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± She yelled back before Farra could finish her words, having dived into her own thoughts of embarrassment upon having tried to tell Farra her name a second time, snapping out of her trance once the feirin called her name.¡±

    ¡°-one of the spellweavers accompanying me?¡±

    Naia''s face flustered, seeing the indigo eyes drop to her. Farra blinked awaiting an answer, her face relaxing as straight as it typically did.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Naia paused glancing at the ground, turning back to the feirin only to find she was faced back forward again. ¡°Miss Farra.¡±

    Farra felt her eyes twitch the slightest amount, her body shifting under the robes at this sudden manner of addressing her like few ever had. ¡°Yes Naia?¡± She didn''t turn this time, concerned her face might carry an inkling of her irritation about the matter.

    ¡°Are you upset with me? Your eyes and gaze feel very sharp so often. Other soldiers say you seem angry a lot, and I can see why.¡± Naia''s voice shrank with each moment of elaborating.

    Farra stopped her step for a split second, resuming it in nearly the same instant.

    ¡°I apologize, but I cannot help how my face relaxes. It should be known to you and amongst soldiers that I don''t harbor animosity for our soldiers. So you shouldn¡¯t feel intimidated by me Naia, only those I perceive to do ill upon the War Faction and our dear Lords should fear having my disdain.¡± Farra turned back to Naia, managing a smile in an attempt to reassure her, one that the girl felt her heart skip a beat upon seeing. The feirin''s cracked smile was more off-putting than her typical gaze.

    ¡°I understand, you needn''t force yourself to smile Miss Farra.¡± She shook her head back and forth. ¡°There''s a lot of stories about you though, and the way I had to heal your tails when we first met, it all makes the stories seem not so unbelievable.¡± A brief silence fell between them as Farra took a moment to contemplate Naia''s words. A mellow wind blew through the darkness, rustling the few roots attempting to stem from cracks in the stone-like dirt.

    ¡°I can''t say anything of these stories without details. I simply strive to perform the duties Lord Erres has come to expect of me. Isn''t that what anyone would do for something or someone they are committed to?¡± Farra''s hand shifted under her garments, reaching to her waist and unsheathing her blade, holding it in front of her to examine the engravings along its black metal. ¡°Unless you clear your mind of its doubts and focus on your objective, then you will hesitate. And in that moment you might more than fail your duties. Isn¡¯t that something anyone should strive for in the vaguest sense? But enough of that, I can see the outlines of the post in the distance.¡±

    Naia turned, straining her eyes to see as far into the darkness as Farra. After forcing her eyes to adjust and coming closer to the outpost, she identified not only the outlines of several structures, but a stack of smoke carrying a cerulean blue lighting within it, rising from behind the largest building. She turned to Farra and Keretas, doubling back to the smoke to confirm whether her eyes may have deceived her.

    ¡°I think there''s smoke coming from over there.¡±

    Naia halted her step, wondering if either of the two would express any concern, looking around the darkness. ¡°That doesn¡¯t concern either of you?¡± She stammered within her breath, prancing forth to keep pace with Farra and Keretas who kept moving.

    ¡°It''s unusual yes. But it is not our duty to shy away with something is amiss. You are permitted to stay along the outskirts if the outpost if you so wish, I will have a soldier send for you after any issues are settled.¡±

    ¡°But that all seems dangerous. Shouldn''t we come up with some sort of plan?¡±

    ¡°Anyone brazen enough to cause issue this deep within our lands is either a fool or someone we cannot plan for. But it''s a waste to overthink it, just stay behind me, you are safer by my side if something is amiss. Be ready to activate my runes if need be.¡±

    Naia looked on, clutching her wooden chime tight in an effort to expel her anxiety.

    ¡°How¡­exactly do I enchant your runes again?¡±

    ¡°As if you were infusing any object with energy for enchantment, don¡¯t fret over the elemental composition, just ensure it isn¡¯t an offensive spell.¡±

    Farra craned her head, examining a structure that lied outermost from the center of the camp, looking over its entrance for any signs of clashing. Naia shook whilst following close behind, playing out the enchanting of Farra several times in her mind, accidentally pelting her with a bolt of fire.

    ¡°There''s nobody inside the slave quarters. This post is mostly used as a place of transit for both soldiers and slaves alike. Keretas would you happen to know the scheduling for slave transports, you did say you were to be a sentry here correct?¡±

    ¡°Yes Miss Farra, but I haven''t been disclosed many details of my duties as of yet, I was told there would be an officer here awaiting me.¡±

    ¡°I see, if any fighting breaks out, focus on preserving your life and the bag. I¡¯ll protect Naia.¡±

    ¡°Understood.¡± Keretas drew a long blade from his side.

    Farra drew the blade beneath her robes, walking toward the center of encampment. She glanced about, looking over various structures before gazing to the meeting hall and calling.

    ¡°Come out. Lord Erres sent me to retrieve a troop for my expedition. What has happened here?¡±

    A single armored individual stepped from around the hall''s entrance, a stocky and muscled orc looking on sheepishly as he stepped into the open to answer the call. Despite his outward appearance, the orc''s stature shrunk the closer it came to Farra. The feirin''s eyes looked over the individual before deciding to sheath her blade.

    ¡°Be at ease, you are a soldier are you not?¡±

    The orc grunted with a nod, looking at both Naia and Keretas before returning to Farra¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Then there''s no need for concern, though I wouldn''t enjoy having to sit idly alone in the darkness anymore than you. Tell me why no one is here other than you. And why there is smoke over just beyond the hall.¡±

    The orc cleared his throat and shook off his diminutive stature, standing at attention.

    ¡°We were attacked by a tribe suspected to be located nearby. They had with them a young man who we believed to be a chosen spouting things about justice and heroism. He killed one of our soldiers when they attacked the us. Talian decided against further fighting and ordered us to swiftly retreat northwest into the darkness to dissuade further aggression. He sent two scouts to follow the tribe back to their home. They used some sort of tracking scroll to alert Talian when they found the beasts'' home.¡±

    Farra fiddled her fingers along her elbows in thought, looking about the structures in an attempt to recreate the scene of the attack in her mind.

    ¡°All the slaves escaped with their lives then?¡±

    The orc nodded his head in vigorous affirmation.

    ¡°I think so Lady Farra¡ª¡±

    ¡°I am no Lady.¡±

    ¡°Yes Farra,¡± his stance wavered as he continued, ¡°Unless the tribe wanted to kill the slaves they rescued, there shouldn¡¯t be lives lost.¡±

    ¡°Save for our soldier. Talian had the right of things then, and you all did well to heed his orders given a fellow soldier was slain. Still, explain to me the smoke.¡±

    ¡°I made it as a request for backup using a scroll laying around. It¡¯s by the stables too, keeping the animals warm.¡±

    Farra blinked twice, slowly nodding her head.

    ¡°Very well, Keretas will be your backup. It''s unwise to remain in the darkness alone, even if within our lands. As far as am I aware there will be no more soldiers arriving, extinguish whatever magic is creating that smoke and be on your guard. How numerous are our soldiers and their tribe?¡±

    ¡°About twelve soldiers set out with Talian, then there are the two scouts they''ll meet up with. The camp was holding I think thirty slaves or so, and other soldiers were saying we were attacked by about twenty. Talian told us the camp was to the east around the plateaus.¡±

    ¡°I would presume the tribe left bodies incapable for combat or whom necessary to look after the young in case of failure back at their tribe then. If you and Keretas can manage, clean the slave quarters some, it will be quite crowded after we return. Expect as many as three or four to a single room.¡±

    ¡°Your bag Miss Farra?¡± Keretas hoisted higher, having begun to droop it from his shoulder after staying still for so long.

    ¡°Take the bag from Naia as well and stow them away inside the meeting hall, if I find either bag has been tampered with at all, there will be a severe punishment. Unless Lord Erres or Lord Valen themselves come in my absence, no one is to touch it. Treat it as your top responsibility coupled with your own survival.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Both men affirmed, Naia letting out a sigh as she was relieved of the bag she had endured carrying from the temple grounds, fearful of rousing any negative sentiment from Farra. Her shoulder ached as she shifted her arm to see how stiff she had become, her own personal bag remaining with her across her opposite shoulder.

    Farra turned, motioning with her hand for Naia to follow. The girl let out another deep breath of air before springing forth to keep with her superior.

    ¡°Twenty attacked this camp...that sounds like a lot. Are you certain of this?¡±The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°Undoubtedly. Even without my intervention, Talian would have things under control. But with him also lies the rest of our party, waiting around at the outpost for their return is tiresome. Any sort of unnecessary injury to our soldiers would also be troublesome, there is no demerit in our providing reinforcement. I also wish to meet this chosen fancying himself a hero as well.¡±

    ¡°Right, you seem to have thought this all through already.¡± Naia gulped as they head toward the outline of cliffs shadowing whose shadows created by the moonlight consumed the visage of hills in the distance.

    ¡°There are still many things that remain perplexing, but I cannot let uncertainties be cause for a lack of action. As critical as a plan may be, indecision can unravel one''s strategies at the seams, while a deliberate and hastened strike can foil your enemy''s intent.¡±

    The last crescent of the moon faded from the sky, darkness settling in all across the land, concealing the movements of both Farra and Naia as they traveled up and down dried hills, devoid of grass and vegetation. Small creatures would reel their head at the two before scurrying or slinking away, the sound of a brief hiss or movement the only hint to the mender girl that a creature was there at all. She should jump closer to the feirin''s robes who did nothing to assuage the fears, but at the same time made no movements concerning how close Naia would press into her side, simply continuing onward toward their destination. Eventually the girl''s embarrassment would take over her, pulling away from the robes until she was scared again.

    ¡°I would have thought some creatures would prevent a tribe from establishing a home here, though perhaps maybe that''s exactly why they were able to. It''s understandable this place wasn''t scouted before, but to settle so close to one of our outposts. I doubt its being purely coincidence.¡± Farra mused aloud. As soon as the two ascended a hill, down below they could see a flame along the side of a high-rising cliff with a handful of armored soldiers pressed along the edge, two individuals sitting just beyond them bound by rope and gagged.

    ¡°They haven''t started in full quite yet it seems.¡±

    The two hurried down the hill, the eight soldiers in total turning upon hearing Naia''s boots smack the ground.

    ¡°Identify yourself.¡± An armor soldier readied his blade, calling hushed as every other soldier readied their weapons, straining his eyes to see who was descending the hill.

    ¡°I¡¯m Farra. Where are the others?¡± She lowered the hood of her robe, the runes inscribed on her cheeks discernible with a slightly paler tone under the light, her birth markings reaching along her cheeks being more prominent by comparison. ¡°Any other conversations can wait until later.¡±

    The soldiers'' apprehension disappeared as they relaxed their arms, replaced with inconsistent bows among them. A thin reptilian-looking individual with blue scales all across his body and two yellow eyes that glimmered within the light continued speaking on.

    ¡°Within these cliffs is a narrow pathway that winds up to the top top of one of these cliffs, we''re fairly confident the tribe that attacked is nestled away there. These two were sentries perched on the cliffs. The scouts couldn''t go any further than that without risking combat, so we don''t know much about their camp outside of what Talian and the others are finding out now.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure these two had no means of warning their camp?¡± She walked up to one of the bound individuals, a beast with unkempt short hair and two floppier, furred ears atop his head.

    ¡°Not exactly, but we did capture them without any sort of magic or light going off. The scouts made sure there were no other ways around the plateau to get down. Unless there are beasts who can fly or with flight magic up there, they should be stuck.¡±

    ¡°We lack the ability to pursue such an escape in any case, it''s not worth considering. Even if some were capable, they will be leaving at least thirty-two presumably, and that will be all we need to ensure they come back. Talian and the other soldiers are atop the plateau then?¡±

    ¡°Or in the pathway somewhere.¡±

    ¡°Then let us go, this is a mender and spellweaver tasked to accompany me, she has no combat experience but I will look after her in any event.¡±

    ¡°Should we be bringing her into combat then?¡± The yellow-eyed reptilian looked Naia up and down, seeing her to be looking around for some way out of the situation.

    ¡°That''s what I''ve been thinking.¡± Her voice came with shaking, unable to hold her chime steady. She glanced around to each soldier who looked her over as the subject of conversation. The feeling felt unfamiliar. She was accustom to receiving attention on the basis of being a mender, mostly attention akin to gratitude, but here she doubt about being brought into battle.

    ¡°Of course, you will enchant me when it comes to it Naia.¡±

    ¡°But what if I mess up? Or what if they come for me?¡±

    ¡°All you have to do is focus your energy into me, nothing more, think of me as nothing more than a blade or some other object to pour your energy into if that creates a picture for you, it is the basis of enchanting.¡±

    The reptile spoke in place, ¡°There is a spellweaver accompanying Talian, he can do the job too.¡±

    ¡°It''s fine, this girl will need her experience in combat, otherwise she won''t survive our expedition. In my company should be one of the safest places for her to gain it.¡±

    Naia and the scaled lizard both nodded, the former beginning to breath harder despite no movements. She looked around as the soldiers hoisted the prisoners up, carrying them through the pass behind Farra. The mender rushed across to Farra''s side, not wanting to be caught around the soldiers. The crevice between the cliffs was hidden amongst the hills, and beginning to wind around and slowly rise. The path ascending it was not clear, but distinct markings made by a blade signaled which path to take to further climb the rocky plateau.

    ¡°How many are there Talian?¡± Farra spoke, her sight making her long aware of movements within the darkness before her eyes could. The ascent itself masked the feirin''s arrival from onlookers despite the soldiers'' movements betraying their presence. The remaining soldiers from took cover behind a protrusion from the cliff-side. A man came forward from the line, garbed in a thin black outfit with minimal armor, wearing a mask that covered the entirety of his face with a skeletal visage.

    ¡°Counting the escapees, probably around seventy. Quite impressive really, they must be reaping a significant amount of the creatures around this plateaus to be surviving one would think.¡± He spoke in a calm and suave manner, none taken aback by Farra''s sudden presence, staying fixated toward numerous tents in the distance with campfires between them.

    ¡°We could have taken them, but perhaps not without some injuries at best. They definitely know were here, but they don''t know in what number, and they can''t seem to settle on what to do seeing as they haven''t attacked when they should hold a clear advantage of knowing this area over us.¡±

    ¡°Unless they don''t know this area at all.¡± Farra interjected, looking yonder to the campfire whereupon some beasts made it obvious they knew of their presence. ¡°I find it peculiar a single tribe numbers forty by your estimate, and a tribe would be so brazen to attack our encampment, or locate so closely to it.¡±

    ¡°I thought the same, though from what our scouting could discern, they seem to have children with them. So it''s not an impromptu collection of adventurous beasts either looking to do battle.¡±

    ¡°Let''s not waste anymore time here, I have things to attend to.¡± She motioned to Naia to come with her. ¡°Talian, keep two soldiers guarding these prisoners and the way down the cliff. Surround the encampment with the rest of the soldiers. I have no desire for unnecessary conflict or death. A number are slaves who are malnourished and cannot flee or fight. I would suspect their rescuers would not be so quick to abandon them given the labors already gone through.¡±

    Naia remained still for a moment, seeing soldiers turn to her when Farra continued ahead, finding their glances and marching frightening, sending her scurrying forward behind the feirin. Behind her the rumbling of metal, greaves, and sabatons continued, soldiers beginning to spread different directions, Talian himself and four soldiers following at a distance behind Naia and Farra.

    ¡°Naia.¡±

    ¡°Yes Farra?¡± She gazed up with trembling eyes, squeezing the handle of the chime, the wooden bells clinking together with faint rings.

    ¡°Sometimes the least brutal and violent way to avoid a battle is to present the opposition with overwhelming force and power to begin with. When you enchant me, you will undoubtedly be saving the lives of the beast tribe and potentially our soldiers alike. Think of it as an alternative way to fulfill your duty as a mender¡ªpreventing unnecessary loss to begin with.¡±

    The girl''s mouth was agape as she considered Farra''s words, taking a small breath and managing to shut them, nodding her head and shaking off her shivering.

    As they neared the camp and light began to illuminate their figures, numerous beasts, both men and women turned, some children hiding behind the legs of siblings or mothers. Most maintained features similar to the two bound sentries, but among the individuals craning their heads from inside tents, shivering in fear were a variety of beasts. Children were urged inside the tents with the fearful individuals. And toward a campfire was a youthful man, clad in platinum armor with a silvery broadsword and headband to keep the hair from his eyes. His gauntlets and boots were etched with gemstones, reflecting their glow in the fire''s light.

    ¡°I would say this is more than seventy but children diminish that number. This is quite a lucky chosen it seems too.¡± Farra let out a sigh under her robe before lifting it from her head and speaking aloud. ¡°I am Farra, an officer for Lord Erres of the War Faction. I have come to reacquire thirty slaves that were taken from a nearby encampment. Ordinarily such brazen behavior toward us would be punished, but needless violence is not in my interests. Surrender all your weapons and every individual at this encampment, child or otherwise, will return with us to our outpost. If you have supplies such as small keepsakes or food, we encourage you to bring it along. At our post you will all become slaves, but do not confuse that with a downgrade of your lives. All must do their part in these darkened lands, and I am certain that there is a level of suffering living in the darkness and scrounging to survive that could otherwise be avoided by joining us.¡± Farra took a breath, looking to Naia and speaking quietly. ¡°I do not do this kind of thing often.¡±

    Despite her fear of impending conflict, Naia looked back with a simper, relieved to see a shortcoming in Farra''s intense aura. The man in platinum armor stepped forward from the campfire, Farra and Naia themselves nearing more toward the camp as a group of beasts fled from the tent closest from them to the other side.

    ¡°Farra you said your name was? I''ve heard about the way your army treats its slaves, I''ve seen the despair across their starving and tortured faces. Nothing you say can convince me you or your Lord Erres make any sort of worthy leader. You''re nothing but murderers for your own cause.¡± He brandished his sword, gazing at the feirin''s eyes before they drifted downward rising back as she drew her blade from beneath her robe. Farra switched it between her hands as she carefully took the robe off, folding it as she could with a single hand and handing it to Naia.

    ¡°You are the supposed hero are you not? The one who claimed the life of one of our soldiers. You''re not born within this world are you?¡± The man nodded back at her before she continued.

    ¡°You are one who lacks understanding regarding this world. I had wished to meet you hoping to hear your take on what heroism is in the darkest of times. But it has become apparent that you are in fact, the one who disguises your actions under a veil, by killing a soldier then claiming us being in the wrong for having slaves who would otherwise perish in the darkness. If we had no army, then these lands would be chaotic with groups of vagabonds killing, raping, and pillaging as they please. If it was not for our god providing protection through his dominion, then people would be plucked away by the shadows themselves. You reinforce the darkness of these lands through your actions and deceit, satisfying yourself by opposing what you deem contrary to your beliefs. We are not blind to issues, I take no pleasure in seeing slaves that have never wronged me suffer. But we also are offering them protection and order, and in return for that need something from them. Here you stand now, reaping the very benefits from being within Belthemot¡¯s dominion without contribution parasite. I am not one for words, so hear my ultimatum.¡±

    She brandished her sword, eyes sharpening.

    ¡°You are a hero. I am the the strongest soldier here likely until you reach our temple grounds itself. An opportunity lies before you, defeat me, kill me, and not only will you save the people here, but you will also potentially save so many others in your eyes. So come hero. Unless you have more amicable words to spare.¡± She muttered. ¡°Naia, enchant.¡±

    The girl trembling from Farra''s words hoisted her chime high, and from it came a glow of colorless light, transfusing into Farra''s body from the back, spilling across her in a matter of moments. The runes all along Farra''s body lit. Her cheeks glowing blue and red, markings stretching down her neck and body glowing underneath her clothing a mixture of colors depending on their positioning, intertwining at times. Farra raised her blade in her right hand, plucking some of the dust from a pouch on Naia''s waist, sprinkling it over her blade. Purple and crimson runes began to glow as the blade''s edge caught ablaze.

    ¡°I see no reason for mercy toward you hero.¡±

    ¡°Neither do I demon.¡± He held out a gauntlet, one red gem within it glowing as a small fireball shot forth.

    ¡°Behind me Naia.¡± Farra twirled her arm, its sleeve swinging wide, catching and dispelling the flame. ¡°Your ignorance, it¡¯s unworkable. It¡¯s a miracle you¡¯re still alive, but it seems that fortune has ran its course..¡± She dashed forward with blinding, tremendous speed, the runes on her body shining bright as she made one swipe at the man''s sword, smacking it with such force his center was thrown off. She gazed coldly toward onlooking would-be enemies, eyes turned from the man as he regained his balance, catching his sword and bringing it around, attempting to smash its hilt into Farra. She held her blade up, halting its momentum. The man swung with his left fist toward Farra''s face, her own hand relaxing in front of where it land as soon as his punch began. She caught the fist, clenching her fingers around it, squeezing tight until bones could be heard cracking.

    ¡°Ordinarily I would not make this so gruesome, but I am making an example out of you.¡± She whispered, the man trying to pull his body back from their entanglement. She delivered a swift kick to his abdomen, launching the man back against the campfire. ¡°I see no reason for letting you live. Someone unwilling to reconcile themselves with reality is useless.¡±

    Farra looked over the edge of her flaming blade, scanning the crowd of beasts, setting her view on a man looking toward Naia.

    ¡°Touch the girl and I''ll kill the children too you coward.¡± The threat provoked him into attacking her instead. He attempt to swing down a crude stone axe, Farra swiping at it before it became to come down and slicing the head from its handle, kicking him away when a second beast tried to swing a sword at her from behind. She held her blades with both hands in front of her, turning and plunging forward in a dash, impaling the man on her sword, pulling it from his body and letting him crumble to the ground.

    ¡°One without strength cannot protect themselves let alone others, that''s a cruel reality I learned long ago. I was just a small girl, abandoned by her tribe to fend for herself. It was too much to care for me when parents had their own children. The War Faction took me in and decided to give me both purpose, desire, and direction. I don''t take any pleasure in murdering, but some don''t understand. To your feet hero.¡±

    Farra flicked her blade, tossing some of the blood coating its edge onto the ground, the remaining bits of blood boiling and evaporating by the flaming edge. Another beast rushed at her as she neared the hero, a woman who had tears streaking down her eyes. She had no weapon but instead trying to haphazardly swing.

    ¡°Your lover perhaps?¡± Farra spoke, still looking at the man pulling himself to his feet, her hand extending as she dodged a fist, reaching past the woman¡¯s head, grabbing her by the hair and twisting her down the ground, ripping out clumps of hair in the process. ¡°Tell me hero, would you have me kill her out of mercy? Or would you prefer her to live as a slave? What is the right choice in your eyes?¡±

    The man leaned over his blade, attempting to obscure it as he swing it back in an attempt to slash Farra. ¡°To hell with you.¡± He grunted, the blade flying forth with unyielding momentum. Farra¡¯s gaze remained still, stepping to the side to dodge it, slashing midway down the sword''s edge to hack it in half, the cut blade falling into two pieces on the ground. The beast that had been kicked away earlier threw a small knife at Farra, only for the feirin to hold her blade up and swipe, deflecting it to the ground. She reached to her waist side beneath her tunic, pulling her own knife from it and thrusting it toward the beast with such speed it pierced into his throat. He crumbled to the ground promptly after.

    ¡°I can kill every last one of you if you resist. Soldiers retrieve the slaves.¡±

    Tailan and his troop closed in from all around the encampment, many of the beasts shrinking in fear at Farra''s might rather than offering any semblance of resistance.

    ¡°Die as a hero would at the least.¡±

    The man''s gauntlet began to glow from a green gem as he attempted to bring a fist up. Farra dashed tight to his body, crushing his wrist with a hand and impaling him from the back upon her blade. The flame of her blade melted and let her pierce past his armor with ease, beginning to burn his insides as he let out a scream. She pulled her blade from his body, letting him fall to the ground, swiping his head with a clean cut as he fell. ¡°His armor is from outside these lands, its weak in comparison to our metals. Take his gauntlets and greaves etched with gems though, save them for Lord Valen.¡±

    She turned to the woman weeping on the ground, bruising by the impact with which Farra pulled her. ¡°He never said what to do with you. In his stead, what do you want done? You attacked me. A disobedient slave like you won''t be useful for hard labor, so you can either choose death or to become a plaything for the soldiers. Answer me or I will let efficiency answer for you.¡±

    ¡°I won''t die.¡± The woman murmured, attempting to grab onto Farra''s legs. The feirin shifted back. ¡°Please don''t touch my clothing. But you made the efficient choice I see. Thank you for your service.¡± Farra let out a breath and stepping away from the crying woman. The runes of her skin going dim as the flames of her blade glowed violently. With a slash of her blade she launched the energy that had been flowing within her through the blade and into the air, a fireball exploding into the sky.

    She sheathed her blade with a sigh, pounding her fist against her chest as if to awaken herself as Talian approached her.

    ¡°Still frightening as ever. You do a good job at looking cold and heartless.¡±

    ¡°I serve Lord Erres and the War Faction, if cold and heartless is necessary, then so be it.¡±

    Numerous soldiers continued to subdue and bind the arms of several of the beasts who have given up, a few driving their blades through and hacking the heads off those who were offered too much resistance if vile threats did not coerce the individual into cooperation, in some cases delivering swift blows and incapacitating the captives.

    ¡°We should give the orders for their enslavement, you should do it, they already think you''re evil as can be probably.¡± Talian laughed, moving to look over bound slaves, catching the fist of one trying emerging from a tent to attack him and driving a twisting dagger through the beast¡¯s arm and shoving him to the ground.

    ¡°Soldiers and slaves alike, listen. To fulfill our duty as part of the War Faction, it is necessary we do not waste life needlessly or with inefficiency. Men and women alike, offer too much resistance and prove completely noncomplying as some are now and you will be either killed or found a purpose through some other manner, whether that is tortured, a dummy for weaponry practice, forced into a brothel, or fed to creatures. Comply and you will be found some less forceful purpose such as hard labor. Slavery is by no means your end in the War Faction, slaves can become soldiers, and then new rules will pertain to you. Soldiers do not unnecessarily harm the slaves unless you wish to find punishment by mine or Talian''s hands.¡±

    Farra concluded her directions, and all the slaves were rounded up and tied together. Those unconscious were rolled into a mat and carried over the shoulder of a soldier.

    Talian moved closer to Farra, whispering. ¡°Some of the men that were disobedient I''ve ensured remain alive. I will see to their torturing for clues as to this entire event¡¯s occurrence.¡±

    ¡°That is likely for the best. I need to depart for an expedition after a brief rest upon returning. It was my original intent to take with me one spellweaver other than Naia and five soldiers, but will you be able to maintain the encampment''s security with such a large amount of slaves?¡±

    ¡°Likely not, we can definitely afford to lose a spellcaster, but five soldiers is more than a fourth of what we have now. Maybe two or three.¡±

    ¡°I''ll take two then and figure out the rest along the way, forgive me for the inconvenience Talian.¡±

    ¡°Not at all, you being here spared us quite a bit of troubles.¡±

    Farra nodded before turning to a Naia who looked on at all the happenings, seeing the dead bodies of those who defied Farra, of those who defied their captors, and the slaves being bound together and pulled along in processions in makeshift bindings. ¡°Is this how it always is?¡±

    ¡°You were a mender from the outset weren''t you? I suppose this must all be new to you. This is simply the reality of these lands.¡± Farra put a hand to Naia''s back, urging her along the caravan of slaves.

 Chapter 11: Naias Curiosity

    ¡°Seventy-two in total.¡± Talian sat atop a crate, sharpening one of his daggers on a whetstone. Beside him was a small box packing a variety of trinkets including needles, a small hammer, embalming oil, scrolls, rope, and metal clasps. ¡°We''ll need to keep our spellweaver after all for delivering a message requesting additional soldiers and instruction for how to allocate these slaves. If it''s a suitable alternative, I can request two hounds for you to take. That way you can make up for lost time and take the additional spellweaver after this place is secured.¡±

    ¡°I''ll decline. I would prefer to travel with a bit more discrepancy. Two soldiers will do, I will find the rest from Lord Mellor''s lands. Anyone light of foot who can carry these bags for me will be fine.¡± Farra turned about, looking to slaves being corralled inside a weathered building, their clothing being stripped of their bodies with tatters given to replace them.

    ¡°I have a few soldiers in mind who should do the job just fine. Where''s the girl at any rate?¡±

    ¡°She was barely rousing from rest when I came over here. A soldier can carry her while she sleeps if need be. I can''t afford to waste time.¡±

    Talian sheathed his daggers, shutting his crate of tools and pulling himself from atop his perch. ¡°Then I''ll go get your escort. I''ll need to get started on torturing. Once you leave, a few of the beasts that were here previously might feel a bit emboldened unless their situation is obvious.¡±

    Farra turned away from the slaves being confined, looking to the camp''s barracks where she suspect Naia still lay resting. The two officers parted ways, Farra turning back for a moment and calling. ¡°Talian, this is something I''m sure you''re aware of, but try to impress upon the soldiers to not needlessly brutalize the slaves. We all fight for the same purpose.¡± Talian held a hand back with a wave, acknowledging her words and continuing on.

    The moon was half full by the time Farra set out, the encampment''s blended with the darkness behind them, masking any sense of distance. Surrounding Farra on one side was a dozing Naia, yawning often underneath her hood. On her other side were two soldiers carrying the bags the feirin had initially set out with. One was the blue-scaled lizard she had met prior to the tribe''s raiding, the other was the orc who despite his temperament, sported the larger of the two bags with ease.

    Words between the traveling band fell short. They ascended the hills three of them had trekked through the prior moon, each proceeding hill cast a shadow on the previous in the scarce moonlight. The ground, dry and comprised mostly of packed dirt that was solid as stone, had only the occasional root growing from it that Naia or the orc would sometimes catch their feet on before pulling away. The typical wind was dead with only a still cold remaining to dampen the land.

    Farra steeled herself. Not only for her own sake, but for her soldiers. She was Erres'' blade, but she also possessed the duty of leading these soldiers. Normally her body would feel some amount of shivering in this penetrating darkness and silence, but being garbed in her regalia provided a sense of warmth within her. Her mission and responsibility for her soldiers kept her focus pointed, exerting her sight to scour the surroundings in detail at the slightest hint of movement. The thought of asking her soldiers to speak for the purpose of combating the isolating shadows was something she could not consider. Never was it her responsibility to oversee or manage others as a commanding officer, she attained her position by merit alone. The nuance of words was something she was far from gifted with. Yet at the same time, part of her relied on the presence of others. Wandering in the darkness alone¡ªit was another thought she did not want to consider.

    As the moon waxed, Naia yawned again, stumbling over her feet at the same time. Farra held an arm out in front of the unaware Naia, catching the girl''s stumble without turning. Naia''s cheeks and body flushed, biting her lip and turning side to side, searching for a way to open conversation to distract from the simple carelessness. After breathing quickly, causing all three soldiers to look to her as she attempted to ventilate the heat and nervousness from her body, she parted her mouth to utter a noise, seeing all their attention fixed on her.

    ¡°Aa.¡±

    ¡°Aa?¡± Farra copied the noise, her head twisting a slight amount before facing back forward.

    ¡°Human children are so very strange. I wonder if Lord Erres or any officers were like this when they were younger.¡± The blue-scaled reptile remarked, speaking to the orc who returned a fervent nod.

    ¡°Lord Erres I would imagine not. But I can certainly see Teilve being as such, looking at how he turned out.¡± Farra smiled as the group descended the last hill within sight, entering a depression of flat land containing periodic crags. The ground softened the slightest amount, becoming a slight amount softer on their feet and fostering the growth of more stray roots than the ground above.

    ¡°I was trying to thank you catching me.¡± Naia muttered quiet. It was a quiet far from enough to obscure her voice to any of the soldiers in the world''s silence.

    ¡°Then think nothing of it, it is my duty as an officer to look after soldiers as well.¡± Naia reared her head away from Farra, sighing at the feirin''s candor in lieu of an attempt of open conversation. A smirk became Naia as she glanced back.

    ¡°Farra. You mentioned Lord Erres and Teilve, do you like either of them?¡±

    ¡°Of course, Lord Erres is my lord and I serve him without hesitation. Teilve has been a companion for almost my entirety of time within the War Faction.¡±

    Naia¡¯s smirk dissolved into disappointment, letting out a breath and leaning forward to see whether either of the other soldiers understood the intended meaning of her words. Seeing them uninterested, she swallowed and decided a more forward approach, regaining a grin and deviously innocent voice.

    ¡°No no, that''s not what I meant. I mean do you love either of them? You know what love is right? You were talking about lovers briefly at...¡± Naia''s voice faded, biting her lip when the images of what occurred at the beast tribe''s camp flashed through her mind. Her stomach became a pit, admonishing herself under her breath for making light of their raid.

    ¡°I''ve considered the matter of love before.¡±

    Naia turned upward, her mouth agape as she took time to process the words escaping Farra''s mouth. The orc turned to the reptile who returned the look with a shrug of his yellow eyes.

    ¡°Between Teilve and I, I think it is something akin to sibling love that we share. He has known me since I was younger than you are now; I suspect he came to see me as a younger sister. He often has his eyes turned toward the number of exotic girls visiting from Mellor''s court now.¡±

    Farra held a finger over her chin in thought, Naia bobbing her head side to side in response, eager to hear more of her officer''s thoughts despite the aside she felt to be not remotely romantic or related to the feirin.

    ¡°Perhaps Lord Valen I have always felt a deep sense of admiration for, in both his work and caring after me, I suppose that would be something of love would it not?¡±

    All three soldiers looked back at Farra, Naia gawking.

    ¡°That''s not what love is. What about Lord Erres?¡±

    ¡°Is it not?¡±

    ¡°No.¡±

    Farra dipped in thought, taking a shred of focus to scan the surroundings, wary of wild creatures or unexpected run-ins.

    ¡°Then maybe Lord Erres might be the answer you''re looking for. But even then I am unsure. He has no need for me as an object of passion. He is restrained and focused, and I am his blade. If bedding with Lord Erres would produce effects supporting our cause, then I would without hesitation. But I believe I witnessed the one he loved and whom his heart remains with in that sense, perish before my eyes. If he needed me to fill some void left by it, then I would, but he is a resolute man and does not.¡±

    ¡°That''s a bit morbid instead of romantic.¡± Naia kicked her foot against a rock chipped from the side of a passing crag.

    ¡°I''m unsure how one might find time for such feelings with danger so prevalent. It is unfathomable to me. I find the brothels distasteful and only tolerate the purpose they serve.¡±

    Naia gagged, choking on her spit.

    ¡°Don''t confuse brothels and that stuff for romance. Sorry for bringing it up.¡±

    ¡°I don''t mind it. There''s nothing else to focus on for the moment. We are within Lord Mellor''s territory now but we likely won¡¯t reach our destination within this moon. An encounter with anyone else should be unlikely. I am sorry however, for my lack of experience with love.¡±

    ¡°Don''t apologize¡­it''s a bit scary coming from you¡ªbut then can I ask for what you think about love. You seem sort of interested in it. You mentioned it to that man when the beast girl tried attacking you.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Farra remarked quietly, reaching and pulling her blade from underneath her robes, causing all the soldiers to back away from her for a brief moment when she began to look over it within the moon''s waning light. ¡°You shouldn''t mistaken one thing for another Naia. I wanted to see that chosen''s conclusion given what he had to say. He had noble ideals.¡±

    ¡°Then why?¡± She murmured, yawning in an attempt to feign disinterest, stretching her arms with her chime in hand, looking at Farra from the corner of her eye.

    ¡°He wanted simply to protect and saw us as enemies for harming others. But he must have only recently been plunged into these lands. I understand little of his situation, but it was apparent enough to me there would be no parley.¡± Farra flipped her blade in the moonlight, looking over the edge and tapping a finger against it. ¡°It would be ignorant to acknowledge life in these lands as lush or happy. Doing what is correct and what is right in one''s mind...they''re things that seem to dance so closely together as to be the same. He called Lord Erres and our faction cowards and murderers while killing one of our own soldiers for what he felt was right. There was no difference in our actions, just he thought he was doing the truly right thing. But his understandings were one limit. If he understood these lands for what they are, he perhaps would have gone mad from hopelessness as so many others have. Hopelessness derived from his weakness. If he was strong enough to stand up to me, he could have freed those beasts and attempted to protect them from the darkness in his own way. But he simply was not. As a consequence of being both unwilling to adhere to our expectations and weak, he died. I gave him the opportunity to decide that woman''s fate, but looking back perhaps it was a foolish expectation for me. He never would have chosen for me to end her life as was the morally correct thing to do, to spare her from any more suffering. To live without power in these lands is a forsaken feeling, but if one clutches to life, they might survive long enough to see those strong enough able to change something. That is Lord Erres'' intent, to change this wretched world so those who are weak can live.¡±

    Farra took a long breath.

    ¡°But those are my scattered thoughts. I am poor with words, so pay it little mind.¡± She sheathed her sword, readjusting her hood to drape far over her head.

    As time passed and the moonlight faded, Naia found her feet exhausted, beginning to walk slower and slower. Farra turned, taking note of her wear, halting the other two soldiers and looking up into the sky. ¡°Perhaps we should rest for the time being. Set up a tent; Naia rest as you need, the three of us will rotate watches until the next moon shows itself.

    The next moon came, and as soon as the tent was packed they set out again, this time Naia finding herself atop the lizard¡¯s shoulders for their first hour of travel, then switched to the orc¡¯s at Farra¡¯s command. The action would have come as embarrassing for all involved if not for the feirin¡¯s orders. After the initial period of time Naia was once again on her feet beside Farra, keeping up pace with Farra whom had a longer step.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

    ¡°There is a camp on the northern end of Lord Mellor''s territory we can expect to arrive at before the moon fades completely. We will rest there until the next moon. The trek from Lord Mellor''s lands to the east will take several moons.¡±

    The wind swirled about them , picking up in its ferocity as they crossed the sullen lands. Despite much of the land sitting at a lower elevation, the gales picked up in their ferocity. Farra reached a hand to Naia¡¯s, taking hold to ensure she would not be blown off her feet as they traveled.

    ¡°Farra, do you really think there could be such a thing as better times for these lands?¡± Naia stammered within the gales, her voice being eaten by the wind.

    ¡°If I did not then I would lack the will to properly support Lord Erres. But before one seeks to change a world, they must first know themselves or risk being swept from their feet. Naia, you are a mender and practitioner of magic; tell me do you hear any voices?¡± Farra turned, even in the interim moon, a glint escaped an indigo eye, peering from underneath the hood to Naia.

    ¡°I haven''t felt anything of the sort.¡± Naia turned away, looking into the vast darkness.

    ¡°If you ever venture outside these lands within Lord Belthemot''s dominion, it likely wouldn''t be long for you to understand as a spellweaver. Even within our lands, I would suggest against venturing into the darkness alone, for there could be evil masking its presence where there are gaps within Belthemot''s protection. Being in the courts of Lords and the temple grounds, their overpowering presences and faith are bastions. I lack such qualities compared to that of Lords Valen, Erres, and Mellor, or even Lady Bathalian such as I loathe to admit. They are Lords for a reason, and I am no such individual.¡±

    ¡°Then, what does that make Lord Raom?¡±

    ¡°I have never visited the eastern territory or met Lord Raom, as he only has ever sent delegates to the gatherings of officers and lords. I suspect he is of the same making as the other Lords. When you are are in disagreement with someone, it is that much more important to acknowledge who and what they are, rather than dismiss them only to be blindsided.¡±

    Naia nodded as the wind consumed the conversational void. The crags came in fewer numbers, replaced by series of steeper dips within the ground, carved out by some force. In the center of each was an abyssal hole. Farra''s body shivered, able to see the rumblings of insect-like creatures underneath the ground. She released her hand from Naia¡¯s own hold, instead wrapping the same arm around Naia to the latter''s surprise, directing the group from the center of the depressions, rounding the brief inclines while attempting to stay a straighter but round path around the field of holes. After enough time did the outlining of a small tower come into view.

    ¡°There is need to aid Lord Mellor perhaps in culling creatures in his domain, but that must come at a later time. Shield your eyes now, we are within view of a mage.¡±

    Naia turned her head, the two guards heeding Farra''s words as a brilliant violet light shined upon them from the distance, piercing through the darkness and lighting the surroundings. Naia attempted to peek from an eye, making a gap between her fingers while Farra stood squinting and continuing forward. The light faded the moment after, disappearing almost as quickly as it had come. With its disappearance the shadows seemed all the more encompassing, as if the light''s appearance at all was merely an illusion.

    ¡°It''s good to see Lord Mellor''s soldiers are as vigilant as ever.¡± Farra continued onward, her troop following close behind as the three made a path inward to the encampment.

    The outpost was comprised of several smaller structures. Toward the center was a single watchtower erected from the top of a building which far exceeded the size of any other. A figure obscured in the darkness waved a staff in the air as the soldiers began to draw near. From seemingly nothing, two more figures gradually materialized beside the first, awaiting for the group to come closer. As the distance lessened, welcoming waves came from the three soldiers whose features became obvious even within the limited light.

    ¡°Farra, it is good to see you again.¡± A soft voice escaped the lips of the figure shorter when compared to the two surrounding her. She lowered her hood, exposing the already apparent two horns extending from her forehead and hardly obscuring a third horn protruding from one side of her head. She was clothed in a thick robe that tightly wrapped around her body with two belts strapped around her torso.

    ¡°You as well Estelle, forgive my coming without notice.¡±

    Estelle shook her head, waving for Farra and her troop to follow inside the encampment, tapping her metal staff to the ground with each step.

    ¡°Courtesy of Lord Valen, Lord Mellor informed me that you would be coming on some manner of business. I was told for myself and to tell other soldiers to not pry into the details of your coming, but aid in the extent we could with any request you have.¡±

    ¡°Then we will be seeking rest here until the next moon, and if possible, I require need of more soldiers to accompany me on a journey farther east.¡±

    Estelle rubbed a finger to her lips, her eyes looking over each of Farra''s soldiers for a brief moment then examining each soldier by her side, both of which possessed their own horns.

    ¡°A troop left not long ago. They should return by the next moon but I suspect they will be worn down. You see, some rather ghoulish creatures as of late have pinched into Lord Mellor''s territory from the southeast. They do not seem too well organized from scouting reports, so we think it may be some manner of the darkness twisting what once were ordinary creatures. As a demon I can''t help but feel sorrow for them. But it means you will have to wait until the next moon at best to see what soldiers can be taken into your ranks Farra.¡±

    ¡°I don''t suppose it''s close enough by to lend aid and return here timely?¡± Estelle shook her head in response.

    ¡°You may be of Lord Erres and Lord Valen''s finest, but you shouldn''t overexert yourself. And venturing there alone will be unwise, you would need to bring a companion with you at the least.¡±

    ¡°Then it isn''t an option.¡± Farra let out a sigh, lowering her hood.

    ¡°Please maintain the watch both of you.¡± Estelle spoke to the demons beside her, and immediately they heeded her request. With a bow from both the demons accompanying Estelle, they faded back into the darkness. She then pointed with her staff toward a smaller hovel on the side of the watchtower''s base before stepping close to the group, between Naia and Farra causing the former to jump back upon the invasion of her immediate space. Without a word Estelle wrapped her arms around Farra''s own, leaning her head close in a way as to avoid stabbing the feirin with her horn while still squishing her cheek against Farra. Upon adjusting she turned back, her lips parting in a gasp as she saw the lack of tails.

    ¡°What happen to them? Were you attacked?¡±

    Until those words Farra had felt no embarrassment at Estelle''s actions, rather her soldiers were the ones feeling the embarrassment from Estelle''s closeness for the feirin. But Farra felt the heat in her cheeks, looking into Estelle''s wide and blackened eyes, full of concern.

    ¡°I cut them myself. They were becoming a nuisance for a while. I did not want them to be one on this mission.¡± She muttered back quiet, the two continuing to the hovel Estelle had pointed to with Farra''s soldiers following behind.

    ¡°I disapprove Farra. But at least you and your robe are as soft as you ever were.¡± A shred of disappointment came from the demon''s voice, one that seemed to compensate for itself by only squeezing tighter to Farra and waving an arm to Naia for her to come closer. Naia looked back with hesitation, glancing to the reptile and orc who returned shrugs and unhelpful glances. The girl stepped closer to have the arm wrap around and tug her close, pulling her into Estelle''s side.

    ''She''s soft.'' The thought crossed Naia''s mind, trying to glance from around the demon''s robe to observe Farra''s own reactions, shocked to find the feirin not offering any resistance to Estelle''s advances as they tread toward the building.

    Draping over the entrance to the hovel was a cloth, light and thin, but its dark fabric completely obscured view from either side. Farra swiped her hand, holding it out of the way so they could enter unimpeded, handing it off to the blue-scaled soldier as they entered. The inside was spacious, the building proving larger from the backside than the front. Two beds were along each of the four walls, the entrance acting as a fifth wall. One bed sat low, carved from the wall and ground, with a second smaller bed tucked above in a small loft accessed by a ladder, making for a more cramped second bed. In the center of the room was a small table, with a single large magical stone hanging within a basket over it. The stone glowed with a light that emulated one of a standard fire.

    ¡°Forgive us, it''s my understanding that the mighty garrisons that Lord Erres prefers are probably what his soldiers are accustom to, but Lord Mellor''s army primarily consists of demons. We demons often see one another as kindred even if were not of the same species; Lord Mellor''s court and army tends to be very intimate. Even then, soldiers who are not demons but enter our ranks follow suit and become close as well. Having hovels designed like this is just a consequence of that.¡± Estelle smiled, releasing both Farra and Naia before continuing. ¡°We understand the other Lords might have it a great deal more difficult, finding harmony between the numerous races they attempt to hold together, even when taking into account the Warlords'' doctrine. It is respectable the effort they are putting in. Do you require a separate hovel for males and females?¡±

    Farra waved as she took the bag from the orc''s shoulder, heaving it and setting it by her bedside. ¡°No, such a petty thing won''t be of concern. If you don''t mind my asking, I wish to inquire about the situation with Lord Mellor and his borders though. Your mentioning it came as news to me. If it''s something to be discussed between officers, we can move somewhere private.¡±

    Estelle shook her head, walking over and taking a seat on the bed Farra stood closest to, taking her hand and pulling her down to sit beside her.

    ¡°Lack of openness in matters like this, I fear it creates distrust within our ranks. Some things must remain private, but we do little to create trust by holding secrets and requesting soldiers fight for something they have little idea of.¡± Farra nodded her head without a word, looking around the room and glancing to her soldiers when Estelle continued on. ¡°I also fear¡ªthe Lords and Warlords suspicions regarding some sort of evil goddess. They were never unbelievable, but at the same time there was always capability for doubt here and there, even among our court. I regretfully say that may be the case no longer. I do not know if it is only Lord Mellor''s territory, but terrors befall our borders and assault our kin. Lord Mellor himself has trekked from the stronghold to the border to aid his soldiers, close to where the desert you and Lord Erres went those years ago.¡±

    Farra took a breath, feeling her hand clenched by Estelle as she was about to squeeze her own.

    ¡°Whatever manner of evil you saw in the desert those years ago, it roosted there and grew into something more. Some soldiers carry the misconception that the desert is our southern border when it is not. It is more apt to think of our borders as fluid, they''re only safe so long as Belthemot''s dominion is not intruded upon. It would seem that being in the darkness is none too safe for us demons. It''s just as was suggested long ago, those more capable of magic certainly hear some manner of voice talking to them, a girl in fact. All demons are capable of magic. It is our curse, if we are saturated with it then we run tremendous risk of losing ourselves and taking on the forms of our savage kin. Seeing what feels like creatures corrupted by something out there, I can''t help but be afraid that is what this evil goddess would do to us.¡±

    Naia shuffled through her belongings, avoiding turning her gaze to the two sitting, deciding she had pretended to be doing something in her bag for too long and moving to lay on the rough stone bed clothed with a thin mat, her back facing the room. She looked into the wall, the flickering flame creating her shadow against the wall. She stared at it for a bit longer, blinking and imagining it with a pair of blood-red eyes and a wretched smile, shaking her head and expelling the image from her mind as the conversation continued, deciding to turn around to face the rest of the room.

    ¡°I am sorry we haven''t lent our aid, I will see to it you find some relief. And after I finish my assignment, might I personally come over and lend my aid.¡±

    ¡°No, I did not mean all that in such a way. Forgive me for implicating such a bold thing. I wish we simply had the foresight to prepare for such things, but we did not and now we suffer the consequences. It is my understanding your mission is critical. That is all Lord Mellor told me, but I believe him, and so to impede you by beseeching aid even now may hurt us even more.¡±

    ¡°I will still take the matter up with my Lords when possible. The aid you are providing me and my soldiers is something I feel compelled to return in kind. Though tell me, depending on your soldiers when they return, is it at all safe to take some of them on my expedition?¡±

    ¡°We will have to wait and see I fear. I''m so very grateful you brought with you this mender girl, it''s my understanding she''s passed here before, though we haven''t met.¡±

    Naia shut her eyes immediately upon hearing the word mender, failing to make eye contact with anyone else in the room, finding herself feel a bit of warmth at the gratefulness and fact Estelle knew of her.

    ¡°Then we will hope for the best. I will turn in for the night. I did not sleep well the previous day and an incident occurred that called for the activation of my runes. Will you or either of the soldiers here need rest?¡± Estelle stood, finally releasing Farra''s hand only once she grasped her stave with both her hands and clicked it to the ground.

    ¡°It won''t be necessary, demons need little rest, but there are a few more soldiers already asleep in another hovel. They will take over the watch if need be. Is there anything you or any of your soldiers require before I resume my tasks?¡±

    Farra looked to the lizard and orc who both responded with a shake of their heads.

    ¡°Well, if there is, do not hesitate to go look around for it. Lord Mellor said to provide you all the supplies necessary. Unless you find it part of a soldier''s belongings, do not hesitate to ask to make use of it, after all as Farra''s soldiers your preparedness is paramount to her success as well.¡± Estelle turned from the hovel, waving her staff at Farra without another word before disappearing behind the curtain.

    Naia''s eye perked open, both the other soldiers turning to Farra and waiting for a brief moment to hear Estelle''s footsteps fade into the distance.

    ¡°Farra, you were saying about romance¡ªwhat was that then?¡±

    Farra blinked, looking back at each of them.

 Chapter 12: Treading Onward

    ¡°If only events would reach their ideal conclusion young Erres.¡±

    The armored behemoth laid down the titanic blade¡ªif one could call it such, upon the young lord standing proud before him. Erres caught the fall of the sword with his own, his foot shifting underneath and cracking the ground below as he held steadfast against the overwhelming might. His hand shot forth, reinforcing his blade with a shove to ward off the slab-like sword.

    ¡°We have no choice but to focus on the task at hand.¡± Erres'' chest pounded as he caught his breath, the red glow within his dark armor breathing with him. ¡°As much as it pains me to let chaos run rampant, showing our intent too early will cost us in the long run. My officers are on their guard, and it won''t be long before Talian pinpoints a source of these woes.¡±

    ¡°Again.¡± The black slab came down once more, caught by Erres'' blade once more. A struggling heave bellowed from both armors. With a slight twist of Erres'' foot, he shoved the blade back and over Valen¡¯s shoulder while cratering the stone beneath his own feet. Valen let go of his blade as it flung back and up into the air, crashing down into the ground behind him.. ¡°Your passion fuels your strength Erres, but I would advise as always you not let it cloud your decisions.¡± Valen took two steps back toward his blade, clasping a hand around its handle and tearing it from the ground.

    ¡°I''m not the leader my father was.¡± Erres plunged his sword into the ground and leaned over it as a makeshift support. ¡°If I was we wouldn''t have this issue with the other lords.¡±

    ¡°On the contrary, it''s because you are the young Lord Erres that it is exactly why this has become the issue. None feared their father like they fear you. He was indeed an excellent man and leader, and while he held the title ''Conqueror,'' he was much more a peacemaker. You on the other hand¡­¡± Valen made slow steps back over to the Lord lost in thought during his respite, swiping sideways with both hands. Erres tilted his weight against the sword, holding steady enough to briefly halt the massive swipe, launching into the with a discharge of fire beneath his feet and pulling his sword with him.. An ensuing blanket of fire enveloped a midair swing, billowing against the slab with such force it guaranteed no reprisal. ¡°Your instinct, your fury, and your compassion are the makings of a true conqueror my lord.¡±

    With grace, Erres landed on his feet and let out a silent breath, the red hue from within his armor dimming. ¡°I refuse to accept that title until I see my father avenged. Once I see the our eastern lands painted with Raom''s blood, then can there be a new conqueror.¡±

    ¡°That Farra is the harbinger of a bloody chapter, never when I first laid my eyes upon her would I fathom such a notion. Yet she has so gleefully basked in our knowledge and ways, taken upon herself our cause, and molded herself to your desires.¡± Valen laid his blade to the ground, leaning down and seating himself beside the standing Erres, nearly rising to the young lord''s height even while sitting. The giant turned as he heard a curious laughter.

    ¡°A rare occurrence of an incorrect observation by you I¡¯d say. It''s probably more apt to say she''s the one who molded me. To find someone so determined and so¡ªpure. It holds me accountable, and she knows it just as well as I.¡± Erres shifted his blade lodged in stone, leaning over with his helm pressed against it.

    ¡°Pure you say? What about her necessitates her being pure, young Erres?¡±

    ¡°She''s open, she wears herself on her sleeve. Her loyalty to me is paramount over all else, but once you venture beyond that, she''s as straight and honest as could be. The only people that would be afraid of her are fools or enemies. This land, despite being how cursed it is, fails to so much as damper her resolve. If there''s one thing about her raising I can regret, it''s her inability for the more casual conversation.¡±

    Valen looked forward from his lord, one mighty greave emitting a soft glow and creating a path of iced ground forward from it. In front of both the lords, the ice built upwards into the air. A detailed and perfect replica of the feirin effused a distinct cold air, chilling the surroundings. ¡°She has the capacity to hold a conversation. Perhaps what you mean is her ability to understand the sentiments of others.¡± The black diamond-shaped helmet tilted to its other side. ¡°But such a thing could easily be blamed upon her circumstance. Her childhood instilled in her fears and caution instead of joy or warmth. Her start in the War Faction was marked with a taste in harsh realities that only ingrained the need for strength. Had Verrika not perished, then Farra might have become every bit of what you originally envisioned.¡±

    ¡°Yet she did. And with it maybe the last opportunity at a more innocent outlook for Farra was vanquished. Teilve did what he could concerning her emotions, but his efforts amounted to becoming only another individual Farra felt comfortable sharing parts of herself with.¡± Erres picked his blade from the ground, clenching the handle tight before hurling it past the ice statue and against the ground, ravaging the stone into bits of gravel. But the sculpture remained unscathed despite the debris, standing and gazing back toward the lords.

    ¡°Would that not contradict her being pure?¡± Valen touched a hand to the ground, a platform of stone erected underneath Erres'' blade, shifting back along the ground and delivering the blade to its owner.

    ¡°Don''t mistake some idea of innocence or unyielding optimism with Farra''s pureness. She''s no fool who tries to conduct herself in a manner clashing with this world, but at the same time, she doesn''t give a single step she truly believes unnecessary.¡±

    ¡°Then if an occasion rose that tested her judgment?¡±

    ¡°Irrelevant in the sense that a misstep would mean an unconscionable decision. We have limited knowledge. But it would test her certainly.¡±

    Valen lifted himself from the ground, grabbing his sword along the way and hoisting it onto his back. ¡°She is a fine soldier. Shall we conclude training your strength for today?¡±

    Erres stayed still, gazing into the icy replica of his subordinate. The ice emitted a gentle glow from the magic used to conjure it in the same likeness of which Verrika once employed. He stared into the statue''s glistening eyes, emitting a shine that the lord felt still did his trusted soldier an injustice. But he stared back. It was someone like this who so passionately followed him and someone like this he had every responsibility to become a proper leader for. Even if it was not Farra, there were numerous other soldiers who looked to Erres as a beacon of strength. The course was set for him.

    ¡°This affair in the southern territory comes at an inopportune time. Farra¡¯s assignment cannot afford delay. Pulling Gare or Teilve from their investigations of Bathalian¡¯s territory and the numerous points of interest would deprive us of valuable intelligence. Bathalian will be ever more discrete than Raom in concealing her treachery and could potentially put Farra in greater risk.¡±

    ¡°Let us draw from my territory then. While it seems pitting those magically gifted against this unknown enemy can prove dangerous, we cannot treat it as cause to relegate our forces away from our frontlines. Give Tsaren and the Warlords leave to procure the supplies and soldiers from my territory that they deem necessary for aiding Lord Mellor so we may continue our business with peace of mind.¡±

    ¡°I will need to meet with the Warlords before paying a brief visit to an outpost in my territory in that case. But then before that, a meal with Tsaren to discuss Lord Mellor¡¯s situation.¡±

    ¡°Then I shall stroll around the grounds while contemplating our direction.¡±

    The air temple ground''s mess hall was stained with a range of stenches, from the profuse sweat and odors of numerous races that dined there to fledgling spellweavers who had attempted to fight the smell with spells designed to induce various scents. The hall¡¯s stone tables showed signs of cracking along their jagged edges, with the seats themselves carrying blemishes that would scrape at those whose skin was exposed. Baskets lie on each table, full of rocks which had all expired their life cycle in providing the tiniest illumination. Mighty stone pillars supported the structure; chipped, scraped, and slashed by past antics. The magical stones secured to these pillars had not yet gone out, but the meager light they provided was fruitless in illuminating the hall. Soldiers thus needed a means of procuring their own light when eating, if they did not prefer to eat in the darkness.

    ¡°You ought to consider the amenities more. I''ll ask you the same things I asked Farra before she left. What good is a soldier without a fight? What purpose do soldiers have to even fight when there''s nothing to gain from it? We are the War Faction, but what happens when the time for war is over?¡± Tsaren tapped his spoon against his bowl''s edge, taking a breath and clicking his tongue before consuming another spoonful of rationing.

    Aside from the echoing vibrations from the stones adorning the pillars, the conversation between the two men was the only source of noise in the empty hall. They ate with their helmets off, within the light of a stone lit ablaze by Erres himself. The flame made the young lord''s calm and crimson eyes gleam. Tsaren himself dragged his gauntlets through his short and fraying hair. The fire gave Tsaren''s dark face a glow as he peered into Erres'' eyes with his gaunt face.

    ¡°The question of what next is something I have no answer to. But nor is it something we should concern ourselves with when we are still fighting for survival.¡±

    ¡°You answer just like Farra.¡± Tsaren dropped his spoon into the bowl, slapping a hand over his forehead before turning back to his bowl. ¡°You are not a soldier like Farra though, you are a Lord, and should anything befall our Warlords, you need to be prepared to take the mantle. That doesn''t mean doing everything perfect, but it does mean becoming a mediator. And before you say a word about it, I don''t mean in regards to Lords Raom or Bathalian, but whomever else may show.¡±This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.

    Erres'' silence continued. His eyes drifted down for a brief moment to a dry tuber. Its stems tangled around it in an unappetizing discord. Erres¡¯ spoon drifted over each stem, washed but still darkened with black particles. With a deep breath he split the tuber in two, uttering a word before shoveling the smaller half of the tuber into his mouth. ¡±Continue.¡±

    Tsaren set his empty bowl to the side, folding his arms and leaning back from the blaze.

    ¡°Let me share my perspective as a quartermaster Lord Erres. Soldiers from the various territories aren''t so keen as to who I am or my role; they openly speak of their miseries. What I see is men and women disheartened over having to consume the same meager meal because we not only cannot afford to give anymore, we lack any variety. I see them disillusioned because they have to eat in an antiquated structure such as this, tainting their meals with a vile odor. I see the soldiers fret when their preferred belonging or trinket wears, because the chances we have any replacement or means to repair it are the same as grass starting to sprout across these lands. But these soldiers aren''t idiots either; they''re not brilliant in combat or possess uncanny potential for magic, but they certainly aren''t idiots. They''ve seen the consequences of Lady Bathalian''s visits, Lord Raom''s absences, the continued bickering among lords and consequently among officers. It leads them to question the direction of the War Faction and whether they''re surviving for the opportunity at a better life. The Warlords have remained quiet about the matter, too long in my opinion as they know. But you are the most brazen and spontaneous of all the Lords, and all the more confusing for it. They see your youth and fiery ambition, and hear your expectations. Soldiers feel change in the air, but they have no clue of what sort it might be. These are the things as a leader and as a future Warlord that you need to address. Otherwise uniting the territories as it was meant to be is hopeless. Whether Lord Raom lies to the east or in a bizarre circumstance Lady Farra comes to be, the Lords are defined by the actions of their soldiers. Unless you have proper answers in store, Farra could do no better at governing the eastern territory than Lord Raom does now.¡±

    Erres spoon let forth a loud crack as it smashed against the bowl, slicing another part of the tuber, eating and mulling over Tsaren''s words.

    ¡°You have too many asides Tsaren.¡± He muttered between the movements of his jaw, swallowing down the dry root and setting aside the empty bowl. ¡°But I understand the sentiment. Perhaps not with the gravity I should in regards to how soldiers regularly feel about it. Let me speak hypothetically for a moment. If these lands were united, what do you think would be the next course of action?¡±

    Tsaren chuckled under his breath, taking Erres bowl to stack with his own, looking into the glowing flame. ¡°Something involving getting food that doesn''t turn my stomach into iron Lord Erres. But I imagine that wouldn''t be the case in this hypothetical.¡±

    ¡°There isn''t anything saying it couldn''t be something on the side. But the darkness is an ever-present feeling. I would prefer the faction to not tear itself apart from the inside before it has the opportunity to confront its true enemy.¡±

    ¡°As would we all, but you can only tell someone to endure suffering for so long.¡± Tsaren shook his head,

    Erres took his helmet, pulling it back over his head and extinguishing the flame. ¡°There is something I need you to help take care of on that note.¡± Erres pulled from the waist-side a scroll bound with twine, sliding it across the table. ¡°It''s a letter detailing some recommendations for what I''m about to tell you, but how to handle it is up to your discretion. I''ll be headed to the temple with Lord Valen to discuss the matter in detail with our Warlords, but time is no luxury here.¡±

    ¡°You could have at least let the flame burn a bit longer so I could read it then,¡± Tsaren scoffed. He set the bowls to the edge of the table, taking his helmet and waving Erres to the entrance. ¡°Then what is it?¡±

    ¡°It concerns Lord Mellor. I''ve received a rather grim report from Farra regarding forces she was informed to be nightmarish creatures surging around the borders of the southern territory. Because of how things are progressing at the moment, I have little aid to lend. That may change in a matter of moons, but it''s a problem that can''t be ignored in the meantime. The Warlords themselves will see what forces can be spared, but within this scroll is a list of goods you can procure from Lord Valen''s stores both on the grounds and his territory that the two of us think may prove useful. You spoke of need for soldiers to have something to look to after the battle is done; for now I need them to fight valiantly and aid their brothers and sisters in arms.¡±

    As Erres finished his words, both exited the hall onto one of the lower bluffs of the temple grounds, turning to find a giant standing over the both of them.

    ¡°It must have been a leisurely meal. Though I doubt more so than my stroll. My officers have been notified and are ready to comply with yours and the Warlords¡¯ requests Tsaren. While the resources are certainly valuable both within these grounds and my territory, I may suggest excessive caution on the part of the quantity of supplies you send, if there is such a thing.¡±

    ¡°I''ll peruse the letter and see to it at once Lords.¡±

    A stillness enveloped the temple grounds when they parted ways, filled most by Valen''s rhythmic and almost mechanical steps. Rather than immediately setting toward Belthemot''s temple, the two lords skirted toward the edge of the bluff, taking winding roads and staircases that met with the edge of the promenade.

    ¡°How went your walk?¡±

    ¡°Elucidating. It is in torrential times that one turns inward to reflect upon where fate has led oneself. Though I follow your course regardless of where it leads us young Erres, the chaos and conflict has required me to introspect and explore the meaning events bear on my past. One whose inner turmoils are not sorted cannot hope to achieve their full potential.¡± Valen tapped a finger to his helmet, creating a hollow clink as they continued forward. ¡°The present track is obvious enough, though where it may take us I am not certain. Farra has become a joy through which I can pass my knowledge, and it is the passage of knowledge that satisfies a teacher most. And it is my life that I have committed to your cause, for I took an oath to your father in protecting you in your endeavors.¡±

    Quiet set back in with neither lord rushing to fill the silence. Instead Valen stopped, his body turning toward the grounds and his very own tower. Erres took a few more steps forward before halting, waiting for his fellow lord to gather his words and keep pace with him.

    ¡°It proves difficult to recollect my past prior to arriving in these lands, even when I know it to be what led me here. But I suppose it began as it would for so many, the death of a loved one.¡± A gentle breeze picked up, blowing throughout the grounds and lifting a layer of dirt from the soiled ground onto the stone pathway, obscuring the stone until it was no longer discernible. ¡°It was my wife''s premature death, a tragic one I could attribute to no individual. I could only lash at fate and curse the gods themselves. It brought me on the path of my research into the arcane and forbidden. I was consumed with grief, clinging to the hope to one day find the means to give my wife new life. But it would seem somewhere along that path I had a misstep and found myself in these lands.¡±

    ¡°One could safely assume you were a chosen. It makes no difference to me. Here you are attempting to help forge the path forward rather than decry the accursed for a circumstance they cannot help.¡± Erres stepped back from the walkway, moving to Valen''s side, overlooking the edge of the bluff alongside him.

    ¡°Tell me young Erres, what do you know of history of this faction''s making? It was not long ago. Yet¡ªthis world has a habit of distorting the agency of time. My existence prior to coming here feels nothing unlike another life.¡±

    Erres let out a scoff. ¡°You either are letting your age show, or your mind has become overwhelmed with your duties and runes to not recall my raising. My father focused on training my skills with a blade, lessons of history were secondary.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps you are right in the latter regard, all this movement of late is certainly distracting. Your father was perhaps counting on myself and what he felt the other wisdom of the War Faction to be at the time in raising your wits. I find it humorous.¡± A deep bellow followed by a gale of wind, combating the breeze filled the air. ¡°Warlord Ranalian always had a penchant for legends and rumors. These very darkened and bloody lands we now lay claim to, there was a beautiful irony within them, that despite lacking an apparent blessing of the very moonlight, were somehow free from the ravenous pestering of the darkness. Ravenous I say it was, but at the time it was far less prevalent, almost as if complacent with the current state of this world. These lands lacked order, but provided a meager shelter and state of living. For those willing to throw the necessities of the body away, they found a suitable place here. For those unwilling, at least they could attempt to survive, often resorting to bloodshed to endure. But it was Warlord Ranalian who put thought into the matter, and journeyed westward to the place these temple grounds were erected upon, finding a blade enshrined within the highest bluff. That is where with great hardship, the temple was erected.¡±

    ¡°And tell me, how does this relate to the other Lords and Warlord Nirkosh?¡±

    ¡°Through the very fabric that now holds together the War Faction. A common purpose and unity, as simple as the goal of survival may be. It was because the lands were characterized by their battle and bloodshed that the title of War Faction echoed throughout these lands. At first many nomads and tribes thought it a force merely out to conquer under a fearsome title. But with the combined hands of mine, your father, and Warlord Ranalian''s, we surged across the territories in a nigh divine crusade. It was in this endeavor, we would meet the valiant and mighty Warlord Nirkosh, who proved the better warrior than any of us individually, but not combined. We defeated and granted him the highest title of Warlord alongside his elf brethren. Until that point, Warlord Ranalian had felt myself or your father should stand as the sole Warlord. But it was his belief that brought the War Faction to its birth, and Nirkosh''s staggering might as an adversary¡ªit felt appropriate to us for him to join hands with Ranalian in an effort for unity.¡±

    ¡°Unity was the correct decision, was it not?¡±

    ¡°Undoubtedly so.¡±

    ¡°Tell me, how strong was my father back then?¡±

    ¡°The strongest of us all. For all our wisdom and Warlord Nirkosh''s might, your father alone carried the benign charisma that could bring the hearts of peoples together. Our Warlords took the mantle upon themselves so your father would not have to, and could instead do what he set himself upon, leading our soldiers. But I fear that answer hinged upon your words just now. For ''back then'' is not the same as the now. These lands have become more violent and tension has risen. We find new sources of strength to have the chance at combating stronger foes. I have since saturated myself in power as a means to reinforce our standard. I am never too thankful for Farra, who has tragically accepted a path of what feels may lead to endless violence, taking the steps necessary to stand alongside us.¡±

    Erres stepped from the cliff, waving Valen to follow.

    ¡°You never did offer much justification for deciding to augment Farra so quickly. Let''s go, we''ve delayed meeting with the Warlords.¡±

    ¡°She showed herself to be loyal as any could ever prove, I did not want her earnest wishes to perish, and with it you acquired a true companion.¡± Valen obliged the motion stepping forth with a smack against the stone pathway, the force of his step blowing away all the dust that had come to soil the pathway.

 Chapter 13: Raoms Domain

    ¡°A tribute? Would that not require sacrifices?¡± Farra spoke, a hint of worry within her voice when she shuffled within her robes. ¡°The moonlight lands partake in those sorts of acts do they not?¡±

    Estelle giggled. ¡°A tribute does not necessarily pertain to sacrifices dear Farra. It simply is an offering or act of respect It can take the form you describe, but I don''t know for certain whether the lands to the northeast practice those rituals. Being a part of this faction, it''s quite accommodating for us demons. It has rules we can adhere to without compromising our own beliefs which other gods might demand. We are often vilified without a second thought merely for our appearance being markedly different. Some even match us to be the monsters of their own spiritual beliefs and superstitions.¡±

    ¡°The day will come when we need to verify such information regarding the moonlight lands. I have heard many reports pertaining to our border relationship with those lands, but I would like to see what the land and its people are like with my own eyes. It is as Lord Erres has said though, its denizens may very well prove our enemies. Forgive me though, I have little understanding in the way of species holding disdain for one another. Lord Erres would not tolerate such an act in his court.¡±

    ¡°Of course dear Farra, it is quite easy to see so many would throw their support behind him.¡±

    The moon sat high in the darkened sky, only gradually shrinking as its radiance spilling across the eastern plains illuminated the ground for the band of soldiers. Within the light provided, to the very far east one could discern the shape of serrated mountains rising at the side of the moon. However as one¡¯s eyes drifted downward, the darkness enveloped anything else at a distance beyond one''s surroundings. Farra continued to speak within place of the boots, greaves, and other manners of footwear trudging along the plains.

    ¡°I confess Estelle, that despite what caused this turn of events, I am relieved to have you standing with us.¡± Farra spoke with a murmur, one that would be indiscernible if not being attentive to the feirin''s speaking.

    ¡°It warms this demon''s heart to hear you say such a thing Farra. Traveling together like this makes all the recent happenings seem so very far away doesn''t it?¡± Despite walking with the tap of her staff to the ground, Estelle carried a bounce in her step, often stepping to the side or in some motion other than rather than forward. ¡°It is imperative in these lands to enjoy the moment wouldn''t you say? It makes everything else a lot easier. I think many would fall to madness without enjoyment.¡±

    ¡°Enjoyment? I fear a carefree attitude might leave an opening in my guard.¡±

    ¡°Coming from the esteemed soldier who can see the future, you''re always quite extreme Farra.¡±

    ¡°There are plenty of things to guard from beyond my sight. While my skills with a blade seem proficient, there is so very little I can do own my own. If I became a thrall to leisure, then I fear others may follow suit. And if I set a poor example, it may cause unnecessary troubles. I cannot be such a burden for Lord Erres, being held in high esteem comes with all the more responsibility does it not?¡±

    ¡°If you believe it it to be so, then I would say so.¡± Estelle chimed. ¡°You have things you enjoy aside from your typical duties like anyone else, don''t you Farra?¡±

    Farra drooped her head down in thought, feeling the gazes of her soldiers and the additional demon soldiers that came to accompany them drift to her. She squinted, recounting her responsibilities in conjunction with leisure. A blush heated her face underneath the hood. Ordinarily she would feel a chill when traveling the lands, but not in a relaxed band of soldiers like this. It was as Estelle said, despite the turn of events at Mellor''s border, staying together in such a group warded against darker thoughts. But the feirin knew it wasn''t just that, it was the fact she wore her dearest Lords'' designs along with one more detail. Yet, this heated embarrassment had become a recent trend since setting out with Naia. It was the first time it had this effect, but the thought crossed her mind that on the simple matters and feelings, pertaining to things like romance, optimism, or leisure. Farra interpreted the matters wrong time and time again to receive curious glances from Naia and the other soldiers. They were staring at her now, awaiting a response, possibly expecting another dull and straightforward answer. One exactly at the forefront of her mind.

    ¡°Bettering...myself with the blade to help Lord Erres cause, or furthering my studies under Lord Valen. It brings me joy.¡±

    An immediate, loud sigh came from Naia. The newly recruited demon soldiers smirked at the feirin''s devotion they had already become acquainted with beyond rumors through the conversations during the travel. Estelle herself let out another giggle, leaning in closer to Farra, speaking to amend her question.

    ¡°I think we all expected that. What about when you''re not doing things for the Lords?¡±

    ¡°Reading runes.¡±

    ¡°And when you''re not reading?¡±

    ¡°Practicing with my sword.¡±

    ¡°And when you''re not practicing swordplay?¡±

    ¡°...¡±

    Naia nudged Farra from her other side with a mutter. ¡°Answer.¡±

    ¡°Idling about the temple grounds and enjoying the tranquil darkness I would say. A walk in the dark in a pleasant thing, when it doesn''t feel like it wants to devour me that is. And eating as well, I think the rations are rather tasteful all things considered.¡± She nodded under her hood while everyone else offered varying expressions of doubt and concern.

    ¡°Wait, do you get to eat some kind of special food?¡± Naia pivoted her head, an inquisitive glare across her face.

    ¡°Special food? I eat rations like anyone else who needs to eat.¡±

    The glare devolved into a look of exasperation. ¡°You''re happy to eat that stuff? I feel like I force it down just so I don''t go hungry.¡±

    Farra looked back to the mender in surprise, tilting to watch Naia''s head drift toward the ground. She raised an arm, setting it on the top of Naia''s head and pushing down a slight amount.

    ¡°When I was young I was hungry more often than not. I think because of that feeling of hunger I once had, I am joyous to simply eat something and not have starvation clouding my mind. At the same time, walking in the dark felt dangerous. It still does, but it¡¯s because Belthemot''s influence is so pronounced on the temple grounds I don''t need to feel that same danger. They''re both things that I might take for granted had I never felt being miserable before.¡±

    Farra pulled her hand from Naia''s hood before she began shrugging in protest, gazing up to the feirin from under her hood.

    ¡°Then, wouldn''t things have been different if you were a slave?¡±

    ¡°I was one.¡± Farra paused, feeling her body stop for a brief moment. ¡°But not for long. I probably would have died a slave. I was too weak to work, too useless to be of any worth. It was only because the War Faction is merciful that they believed there was a use for me, when I did not believe in having any use myself. When Lord Erres gave me the opportunity, despite the adversity I chose to do whatever I could. I hated that feeling of being weak and lacking in purpose. But, if I somehow did survive as a slave, I would at the very least still enjoy meals would I not?¡±

    Naia''s voice shied into a murmur as she kicked her foot over a patch of dead grass. ¡°Yeah but you''re missing the point. Things aren''t so good for slaves.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps Naia, there are improvements to be made in some regards. But remember that we are enraptured in a battle for survival. Someone must mine the quarry, if it was not a slave then it would be a soldier.¡±

    A silence settled over. The group stayed the path forward, a concern for having been too blunt toward Naia filling the feirin''s mind. The moon waned, and with it came Estelle''s suggestion to rest for the night, wary of an encounter with a roaming pack of hounds or other creatures when soldiers were tiring.

    The plains were unremarkable. The occasional pack of creatures could be heard and even seen at times prowling or lounging in the distance. Small dips in the ground represented attempts by animals to scavenge food they perceived to be beneath the ground. Dead grass mostly ornamented the flat lands with an occasional small hill or rising cliff.

    ¡°It has been some moons now, I wonder how Lord Mellor fares.¡± Estelle drooped under her hood when a fellow demon soldier to her side gave her a slight elbow the side followed with a gallant smile.

    ¡°Worry not fair Estelle, Lord Mellor is resourceful if nothing else, and Farra herself reported the situation to the temple. We can be certain they will have organized some manner of aid by now.¡±

    ¡°Yes¡ªwhy of course you''re right. Forgive my lack of confidence, my sleep must have been less than adequate.¡± The two nodded to one another.

    Farra turned to her side, observing the gloom across Naia''s face. ¡°Is something the matter?¡±

    The girl snapped back into focus, but not losing the sullen expression.

    ¡°I was just thinking about those soldiers. They looked as if they were attacked by particularly violent creatures. Even after I mended their wounds, the lacerations on them were blackening in a way I have never seen.¡±

    ¡°Only time will tell what that means for the soldiers. They did their best to fend off the dark influences, managing to even bring back the dead. It aches me to not be able to stay and help in a battle so blatantly plaguing the southern territory, but I have my task. Thank you for coming with us yourself and bringing two more soldiers Estelle. It was not what I originally envisioned, but given the circumstances it was more than I hoped for.¡±

    ¡°Think nothing of it, you¡ª¡°

    Farra pressed a hand over the demon''s mouth, stopping her movements. Without a word all the other soldiers followed suit, the steps of two hounds in the distance closing within the darkness. Farra narrowed her eyes, attempting to gaze through the black obfuscation, identifying two mounted individuals at they neared ever closer.

    ¡°Identify yourselves at once.¡± The demand came from a man with brutish qualities, wearing a padded armor that was undersized for his bulging body. The individual accompanying him was a beast of more slender qualities, furred ears, and a slender tail relaxing down the hound he rode.

    Two soldiers was far less than threatening to the band of soldiers Farra accrued, however she herself felt her body tense under her regalia. Potential traitors she thought, but also their reporting back could sabotage Farra''s success in determining the true nature of Raom''s stronghold, something that should soon become visible on the horizon. To kill them now without fair reason would be inappropriate if nothing was uncovered to suggest treason. And even then, there is nothing to suggest these soldiers themselves were treasonous, to think so narrowly could jeopardize Lord Erres'' cause if it proved untrue.

    ¡°We are a band of soldiers from Lord Erres and Lord Mellor''s territories. I am Farra, and beside me is Estelle of Lord Mellor''s court. Who am I speaking with?¡±

    Both the mounted soldiers glanced to one another, closing the distance, but beginning to slowly circle around the group rather than draw anymore near.

    ¡°Scouts from Lord Raom''s command is all. We''ll not bother you with the formality of names any further. What''s your business here? There''s been no word of received of any sort of guests to our domain, much less Lord Erres'' personal guard.¡± The bulky man halted on his mount, swerving back the other way and keeping focused on Farra.

    ¡°I did not think I possessed any sort of reputation. I''ll correct you in saying I am no more than an officer, however I do come with an unusual task this time. It was not Lord Erres who sent me here, but the Warlords themselves. This is the guard that has come to my aid for the journey.¡±

    ¡°The Warlords? You jest.¡± His eyes sharpened, looking to the mounted beast patrolling behind the soldiers, waving him back closer. ¡°Two Lords'' closest officers traveling Lord Raom''s territory without notice is cause for issue, regardless of the purpose.¡±

    ¡°Then allow me to attest.¡± Estelle stepped forward with a tap of her staff to the ground, pulling her hood back with a smile, a hand at her side tugging one of the straps around her body, making her bosom bounce under the constriction. ¡°Farra came on some manner of business to our territory without warning as well, with no more than four soldiers in tow. Unfortunate events befell our borders, so I took it upon myself with these two soldiers to bolster her guard. It would seem the darkness has become very unsafe as of late, so would you not escort us back to Lord Raom''s stronghold with you?¡±

    ¡°Hold up. We¡¯re scouts, and as such it''s our duty by Lord Raom himself to report back any happenings, your presence being one. You''ll be fine with seven soldiers making it the rest of the way.¡±

    Farra lowered her hood as well, bowing to the two mounted soldiers, gritting her teeth as she lowered her head completely before speaking.

    ¡°I would ask you escort us back, and with my words that would be command of the Warlords themselves. While they have sent me here, it is on behalf of representing Lord Erres. You see I have come in the way to bring tidings of peace, however should anything unfortunate befall us, let alone on the cusp of entering Lord Raom''s domain, I fear it would put an end at any chance of mending the tensions between the Lords as it stands. This officer asks you so dutifully and under order of the Warlords, take us back with you.¡±

    The man snickered in response, his thoughts already sorted.

    ¡°Then, one of us can head back to report to Lord Raom to prepare for your arrival, eight soldiers is more than sufficient, and you''ll have a guide at that.¡±

    ¡°Did you not hear her?¡± Estelle''s voice became sharp, demanding as she spoke in place of Farra. ¡°Should anything befall this escort, particularly so close to the stronghold, then it will jeopardize any attempt not just at unity, but peace itself. Remain here with us the both of you, escort us back. Defying that order is betraying the Warlords.¡±You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

    A pause came. Farra¡¯s drifted up from her bow, awaiting the response of the man who stopped patrolling on his hound, looking from officer to officer with reluctance.

    ¡°Fine, we''ll do it your way.¡±

    Tension emptied from Farra''s body at those words. Despite her hands not making the slightest movement toward her blade, she was readying to incur judgment should she fail to find anything amiss in Raom''s domain. The likelihood she needed to kill either soldier despite them being mounted was inconsequential, with her enchantment she could subdue both of them, though each hound might have to be killed to prevent alarm. But for them to be compliant was the preferable outcome in every regard, for what she said upon accepting this duty she meant, that the possibility for any type of recovering bonds was important. If traitors proved to be in Lord Raom''s stronghold, that did not make all of them traitors.

    Farra''s bubbling tension was missed by all the soldiers save for Estelle. It was in Naia''s mind however that something relaxed her, the idea that this was a peaceful mission all along.

    Each of Raom''s soldiers kept to the group''s flanks. No apparent adversity showed between the reptilian and demon soldiers who had to walk closest to the hounds, but even as they showed no nervousness, there was a hesitation on the part of the scouts to trek too close.

    The final trek was largely quiet, Farra made no movements to suggest distrust or any intent to subdue the soldiers. The moon shined with brilliance over the moonlit lands. Farra smiled and gazed toward it. ¡°Estelle, I do not think I am someone with a penchant for battle or war despite being trained for it. But, if we were to see those in the moonlight lands as enemies, I would hope they prove very honorable opponents in a land drowning in such light.¡±

    ¡°Honor.¡± Estelle pressed to Farra''s side. ¡°That''s quite adorable of you to say. You know that in war honor is something that is seen as weakness.¡±

    ¡°Yes, but still. The moon is quite beautiful. I would hope her soldiers do her justice, even if an enemy.¡± Farra spoke louder, audible to Raom¡¯s soldiers. ¡°It''s quite an envious placement for a stronghold, being under the moonlight so often.¡±

    ¡°It gets tiresome.¡± The man spoke with a harshness to his voice. ¡°But it could probably be worse you''re right. Still doesn''t help with the damned random beasts always on our border.¡±

    Farra''s ears perked. ¡°Could you elaborate on that? My understanding regarding it has always been limited.¡±

    ¡°Eh? There''s not much to it. For some reason a lot of beasts tend to congregate between our lands and the moon''s lands. Hell if I know why, but it feels like pest control when most the land is desolate elsewhere.¡±

    ¡°They don''t cause trouble then?¡±

    The beast on the other side of the group began speaking.

    ¡°The tribes toward the chasm become aggravated, but never enough to cause substantial trouble. We send outriders to beat them down time to time if it gets too quiet and they trespass onto Lord Raom''s plains.¡±

    ¡°How I would like to see this for myself if the occasion allowed. Reports coming regarding our border with the moonlight lands have always been confusing, regardless of the party presenting it. To see it with my own two eyes, I feel it would bridge some misunderstandings.¡±

    ¡°It''s likely due to misinterpretation by different scouts. I left my tribe that lived toward the cleft because I was one mouth too many to feed. Entering the War Faction''s service was better for my tribe and I don''t mind the work it entails either as a scout. If it helps your understanding, those tribes toward the chasm are not part of any sort of army from the moon''s lands.¡±

    ¡°They are there because it''s tucked between two divine being''s lands.¡± Estelle spoke immediately. ¡°It is the most plausible explanation as to why there. As to how they know, instinct would be an obvious enough reason.¡±

    ¡°Parasites then.¡± The burly man spoke.

    ¡°To call them parasites would venture a bit too far.¡± Farra gazed again toward the moon before looking to the beast-soldier. ¡°If it is out of both territories then it is simply the between of our lands. They are in an exploitable position by all means though. What was your name?¡±

    ¡°Just call me Calin.¡±

    Upon the spanning plains lie the outlines of several structures illuminated by the moon. From atop a small hill, Farra could discern the circular formation of the stronghold as a whole. As forsaken as the lands seemed, Raom''s domain boasted its acquisition of resources for all to see. An imposing and dark wall encircled every structure, obscuring the view of shorter buildings. A central structure, rounded like a small coliseum sat in the center, oppressing every building by it. Numerous sentry towers rose from behind the wall. In front of the wall dark pits, of excavated of stone lie below with only a single gate within sight.

    ¡°I take it this is Lord Raom''s stronghold?¡± Farra''s eyes sharpened, the blood in her body beginning to heat at the very sight of the excessive display.

    ¡°Our greatest foothold in the eastern lands.¡± The man grunted in pride as they began to descend the hill.

    Flames lit in the distance atop the watchtowers. Words were sparse as each soldier had their thoughts the closer they came to the gate, not the least of which was the feirin. She had already began scanning the surroundings for any signs of treachery, annoyed by the blatant excuses for the territory''s lack of contributing resources upon seeing the excessive structures. Rumblings of shifting boots and movement could be heard from the other side of the wall as they approached a metal gate.

    ¡°Who''s the company?¡± A voice came curt and raspy, a smaller soldier that shriveled in stature to barely rising above Naia''s height screeched from the other side of the gate.

    ¡°Officers Farra and Estelle. Farra comes at request of the Warlords to seek peace on behalf of Lord Erres. Open the gate.¡± Calin answered.

    The shriveling soldier letting out a cackle and muttering as he began to pull a chain lever bringing the mighty gate up. ¡°Peace from them. It''ll be a good laugh is what it will be.¡±

    Farra disregarded the words, proceeding forth hooded and slowly walking forward with her proper stature. It only took steps inside for her blood to heat to a boil, not even requiring her sight for her ears to pick up moans in the distance. She looked to the side, spotting out an aged stone shed beside one of the watchtowers. But still it wasn''t enough, distasteful as it certainly was to her, the individual inside was more than likely a slave.

    ¡°Now that were here, were gonna split off and report to Lord Raom, there''s no monsters in here.¡± The man waved Calin with him and set forth on their hounds. Calin turned to wave goodbye, receiving a nod back from both the officers. ¡°Another guard will likely come receive you soon.¡±

    The soldiers bundled together, keeping with Farra, not certain of the business they had here. Without any thought to the matter Farra continued onward, looking from side to side, surveying every bit of her surroundings with her sight. Some buildings they passed outright suggested what was happening within them, whether it was the sounds of debauchery or comparatively innocuous screaming and arguing mixed with the clashing of metal. They drew into what felt like a makeshift plaza without any outstanding structures to ornament it. The road split four ways, one forward leading to the coliseum-like structure, while the other pathways branched around the stronghold. Barrels of pikes and other weaponry were stored up against various stone walls.

    Farra stopped, one particular building two-stories high attracting her attention. At its entrance laid several armaments. ¡°Remain here please.¡±

    She ventured toward it, her sight telling her everything she needed to know, but she still wished to ascertain the truth with her own eyes. The pathway inside was dark and damp, filled with a stench that made the feirin almost prefer suffocating. She crept inside, disappearing in the darkness to the rest of her soldiers.

    A dying light sat atop a table, where a beast was asleep in his trousers. Farra continued past him, a crude stone staircase led upstairs, but she turned across the room to the other side, where a pathway led down into a basement. She shifted her regalia, not wanting it to drag across the flooring for fear of filth tainting her Lords'' blessing. With quiet and graceful steps down, she craned her head, waiting for something to come into view. The basement was filled with a gloom and gray atmosphere, filled with shame and meant for a facade of secrecy. She came upon numerous pieces of armor scattered by the end of the staircase, turning to see soldiers with their arms and legs shackled to the wall. They made no noise, the expressions across their face were blank and helpless, broken already. Three women, a male beast, and a young girl. One of the women bore the markings of a beast slave, but the other four bore all the qualities of soldiers whom others had decided to subject to their desires. A beast turned from the girl who let out the faintest noise with every motion, sobbing idly with a choked voice.

    ¡°¡¯Ey, who''s this girl?¡± Another of Raom''s soldiers turned, his senses and judgment drowned in a stupor of pleasure.

    ¡°Who cares, look at that fine clothing, get her in here.¡±

    Farra trembled. Her body shook as they approached, their brashness and disrespect for their fellow soldiers and more importantly, Lord Erres'' officer heated the feirin¡¯s blood to a boil.

    ¡°Do not touch me filth.¡±

    She revealed her drawn blade, slicing the throat of one soldier. Another, awakening from his stupor, attempted to make a movement for a blade set to the side. As he turned the slightest amount from the feirin to the grab the sword, her blade came down on his neck in a swift stroke, decapitating him. The other three of Raom''s soldiers turned from their indulgence, one beginning to beg for his life.

    ¡°Please, we¡¯re just soldiers all having some fun.¡± He cowered and shook before her, beginning to fall to the ground on his knees. The man¡¯s eyes kept steady on Farra, engulfed in fear as his form continued to shrivel before her in an attempt for forgiveness.

    Farra turned her gaze to him, disgust across her face. Her teeth gritted and right arm twitched with a desire to slaughter the man. Her indigo eyes were bereft of any hint of mercy, instead looking at the pathetic figure groveling as she calculated the appropriate method of punishment. When the other two soldiers thought her distracted, one lunged at her, the other making a move toward a weapon. With a swiping movement, Farra cut through the body of one soldier and then dismembered the arm of the man trying to pick up a sword in the same slash. She then picked her blade up, bringing it down and cutting off his head.

    ¡°Please¡ªplease, let me live, I am a good soldier.¡± Whether it was his intent to attempt a distraction to begin with or not, Farra¡¯s eyes only became less forgiving, her gaze conveying every bit of her intent to kill him. He dropped completely downward, begging with his face pressed against the ground.

    ¡°I see. I am having my fun too.¡± She pressed the black blade through the back of his head, pushing it through until it made a sharp crack to the ground.

    Her eyes looked around to the bloody mess before examining her clothing, seeing whether blood had stained her regalia. She then ascended the stairs, looking toward the slumbering beast. She lifted her blade once more, bringing it down on his neck and beheading him, batting the head to the floor afterward. She flicked her blade, cleansing it of the majority of the blood before sheathing it.

    Upon leaving the building she found Raom''s soldiers already surrounding the contingent she had brought. While the outcome of these traitors was already determined, Farra needed time to fulfill her objective.

    ¡°May I ask what is the matter soldiers?¡± Farra called, speaking above the clamor.

    ¡°Farra, by what reason do you come here without warning? Proceed to Lord Raom''s hold at once.¡± The soldier''s eyes widened when seeing the feirin emerge from the building.

    ¡°I simply have a peace offering is all.¡± She spoke, walking toward the orc and reptile who accompanied her, requesting her bags. ¡°It''s a runic ritual, I have seen what you all enjoy. So please, let me help in that endeavor. If it is pleasure you want, then allow me to summon you concubines with my arcane knowledge.¡±

    The soldiers turned to one another, hesitant but beginning to nod as words more appreciable to them began gracing Farra''s lips. Naia reared her head in shock.

    ¡°Pleasure, we are slaves to it are we not? So as a sensible peace offering I will summon a concubine to help fulfill your wildest dreams. Male, female, old, young, human, demon, beast, all options are open to rune magic.¡± She turned toward the soldiers smiling, ¡°I will have to ask you to keep your hands off myself, Estelle, or Naia, at least for a while longer. Peace offerings are peace offerings after all.¡±

    Estelle grabbed Naia, pulling her tight to smother any chance of speaking aloud, lowering her hood and turning to the soldiers. ¡°Tell me soldiers, have you ever been with a demon?¡±

    Farra opened her bags as the soldiers began to mingle with Estelle at the center of distracting them. She scoured her bags with urgency, but taking care not to be so swift as to seem suspicious. After all, this was a peace offering. For these soldiers to be so easily distracted and convinced, they lacked discipline and a proper officer. On the stone ground Farra spilled dust in the form of a circle, working through different bloods, mixing them with various powders as she articulated the runes across the ground.

    ¡°Earth forms the frame of which we travel upon, water paves the land, and it is the sky through which we travel. But that isn''t all.¡± Farra muttered to herself, the distraction continuing behind her just outside the center of the plaza.

    An officer came up with additional soldiers behind him. He was shrouded in black cloth with two large dagger-like blades at his side. It was the same soldier that Farra had her trial against when younger.

    ¡°Estelle? Why are you here?¡± He looked past the gathering of soldiers, spotting and recognizing the hooded figure despite her regalia. ¡°Wait what''s Farra doing over there? Stop her at once.¡± The man ordered, Raom''s troops still in disarray and finishing their idle conversations with a seductive Estelle who chose to ignore the officer.

    ¡°I said stop her you trash.¡± He screamed, shoving a soldier out of the way and making his own way toward Farra, drawing his blade only for the reptilian grab his wrist and disarm him.

    ¡°Kill them all you¡ª¡°

    His words ceased, turning to see a bright and overpowering, blinding light emerge from the circle Farra had etched. Rushing of steps began coming from every direction, halting upon seeing the radiant glow of white light.

    ¡°Summoning is quite more troublesome than teleportation.¡± Farra spoke aloud as the light diminished, a giant standing upon the runic circle.

    ¡°It is still intuitive my pupil, you need study when time allows it again. And as for all you, well I did not expect to be summoned here exactly.¡±

    Raom''s soldiers began to back away, making no effort to combat Farra''s band, the reptilian shoving the officer he had disarmed away.

    ¡°They are traitors. Raom has allowed the raping of other soldiers within his domain. I wanted to be sure before calling you my Lord.¡±

    ¡°That makes everything quite simple. Allow me to clear the rabble before we continue. Greater Magic, Anomaly.¡± Valen''s armor shined, his gauntlets glowing and beginning to crackle with energy. He lifted a boot pressing it back to the ground. From it the ground began to ice in every direction, avoiding Farra or any of the allied soldiers, chasing after Raom''s fleeing and approaching soldiers. Following the path of ice the ground began to erupt in a series of violent stalagmites. Some soldiers dodged, others were impaled. Just as the stalagmites ended, they erupted from the inside, spewing forth violent fire. The flames charred the corpses of those already caught and burned those attempting to avoid it. For those who had escaped death until that point, as Valen held a hand upward a bolt of lavender lightning crackled into the air, splitting down on all the soldiers touched by his magic.

    One man remained standing after magic concluded, he stood still, bodies strewn around him.

    ¡°Ah, I recognize you. You are the one who took pleasure in cornering a child are you not?¡± Another light of energy filled Valen''s greaves, stone rising from behind the officer and traveling forward, bringing him to Valen.

    ¡°But you are of Bathalian''s court are you not? Why are you here? Is she complicit in this show of treason?¡±

    He swiped with a blade, Farra watching behind him, having already seen the outcome.

    ¡°I forgot who you were. It seems Lord Valen has not.¡±

    Valen''s gauntlet pressed against the blade, crushing it with a single movement forward, wrapping around the body of the man, clenching and squeezing him tight. The gauntlet glowed red, the man glowing red from the inside as the sound of flesh searing began to fill the air. His screams filled the air, writhing in the giant''s grasp, and with a last squeeze, what remained of his bones crushed and fell limp beneath Valen and Farra.

    ¡°It is unwise to bask in vengeance long dear Farra.¡± A bellow of laughter came from Valen. ¡°Stand back so that we may truly begin, do not fret you will receive your enchantment soon enough.¡±

    Farra obliged, moving toward a frightened Naia, all the soldiers save for Estelle in awe at the sheer destruction Valen caused in a single spell. More footsteps began approaching, stopping as they neared the bodies of their comrades. Valen stood still, his body beginning to glow again, similar to when he was summoned. Farra turned to her soldiers.

    ¡°Allow me to apologize for keeping it hidden from you all. But I am here to destroy any of those who are traitors to the War Faction and see to Raom''s demise. None of you are to come with us for this. However, there is an important mission you may all find suitable to your tastes in the meantime. Find soldiers who are loyal, soldiers who have been abused. We will not have the time to identify friend from foe or avoid the matter of collateral damages. So go and save the lives you can.¡± Estelle nodded, placing a hand over Naia''s wrist to pull her along before Farra continued on. ¡°Please keep Naia safe, she will likely have much work to do, but she is no warrior either. And do not underestimate your foes¡±

    ¡°Of course Farra.¡± The reptile nodded his head, the orc following his gestures.

    As the orders concluded, a wave of wind flushed from Valen''s body, spanning outward and causing all soldiers but Farra and Estelle to stumble. As the white light faded, a obscured red glow came in place of it, an armored man in black armor of a stature smaller than Valen stood in front of him. Immediately Farra bowed, only to be waved up by the man just as she dipped her head.

    ¡°My Lord.¡±

 Chapter 14: A Battle of Lords

    ¡°Raise your head. There''s work to be done.¡±

    ¡°Of course my Lord.¡±

    Erres walked past Farra in a slow gait, his eyes fixated on Raom''s keep lying at the end of the center road. The soldiers Farra assembled stepped aside as Erres neared them, including Estelle who shut her eyes and bowed.

    ¡°Valen, I''ll leave purging the rabble to you. Farra, attend me.¡± The young lord called back. Without hesitation, Farra turned to Valen, extending an outward hand. The finger of a black gauntlet that dwarfed Farra touched to her palm, followed by a transfusion of energy flowing through her body and lighting all her embedded runes with a brilliant and lucent glow. Both the teacher and student nodded to one another, a moment they had long waited for was now at hand. Farra turned with a quick step, catching the pace of Erres and following at his side. She spared no moment to gaze to the other soldiers. In her stead, Valen turned to Farra''s troop, towering like a monument in the middle of the plaza.

    ¡°She gave you your orders. Abide by her will, it still is your course. Be wary not to stray in the path of my spells, not all are so merciful as the last.¡± Valen turned. Within the giant''s helmet there was an uncanny abyss. As he turned, all the soldiers could feel and imagine a piercing red gleam from within it, searching for its prey. ¡°I will take some measure of care in not killing those who realize their folly. But punishment must be doled.¡± He turned, speaking to none in particular when he drew the titanic blade forth, gripping it with both hands and filling its edge with an ephemeral glow.

    Farra and Erres walked forward together, hearing a deafening crash followed by the sound of debris scattering behind them. A band of beast soldiers then approached them from a narrow alley between two buildings.

    ¡°The left passageway.¡±

    Before Farra finished her words, Erres already unsheathed his blade, tossing the scabbard to the ground and letting forth an arcing swing. A buffet of fire swallowed the alley, engulfing the soldiers in flames and melting the walls of the stone structures.

    ¡°You need not exert yourself for such trifling individuals my Lord.¡±

    ¡°The strife helps my fury flow.¡±

    ¡°Then allow me to be the cause of it.¡± Farra unfolded her arms and drew her blade, plunging at an empty space. An agonizing scream filled the air as a soldier that blended into his surroundings came into view. His wide and shocked eyes revealed themselves before Farra pulled the blade from his body, letting it slump the ground. The young lord and his retainer both spilled magical dust across their weapons, imbuing the runes inscribed on them with an unmistakable glow that gave their blades'' metal life.

    Pack after pack of soldiers continued to rush at Erres and Farra, having each of their actions countered before any had the opportunity to react. Blazes of fire adorned the ground. Farra''s singular blade whipped forth with ferocity akin to a lashing viper. But the speed and force with which the blade descended upon its victims was far more violent. Farra''s indigo eyes were sharp and cold as her sword sliced through the bodies of man and beast. The tip gouged trained soldiers at the slightest opening. Just as she was once helpless when younger, these soldiers were now helpless before her. However, they lacked the sense to flee her blade, before even counting her Lord''s fury.

    Erres'' blade swept through the air. The raging blazes let loose by every swing warded off soldiers from approaching all at once. Where the flames left an opening, Erres'' own blade and might lied in waiting, hacking the bodies of soldiers in half with no regards for their armor. One soldier dashed close, attempting to impale the young lord from behind. Erres turned the slightest amount, allocating his spare hand to let loose a violent explosion, negating the momentum of the approaching soldier and scorching him beyond recognition.

    Unbridled flames decorated the roads littered with the bodies of Raom''s soldiers. Around the domain various buildings crumbled and succumbed to different unyielding fires as Valen could be seen between the shorter buildings causing havoc. Cracks of lightning and entire buildings being upended mixed with the screams of soldiers in the distance.

    ¡°Their helplessness is unsightly for soldiers, they are poorly trained and need to be drilled properly.¡± Farra turned, speaking to Erres after more oncoming soldiers ceased their assault, instead stopping in their tracks upon witnessing the number of their comrades'' strewn throughout the road and the tireless flames continuing to consume their corpses.

    Erres gave no attention to the fallen soldiers, no indication he had heard Farra''s words as he continued onward toward the structure at the end of the road.

    ¡°If we are to confront the darkness my Lord, then we will need to assemble talent beyond that of these savages. They would prove no better than distractions and fodder.¡±

    ¡°Right you are. After taking care of bigger distractions we can see to that.¡±

    Farra nodded, stepping closer to the young lord''s side before continuing a straight path, pulling her hood back from covering her head.

    ¡°Lord Erres. I understand that in this moment you have but one objective. I only ask two things. That you not let your fury control you, but only provide you your immense might. And that for every bit of rotten ilk there is in this world, understand that we, your loyal soldiers, stand by you.¡±

    A breath could be heard escaping from Erres'' helmet as he gripped his blade tight, stretching his neck and arms. ¡°Don''t fret Farra. Once I bury this I can be every bit of the Lord that you deserve and wish to follow. I haven''t forgotten my dream for a better future for these lands.¡±

    The feirin smiled. ¡°Regardless if you have or not, I will serve and help remind you my Lord.¡±

    The entrance to the coliseum was marked by a single blood-marked banner that rose against the structure''s stone frame, crowned with the skull of a large creature. Within the passage stood a familiar wolf-like beast, awaiting the two. Unlike the padded armor or plates so many of Raom''s soldiers wore, this individual wore a modest black tunic despite all the conflict.

    ¡°Lord Erres, Farra, cease the needless slaughter and tell us what you came here for. This is madness regardless of your reason.¡± Sievin stepped back as the two continued approaching. Farra turned her head with a glare, Erres not even offering a glance.

    ¡°We are here to kill Raom, Sievin. Stay out of our way or you will be another to fall. The soldiers here have been found wanting, and you too very well might be. They are unfit to call themselves soldiers of the War Faction. I will be acting as the arbitrator for this duel of Lords.¡±

    Sievin remained frozen as Farra spoke, as they disregarded the officer and walked past him. He was not here to fight, nor could he stand up to these two. The intent they brought with them was nonnegotiable. He turned as they passed him, trying to find a common ground once more.

    ¡°That sort of excessive bloodshed is far beyond beneficial for any of us. There are innocent soldiers, you can''t just lump them all¡ª¡°

    Farra stopped and turned momentarily, Erres halting for her.

    ¡°The time for innocence and complying is past. Our laws have been broken in this domain, you are all complicit in the atrocities taking place here. If you believe there are lives worth saving, then go and reason with Lord Valen and my warriors. Raom''s life and any defending him is forfeit.¡± With her last word, Farra turned back forward and they continued inside the hold.

    The ceilings within the hold were grand and rose high, with walls spanning a great length from one another lined with torches. Along the walls were racks of several weapons, ones that only a mighty or larger soldier could possibly be comfortable wielding properly. The halls were void of other soldiers, both the Lord and feirin''s steps echoing throughout. Despite the floor being fashioned of stone, it was sullen with layers of dirt. From the rounding halls several archways came into view, illuminated by a mixture of light from both torches and the moon itself. The roof of the structure was open, letting light shine down and illuminate the center part of the hold.

    Against a rounded wall was a massive throne, fashioned from various materials including stone, bone, and dirt. Upon it sat a behemoth exceeding even Valen''s height, a gigantic cleaver-like blade to match his height by his side. Atop the behemoth''s head extended two large and pointed horns. He had a dark body and mane, and was clad in thick metal plates where it would not restrict his movement. He rose from the throne with a booming hoof stomp, picking his cleaver up and facing the two approaching, only to let out a roar of laughter.

    ¡°Erres.¡± Dust blew from the ground at Raom''s breath. ¡°Are you truly your father''s son? Your thirst for vengeance. Your lust for fighting. You take after me more than that weakling. Be proud of it.¡± His bushy tail whipped side to side, scraping up chunks of dirt. ¡°Look at you, having abandoned your calls for efficiency and unity, causing havoc in my domain. You are to be a bloodstained leader.¡±

    ¡°To expect having hands free of bloodshed is nothing more than naivety. I''ll spill all the blood needed to secure the War Faction''s future in these lands. Including yours Raom. Farra will be our arbitrator for this duel.¡±

    ¡°Duel? You are a fool just like your father then, you know nothing in the way of war. But I will accept your mistaken opportunity, and deal with your lackey after.¡±

    Farra stepped back, moving back to the archway with a small squat, before she sprung and jumped up to the second floor of the coliseum. She glanced down the shadowy and soiled hallway, looking for any sorts of entrances or oddities before turning back and looking over the arena.

    ¡°Commence as you will, any who seek to interrupt I will kill. If a blow comes my way I will not hesitate to retaliate.¡± Farra spoke with disregard for any sort of titles. It was her Lord''s wish for a proper duel, for proper vengeance. The two lords gazed at one another, the red glow within Erres'' armor remaining eerily restrained, while Raom gazed downward, comparing the size of his cleaver''s edge to his opponent''s height.

    ¡°After you will be that feirin. And then as the rallying cry for your War Faction falls, my voice will remain.¡±

    Raom lunged forward, turning his blade sideways and bringing it down with both hands. A black blade met the cleaver, holding its position as a torrent of violent flames sprayed and began eating into the cleaver''s edge, melting it down its center. The blades struggled against one another, Erres'' blade gradually cutting farther and farther through until Raom pulled back. The minotaur stomped backward, Erres dashing forward and swinging to deliver a fiery slash to the stomach. As Erres'' sword arced upward, he shifted a hand from his blade to grab and reduce the impact of a thick brown tail lashing at him from the side, tightening his grip and letting loose a volatile burst of flame before he flung through the air and crashed into an archway.

    ¡°Your lord is a bothersome pest.¡± Roam turned, his eyes crossing Farra''s while he glanced down to inspect his blistering tail.

    ¡°You seem to lack the understanding of what this battle entails.¡± Farra kept her hands folded as she looked down at Raom. ¡°If you continue taking such poor trades of blows, then defeat is inevitable for you.¡±

    ¡°Arrogant as your lord, are you?¡± He snorted in retort, the air blowing against Farra''s regalia. Raom lifted his cleaver into the air, slamming it vertically into the ground with a deafening crack, causing a fissure of stone to erupt toward the damaged archway. Erres gripped his sword, diving from the path of the erupting stone with a roll. For all his size, Raom dashed forward with monstrous speed, unleashing a flurry of swipes. Erres'' response were glancing strikes, redirecting the momentum of each clash with the blade so the minotaur¡¯s consecutive slash took a moment longer. As the cleaver was eventually propelled overhead, Erres held his hand out and let a bolt of flame loose. It tore into Raom''s chest plate, fanning along it and singing the minotaur''s exposed skin.

    Raom reeled back and slammed his weapon downward, Erres sidestepping the edge and dashing forward. Raom let go of his cleaver, pulling his hand back before the flames spewing from Erres armor scorched it. ¡°A flaming mongrel.¡± Raom roared, clenching his fist and dodging an arcing slash in his retreat, then doubling forward and launching a punch. Erres left one hand on his blade, his armor glowing more crimson as his fist made contact with Raom''s own. The forces negated one another, but as Erres recovered control of his blade, Raom came too soon with his other fist, delivering a swift second strike that launched the young lord back across the ground.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    The monster shook his hand that collided with Erres, blood splattering forth, not from smacking the metal of Erres'' gauntlet, but from a scorching heat that effused at the time of contact. ¡°A shell of dangerous armor. I''ll just break the weakling inside then.¡± He picked up his cleaver, his muscles tensing as he lifted it overhead, tearing the weapon into two smaller, crude pieces. ¡°A human''s limits are trifling. Your father broke with such little effort once he was outmatched.¡±

    Lowering to the ground, Raom sprinted forward in a steel whirlwind. Erres rose, recovering to his feet as the onslaught closed in. He deflected one cleaver, sliding his blade down to block the second. Raom pulled the first edge back, towering over Erres to an extent such he began a followup strike from the side that reached behind the young lord. He had no choice, Erres ducked the blow that would connect with his shoulders, then wrenching his blade from Raom''s ensuing attempt to disarm the elongated sword. Raom swiftly pulled both cleavers overhead, bringing them back down in an attempt to crush Erres before the latter could recover from his crouching. The young lord used his blade to shield himself, digging into the ground and beginning to crater into it once the softer dirt gave way. The blades shook. If Raom released the pressure of one blade for an attempt at a side swipe, Erres despite being so small in comparison, could still overpower one edge and react.

    Raom grunted, ¡°I''ll see you writhe as pathetic as your father did you tenacious fool.¡± The tail came again, lashing at Erres'' body. The force from Raom''s pressing blades kept the young lord stiff in the ground, taking each lashing with and hardly budging. Each blunting impact caused Erres'' stance to bend bit by bit. What began a stalemate turned into a trapping for the young lord, struggling against the might of the minotaur and taking the repeated brutal blows to the side which his armor did little to absorb.

    Farra looked from a distance on the other side of the coliseum. She took a breath. Despite her unrivaled desire to spring forth to her lord''s aid, she knew that this was a duel not for the sake of strategy, but Erres'' own honor and satisfaction. The sight pained her, but she kept her face neutral. She could determine the amount of trouble Erres faced with each movement using her sight. And she had the power to intervene if needed. Yet still, her hardened nerves twitched. She could not intervene regardless, for the fabric of Erres'' being depended on a lone victory here without interference to aid him. Farra had little in the way of grudges or desire for vengeance, even counting her embarrassments and defeats. She had come to understand those emotions solely through others.

    She strove to better herself for the sake of her Lord, to become the proper weapon Erres'' required. But in this instance, she was a weapon that Erres refused to draw. An armament that upon being called upon, Erres'' victory would be assured, but the vengeance he desired from this conflict would be lost. So Farra stood, counting the lashings, periodically scanning about for any possible intruders. Finally, the painful sight stopped, but not in a way she hoped. Erres'' stance wavered enough to where Raom pulled one blade, delivering a violent swipe to the side that sent Erres tumbling against the ground and back into a wall with a crash that rocked the structure''s foundations.

    Raom stood in a victorious moment, grinning and satisfied with the result as he stepped over to where Farra was perched. Farra''s neutral expression briefly wavered into one of disgust as the minotaur''s glee came into her eyes'' view.

    ¡°Your lord was mightier than his father I''ll give him that. But he''s still a wretched and weak human.¡± Raom spoke with a measure of hubris and satisfaction in his triumphant sequence. ¡°I''ve heard much of you. You''re not everything I was expecting or prefer, but your ruthlessness in your pursuits is admirable.¡± Raom let out a grunt, one reeking of laughter and approval. ¡°Your strength should be with me. You are a proper beast that should be treated like a matriarch among them, and we shall see you to bear my pups.¡±

    Farra''s annoyance was written across her face, but Raom seemed either unaware or uncaring for such signals. ¡°My strength is contingent upon magic. Something your domain has little concept of. And if you laud strength, then I should find it unfitting to serve someone weaker than I when I am at my best. I am Lord Erres'' blade, the respect and ends he strives for are something that bring out my abilities. You lack any such qualities, you should consider yourself fortunate he has decided against your swift demise.¡± Farra gazed back down, looking past Raom and over the arena when another snort came.

    ¡°Prideful you are. It''ll be all the better when I snap the back of that fool. Then I''ll have the joy of beating you into submission and breaking you into my mate.¡± Raom''s eyes gleamed with a streak of sadism, the roaring under his breath becoming more uncontrolled.

    ¡°If that is your desire, might you forget your belief of being able to best me in combat. First you need to best my Lord when he uses his proper strength. However lamentable it may be, you too are a lord are you not? Or am I mistaken and this is the extent of your capabilities?¡± Farra pulled one hand from her robes, pointing past and to where Erres crashed into. From the ruined stone emerged Erres, a ferocious red gale swirling about him, a furious fiery light pouring from the segments in his armor.

    ¡°If that was your true strength you put on display, I might suggest rethinking your strategies. For every bit of savagery you show in combat, Lord Erres is far closer to a ruthless animal.¡± Farra smiled, the minotaur leaving with a growl to approach his opponent once more.

    ¡°You''ve only inconvenienced my fist and blade so far Erres, we''ll see what good Belthemot''s blessing does you.¡± Raom let out a roar echoing throughout the darkness as he readied his halved cleavers.

    Farra shifted from her perch when Erres blitzed forward, letting his blade forth in an unyielding blow. His eyes shined crimson, filled with murder. Raom caught the black-flame ornamented blade with one cleaver, extending his second blade when the first began to crack under Erres'' fury.

    ¡°I''m going to kill you.¡± Erres muttered, a scarlet whirlwind around him composed of both divine blessing and his own flame. Flames seeped from the openings of his armor like exhaust. The young lord let out a scream and surged with force, shattering the second cleaver and launching Raom through the archway''s pillars and into the coliseum''s darkened halls, the structure destabilizing and beginning to crumble on top of the minotaur.

    Farra moved along the second floor of the coliseum to ensure avoiding being caught in any collateral destruction. She examined her surroundings, in particular keeping fixated toward a high parting in the coliseum acting as a window to the structure. ¡°Come out, I will not protect you from being caught in my Lord''s fury, and if you intervene I''ll have your life coward.¡±

    The familiar wolf-beast jumped down, approaching the feirin slowly. ¡°I have come to simply observe. There is nothing I can do to intervene if it''s against your wishes.¡± Sievin spoke in a conciliatory tone. ¡°I have done what I can outside, the dead are numerous, and Lord Valen only let me live for what reason I cannot imagine.¡±

    ¡°All things considered, you are a trusted orator of this domain. Numerous, but not all are dead, we will find use in your service.¡± Farra turned back toward the ensuing battle, Erres winding up a spiraling cyclone of flame along his blade, swinging and launching it into the hall, enveloping the previously darkened halls in a rage of fire. Erres dived in after the flames, the crash of stone breaking coming from the floor below Farra, the floor beneath her beginning to quake.

    Within the blazing hallway, even Raom''s tough hide began to blister from the sweltering heat. He grabbed a large halberd from a weapon rack, beginning a wide swing toward the pursuing Erres. The head of the halberd came toward the young lord''s body, countered by Erres simply holding his blade up, emitting from it a stream of fire negating the force of the swing. Without hesitation Raom pulled forth two more weapons from the racks, one axe and one sword. Before the pole of the halberd reached the ground, an axe swing came toward Erres from one side, the sword approaching a direction as to ensure Erres'' blade being occupied.

    ¡°It''s futile.¡± Erres swung his blade only halfway, cutting through the sword quick enough to dodge the axe swing by continuing forward. The black blade plunged toward the minotaur''s abdomen, a furious roar filling the halls. Before the blade could dig deeper, in a grand show of instinct, Raom batted Erres away with no regard for the flames exuding from the armor coming to scorch his hand, Erres well prepared for such a maneuver, sliding back along the stone flooring on his feet.

    The young lord stabbed his blade into the flooring to slow his momentum quicker, dashing back into the fray as Raom recovered. The next weapon the minotaur reached for was a gargantuan mace, but before he could grab hold and swing, Erres blitzed him with a fervid fury, a crackle of explosions left in his path as he rammed Raom into the wall, Erres'' blade colliding with and attempting to cut through the mace''s handle. Raom drive the weight of the weapon downward in an effort to crush the zealous Erres. From the black-armored lord, a glow of tempestuous flame came, exploding outward.

    ¡°Come. Before you are swallowed by the rubble.¡± Farra leaped up to the same crevice through which Sievin had entered. She stood, overlooking the blazing structures illuminating the dark below. An explosion came, and in a eruption of fire and stone, an entire side of the coliseum was blown outward. With the wall¡¯s destruction came Raom, flying back. The minotaur tumbled back until a stone building caught his body, Erres himself emerging and treading forward across burning ground.

    The pillars supporting the second floor began to crumble as flames devoured more and more stone. Farra jumped to the nearest building, continuing to the observe the battle as the a side of Raom''s keep crumbled behind her.

    A bloodied Raom climbed to his feet, the wound from his stomach beginning to gush blood. The minotaur arched his head into the air, letting loose a savage roar that drained the air around him. The very ground began to shake, Farra momentarily loosing her footing on the building as flames along the ground extinguished.

    ¡°To think, a human, even if empowered by such divinity, could drive me back. Come then Erres. Let all here bear witness to whether it is Belthemot''s might or my own that is supreme.¡± Raom clenched a fist, driving it down through a stone building beside him, carving with his hands a crude stone blade befitting his size. ¡°Even with all your resources, the might of a minotaur will triumph.¡± Raom charged forward, bringing his crude blade down onto Erres. The young lord''s blade met its stone foe, attempting to grind through the stone blade. The width from which it was shaped halted the cutting factor of Erres'' blade, but not his strength. Raom stepped back and to the side, jerking his stone weapon back, treating it as a shield and leading the momentum of Erres'' strike astray.

    Raom let go of the shield, lowering his shoulder and catapulting into Erres, striking him with one fist, following with a slower second punch. Erres managed to pull his blade back in time, skinning Raom''s fist as he continued past the blade, the fist succeeding in knocking its opponent back along the ground. Raom lowered his shoulder, charging after and ripping another stone armament from the ground. He handled the weapon like a wall, bashing it against Erres'' blade and disarming him.

    ¡°As careless as your father.¡± Raom lowered a fist moving to strike Erres.

    ¡°My father was a weakling.¡± Erres'' crimson eyes swirled with his fiery vengeance, catching Raom''s punch even with a smaller hand. ¡°But as a lord of those weak, it falls to me triumph.¡± Erres'' black gauntlet swirled, commanding both a raging fire and Belthemot''s scarlet blessing. ¡°I will overcome every opponent, every battle, to see Belthemot''s War Faction persist in these damned lands. You''re nothing but a traitor, and your lack of a blessing shows it. I don''t need my blade to bring you down.¡± Erres clenched his other gauntlet into a fist, bringing it forth and striking against Raom''s gut, fire spilling on Raom''s body as Erres shoved the minotaur back, making no move for his sword and dashing into Raom immediately. A jet of scorching fire came with the young lord, delivering a flaming strike that sent Raom crashing back in a torrent of fire.

    Raom collided with a building, his thick skin charred beyond any feeling as rubble collapsed onto his body. The previous strike left him short of air, and the surrounding flames only made it harder to breathe. He opened an eye, unable to move as the remaining lingering embers stung his body, the impact of the building having shattered both his arms. The flames cleared, revealing Erres, wielding his blade once again.

    ¡°You...you''re stronger than I had hoped. A mere human.¡± Raom tried to lift his body, a bolt of flame putting him back down. He continued to speak despite being brought down once more. ¡°Fighting you was a joy, but tell me Erres, what hope do you have for a War Faction without fighting or vengeance. There will be no peace, regardless of who takes the mantle of Warlord, ever. With me¡ª¡° Erres plunged his sword into the minotaur''s chest, sliding it further and further, tearing through the seared skin and tough body, before twisting his blade. ¡°Your memory of your father dies with me, Conqueror.¡± The black blade lit aflame, scorching what remained of Raom''s vitality from the inside, the minotaur''s jagged teeth clenching in agony before his body became still, eyes shutting as his head slumped.

    Erres stood, his greaves digging into the body, twisting his blade once more before finally ripping it from Raom. The flames and red wind faded from Erres, the soft red glow from within his armor returning. He stood still, one hand gripping his blood-soaked sword. He gazed down to the face of his enemy, who now rest in an eternal slumber, a target of his unbridled hatred and antagonist to his cause. At last, his father was avenged. All that remained was the matter of what next, where next to turn his fury. The enemies were obvious, but this monster of a creature was the one that set his life awry.

    The sound of light and quick steps came, Farra running to her lord''s side, jumping on top of the minotaur without care.

    ¡°My Lord. You''ve done it.¡± Farra spoke quiet, moving to Erres side. Her lord stood silent, gradually lowering his bloody blade.

    ¡°I have. My desire for vengeance has finally been fulfilled, and with it I will accept inheriting my father''s title of Conqueror. Still, my hatred for this fool persisted so long, it has unmistakably chained me even as I endeavored in other pursuits. And bound both my fury and desire.¡±

    Farra flung herself into Erres side, taking hold of his open hand and squeezing tight.

    ¡°It matters not my Lord. You not only did this for yourself, but what was necessary for the perseverance of our faction. Even if this act was full of your unbridled rage, you knew it to benefit us all the same.¡±

    ¡°I suppose you''re right in that sense.¡±

    Farra bowed her head, keeping close to Erres.

    ¡°I and Lord Valen, we will both stand by your side regardless of the circumstance Lord Erres. Until your fury and indignation returns in full, your soldiers will represent the fullest of your will. You have inspired us, it is our duty to help our Lord when he may waver in his resolve. I promise.¡±

    More footsteps came behind them, Farra keeping hold of her Erres'' hand all the same, turning her head to acknowledge the oncoming presences. Among them was Lord Valen, the troop she had brought, Sievin, and a handful of Raom''s soldiers whose lives had been spared.

    Estelle bowed her head into a kneel, all other soldiers following suit, leaving only Valen remaining standing and speaking aloud.

    ¡°As comes the end of one, so comes the opportunity for another. This moon, a lord has a fallen.¡±

 Chapter 15: A Wary Flight

    ¡°Hear now.¡± Farra shouted, stepping down from Raom''s corpse and approaching the audience. She continued forward, standing beside Valen. Behind her Erres quietly lifted his blade, decapitating the minotaur and pulling the severed head behind him.

    ¡°Raom is no more, you still standing, his former soldiers, are now under command of Lord Erres. To defy orders means punishment by his or an appropriate officer''s hand. Because of foolish decisions, this domain has suffered, and many you might have felt to be fellow soldiers have perished. You can choose to harbor vengeance toward us, or you can abandon it and dedicate yourselves toward a worthy cause. None of you have proved irreplaceable, but none of you have proved hopeless either. From here on, consider yourselves born anew, with the opportunity to show your worth to our Lords waiting. This eastern land will at last be united with the temple, circumstance will change, and with it, we shall become a stronger War Faction. Do not despair, for uncertain as things may seem in the moment, it is Sievin who will act as an interim officer placed in command in absence of other leadership. Heed his and any superior''s orders. That is all.¡±

    Farra turned and backed from the crowd, drawing a heavy breath, the magic from her embedded runes seeping out. ¡°I am no good at this.¡± She panted, clutching one arm with her opposite hand and slowly walking toward Erres who met her in turn. Erres let go of the minotaur''s head, glancing down to one blood-splattered gauntlet, reaching with his over to extend a less-tainted arm of support. The feirin leaned in, breathing between her teeth.

    Valen had taken Farra''s place, looking over every remaining soldier. As the one who slaughtered most their comrades, each looked back in uncontrollable trepidation. ¡°Lord Erres and I stand united as equals, though I am partial to his ascendance. You all will be put to a great deal of work. Let us proceed by establishing an appropriate ley line and gate.¡± Valen continued thereon to assert orders in greater detail, clusters of soldiers hurriedly scattering among the ravaged domain. After time, only a small group of surviving soldiers including Sievin and Calin, along with Farra''s troop remained. ¡°Calin, it is courtesy of Estelle that you remain standing here. And Sievin you understand your purpose well. You will both attend me and help my understanding regarding the lay of this land and its happenings. Time is still an inconvenience to us, Naia you will be accompanying Farra.¡±

    The human girl gawked upward, a few of the soldiers glancing to her.

    ¡°You are Farra''s attendant. As sufficient as the destruction here may seem, your duty is not yet complete.¡±

    Valen waved a single hand through the air, its signal unmistakable as the heavy gauntlet commanded all soldiers with him. After receiving friendly bumps from the passing soldiers Farra had assembled, Naia was left standing in waiting, looking onward at Lord Erres and Farra as they stood together.

    Naia was unsure whether to approach the two while Farra hunched over Erres'' arm in what seemed like extreme discomfort. The mender heard a violent cough from the feirin, then seeing Erres¡¯ hand move in the slightest amount, waving the mender over. Naia stepped forward nervously, glancing at the ghastly and monstrous head behind the two.

    ¡°Yes?¡± Her voice was meek, but as the loudest noise was the occasional crackle of fires atop buildings at a distance, even it was loud enough to reach both her superiors'' ears.

    ¡°There''s little you can do for Farra at this moment. It''s the result of maintaining the enchantment within her body as long as she did. I have things I need to take care of, but her mission is not yet done, and therefore nor is yours. But let us find a bed to let Farra rest in before I explain what needs to be done.¡±

    They looked about, Farra hanging onto Erres, keeping her head downward and taking erratic breaths as they walked forward. The mender scurried through buildings that seemed amenable from the outside, searching for any sort of bed. Erres gazed over buildings torn and ravaged to where their interiors lie exposed, looking for some sort of place for rest could be untouched. Farra kept clutching to Erres side, managing to pull her hood over head to hide herself. After what felt to be an extensive time for the feirin, Naia called from a short distance. The building she found was comparatively untouched among the ones missing chunks of roofing next to it, the three ventured in to what was an unused storehouse, filled with stale air. In the corner was one stone bed covered with padding formed of tarnished cloth and hides.

    Farra''s regalia provided an additional cushion, she laid back onto the bed, shifting into a position to not smash her tail stubs, her harsh breathing beginning to stabilize. ¡°Such a distasteful location...but thank you.¡± She let out a groan, wrapping underneath her regalia and onto her side.

    ¡°She wasn''t like this after she did it the first time. Why now?¡±

    Naia looked over Farra''s ailing body, seeing her writhe in a clear agony, wriggling about continuously as if searching for some position that would alleviate the discomfort. The runes on her body had been gradually dissipating the energy they held, and left in place of their glow was this pain.

    ¡°The enchantment''s toll has to do with the time she maintains it, not how much she exerts herself while under it. She maintained it for an exceptionally long time during this siege, even if she only had to draw her blade for a modest number of soldiers.¡± Erres glanced over his officer''s ailing figure. ¡°There is a price to any power. Still, with some rest it should be fine.¡±

    A knock came from outside, Calin and Sievin both entered through the doorway while ducking their heads. One carried a scabbard familiar to the young lord, the other carrying the larger brown bag that Farra initially set out with. ¡°Valen directed us to retrieve and bring these to you Lord Erres. We apologize for disturbing Farra''s rest.¡± Calin spoke without hesitation, but with a clear and apologetic tone in his voice.

    ¡°It comes of no mind. It''s my hope you''ll learn from your soldiers Sievin.¡± Erres made a motion to step over to the two, feeling a gentle tug on one finger from a hand veiled in a thin and black glove. He then decided to stop and stay by the bedside. ¡°Scour the contents of the bag for remaining sacks of dust. Leave at least two if there are still that many. One of you prepare the finest hound available as a mount for Farra, she and the mender will be setting off after a rest. Thank you for retrieving this scabbard as well, it was forged with great care, but it seems that I was caught in the moment to end up leaving it on the ground.¡±

    ¡°At once, Lord.¡± Bows came from both, and after a quick deliberation, Sievin left the storehouse while Calin began rummaging through the bag.

    ¡°After finding the dust, take the bag back to Lord Valen, he will find use of whatever remains inside.¡± Erres turned back to Farra when he felt the finger fall from his gauntlet, seeing her once distressed eyes now shut. He picked her hanging hand up and laid it across her body. ¡°If you can find the time to rest mender, then you should do so as well. Farra''s mission is still ongoing. In fact, soldier, see to it that Sievin teaches her how to ride and direct a hound before returning to Lord Valen.¡±

    An affirmation came from Calin. The exhaustion began to set in for Naia after the mention of an opportunity of rest came, a shred of hope that was replaced with anxiety over learning to ride a hound. As it was Erres¡¯ orders, they were to be carried out, neither individual daring to offer an alternative.

    The moon cycled through. The fires that lit the stronghold withered away, letting a cold dark set back in. Soldiers created posts and began attaching bright, magically-infused stones acting as guides in the darkness. Naia stood outside the storehouse, Sievin on one side of her, and a slobbering and grinning hound whose reins she held in hand on her other side. Farra emerged from the storehouse just as she entered, her eyes still weary from rest, lugging a single sack of dust in one hand.

    ¡°How much time do I have left?¡± Farra shuffled forward, clenching the bag tight as she looked to the hound.

    ¡°To our understanding, six moons, not including this one which seems to be coming to a close. Lord Erres would not divulge the details of your assignment, but it seems that a hurried flight to Lady Bathalian''s court would be best for many reasons.¡± Sievin spoke, Naia cutting his voice off immediately after. ¡°Did you rest enough Farra? They taught me how to guide the hound in case you would have to sleep but...¡±

    ¡°Then I will take you up on that offer. Forgive me Naia, let us set out at once, my body still is drained.¡±

    The girl looked back in brief disbelief before shaking her head. She glanced to the slobbering hound that looked back at her. ¡°You better be obedient.¡± The hound let out a confused cry before laying to the ground so that the mender could mount it without trouble. As soon as Naia tossed a leg over, it rose back up before Farra could approach. ¡°Back down, she needs to get on too.¡± The girl cried in exasperation, the hound doing a spin before abiding her request.

    ¡°It seems to be energetic.¡± Farra mused, the exhaustion in her voice prevalent and nearly succeeding in mellowing the energy in the air from the hound''s excitement. She took a breath, placing one hand over Naia''s shoulder to pull herself onto the mount. Only a moment after ensuring the bag of dust would not fall, Farra wrapped both her arms around Naia''s stomach to steady herself.

    ¡°Hey, what are you¡ª¡± The hound rose, interrupting Naia''s thoughts as it recommenced spinning. Naia clenched the handles of the creature''s harness, attempting and managing to calm the excitable hound into obedience.

    ¡°It appears you will yet be fine.¡± Sievin chuckled at the novice display. ¡°Then with that I wish you well on your journey, both of you well.¡± The beast turned and walked away. Naia kept her gaze on him until she felt a head begin to slump over her shoulder, a hooded Farra beginning to smother her. Naia craned her head away in response, unable to fully pull herself from the feirin that had begun to use her as an impromptu pillow.

    ¡°Are you really up for this, it seems like you haven''t rested at all.¡± Despite her words, Naia had already given in, well aware that her commanding officer would find any reason to press forward. So she shifted, turning forward and managing control over the hound while trying to find the most comfortable position given Farra was likely to be using her as a post to rest on much of the journey.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

    A lack of words came from Farra, only a relatively inaudible murmur which Naia nodded her head in response to. Despite Farra not yet sleeping, her body felt more like a clinging corpse on the girl¡¯s back than a lively individual. The human girl lifted the reins and the hound set forth toward the gate in a prance. The gate leading outside of the stronghold was broken down, dismantled and its materials being reallocated for different uses. Soldiers turned their head, gazing toward Naia who despite a straight face as the hound charged forward, felt wholly unsure of how to guide the creature. It leaped over a chunk of metal that spanned across the ground, another murmur being let out by Farra as her body bounced, already fighting to keep her eyes open.

    The creature rushed forward out of the gate, catching the attention of both Lords and Estelle who stood far in the distance. With the turn of Naia''s body toward them, the hound took it as signal to rush toward the group. It dashed, causing more soldiers to rear their head when Estelle stepped in front, the creature coming to an abrupt stop as the demon extended her hand to stroke its head.

    ¡°He is a cute one.¡± She smiled when Lord Erres stepped forth and around, looking over Farra.

    ¡°Your life over all else. There will be other opportunities.¡±

    ¡°I will be wary my Lord.¡± The feirin¡¯s voice was meek, tying together strands of energy in an effort to speak louder. ¡°What is the likelihood that word of Raom''s demise has reached Bathalian''s court?¡±

    ¡°She is a talented spellweaver that shouldn''t be underestimated. There would be no word that made it to her domain by foot. But I suspect she had her ways of observing the happenings in Raom''s dominion, given traces of certain magic both Lord Valen and Estelle found. Her officer''s demise at Lord Valen''s hands only reinforce suspicion. As one of my most loyal followers Farra, I wish I could lend you more aid than I am able, but subterfuge will trump might now.¡±

    ¡°My mission will be carried out with the utmost care, placing it second only to my life as you request my Lord.¡±

    ¡°Good. As convenient as it might be to find something amiss in that court, the foothold established here is already a tremendous boon, and with shadows at Lord Mellor''s border, we would be hard-pressed to defend such an expansive region from monster and vagabond alike. I''ve been in touch with Teilve and Gare. Teilve should be able to reconvene with you in Bathalian''s court as well. Gare has his hands tied with slave revolts in land bordering mine and hers.¡±

    ¡°To see such a familiar face will be rejuvenating, you have nothing to fear for my mission then Lord Erres.¡± Despite the apparent exhaustion and struggle to keep her eyes open, a beaming smile came across Farra''s lips at mention of the mage.

    ¡°Then may Belthemot keep the both of you safe on your journey.¡±

    Both riders nodded as the hound turned.

    ¡°Did they tell you where we are headed beforehand?¡± Farra spoke softly, but the creature awaited no orders. It wasn''t long after departing that the wind drowned out any attempt to hear Farra''s faint words, leaving Naia to piece together what the feirin said while the creature picked up its sprint upon gracing the open plains.

    ¡°Yea, just try to rest.¡± Naia remarked back, trying to turn the hound northwest, away from both the moon and where they first ventured from. Despite the feirin¡¯s own concerns, the swirling wind soon becoming soothing to Farra, drowning other sound as she leaned into Naia for a second rest.

    By the time the feirin awoke, the moon had not only faded, but was long behind them when it did shine in the blackened sky. They traveled in the darkness. Plateaus rose high to their left, and to their right was a vast and empty darkness. Farra drew a long breath, pulling back from Naia''s shoulder. Each movement made her body ache, but it was better than being unable to pull herself along. She looked down, seeing the sack of dust still tucked tight beneath her robe.

    ¡°Forgive me for relying on you so much Naia, if time was not essential then I would not force the issue like this.¡± To Naia''s ears, Farra''s voice carried a certain delicacy she had not yet heard, one akin to how the feirin would become apologetic or unsure in her reflections, yet she felt it was likely due to her lack of strength. The beat of the hound''s paws over the dry ground, cutting through the wind filled a void left by a lack of words.

    ¡°Don''t be, I don''t think someone can be strong all the time. Though between you and the lords¡ªeven Estelle¡ªit might be easy to think otherwise.¡±

    ¡°We are an army that needs stand united. If when one of us falters, another is there to support, then together we can always be strong. That is one of the simplest manifestations of Lord Erres'' ideologies.¡± A shred of energy returned to Farra''s voice upon her words venturing toward Erres. She shifted behind Naia, looking around and examining the distance. ¡°The runes in me are a weapon like any other, useless if mishandled.¡±

    ¡°But you''re terrifying¡ªall of you are. The way you all fought. It was just a massacre. They had no way to fight back. It doesn''t seem like they had a chance at all.¡±

    ¡°And that is how war is most preferred. Not a battle, but a slaughter. Some enjoy the thrill of battle. But numerous I think are those who would prefer to live in some semblance of peace. If only these lands would be so cooperative to that end.¡± Farra let out a violent cough, slumping back over Naia. ¡°I should perhaps refrain from speaking.¡± She groaned in a much more coarse tone.

    ¡°Just rest more if you need to.¡± Naia''s hands eased on the hound''s reins. By this time the creature understood the direction it should head based on how Naia shifted her body, feeling the guidance of its rider''s weight. As she shifted, so did Farra behind her. Naia could feel the eyes keeping themselves shut but twitching upon moving across her diminutive shoulder. ¡°Farra, do you think...I mean...you showed them so little mercy because they were traitors. Most of them anyways.¡±

    A pause came between her words.

    ¡°Would you ever forgive a traitor?¡±

    Whether it was a second silence that fell, or Farra was channeling her strength to speak, Naia couldn''t tell. But she felt a shiver in her body until the arms wrapped around her stomach allowed a squeeze, one reassuring given her prior experiences with Farra.

    ¡°My duty lies to Lord Erres and the War Faction. If betrayals were forgiven by our leaders, then I might see no reason not to forgive myself. I believe that to be true. But some part of me also believes there would be a personal issue. One I think that might hold a grudge. But it might just as well desire to forgive.¡±

    The feirin''s hands clenched Naia''s tunic tighter.

    ¡°But I must set aside those feelings. I am a blade and instrument of my Lord''s conquest, I mustn''t let my emotions cloud my judgment.¡±

    Naia let out a breath as Farra''s digging fingers released their hold. Whether that hold came out of anxiety or disdain, the mender had no idea, but she found her breath returning as Farra''s words concluded.

    ¡°I see, I think that was a more merciful answer than I was expecting in a way. Are you sure you aren''t going soft after all that killing?¡±

    Farra let out a puff before letting her head sink back down. ¡°Not at all. I just need to rest a bit more.¡±

    Traveling through the darkened lands for several hours longer, Farra finally drifted into a sleep. Naia looked side to side on the hound, the creature deftly traversing over hill and crag alike. Its soft mane provided a soft landing for every leap it took. Her eyes shot side to side, much like she thought any scout might, looking for a sign of any enemy in the darkness. But part of her felt a comfort, this hound seemed spectacularly light of foot. She was not worried about any sort of individual or creature catching her as much as she might miss their destination. Despite the directions detailed to her by both Lords, Calin, and Sievin, the added stress of learning to ride the hound addled her. The moon was no luxury, venturing away from it as it waned provided little in the way of light, and any structures to the left were eclipsed by the rising plateaus and formidable hills.

    At long last, over a black horizon Naia spotted the specks one could mistaken for fireflies if they let the darkness cloud their perspective. She held the reins tight, tugging on them and encouraging the hound to a halt.

    ¡°Farra, wake up, I think were here. It''s looks like what I was told.¡± She turned, elbowing and shrugging in an attempt to rouse Farra. The feirin lifted her head, fingers pressing into Naia as she gathered herself.

    ¡°Was it long? You seem very tired.¡± Farra murmured, spotting bags underneath Naia''s eyes.

    ¡°Now that you mention it, I am feeling a bit exhausted. But were here aren''t we? I can probably rest inside. Or wait what even will this place be like?¡±

    ¡°We are not here to raze her domain, even if I found her to be a traitor, she will be forced instead to answer to a council. She is a wry woman if you haven''t met her, both calculating and cautious. But I more than suspect recent events will have left her rattled.¡±

    ¡°Then you have a plan, just like you did in Raom''s domain.¡± Naia sighed, this time in relief upon hearing Farra''s preparations, picking up the reins and ordering the hound forward at a brisk pace.

    ¡°We did not prepare all this time just to fail.¡± Farra shook the drowsiness away, taking a long breath and rising tall on the back of the hound, the rest during travel having restored her vitality. ¡°We will be staying here for a moon. I''ll see to it you are given proper lodgings Naia.¡± Farra ruffled the girl''s hair before reaching for the reins.

    Naia shook. ¡°I''ve brought us this far, do your mental preparations while I finish my part.¡±

    ¡°As you wish Naia.¡±

    The land was perfectly flattened, the dirt smoothed perfectly. While the flames adorning a central rising structure began to grow in the distance, even more immediate were great stone towers acting as monolithic sentries positioned to accentuate the importance of what lied between them. And between, scattered across an expansive flat plain of dirt were periodic hovels and small groupings of tents. Once traveling closer to the center keep, an equal amount of towers positioned symmetrically on the other side of the keep became discernible. Below the height of both the keep and towers were several structures, becoming more and more condensed the closer they came to the keep, having shoddily paved roads.

    They came around one small and smoke-ridden hovel, the glow of red flame emanating from within. From a wider building were a myriad of lights showing signs of magic.. The hound they rode turned toward a third structure, hearing the cries of other creatures and whining back in a desire to investigate. Naia tugged the reins keeping the creature forward until the keep rose a modest height above them, glorified more by the intricacies of the flames adorning it rather than its size. After rounding one more building and coming onto a path, a tall woman with pointed ears came into view

    ¡°I would prefer you not to bring that hound into my court.¡± She spoke, garbed in an elegant if not gaudy robe, accentuating her body and emphasizing status. ¡°If you would see it to the stable before entering my hall, then that would be preferable.¡±

    Naia and the hound halted, the woman gazing and analyzing the sight before her eyes. Bathalian¡¯s very gaze carried a mystique that the mender knew to be some manner of magic. Farra rising behind and above Naia in stature speaking in response. ¡°Naia while a promising rider, is still a novice in maintaining and stabling such creatures like this hound. If you would allow a soldier to aid her and see to it that she is also provided lodgings after our lengthy journey, it would be appreciated. That way we can commence conversation among officers and lord.¡±

    The tension between the two female superiors was palpable. They stared at one another, the elf¡¯s eyes looking over the feirin¡¯s garments before locking eyes with her. Farra looked back before patting Naia¡¯s side and smiling. ¡°I wish for my soldier to be properly taken care of.¡±

 Chapter 16: Bathalian and Farra

    "Aid? As you wish. Would a guard not attend this girl?" Bathalian called and turned about in elegance and disrespect. The sleeve of her flowing robe swooped after her. Farra turned to the wary Naia with a nod of her head, following after the Lady.

    "I thank you for the consideration. Let us not be meek about it, neither of us care for one another Lady Bathalian, but I have come at the behest of the Warlords. I will conduct my business and be on my way." Both kept straight, neither glancing to the other to betray any thought. But it was here Farra could feel the twitch of Bathalian''s movements, that she could feel the apprehension around the elf. "As it is the Warlord''s orders, you know I should encounter no inconveniences in this endeavor."

    "Then what of the eastern domain? I will not hamper your journey little girl, but if you believe you have the right of scouring and ravaging my domain as you please, I will face the council for the potential punishment of felling you." She took a deep breath that filled the dark. With only the gentle humming of torches, Bathalian''s stronghold faced an eerie quiet within the darkness. Soldiers craned their heads toward their Lady and Farra walking, but upon recognizing the feirin, none dared venture closer.

    It was apparent, that by some means Bathalian had ascertained what occurred moons prior, and might have elected to inform her soldiers to take a measure of caution. To them, Farra was the epitome of an enemy, a girl who could see all around her and pry into their secrets without their knowing, and was the trusted officer of their Lady''s greatest thorn.

    "I did not come here with such violent or coercive intent, Lady Bathalian. It seems word has reached you pertaining in part of what occurred in Raom''s hold. But rest assured, it was the consequence of his being a traitor and nothing more.¡±

    ¡°And what of his soldiers?¡± Bathalian responded in a wry tone. ¡°Were they found wanting as well?¡±

    ¡°Not all. A majority were, enough to suggest that Raom himself turned the blindest of eyes to the good conduct of his soldiers, thereby making him unfit to continue holding a position of leadership in the War Faction. And I''m sure you realize he was unwilling to forfeit his status peacefully.¡±

    ¡°No he never was one to shy from an excuse for a fight. Still, to think the fellow Lords would treat his ousting with such a cutthroat approach, I had hoped they held more respect for their peers. Did Lord Mellor have say in this matter?¡± A silence set in as they neared two soldiers standing post outside of the beginning of a stone ground leading into a stone keep. Both soldiers glanced before looking away, the looks of disdain on both Bathalian and Farra warding any third party from inquiring into their business. From within the structure a round of laughter came, Farra''s head turning in a slight confusion while Bathalian''s eyes narrowed.

    The laughter distracted ensuing conversation, instead Bathalian honing in on the voices she heard, glancing toward Farra from the corner of her eyes before speeding forth into the keep. Farra picked her pace up following behind at a distance. A soft smile cracked across her lips as they ascended a small staircase, the voices being close enough for her to see the motions of whom they belonged to behind walls.

    Equipment, tables, and earthenware scattered around each segmented room they passed. The walls hanged low. The torches attached to them rising barely beyond Bathalian''s height, almost threatening to singe her hair. The laughter continued, an expansive room coming into view with several tables and chairs. A cloaked figure sporting a gnarled staff let out a laugh, the soldiers around him following suit even when Bathalian came into view.

    ¡°Ah, Lady Bathalian. I thought to invite myself in when I was informed you were out for a walk. I hope you don''t mind me distracting your resting soldiers and officers for a little, they''re as good of company as any.¡± He spoke with a bow, turning to Farra with a bright smile. ¡°I''m happy to see you in good health, I heard you were locked in a slumber.¡±

    ¡°I overexerted myself Teilve, but with every experience comes new knowledge. Forgive me Lady Bathalian for our conversation''s interruption, it has been some time since I''ve seen my fellow officer. The mood here seems quite uplifting does it not? If you would be so gracious, may we continue our conversation over a meal?¡±

    Before the elf could respond, Teilve swooped in. ¡°That does sound quite ideal. It''s been some time traveling, and what better way to ease moods than bonding over a meal? Right my friends?¡± He spun around, arms outstretched and welcoming one soldier with an arm around his shoulder. Cheers came from around the room, Teilve''s eyes crossing Farra''s as they nodded and looked to Bathalian together.

    ¡°One of us can go to the food stores if you prefer Lady Bathalian.¡± Teilve briefly bowed.

    ¡°That will be unnecessary. I see no reason to deny the request however. One of you.¡± She looked the soldiers aside Teilve. ¡°Sort it out among yourselves and bring up the appropriate rationing at once.¡± Her eyes lowered down to Farra, seeing the feirin watching her with a sharp gaze, peering into the elf''s eyes. ¡°We can discuss the happenings over the meal. But tell me now why the both of you find yourselves in my court. I do not fancy surprises.¡±

    Teilve and Farra exchanged gazes while two soldiers turned and descended a nearby staircase leading down into the ground.

    ¡°Well I was instructed by Lord Erres to come here after completing some investigations on land lying between yours and Lord Mellor''s domain. It''s been a somewhat uneventful assignment. A few odd creatures here and there. Nothing out of the ordinary despite the duty of locating tribes that could possibly be a cause of some of these slave uprisings.¡± Teilve tapped his staff against the ground, reaching a hand into his pocket and procuring a vibrant crystalline stone. ¡°Until I found this. In a pass belying three of our Lords'' lands. I don''t know what to make of it yet. But perhaps our more aged minds might. Perhaps you have insight to the matter Lady Bathalian?¡± Teilve mused, holding the lucent stone emitting a white glow toward the elf.

    Bathalian extended a hand in hesitation, her fingers hovering over as Teilve''s voice came again. ¡°It''s safe to touch without a glove.¡± She nodded, picking it up and turning the crystal over.

    ¡°Have you attempted to infuse or exert magical energies upon it?¡±

    ¡°No, there''s only one, I figure I should leave that action to our more wise minds in case it''s a one-time chance. I scoured the cliffs where I found it looking for another, but there was none. There were a few caverns here and there, but I thought better of venturing in alone.¡±

    ¡°A wise decision on your part mage. Your decision to not try and investigate the stone yourself is a wise. It would seem for all his rashness in his youth, Lord Erres does well in selecting his officers. If only he was not so naive.¡± Bathalian''s eyes glanced to the side, feeling the briefest glare from Farra upon uttering those words. ¡°There is the possibility this is an object, foreign to these lands brought in by a chosen. However to have something like this on one''s person would be quite the coincidence. I leave it to you then mage, I imagine it''ll be a topic of discussion at the next council.¡±

    Bathalian handed the stone back over to Teilve. Farra''s eyes watched her movements, observing every twitch before speaking. ¡°On my assignment I encountered a chosen with an array of magical gemstones embedded in his equipment. The gemstones were pitiful in their power, but their method of creation could be worth studying. I feel it is already worth investigating whether this stone is from these lands or not, if it proves useful in any way.¡±

    ¡°Ever the pragmatist, feirin. Then what is your assignment?¡±

    Farra took a breath, looking away from the two and toward a set of crude weapons lodged in a rack against the wall. ¡°My assignment is secret, again, at the Warlords'' behest. To divulge it would be to betray their orders, unless I think it necessary in completing my assignment. With that in mind, I''ve been ordered to simply investigate slave uprisings and their possible causes.¡±

    ¡°And what role does Lord Raom''s demise and the razing of his domain play in that?¡±

    ¡°Raom is no longer worthy of the title of Lord, Lady Bathalian. One of my responsibilities is to contend with outstanding issues I find plaguing our faction. Raom had long since relieved himself of any reasonable communication with not just fellow soldiers and Lords, but the Warlords themselves. He fancied himself his own ruler, and the actions that filled his domain were nothing but traitorous. He paid with his life for it, as did many offending soldiers. You have no reason to be concerned, you are not a traitor Lady Bathalian, and I trust your soldiers are not as well, considering your wisdom.¡±

    From the stairwell the two soldiers fetching food came back up, carrying a crate, stopping to watch the exchange between Bathalian and Farra.

    ¡°The matter of how to deal with a rogue Lord should not fall to a singular girl and her judgment, especially one so beholden to her leader.¡±

    ¡°I am beholden to our faction, if you worked more closely with us you would see that the interests of the Lords I most adamantly serve are in the best interest of us all.¡±

    ¡°Your ways is naught more than one of control, killing those who dissent it would seem.¡±

    ¡°We are united in our desire to persevere, or has some sort of paranoia taken hold of you Lady Bathalian?¡±

    A silence filled the room as both quarreling figures stared into the eyes of one another. Teilve looked around at the other soldiers who glanced back to him, returning a shrug.

    ¡°Let''s eat. This conversation doesn''t sound like it will lead us anywhere.¡± Teilve moved over to the soldiers by the staircase, placing a hand on the crate they carried and helping them up. Idle conversation began, and a chuckle came from one of the soldiers. For some moments longer Farra and Bathalian kept their gazes toward one another, finally peeling away and turning to the rest of the soldiers.

    The soldiers spread across the crude tables. The two who fetched the food supplies took Farra and Teilve''s presences as an excuse to withdraw more food from their stores than typical. Within Bathalian''s court were soldiers of numerous races, seemingly open and merry, and to a degree, unbridled. To Farra, Teilve had put in an effort to find common ground with the soldiers, something the easygoing mage had a talent for. Yet the tension between Bathalian and Farra remained palpable, and soon the meal of tentative peace housed their friction once more.

    ¡°Then, tell us what you need from our domain to assist you Farra.¡± Bathalian sat across from Farra, her meal sitting untouched on the table. The feirin in contrast, sitting upright and biting into a piece of food without shame, opened one eye in response the inquiry.

    ¡°Meals are a sacred thing, best enjoyed without any sort of duress. But in hopes that eating assails our fears, I''ll have this discussion now.¡± Farra stopped for a moment, chewing and swallowing between her words. ¡°I have none too much to ask, Teilve is here and can assist me for the most part, I simply desire to go interrupted. Please don''t treat this as my investigating you, rather, if I find something wrong I will take care to report it to you if possible. You are a Lady yourself.¡±Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    ¡°To take what Lord Erres'' most vaunted officer says at face value would be nothing more than foolishness. But I will abide your request then. You and Teilve will have leave to investigate my domain as you see fit.¡± She smirked, folding her hands for a moment before finally deciding to eat. ¡°And while you''re within my lands, I''ll naturally guarantee your safety. I don''t need anyone knocking at my door should you two stumble upon some creature biting your heads off.¡±

    ¡°Let me ask Lady Bathalian, what do you think of slaves?¡±

    Bathalian¡¯s head turned at the change in topic, various soldiers looking over at the change in conversation.

    ¡°Some are better off being slaves and for the War Faction they are necessary. To call them any sort of evil necessity would be to disparage the work they do. It is something Lord Erres and I do find common ground on to my understanding, that there is an inherent necessity for slaves, and to let them run free would do more harm than good. They would sooner fall into their same positions without the title of slavery than wander these dark lands.¡±

    ¡°And the manner of how they are treated?¡±

    ¡°You were a slave Farra. You know it is a matter of do or die, that if you did not have the protection of being a slave, then you would be tossed to the side or worse. What is this sentiment you are showing?¡±

    ¡°I do not think of it as sentiment. I was a slave, but I do not hold any place in my heart for unnecessary mercy. But suppose we are not efficient with how we manage the slaves, perhaps these uprisings and discontent among slaves are something else we must factor into how we allocate them.

    ¡°If it would come at the expense of our soldiers, I think you will find yourself quickly losing support over the matter.¡±

    Farra paused, looking around the tables.

    ¡°Would it be too forthright to say then perhaps our soldiers grow complacent? That the ways we have trapped ourselves into have become too routine in a world filled with shadow that may upend this status quo at any moment?¡±

    ¡°Lord Erres concern for the hypothetical has tainted your thinking as well feirin. Still I will do my part to ensure you two are safe within these lands.¡±

    Grumbling came from some soldiers over the conversation. Farra sat quiet, paying attention to none while she was lost in her own thoughts. She scraped her spoon across the bottom of the bowl, pulling another tuber from it and eating. The elf sat across from her, silent and watching the feirin''s quiet contemplation until she spoke again.

    ¡°Then I would ask you ensure Naia''s safety as well, and see to it she is given a proper meal if you haven''t already.¡±

    Bathalian scoffed.

    ¡°I am not so heartless as to let that mender girl suffer after doing most the legwork for your travel here it would seem. To think Lord Valen''s handiwork has such a drawback.¡±

    ¡°There is no shame in relying on others in your time of weakness Lady Bathalian.

    ¡°The shame lies in your Lord pushing his agenda with such optimism that he ignores all its shortcomings.¡±

    ¡°It is...¡±

    ¡°Enough.¡± Teilve set an arm on Farra''s shoulder, dropping his bowl onto the table. ¡°It¡¯s no secret to any of us you two will quarrel over the smallest of issues. Let the rest of us enjoy our meal and we''ll be about our business dear Farra and Lady Bathalian.¡±

    Other soldiers sighed in agreement. For the remainder of the meal, Farra kept silent, focusing on her food and enjoying each bite, while Bathalian avoided looking across at the feirin any longer.

    With orders and requests sorted, Teilve and Farra departed Bathalian''s keep, the same two guards standing like stone sentries outside.

    ¡°Even when she might be backed into a corner, she is a resourceful woman you must admit.¡± Teilve dropped his glove over Farra''s head, ruffling her hair before pulling the hood of her regalia back over. ¡°We''ll just need to do some looking around to make sure there''s no happenings damaging the truthfulness of her words.¡±

    ¡°Shall we split to cover more ground in that case? Her domain is expansive.¡± The feirin looked side to side. Neither guard aside the keep''s stone stretch budged, all their surroundings felt frozen, as if placed within a stasis of time. Only the burning flames on torches lighting the darkness suggested any life. ¡°I will take this eastern half including all the structures.¡±

    ¡°Aye. Then I''ll take the rest.¡± Teilve watched Farra tread forth without another word. ¡°Farra.¡± She stopped, turning at attention. A brief solemn expression across Teilve''s face soon cracked into a smile. ¡°While surely there is no place aside the very temple grounds themselves safer for us than Lady Bathalian''s domain, do proceed with a hint of caution. We are here on the matter of traitors, so they likely won''t heed the Lady''s orders either.¡±

    ¡°I cannot afford to expend my energies on an enchantment for searching, but I''ll heed your words. You be careful as well Teilve.¡±

    ¡°Maybe I ought to take a couple guards with me to feel a bit safer, where I go so does the danger.¡± The mage smiled, adjusted his shrouding hood before setting out.

    Farra looked back toward each guard. Their lack of motion arousing a hint of suspicion. She turned back and shut her eyes, searching each structure for any outstanding or heinous mischief. There was nothing out of the ordinary. Friendly sparring and banter among comrades. Pleasure slaves but nothing to suggest they were soldiers. She could not investigate every nook and cranny with her own eyes. Bathalian knew Farra was coming and would surely prepare or reprimand her soldiers for any such behavior if it had existed.

    Slaves, and how Bathalian might be aiding uprisings were at the forefront of Farra''s mind. Bathalian''s thoughts toward slaves, their being a necessity did not exonerate her. Rather as they were a tool, it seemed all too likely that it could mean Bathalian had been sending soldiers to Lord Erres'' territory to help encourage revolts all along.

    Farra turned to one of the guards. ¡°Where is your armory and where do you keep most the slaves?¡±

    A voice, betraying nothing more than its words spoke. ¡°Toward the northwestern tower. You can find the camps set up out there. Our armory is in the keep.¡± The sentry kept forward while speaking, making no motion to acknowledge Farra, his hands crossed behind his back.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± Farra murmured as she passed the sentry, walking past him and around the keep. The wall of the keep was tarnished and cracked, the ebony stone showing signs of age. Farra lifted a hand, running her fingers along the wall she continued forward, taking a deep breath and focusing her mind. She peered into the keep, looking and finding Bathalian talking with her soldiers and officers. No peculiarity showed itself. Bathalian seemed to be reprimanding her soldiers for being so hospitable to the foreign officers, but a lack in show of solidarity was far from enough.

    Farra continued in the darkness, the occasional soldier turning her way, but upon seeing her face, every one turned away without a word. She came to a hovel-like building with a faint orange light emitting from it Around it were various other buildings with an array of equipment racked both outside of them and in their entrances.

    The sound of metal banging against metal ringed from within the lit building. She peered her head from around the corner of the doorway before stepping inside. Her heel smacked a slab of blackened metal on the ground, but the contorted and shriveled figure hanging over an anvil did not turn. Her eyes glanced up the beast, eying a lengthy ball and chain stretching the entirety of the hovel shackled around his ankle.

    ¡°A new officer? Apologies I''ll have it done in time.¡± He exuded a raspy and pitiful voice, wheezing when the hammer came down onto a heated blade.

    ¡°No, I come on behalf of another Lord, I''m simply looking around. Do you perform the blacksmith work here regularly?¡± Farra inspected the edge and handiwork of various equipment, looking over various imperfect edges of blades and axes, along side pieces of armor with various blemishes.

    ¡°Ever since the other died.¡± A louder crack came.

    ¡°Died? How so? You have my permission to stop working for a moment, you will face no consequences for it, I promise.¡±

    The pallid figure continued hammering away. He offered no response, keeping his eyes fixed on the metal. The sparks from the anvil spewed out onto his exposed skin. Despite this, he showed no signs of pain, only continuing to hammer away and forge the metal.

    ¡°They worked him to death I think. Don''t really recall, they said he served his purpose.¡±

    ¡°Then...I would say he was an honorable individual. And I hope he has a proper rest now.¡±

    Farra stepped closer, setting a hand on the beast''s shoulder. ¡°Stop hammering for now.¡±

    The crude hammer struck one last time, more sparks flung forth, but Farra''s regalia shielded the man''s arms from being burned once more. He turned and looked up toward her but his eyes shying away from the indigo gaze.

    ¡°Why is there a need for so many weapons? I respect your work, but a weapon forged with more care will protect its owner better than countless weapons of lesser quality.¡±

    ¡°They didn''t tell me. They just said I need to make weapons, and if I don''t I''ll get punished. I think that means the quality doesn''t matter.¡±

    ¡°You would be right about that. I''ll let you continue your work.¡± She let go of the beast''s shoulder, and like a machine, as soon as she did the beast resumed hammering away without another thought. She stepped back and over metal shards on the ground.

    Upon exiting the hovel, Farra took an immediate breath. Whether it was smoke within the hovel that felt suffocating or something else, she was not sure. But she felt relieved to be back outside. She turned northwest toward an obscured spire in the distance. After escaping the cluttered congregation of structures that made up the central part of Bathalian''s domain, the open fields between the sentry towers felt welcoming. Farra dragged her feet across an abyssal field, the moon was nowhere in the sky, and the depression of ground ensured she could for the most part, only see with her foresight amid shortage of light.

    After drifting within the darkness for a period, the outlines of compact tents came into view. Lanterns carrying single flames were suffocated by the darkness, barely able to light even the insides of a tent. Heads turned her direction as she passed, her boot''s crack against the dry ground alerting others to her presence. Most ignored her, only some slaves and a soldier bothering to turn her way. The latter turned back upon immediately identifying Farra and her ornate clothing.

    Farra looked down and stepped to the side, avoiding a bloody shackle by her foot. A young beast sitting half covered by a tent, gazed up toward her with fearful eyes. They locked eyes, Farra feeling as if she was frozen in time while she could see the eyes of more and more curious but also frightened slaves befall her.

    Farra''s brows furrowed, taking a breath when her eyes so naturally sharpened, causing the subject of her gaze to retreat back into the tent. Her head turned, and as if her very eyes were a deadly weapon, the other slaves retreated from her sight as she scanned the encampment.

    ''Insolent and petrified. Understandably so.'' The thought occurred as she pulled her blade, obscured by her clothes. The smooth blade shined even within the faintest flicker of flames. At this very moment she understood how isolated she was. Farra lowered her blade, flicking up the bloody shackle on the tip of her blade, flinging it away from the tents and into the darkness. She looked back, cold as she ever could, because despite the warmth and respect she earned from her superiors, it was because of that very treatment that none below her could see her as anything but a dark messenger.

    These slaves were no enemies of her, but she was their enemy. The soldiers that had been so silent, always hiding their movements from her did so not just out of some conspiracy as Farra initially thought upon arriving, but because the feirin had become an executor for the War Faction. She knew not who the slaves or soldiers were, but some of them surely knew of Lord Erres'' fearsome feirin officer. Farra clicked her tongue in annoyance. She was special.

    Being special she thought, wasn''t just anything to be lauded necessarily. She never had the opportunity to be ordinary. It was likely none did in these lands. But it was through her initial extraordinary weakness and innate gift she had fallen into her peculiar position. She was an officer for the War Faction like any other officer, only in name. Her true position was to be the eyes and blade for her Lord Erres, and it was with him the best interests of the War Faction lie.

    It was perhaps, a shred of disappointment now aching her. Despite her leading a group of soldiers that had gone from fearful to awkwardly comfortable after seeing the shortcomings the feirin possessed, that experience only gave her a fleeting taste of what it felt like to be equal. Separating her role as Erres'' retainer from her personal interactions was impossible. The feirin was raised a soldier and weapon, both soldiers and slaves in this domain made clear she was terrifying.

    ¡°Guard, hither her at once.¡± Her voice shot across the encampment. The soldier who had attempted to ignore Farra''s presence turned in immediate obedience, walking over. ¡°Prepare me a tent. It is Bathalian''s orders my safety and accommodations are secured. I will choose to rest here for the night in this slave encampment.¡±

    ¡°Are you cer¡ª¡°

    ¡°Do not question my orders.¡± A bitterness escaped her voice, sheathing her blade with a crack. Naia was an exception. Just as the officers closest to her and the lords were.

    The soldier nodded, turning and shaking within his armor, visible only to the feirin''s sight.

    ¡°I will set it up over here then.¡±

    ¡°Good. Think little of it. I am merely ensuring amid all these revolts, that this camp sees no incentive to be unruly. I will be resting here."

 Chapter 17: A Familiar Place

    ¡°Identify yourself.¡± Farra drew her blade from her bedside and whipping her arm until the blade''s edge came to a halt, pressing to the chest of a figure standing within her tent. Her other hand rubbed over her eyes, adjusting from her slumber, her mind''s sight able to identify the girl who had begun to shake.

    ¡°It''s...just me Farra.¡± Naia squeaked. The blade pulled back from her tunic and allowed her to breathe once more. She let out a sigh, brushing her fingers over the crease the blade had made on her tunic, easing out its folds. The black metal stopped short of so much as tearing into the clothing despite the feirin''s daze.

    ¡°My apologies. It was a restless sleep. Despite Lady Bathalian''s words I find it no easier to rest in a place such as this.¡± Farra sheathed her blade while rubbing her eyes, then checked around the tent for any inkling of a silent intrusion. Her hand tossed the thin cloth covering her away, shifting to move from the tent.

    ¡°It''s your fault, you know. For choosing to sleep in the middle of a camp like this.¡±

    ¡°Sleeping here gives me more peace of mind than elsewhere in this domain.¡±

    ¡°I don''t understand your reasoning.¡± Naia extended her hands. Farra glanced up to the smiling girl before grabbing hold and being pulled to her feet in a crouch.

    ¡°If you intend to rest with unfriendly company, it is best to keep one eye open.¡± Farra stretched her arms, lifting one flap covering the tent and escaping the confined space. Naia followed behind, her height making the tent''s size only a minor inconvenience to her.

    ¡°You did nothing to keep one eye open though.¡±

    Farra glanced back before running a hand across Naia''s head and ruffling her hair.

    ¡°It means to remain alert, if any intruder were to come and attempt anything during my rest, slaves would likely take notice and create a panic, and those same slaves seem to fear me as is.¡± Farra pulled her hood over, peering side to side to confirm her mind''s observations. No signs of slaves, at least outside their tents. They rustled within, sleeping or simply trying to avoid attention. The nearest soldier was in the distance on the other side of the tents.

    ¡°I see. Did you find what you needed then? I spoke to Teilve for a bit before he took off.¡±

    ¡°Teilve left?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. And depending on your choice, we might be leaving soon too. The hound we took here is ready if it''s what you decide.¡±

    ¡°What has happened then?¡± Farra brushed her regalia, unsheathing her blade and examining its edge. ¡°And do you have the bag with you? If not we can request additional resources from Lady Bathalian depending on the situation.¡±

    ¡°I asked her already. She had to send out a troop of soldiers herself, she told me there was little to spare but offered these scrolls.¡± Naia reached into her tunic. ¡°They''re not created with runes, but I can use them if need be with my magic. And there''s this one, she said it can be used regardless of whether someone is capable of magic or not.¡± She outstretched her hand, offering the scroll wrapped with a thin red thread.

    ¡°What is the scroll meant to do?¡±

    Naia looked around the encampment before continuing on. ¡°She didn''t exactly tell me, she just said to save it for only if we find ourselves in a lot of trouble. As for our supplies, there''s only a bag of dust left from what we started with.¡± Naia pointed to the small bag hanging by her waist-side. ¡°There was a few slave uprisings across Lady Bathalian and Lord Erres'' territory. Since Lord Erres is still eastward, she said it''s up to us to settle it. Teilve went southwest, the troop of soldiers went northwest.¡±

    ¡°Then where is the last revolt?¡±

    ¡°At a quarry supposedly west of here, within Lord Erres'' territory. Teilve left it to you to handle it if you''re up to the task. But given your mission, he wasn''t sure if you had the time. Both he and the troop Lady Bathalian sent out are going to converge on the quarry after they handle their separate places.¡±

    ¡°That''s fine, it''s understandable. Teilve desired not to interrupt my sleep. But we''ll handle it Naia, there is time.¡± Farra smiled with a turn, ¡°Where is the hound?¡±

    Naia clenched her teeth with a silent gulp, ¡°Are you sure you''re up to it and all? Maybe we should just return to the temple, they can surely take care of it.¡±

    ¡°Steel your heart, it''s not the time for uncertainty. We have traveled together long enough now for you to know what needs be done. I''ll tell you about my investigations during our travel. The path from here to the quarry is a short one, least when compared to our journey from Raom''s domain.¡±

    ¡°But...¡± Naia bit her lip, ¡°...as you will, and we can talk about everything on the way. Are you finished with everything here?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I see no reason to idle in this place any longer.¡±

    At the edge of the encampment was the hound they set forth on from Raom''s lands, kept by a single soldier who stood silent while holding onto its reins. An unfamiliar heat blanketed the encampment, the warm and moist air sticking to one''s skin despite the ever-present darkness where the moon provided only a pallid light. This guard acted as all the rest, he avoided looking at Farra, simply holding out the reins for her to take, and nodding his head in affirmation rather than speaking any words. The hound at least, grinned happily at the feirin and human, having become comfortable with the familiar riders.

    The soldier walked away into the darkness back toward Bathalian''s keep. Farra watched him until he left earshot.

    ¡°A sack of dust and the scrolls within my regalia. Some of these scrolls are ones I thought may come in handy, and they still might yet be. But they have been unneeded between a weak enemy and the presence of far greater might.¡± Farra reached into her regalia, pulling from it and opening one scroll, looking over the shape and tracing of each rune. ¡°Perhaps a downside to rune magic, is that if one could change the design prior to its activation, the result would be wildly different than originally intended. But changing those designs are not so easy for one who is short of dedicated to rune magic.¡±

    Farra pulled on the harness, the hound sitting to the ground and allowing the two to mount it. ¡°I see no ears around, but we are still within the court of a talented mage. Save conversation for once we pass the towers.¡± She patted a hand to the head of the creature, the hound immediately rising with a playful whimper followed by a snarl. They darted into the darkness, their presence as ignored when leaving as it had been when present.

    Naia clenched Farra''s regalia from behind as means of securing herself on the mount, leaning forward into the feirin''s back. The quiet filled only by the padded footfalls of the hound lasted until they passed the towers of stone.

    ¡°So then how did your investigation go?¡±

    ¡°It bore nothing other than confirming my suspicions. Let us speak of my findings in tandem with these sudden uprisings. I find it more than troubling I was not able to convene with Teilve before this splitting, but Lady Bathalian has engineered these events.¡±

    ¡°You mean that it''s a trap?¡± Naia spoke, her voice muffled within the feirin''s clothing.

    ¡°Undoubtedly so. I can say Teilve is certain of it too. Given my sleeping, Teilve chose what he believed to be the most amenable options. A decision I''m certain Bathalian is conscious of as well. If he had waited to speak with me, then it might have ended in an even greater advantage for her.¡±

    A silence came as Farra felt her regalia clench tighter, Naia was rustling against the feirin''s. A look of anxiety was apparent across her face in Farra''s mind.

    ¡°That doesn''t sound very favorable. We''re walking into a trap. And even when we''re taking the best choices, Lady Bathalian knows exactly why we made these choices and how to respond? We shouldn''t be going to this quarry then.¡±

    ¡°If it was not our duty to quell any uprisings against the War Faction''s interests, then I would agree. However not only are these uprisings a slight against us, but these revolts lying to the west and southwest are both within Lord Erres'' territory. He still is likely overlooking the reconstruction of Raom''s domain, meaning that in the worst of cases, if we do not deal with this uprising many valuable resources could be lost.¡±

    ¡°But it''s a trap. What if...what if you and Teilve can''t handle it on your own? If there''s an uprising there would be other soldiers to take care of it right? If they had to run or were killed, what makes you think you two can walk into a trap and come out alright?¡±

    ¡°We are strong. And it is our duty. I can say little more to assail that worry. But take solace in that Teilve is resourceful. While we are both going into traps yes, these are set within familiar lands. I became a slave at this quarry, and though I did not stay there long at the time, I have since been stationed to watch over it numerous times. To the southwest is an encampment near a mountain, Teilve himself frequents it as he does nearly all of Lord Erres'' strategic points. Our enemy has made their preparations, however the mountain they must overcome is insurmountable. I will slay any enemy before us once you enchant me, and Teilve has ever been a survivor who comes out of the most daunting situations with nothing but stories to woo one''s ears.¡±

    Farra laughed, patting the hound. The creature leaped before entering a sprint, cutting through the chilling and dark air. The humid air that sat on the slave''s encampment was gone, and a darkness wrapped around them. Traveling away from the moon would be a lonely endeavor, if not for the fact the two had formed an unlikely bond despite their differences and short time together.

    ¡°What if we ran instead. Maybe Teilve can handle both situations alone?¡±

    Farra peeked over her shoulder, her brow raising in apparent surprise.

    ¡°Naia that is nonsense, why would you ever suggest...¡±If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

    ¡°I don''t want you to get hurt.¡± A scream and cry came mixed together, the girl clutching tighter to the feirin''s robe. Farra blinked. This was something she never experienced, not one crying, but someone crying for her own sake. A small sob came and just as Naia tilted her head down to bury it against Farra, the feirin too tilted her head down in silent contemplation before answering the girl''s worry.

    ¡°We are soldiers Naia. Caring for others...I am not one to speak of this topic, but I do not disdain it. I care for many of my fellow officers and commanders, and a number of subordinates, you included.¡± She paused, the pace of the hound filling the gap between her thoughts. ¡°But we are all soldiers, and loss is inevitable. The grief that comes with it too, is inevitable. If we lived in a world where peace could exist, then perhaps gracious feelings could come without pains,¡±

    ¡°You''re an idiot Farra. Despite all your wisdom and know-how, you''re an idiot emotionally.¡±

    The feirin looked on blankly, continuing to listen to the quiet sobbing before she bent her arm and hand back, patting Naia. ¡°Forgive me.¡±

    More sniffles came before the girl tried speaking again. ¡°Then your investigation, you never said anything about it.¡± Her voice was cracked and tearful, but the cold air cooled the flowing water as it escaped her eyes.

    ¡°Like I said, it yielded nothing. It only confirmed that Lady Bathalian is an astute saboteur and traitor. But she works for herself and would leave no apparent ties to her treachery. I wonder what her connections are, for she surely has a hand in some of these uprisings. But to what end might they even serve her and what her goals are I can''t imagine. Sending her troops to quell the problems she creates. It is nonsensical, it can be as simple as her wanting us to have our hands tied and out of her territory while she plots there, or maybe it is something more convoluted.¡±

    ¡°What even is there after you break away from the War Faction, she''s just making it so she has no friends,¡± Naia muttered.

    ¡°There is no conceivable way she has ties to any opposing faction without numerous soldiers from every territory taking notice. She respects the will of the Warlords, I think it would be best to say she simply wants things done her way. To what end causing these revolts and uprisings to occur only to help suppress them might serve I don''t know. Little of it makes much sense to me given the price she has to pay. But perhaps that is the desperation she is in after Raom''s demise. Or perhaps these actions were planned all along but made much more sense so long as Raom did not fall.¡±

    ¡°I won''t doubt the possibility of some of these things, but they feel more like your ramblings than findings Farra.¡±

    ¡°They are merely possibilities. There is very little that became certain, other than that she knew of our coming, she made sure to leave no indication of her treachery, and she has trapped us into these circumstances. However her reach must be more expansive than I thought, to cause trouble in three places at once. One slave I encountered, he was set to forging weapons of a particularly lower quality, unfit for any respectable soldier. The focus was quantity over quality. I cannot imagine her arming her troops with such weapons, but the possibility of arming several tribes of beasts or slaves to revolt...that is something that did cross my mind. But it is nothing close to conclusive, it is not unacceptable to create low quality weapons, only questionable.¡±

    Naia emitted a choking giggle, causing the feirin''s ears to perk.

    ¡°Did I say something?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it''s just everything you''re saying. I thought you were one who was quiet and had little to say. You just need to feel comfortable before you open up don''t you?¡±

    ¡°I suppose. That might be true. I think many have suggested it before.¡± Farra scratched her cheek, feeling a heat fill her face before breathing in the cold air.

    A tremendous crack of thunder bellowed from the distance, followed by a flash of faint lavender light, beyond the line of spiraling mountains surrounding the land. The hound let out a low growl at the crack, heightening its pace. Gradually, the ground beneath them began to change. Veins of blackened stone could be seen rising amidst the otherwise packed, and dry earth. Periodic dips within the ground suggested the natural flow of water which had abandoned the desolate land. Farra gazed beyond the mountains, eyeing the sky from which the light emanated.

    ¡°My Lord''s mindset often has been the need to prepare for the unknown. Desiring to establish some of fleeting status quo in these darkened lands that can be upended by any enemy is foolishness. Each time I see something so atypical to me, I cannot help but agree with him. Even the darkness and rebellions aside, the crystal Teilve found which I''m sure he told you about, and that lightning. I know not where they come from, I can only imagine what they may lead to.¡±

    Naia shook her head side to side.

    ¡°You two really reinforce each others worries. That''s not really a healthy thing, unless you both end up being right.¡±

    ¡°We all live in uncertainty, but we must choose a direction and all go in it together rather than let our divisions pick us apart.¡±

    ¡°Right.¡± Naia shuffled on the back of the hound, shifting her gaze towards where the purple light effused in the deep black sky. ¡°Hey Farra, do you know what stars are?¡± Naia touched her chime.

    ¡°I think I have heard the term in passing before, but they are nothing I''ve studied.¡±

    ¡°Well.¡± Naia rang her chime. ¡°They say that in a place beyond our lands, people look to the stars that fill the night sky with pearls of glimmering light. You can make a wish upon one, however small it might be, and if you do it at the right time it may come true. If the glimmer in the sky disappears and you chose that star, it means your wish will come true.

    ¡°Night. Our land has no concept of it, or at least one would say this land is in an eternal night. And there are no glimmering lights in our sky.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, but maybe there was at some point?¡±

    ¡°Then that would suggest that wishes have left this world then, wouldn''t it? If all the stars are now gone, I would prefer to think they were never there to begin with.¡±

    ¡°You just dragged it in a dark direction, it was supposed to be hopeful Farra.¡±

    Both laughed, the hound letting out a confused whimper as it rushed onward. An indiscernible amount of time passed as a consequence of the fleeting moonlight and the moon''s position behind them, but they began to pass landmarks familiar to the feirin. They were now within Erres'' territory. Farra clenched the reins of the hound tighter, peering into the dark for any signs of movement.

    ¡°The thought of venturing into a trap certainly is foreboding, but perhaps we have overestimated Bathalian''s hand.¡± Farra muttered, steering the hound around a tower outlying the quarry, slowing it to a trot and peering inside with her mind. ¡°Or perhaps we are correct. There is something unusual going on around here, normally a soldier would act as a sentry in this tower.¡±

    The creature sped back up when Farra pulled on its reins. She circled the descent into the quarry, then looked towards a number of abandoned tents. She reached with her sight for any individual, unable to find a single soul hiding anywhere. The hound sped again upon Farra tapping her boot to its side. The grounds lying between the slave tents and quarry lacked any light, just as it always had. Both the barracks and the war hall were beyond sight within the obscuring shadows.

    ¡°If there is anyone here, then they should be in the hall.¡±

    They shot through the shadows, halting before the ground turned to solid black stone that led into the building. Farra''s eyes began widening. She pulled herself from atop the hound with such haste that Naia lurched forward.

    A large grizzled man towered above Farra. On his back was an axe appropriate for his size. He wasn''t wearing a helmet, and his silvery-black armor protected him in modest amounts, but ensured various vital points were protected.

    ¡°To see you again Gare, it is a relief. Tell me what has happened here.¡±

    Gare stretched his neck, his face littered with scars, his short hair full of dirt and oil. ¡°Same thing that''s been happening all over. Slave revolts.¡±

    ¡°Well yes, I figured as much, but do you know as to why or how?¡±

    ¡°I do, but it doesn''t make the situation any prettier. I had orders from Lord Erres to keep a handle on things in his absence, specifically within his territory. Things became more chaotic than I thought. It''s just the consequences of how they''re treated. Let''s go for a walk to the quarry.¡±

    ¡°A walk? If you suggest so.¡±

    Farra took a breath, beckoning Naia to attend her before keeping step with the fellow officer.

    ¡°Good to see you''re in decent shape too, Naia.¡± Gare gave a nod toward the girl. She gave a meek nod in return, encouraging the creature to the ground so she could demount with less effort.

    ¡°Should I just leave the hound here?¡±

    ¡°Doesn''t matter.¡± Gare responded curt, waving her along as well. She dropped the reins, petting the head of the creature before stepping up to pace besides Farra who now walked between the both of them.

    ¡°Gare, I did not expect your presence here, if things are under control or are already too late, then I must find reason to set out toward the temple grounds with due haste.¡± Farra spoke in a hurried hush, a shred of confusion within her voice at the turn of events.

    ¡°Hold up. You might have passed right by it without noticing. It''s difficult for you to see what stays still right?¡±

    "See what?" They stepped to and began looking over a second dig that had been established during her time as an officer. Farra''s eyes shrank, her hands tensed into clenched fists. Below, as if hewn into a shallow grave, lay mounds of bodies, slave and soldier alike. And beneath that dim blue glow of the crystals, their bodies were all but shattered, lifeless and still, careless and embittered.

    ¡°What is the meaning of this Gare? Why are so many of ours dead here?¡± Farra turned with a glare, looking to the officer and Naia.

    ¡°Strife. It''s what Lord Erres wanted and what our faction fosters, and this is the consequence. A circle of bloodshed that none escape from. Even if our Lord has his way, the amount of bodies we were going to make along the way will make any lasting peace impossible.¡±

    ¡°Such attitude is only befitting of defeat Gare, madness has overtaken you.¡± Farra cut back, looking back into the pit of corpses.

    ¡°Is this madness then? These slaves revolt believing there is no future with this faction. Even our soldiers are disheartened and believe there''s little point in persisting under a regime when their lives can end at a given moment, living in misery, dying in misery. They think it better to clutch a chance at some semblance of enjoyment now. These slaves, you were one once, you know their hopelessness well don''t you?¡±

    ¡°My life as a slave was a short albeit everlasting memory. It would be disparaging of their hardships to consider myself having endured that same life, I would have died. It was by none other than your suggestion that I was given the opportunity to live.¡±

    Farra looked from the pit, preparing to back away when she peered far into the shadows, feeling the darkness shift within itself as she turned.

    ¡°And so they die now. Yet, you don''t feel any mercy for them after having been saved from such a fate? They suffer for our cause with no hope for absolution. They die in a fruitless struggle for freedom. That, is better in many of their eyes.¡±

    Farra scanned the darkness before placing a hand to Naia''s tunic, squeezing her sleeve.

    ¡°Gare you speak as one who would side with the plight of the slaves over Lord Erres. Your emotions suggest nothing short of treason, so please, choose your next words carefully.¡±

    ¡°And you would cut me down otherwise? What is there to gain? Coming to an understanding benefits both of us more than meaningless bloodshed. Think about the good you could do Farra, rather than being an enforcer, you could be a protector. One who helps people''s happiness rather than contribute to misery like so many others.¡±

    ¡°I do not care for this na?vety. My loyalty lies with Lord Erres. If this was all you had to share with me, then I will return to the temple now and we can muse over your thoughts among our peers.¡± Farra pulled Naia along, stepping away from Gare. ¡°Let us head...¡± Farra spun back around, glaring toward the man who now gripped his massive battleaxe in one hand.

    ¡°Do you intend to combat me over such a pointless difference?¡±

    "No, it''s clear that you''re beyond good reason. Given your experiences, I had hoped that you would understand. But I see now that I was mistaken. You''ve been molded into a true soldier, a tool of war. This difference you find so pointless is why you have to die. There''s no better opportunity to cripple Erres and save countless lives."

    From the shadows and into Farra''s vision, numerous armed soldiers crept forward. Some wore crude armor, others wore mail or even plate common to Erres'' soldiers. In their hands they readied weapons both crude and refined, surrounding Farra and a shaking Naia who clutched at her chime.

    ¡°So that''s how it will be then. Sixteen excluding you.¡± Farra shifted under her robes, a hand wrapping around her blade''s grip. ¡°It will be your swift defeat Gare, and then perhaps you might regain some sense and shed light on this treachery.¡±

 Chapter 18: The Perfect Blade

    The chill of darkness disappeared. Palpable tension spread through the air. Each soldier focused only on the threat in front of them, brandishing their weapons for inevitable combat. Regardless of differences, the one commonality between all the warriors was their exposure to battle. Whether they wished to fight or not, they still had no choice. Strife was something none in these lands could escape from. Seventeen soldiers excluding Gare surrounded Farra while Naia clutched by Farra¡¯s side in fear.

    ¡°Naia, enchant.¡± Farra spoke as her hand slid under her robes to her blade. Gare took a step forward, raising his axe and observing the surrounded two''s movements. Then, with a twitch of his head, all the soldiers began edging forward in unison. As many as they numbered, each stepped forward with hesitation, weapons at the ready but taking care not to be hasty in their approach.

    Naia shook beside Farra, stepping away from feirin''s side as she quivered. Her face was sullen. She avoided the feirin''s eyes as Farra glanced about to take note of the soldiers and their weaponry. Farra looked back to her subordinate who, at last, returned a tearful gaze with blackened, sorrowful eyes.

    ¡°Why did we have to come here?¡± Naia croaked in a choking voice, stepping further from Farra''s side in a daze of distress. She clutched at her chime for a measure of resolve. Despite standing, her body felt limp and as if it could crumble to the ground at any moment.

    Farra looked to the girl, reaching out to her with her free left hand even amidst the tension. Naia''s body shriveled against her chime in racking nervousness as the feirin spoke. ¡°Naia, please, remain calm and enchant me, there is nothing to fear.¡±

    The ring of soldiers contracted, but Farra ignored their presence to remain fixated on Naia.

    ¡°Enchant me, Naia. Please.¡± Farra''s voice hastened, gripping the handle of her sword.

    ¡°Are we really going to fight?¡± Naia looked up to the feirin, desperation written across her face as she held her chime to her chest, slinking away from Farra''s outstretched hand. ¡°I''m sorry Farra, if I enchant you, then I''m the one killing all of them.¡±

    ¡°It is better these traitors than us.¡± Farra kept her hand extended, but in her mind she knew the answer already.

    ¡°Enchant now.¡± Farra screamed causing the circle of soldiers to become tense. They looked side to side at one another, aiming their weapons and preparing to lunge forward. Naia panicked. She stepped back from Farra, her magical energies beginning to convalesce out of desperation Farra''s sight revealed the impending flicker of flame that would come forth from the girl''s chime. Farra pulled the black shimmering blade obscured by her robe, and plunged it into Naia''s chest. The tense soldiers, warded away by Farra¡¯s swift movements, balked as the feirin''s left hand drifted downward, plucking the bag of dust from the girl''s waist-side.

    ¡°Why?¡± Farra glared at the girl with tearful eyes. She ripped the blade from Naia''s body while looking to soldiers who gazed on with disgust and trepidation.

    ¡°I''m sorry.¡± Naia muttered as her blood spilled across the air, her blood coated on the feirin''s blade. Naia''s fingers uncurled, her chime falling to the ground with repeated clinks before resting, her body falling limp on top of it.

    ¡°Traitors must be purged.¡± Farra spoke, indignation in her voice as her eyes full of disdain met Gare''s. She dashed to the side at a group of soldiers whom the large quarry lied behind. Two soldiers readied their weapons. Farra feinted her attack toward one, luring the soldier into guarding himself before swiping her blade to guard against the soldier next to him, slipping past the encirclement. She could see each movement they would make. The soldier having fallen for her feint would try to bring his blade back around in a downward swipe while flustered. Farra forced her strength upon her blade, creating distance between the sword it clashed with and extending its swipe to deflect the second slash. ¡°Embarrassments.¡± She muttered, rushing toward the dig.The two soldiers began to pursue her when Gare barked at them.

    ¡°Don''t underestimate her you fools, stay in a unit.¡±

    As Farra fled she hastily stuffed the scrolls within her robe into her black top where they wouldn''t come loose. Her hand grazed past Bathalian''s scroll, ignoring it, before shedding off her robe to be taken by the wind. ''Two are following?'' As she neared the edge of the dig, she turned to find one of the soldier¡¯s eyes drift to her windswept robe. She pulled a knife tucked within her tights, thrusting the blade into the air. The knife cut into the robe, pinning it against a pursuing soldier. She charged back toward the other, who briefly turned to his screaming comrade who was ripping at the robe and only twisting the knife lodged inside of him. The soldier readied himself, but with his weapon brought up, Farra''s blade danced through the air in two strikes, the first knocking his blade to the side, the second finding a gap between the soldier''s helmet and armor, impaling his throat. As the rest of the soldiers began a more unified pursuit, Farra took a moment to approach the soldier tearing at her robe. As he was almost free, she thrust her blade through her robe and the soldier''s stomach. She hefted and turned the dead man, catching an arrow in his back. Her eyes met with the pursuing warriors and Gare, pulling the knife before tossing the body away, then turning around to continue back to the dig.

    ¡°Three.¡± She muttered, jumping from the cliffside and descending. She sheathed her blade and pulled one of the three knives tucked under her tunic and within her tights. The knife ground into the cliff side, slowing the feirin''s descent until her feet reached the black and uneven ground. Periodic stone posts adorned with a brilliant flame illuminated the quarry which was otherwise lit by magic stones. Her hand the nearest post for a moment, preparing to knock it over into the darkness below, then reconsidering. ''I can kill them all without damaging the quarry.'' She walked along the wall, plucking any magic stones providing lighting, tossing them away to expand the darkness.

    ¡°Don''t be fools. She can only fend off so many blades at once. Without her enchantments she''s an exceptional soldier at best.¡± Gare spoke as he walked behind the soldiers as they looked over the quarry''s winding paths, looking toward an expanding abyss left by the feirin¡¯s planning. ¡°Split into no less than groups of three, she can''t escape from four patrols and will be hard pressed to find an opening.¡± The soldiers affirmed Gare''s order, some of their voices shaking audibly at the prospect of confronting Farra. ¡°Ease your nerves, she''s still just another enemy to be felled.¡±

    Farra walked along the winding path underneath them, the steps of her boots, quiet as they ever would be against the stone ground. All around her she could discern the movements of the soldiers beginning to spread into groups, their faces offering a mixture of hesitation and foolish bravery.

    ''They should have ran.'' She looked to a tunneling pathway, pulling at the string binding one of the sleeves to her tunic. She took one of the scrolls from her top, and pinned it underneath her sleeve with a knife, so that it rested against the stone. Only a sliver of the sleeve was visible from around the corner. After counting for a brief moment, she covered the scroll¡¯s runes in a thin layer of dust, leaving a final rune uncovered whereupon the a simple tug of the sleeve would let the rest of the magical powder flow downward onto it. Continuing onward, her free hand brushed across the two remaining knives stored within her bottoms. Ahead was another lighting post.

    She halted outside of the light. Across the chasm of the quarry was one of the patrols. She stood still and waited in the shadows of the cliff. Soon after, a crashing boom echoed forth from the tunnels behind her, accompanied by the rumbling sound of tumbling stone. The soldiers across the chasm turned their attention to the explosion.

    ¡°She''s on the cliff across.¡± A soldier carrying a bow yelled out, nocking an arrow and firing it. Farra turned her body sideways, glancing back at the arrow before reaching to her remaining two knives, her brow furrowing. She readied both knives in her hands. The archer stopped his next shot, anticipating her tossing the knives. She threw her right hand forward, not letting go of the knife. The archer moved to one side and from Farra''s other hand, the knife was let loose in the direction he was first dodging into. The archer tripped on his feet in an attempt to dodge, and with it the second knife tore through his lighter armor and lodged into his flesh, inducing a scream.

    Voices began shouting back and forth from above. She could see Gare and two soldiers on one bridge overlooking the quarry, and another trio close on the cliff¡¯s edge above her. Farra rushed along the winding way with graceful steps, holding her blade at the ready. Around the pathway leading to the right were three more soldiers with their eyes set upon her, weapons drawn beneath cold blue light.

    Farra lunged at the warrior closest to the ledge. He twisted, blocking her strike with the heft of his axe then pressing his strength against her. The feirin pulled her body toward the path¡¯s edge while yanking her blade away. The soldier shoved into her, catching himself when Farra pulled through to the other side.before. A swift tap came from the back of Farra''s sword, giving the last touch of momentum needed to send him falling downward with a scream.

    ¡°Over here.¡± One of the remaining two soldiers called as they maneuvered to surround her. ¡°Two of you are of little issue to me,¡± Farra spoke with a flourish of her sword. Both readied their blades and swiped at the same time. Farra delivered two separate swift strikes one after the other, stagnating the momentum of each of their blows. She pressed her boot forward, kicking one soldier away. Another swipe followed, only for Farra to sidestep inward, dodging then, cutting downward on the soldier''s wrist. His blade fell to the ground followed by a scream of agony as his hand fell to the ground, releasing its clutch on the blade. She swooped downward, taking the blade in her left hand.

    The soldier backed away in fear when Farra slid her blade across his neck. Without respite, the third soldier lunged at the feirin in the midst of his ally¡¯s execution, but it was stopped with ease, Farra¡¯s stolen blade welcoming steel with steel.

    ¡°Unfortunately for you all, I have no intention of dying here.¡± Farra grunted as the blades clashed against one another, pulling her right hand back around. She could see the next action. The soldier attempted to kick her away, just as she had done. She stepped back then to the side, avoiding the thrust of his kick before she brought her blade cleanly through his neck.. ¡°That makes six certainly.¡±

    Their blood soiled her pale skin as Farra continued to walk forward. One sleeve remained a part of her tunic, her other arm exposed but still untouched. Her hand grazed along the weight left in the bag of dust. ''Not yet''. Two scrolls remained, one more fireball, and the other a shielding wreath of flame. She held two blades now, and her own could yet be enchanted. If she did enchant it however, there would be dust enough for only one of her scrolls.

    Farra could run and wait for help. She knew where Gare was, and she knew the archer was injured, and that possibly three other soldiers had been caught in the explosion, judging by how they chose to split their forces. Their methodology was simple and sensible, but it was insufficient. Even without her enchanted body, her wits, skill, and resourcefulness exceeded these soldiers. Running was a foolish decision, fleeing and hiding out in the darkness while a potential source as to why these rebellions occurred, escaped. On top of that there was the chance that Bathalian''s soldiers did indeed show up, and came to aid these traitors. And if that were the case, then Teilve may very well walk into a trap set for him if she chose to flee. Ahead, she could see another group just beyond the end of the path, as it winded back up to level with the ground.

    Touching down onto the mainland from atop the bridge, Gare and the two soldiers accompanying him rushed to catch up with another squad they knew was circling the cliff.

    ¡°Gare. Maybe we should withdraw, she could already escape if she wanted, if we continue spreading out she''ll just kill all of us.¡±

    ¡°Didn''t I say to steel yourself? She is a warrior and a killer. She''s Erres'' blade that''s been sharpened to perfection over years. I''ve seen her talent and abilities fostered. She is dangerous as can be, but right now she''s vulnerable. This is one of the best moments there ever will be to prevent a tragedy.¡±

    ¡°If we throw our lives away here though, what good will that be?¡±

    ¡°It won''t matter if we run. This tactic was a double-edged sword. You saw her drive that blade through a girl, one she felt a companionship for and cried for. She''s silenced her compassion. If she doesn''t die here, then she''ll hunt us all down eventually.¡± Another scream came from beyond the darkness ahead of Gare.

    The man cried a pitiful gurgle as Farra raked her blade against his naked skin. It scored his flesh with a third crimson cut. The feirin looked down at the man on his knees; bathed in sweat, blood oozing from his lacerations, he grit his teeth against the pain. She had pinned his hands together him with her stolen blade, grinding the blade against the ground.

    ¡°Who are you loyal to?¡± The blade dug deeper, scraping down his skin. She pulled at the stolen blade, ripping it through the flesh of both his hands and placing it to the back of his neck. ¡°Answer and you can die like your fellow traitors.¡± She whispered, dragging her blade across his back and leaving a fourth gaping wound. The man spasmed from the pain, his neck rearing back so that he gouged himself on her stolen blade. ¡°I seem to be of little good at torturing.¡± she sighed. She tossed the bloody blade to the side, looking over the three corpses below her, examining each of their weapons before finally deciding to pick up a sword that was of a size smaller than her own. She then continued to rummage through each of the soldier''s belongings, searching for anything she could utilize as a weapon. And if she were lucky, perhaps one of them would have magical dust. However, as Gare came into view, she stopped and took a breath.

    Her body twitched when an arrow shot from her side. Farra turned her body, avoiding the arrow with ease. She could see the archer had a cloth wrapped around one eye, soaked with blood. The six remaining soldiers including Gare approached her from two sides. Crouching downward, the feirin held a second scroll in her hand, waiting to spill dust across it and what remained in the bag onto her blade.

    The archer nocked one more arrow, holding his bow steady, as the rest of the soldiers edged closer and closer toward the feirin, their blades at the ready. While every soldier continued enclosing on the feirin, Gare¡¯s eyes sharpened followed by a yell, ¡°Back away now.¡±If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    The runes adorning both scroll and blade lit, the parchment shining with burnished light while her blade glimmered with crimson and purple runes. The scroll activated. Farra¡¯s body became enveloped in a scorching ring of fire, consuming a slower soldier on each side of her in a fiery torrent. The sound of the raging and swirling fire drowned out their cries, and before the spell resolved, Farra looked up. Directly in front of her stood the archer and a soldier wielding a sword, both of whom were shielding their eyes from the sudden blaze. Behind her was Gare and another survivor. She turned her gaze back in front of her, gripping her blades tightly.

    When the fire subsided, Farra rushed the men in front of her while Gare and the last soldier were left in her wake. Like an animal readying its claws, she gripped both swords in preparation to strike. The archer attempted to force her back, firing the nocked arrow only for it to be nearly incinerated by Farra¡¯s flaming blade, pulling his dagger out upon seeing his adversary''s dauntless charge. Her enchanted blade then came down on the dagger, slicing it in two, and continued onward, spilling fire as she cleaved through the archer.

    The other soldier attempted to bring his weapon down on Farra. She pressed the short blade to the side, catching it with the guard and keeping the blade from grazing her skin. As the archer fell to the ground, she pulled her blade from him, impaling the second soldier through his armor, cutting through steel and flesh so that the heat of her blade would boil him from the inside. Then, with a gentle push, the corpse slid off her glowing, burning blade.

    ¡°Why did you bring no enchanted arms, you came woefully unprepared.¡± Farra mused aloud over the bodies beneath her, turning her gaze to the last two remaining soldiers.

    ¡°Procuring enchanted arms for a number of soldiers would require an explanation, something that the quartermasters or any other officer might question given my duties. And that aside, we thought it best to limit your armaments and ability of turning our weapons against us.¡± Gare reached for the bag of dust at his side, pulling the tie binding it apart, spilling the entire bag over his axe. An ethereal black and golden glow consumed the head of his axe, enchanting it and transforming it into a double-bladed axe.

    ¡°You underestimate me. There are only two of you left. I will make a proposition. Return to the temple with me in shackles, Gare, and I will give this last soldier a merciful death.¡± Farra clenched her shorter sword. ¡°There isn''t any sort of escape for either of you now.¡±

    ¡°You''re a savage, Farra.¡±

    ¡°It matters not what others think of me. I am Lord Erres'' blade. I take it you refuse my proposition then?¡±

    The soldier stepped forward, answering in Gare''s stead with a shaking voice. ¡°Of course we refuse.¡±

    ¡°You say that, but your voice all but suggests mental defeat. You''re nothing but a burden on Gare at any rate.¡± Farra dashed forward, rousing Gare to prepare his weapon. She skirted the edge of where the axe could reach, instead maneuvering around to the soldier who stepped from Gare''s side, brandishing his own weapon.

    ¡°Get back.¡± Gare shouted, lowering his axe to shield the soldier. Farra''s enchanted blade came, grazing her blade against the glowing axe before pulling back. The accompanying soldier retreated to the side,

    Farra circled around the two men slowly. ¡°How futile, you''ll whittle away what little chance you have left at this rate Gare. Or is it a strategy to draw out your deaths for hope of reinforcements?¡±

    ¡°Reinforcements? This is us and only us. You''re being paranoid.¡± Gare swung his axe into the ground, then plowed the ground upward. Stone flung about, forcing Farra back to cover herself as a hail of stone came. She dodged outward, feeling her exposed arm cut by some of the stone shards.

    ¡°Unfortunate. But my own reinforcements are on their way.¡± Farra picked up a third blade from the dead body of a soldier, and hurled it in their direction. Gare deflected the blade with a short swing, bringing it back down as Farra attempted to cut inward in her rush. The angling allowed her to step out toward the other soldier. Gare tilted the knob of his axe, preparing to catch the impending blade on it. The soldier accompanying Gare extended his own armament to protect him, only to have it cut through swiftly by Farra¡¯s enchanted black edge. Farra curved her strike and increased the force of her blade so that it rended through the throat of Gare¡¯s axe before he could shove her away. Gare¡¯s strength followed through, shoving Farra back so that she tumbled against the stone ground.

    The soldier took a breath, his blade shattered upon the floor. Gare glanced briefly at his axe''s shortened handle and spat. As she scraped and slid against the ground, Farra¡¯s pale arm and part of her face became adorned with blood. ¡°We shall see how you fare with a shorter weapon.¡± Farra blitzed back forward, unabated by her wounds. A swift and reaching strike came, pulling back as the axe swung toward it. She stepped forward, forcing a reaction with each of her movements. Her mind kept steady on both soldiers, her eyes only worrying about the placement of her strikes. Another flurry came that forced Gare to back in an attempt to shield the disarmed man. As he guarded with the axe once more, a swift stab came from Farra''s other blade, scraping at the normally heavily-armored hand of the seasoned warrior.

    The disarmed soldier watched from behind, looking to the corpses of his comrades. ¡°Hold her off Gare.¡±As Farra felt Gare preparing to overpower her, she pulled her weapons back. Gare, well aware of her thoughts, mirrored her actions, pulling his axe back and shuffling to where she might attempt to dash to. Just as Gare began to pick a side, she simply readied to move toward where he once blocked, forcing his axe to halt her advance. But every move was exposed in advance. Farra swung the left blade, forcing Gare to catch the blade with his hand. His face grimaced as the weapon cut in.

    ¡°Stone-skinned bastard.¡± Farra muttered as the blade came to a halt, lodged within his palm. Gare clenched his hand around the blade, ripping it from the feirin''s grasp and tossing it away, but not before she ducked beneath his arm.

    Gare attempted to lift his leg to block and kick her, but recoiled when her black blade scorched the air where his leg had been. Farra had broken through. The soldier had a weapon in hand, a tarnished longsword. He pulled it back, keen of Farra''s advance, preparing to guard against her strike.

    Her blade cut through the longsword with ease, the top half of the metal falling to the ground uselessly. She spun around him, placing her blade to his neck. ¡°You are ill-prepared.¡± Her voice whispered, eyes fixated on Gare whose hand was seeping with blood.

    ¡°This is the same feeling I had when realizing Naia¡¯s betrayal. Helplessness. There is something to take away from this however¡± She slid the blade, cutting the soldier''s throat. The body fell to the ground, atop another. ¡°I must be more careful with who I trust. I take it this only leaves you, Gare. Will you surrender now?¡±

    ¡°After you''re dead.¡±

    Farra''s eyes sharpened. ¡°You are truly the most despicable. Not only betraying your loyalties, but poisoning the minds of others to your cause. It was in Naia I trusted, and it seems that sense of companionship was just an illusion. Tell me, was this your intention?¡±

    He clenched his right hand, blood seeping forward from it. ¡°¡±How the hell was I supposed to know you''d go get so close to her? It was my thought she would merely be another pawn to you. Almost worked to our advantage even.¡±

    ¡°For you to think in such an underhanded way, I never thought it would be befitting of you. A traitor through and through is all you are, and you will die being known as such. Your desire to help slaves only hastens their death. It does naught but provide you a sense of validation.¡±

    ¡°And you wish for people to suffer for a cause they can''t fathom. Their bloodshed is rewarded with nothing.¡±

    ¡°Selflessness is a virtue, Gare.¡± Farra shouted, charging the man with blade flourished. Gare¡¯s axe swung downward into the stone, heaving upward and knocking chunks of stone at Farra. However, Farra had already seen this. She dodged to the side before the rocks could strike her, rolling and avoiding her arms being grazed by the stray stone shards. Her black stockings, on the other hand, were slightly torn, revealing small cuts on her legs. Her advance continued, closing in tight to where Gare could no longer simply ravage the ground to hinder her.

    He lowered his axe and steadied it, deflecting one of Farra''s strikes. A second blow came, not committing force and merely measuring its opponent''s reaction. Just as Gare moved the left side of his body forward, Farra reacted promptly, pulling her blade back and threatening to slice at his skin. He pulled back his body to protect himself, the axe swinging sideways and through. Farra ducked effortlessly, striking upward again, and upon meeting the shaft, sliding her blade up the handle so that it cut and burned a part of Gare¡¯s arm.

    She stepped back, watching his eyes wince in pain. Where her blade had been, the flesh had cauterized red and black. The flap of skin she had shaved clean, clung to his arm like a bloodied rag. Farra flicked her sword and resumed her assault. Gare dug his into the ground, unleashing another storm of stone from the back-swing, forcing Farra inward against it''s blade. She steadied her body, waiting for the inevitable impact of the axe. It crashed into her sword and procured a momentary blinding light from which both weapons halted.

    Gare prepared to step back, regaining leverage over his weapon from the flash of light. As soon as the weapons parted, however, a follow-up strike came from the feirin¡¯s blade. She shifted inward, and without hesitation, she brought her blade to what remained of the axe''s body. He pulled the weapon away, soaking the blow with his arm rather than losing what remained of his weapon, tough skin cut through by the feirin''s personal armament. She backpedaled immediately, avoiding a vain downward strike from the axe and stepping atop its heft.

    ¡°Give up, you''ve lost.¡±

    Gare dropped his axe, clutching a fist with his remaining arm, and lunged at Farra. She stepped out of the way, turning her blade and plowing its cheek into her enemy''s chest. The blade''s runes burned bright and radiated a scorching flame before fading away. She pulled back her blade, moving past Gare''s great frame whilst slicing at exposures in the back of his leg armor, grounding the man who once towered over her.

    ¡°I can slice every one of your limbs off if you would prefer, but as evil as I may be to you, I would prefer to avoid having to do that to you.¡±

    Gare fell to his knees, his hand reaching for and clenching his axe as Farra walked behind him, drawing the black steel to his neck.

    ¡°I will ask my questions, and you''ll come back to the temple with me as you are, as evidence for your treachery.¡±

    Her blade began to press into his neck before easing to let him speak. Gare shoved his weight against the axe, using it as a cane; it was the only reason he could remain upright after Farra sliced his legs.

    ¡°I don''t have anything to tell you. Only that you''ve become every bit of what the innocent people in these lands dread.¡±

    ¡°Innocents having nothing to fear. I would not raise my blade to any one of them for they would be sensible individuals. Did you work with Bathalian?¡±

    ¡°I only worked to free innocent people in these lands and try to give them their lives back. This faction corrupts and fosters hatred against the denizens of this land. War has no purpose other than to divide. Look at what the attention and power that''s been given to you has done.¡±

    ¡°We help slaves. What else do you know of Bathalian''s plans?¡± Farra''s grip on her blade tightened.

    ¡°I don''t care about Bathalian. I used her just as she used us. The slaves deserve their freedom, not shackles and having the best of them plucked away to become weapons.¡±

    Farra''s head sunk, bringing her blade back tighter against his neck. ¡°I¡¯ll crush your desires. I understand now that the morals in our ranks have been corrupted. I will see to it Lord Erres¡¯ soldiers are trained properly. And perhaps you are right. Maybe we are not giving the slaves the opportunities they deserve, and I merely ended up fortunate. I will beseech Lord Erres personally, that we must bring the correct slaves up to be proper soldiers. They would make better warriors than the ones lying dead here,¡±

    In the proceeding moments, Gare would attempt to grip his axe, mustering all his strength to shift from his position and cut down Farra. As much as the feirin desired to seize and bring him back to the temple, she lacked the ability to restrain him while keeping him alive. She saw the result of all his movements before he had begun to move, dragging her blade through his throat and ending the man''s life. She lowered her blade from his neck, letting his body rest to the ground with a thump.

    ¡°I will realize that desire of yours my own way.¡± Tears ran down Farra''s cheek. She swiped her blade instinctively, trying to dispel the blood from it before sheathing. Her clothing was both bloodied and torn, fitting the blood running down her cheek and arm. But the pain mattered little to her. Her body was considered to be frail, but her heart and mind were by no means the same. She moved to the other side of the quarry, spotting her regalia, ignoring and moving past it to the corpse of the first subordinate she bonded with. She sank to her knees, sobbing in the darkness.

    The moon had disappeared from the sky when a tap came to her shoulder. Farra awoke in a haze. She made no effort to turn her body, she could feel her cheeks dry with tears yet her eyes still full of water. Even with a lack of light, the red surrounding her purple pupils and her blood-covered face spoke for her. Another tap came to her shoulder. She raised her head, turning and looking.

    ¡°I tried to make it here as fast as possible. What the hell happened Farra?¡± Teilve tossed the scroll Bathalian had left with Farra aside, wrapping the robe stained in blood over her. She broke out in silent tears again, turning back down and looking over Naia''s body, dragging her bloody arm across her face to wipe away the tears. ¡°I had no choice...she was a traitor. The trap was intended to kill me when I had no one to enchant me. Every soldier dead here was my enemy.¡± Her voice choked as she finished her words, dragging her hand across Naia''s cheek. ¡°I had no choice. If she was with them they might have been able to kill me. I didn''t expect both her and Gare to betray us.¡± Farra continued to sob, wrapping her arm under Naia''s head and cradling it.

    ¡°Gare was a traitor?¡± Teilve muttered to himself in momentary disbelief. He shook his head. ¡°You know I was hoping Naia could help you see something that you might''ve lost over the years. That you could remember the innocent part of you struggling to survive in the darkness.¡± He crouched, lowering an arm over the Farra who continued a silent cry. ¡°I know I''m being pedantic and we¡¯re in a grim business, but I was hoping you could come to see the more nurturing side that helps, even when everything is doom and gloom.¡±

    Teilve pulled himself back to his feet, looking over to two more dead soldiers, visible within the light of the larger dig. ¡°Of course it didn''t help she turned out to be a traitor at Gare''s urging, that human trash. I suppose things are screwed with this. Bathalian will be free from punishment or scrutiny, and the blame will fall on our ineptitude to identify traitors within our ranks. We''ll be sent tumbling backwards a fair bit.¡± He paused. ¡°Did you really have to kill her though?¡±

    Her silent cry broke into loud sobbing, her voice beginning to choke as she spoke. ¡°I had no choice. If...If we had first met at the start of this, I wouldn''t have concerned myself with her. But I think I managed to give her that bit of bravery she needed. She tried to cast a spell and I felt she was dangerous enough. I''m sorry, Teilve.¡±

    ¡°Don''t be, it''s not your fault.¡±

    Farra picked Naia''s chime up, placing it square on her chest, taking both the girl''s hands and wrapping them over it. She rose, battered and bloodied, and turned to Teilve with her tearful gaze. ¡°I don''t think it was all for naught, we can reorganize, restructure, and become stronger. Raom is dead, and Bathalian is afraid. This is a setback Bathalian will take advantage of. But I know what we must do now to deal with her.¡±

    ¡°You look too beat up to be displaying that kind of confidence. And you still have a mission to complete. I''ll communicate to the Lords what happened, then we will set out.¡±

    Farra stood, her mind still hazy after the events when she looked to the mage. ¡°Did everything go okay for you?¡±

    ¡°A bit of trouble, nothing like what happened here. They had it out for you.¡± He dropped a hand to her head, ruffling her hair before wrapping his arms around her in a hug. ¡°Lets see if there is anything to eat in the war hall. We can see how that potion works too.¡± Teilve reached into his pocket, pulling out a familiar vial of purple liquid. ¡°I thought to snatch it away from your bag before anyone else did.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I had forgotten about it.¡± Farra nodded her head, looking back to the resting Naia one last time before stepping forward into the darkness.