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  “I’m afraid I don’t understand.”

  “This Baron’s Fall, where we’re from it’s called Marbayne. It’s our home. He’s taunting us by taking Gareth home. He plans to kill him the moment we arrive.” Demetrix explained softly, unsure how they were going to rescue him before the trap was sprung.

  “I see. We’ll, I have no command over you. Either of you. While you’re dalari, you aren’t of my charge, and therefore the decision is yours. I’ll aid you however I can, but the odds aren’t in your favor.”

  “We understand. You have your men to worry about, especially if that six-thousand head army is marching this way. Would it be too much to ask for a handful of men to accompany us? And you spoke of magic travel earlier. Now that we know roughly how far the distance is, is there any way we could take a portal across the sea?” A plan was forming in Ravion’s head. The real challenge would be ensuring it came to pass as intended. And it never seemed to.

  “I’ll allow you to plead your case and request volunteers. That’s the best I can offer. As for the teleportation, I won’t say it’s impossible, but I’ll need a fairly calculated idea as to how wide the gap is. Only then could I give you an honest answer.”

  “The port city of Everik to the harbor at Acron in the Southern tip of Dalmoura takes eight days with favorable winds at four and a half knots. That’s—,” Ravion paused, calculating the distance in his head. “—around eight-hundred and sixty nautical miles. Add another six days walk to that and Marbayne is—,” He paused again. “—roughly a thousand miles away, accounting for the difference between nautical and statute miles.”

  “I think we might be able to get you close if I have some help with the casting. That’s quite a distance to send one person, let alone a group. You’ll also need a scroll if you’re to return.”

  Kashien pulled a piece of vellum from the table drawer and laid it on the map. “Give me until morning. I need to make sure this is even possible before I give the okay. Until then I’d appreciate if you’d assist with the defenses and help prepare camp for the evening.”

  Kashien stood at the water’s edge, watching the foamy ocean waves crash into the sand inches ahead of him. Rarely had he taken in the beauty of it all. His life was filled with all kinds of wonders, yet it was this moment he chose to appreciate it for what it was. It was his time to be remembered for something great.

  Listening to the tide roll, he closed his eyes and let himself drift away. It was time. He opened his eyes and turned around to face his men. Glancing at Ravion and Demetrix, standing to the side, he spoke. “Our scouts have reported a massive dreualfar threat headed our way. While we outnumber them, do not underestimate our enemy. We’re in the open with minimal cover. What few fortifications we were able to construct this past night is all we have. Be ready for whatever they throw at us. Many of you may not live to see tomorrow’s sunrise. But fear not, we are not alone. Our ancestors are with us. And gods willing, we will end this war!”

  The dalari army erupted in cheer at their general’s words.

  Raising his hands, the shouts faded into silence. “Our brothers here—,” Kashien gestured to Ravion and Demetrix. “—are in need of our aid. An agent of the dreualfar has captured their brother and is holding him in the fortress at Baron’s Fall. I’ve given my blessing to mount a rescue. But these dalari cannot succeed alone. They need our assistance. In such times of peril, I cannot order anyone of you to accompany them. I will, however, ask for volunteers. The dreualfar march toward us while these men march into battle themselves. Both paths will be difficult and casualties are expected, though if you look out for your bothers we can minimize the risks. Let any who wish to travel across the sea speak now. For hesitance only leads to regret!”

  Several hands appeared throughout the assembled formations. One by one they stepped from their ranks and formed into a separate unit.

  Seeing a hand rise from his officers, Kashien was surprised to see it belonged to Trendal.

  The young captain stepped from his place and marched ceremoniously toward the new unit.

  Kashien scanned the unit of volunteers. He remembered their faces, uncertain if he would ever see them again. There were several more than he’d expected. He thought maybe twenty at most would step forward, but before him stood just under a hundred and fifty men and women. Before he could finish the first row, a common trait sprang into memory. These few once occupied the triage beds. Every single one of them had been affected by Ravion’s lust. Yet here they were, ready to die for him.

  Taking a deep breath, he exhaled and returned to his commanding presence. “Volunteers, remain. The rest of you, fall out and prepare for battle. The enemy is expected to be upon us by day’s end.”

  The large formation slowly broke apart. Many returned to their duties, sharpening what few logs they could find, while others dug a deep trench in the sand. Preparation was the only thing that was going to save them in the hours to come.

  Kashien approached the unit of volunteers. He couldn’t help but feel concern about Trendal’s decision. “You men understand the dangers you’ve agreed to enter?”

  “Yes, Sir!” They sounded in unison.

  Ravion and Demetrix approached the group, taken back by how many had agreed to accompany them.

  “Captain Trendal, as you’re the ranking officer among these men, you’re reassigned to their command. Your previous unit will fall to the command of Lieutenant Razorius.”

  “Understood and accepted, General.”

  Kashien nodded, “Fall out and gather your gear. You leave within the hour.”

  He watched the volunteers saunter off. Waiting a moment, he locked eyes on his captain. “Trendal, would you speak with me privately?”

  “Yes, Sir.”

  As if he’d never exited the formation, Trendal took half a step back, did an about face, and exited the chaotic group from the rear, avoiding the soldiers rushing to gather their belongings. Reaching the side, he casually approached Kashien and waited for the dalari prince to lead the way.

  The two walked a short distance to the command tent and disappeared inside.

  “Have I done something to upset you?” Kashien asked, more confused than anything.

  “No, Sir.” Trendal replied unofficially.

  “Then why do you volunteer to go on a suicide mission? The dreualfar know they’re coming.”

  “I’m aware of that.”

  “If it was something I said or did, I apologize. You’re my closest friend. Hell, most days you’re my only friend. I just don’t want you to make a foolish decision based on some animosity you have toward me that I don’t know about.”

  Trendal chuckled. “Kashien, you’re a pain in the ass most days, but you’ve been that way since we were kids. I consider you a brother and even when you manage to piss me off, I’ll still have your back. My volunteering has nothing to do with your command or even you for that matter.”

  “Kaileen?”

  Trendal shot a worrisome glance at the mention of her name. “What about her?”

  “Oh, don’t give me that. I know full well you two have been spending every free moment you have together. A blind man couldn’t miss that. And don’t worry about it. You both do your jobs. As far as I’m concerned, what you do off duty is your business.”

  “It’s still against regulations.”

  “Have I ever been one to give a rat’s ass about regulations? You’ve known me longer than anyone else here. Just because I play the part doesn’t mean I don’t long for the old days.” Kashien placed his hand on Trendal’s shoulder. “Enjoy yourself. And be sure to name your first kid after me.”

  “Yes, Sir!” Trendal snapped a mock salute. “And just for your piece of mind, the reason I agreed to go is because Gareth isn’t like us. He’s impulsive and a bit brutish, but under that rough exterior, he’s loyal. And, like it or not, I consider him a friend. I’m going so I can bring my friend back.”

  “Just make sure you bring yourself back
too.”

  “I will.”

  The heat was beginning to rise, creating ripples in the air. The ring of hammers echoed all around and wooden walls began to take form at the edge of the growing trench. Sharpened poles protruded from narrow gaps and soldiers went to work lugging buckets of water from the ocean and wetting the sand beneath the post.

  Demetrix waited patiently at the water’s edge. He was surprised at how much air could get through the thick leather plates of his new armor. Were it not for the stiffness of the form fitting suit, it would have been easy to forget he was even wearing it. He held tight to the grip of his bow. The unusual presence inside it was growing stronger, ensuring him victory. He couldn’t explain what it was, but he knew he could trust it. The quiver strapped to his hip was adjusted and ready for use. He missed having his swords, but the stolen dreualfar blade would work until he could have another set forged. It wasn’t even that bad of a blade once he replaced the leather and polished the metal. In fact, it could have passed for a myrkalfar short sword if it weren’t so clean. Resting his hand on the pommel, he heard footsteps approach.

  “Are you ready for this?” Ravion’s voice was both reassuring and uncertain.

  “As ready as I can be. I’m surprised so many agreed to accompany us.”

  “As am I. Though I suspect I know the reason.”

  “Why’s that?”

  “Those were the dalari I drained while I was Ra’dulen. I can feel them. And that means they can feel me. I may have inadvertently tied myself to them.”

  “Do you think that’s something Kashien needs to know?”

  “I’ve a feeling he already does.”

  Kashien approached the pair, dressed in his battle armor and ready for war. “I’m aware. But that’s the least of my concerns at the moment. I ask that you do everything within your power to ensure Trendal makes it back. He doesn’t know it, but he’s to be a father.”

  “Really? I had no idea he was seeing anyone.” Ravion stated, overly casually.

  “You need to work on your lying. It’s not very convincing.” The dalari prince chuckled.

  “I’ve been telling him that for years.” Demetrix retorted, slapping his hand against his brother’s shoulder.

  “Are we ready?” Trendal asked, approaching the group.

  “Aye.”

  “Fall in.” Kashien calmly commanded.

  Ravion, Demetrix, and Trendal found their place at the head of the formation. Watching the others align themselves, they stood at the ready, awaiting command.

  “Unit, attention!”

  They snapped in unison, heels firmly together, and toes at a forty-five degree. Arms were locked to the side, and heads straight forward, watching their general.

  “Due to the uncanny nature in which this band has come together, I name you, Guardians of Order. May Corin protect you from his seas and see you safely to the other side.”

  “Guardians!” One of the soldiers sounded.

  The others erupted in shouts of praise at the name.

  Raising his hand to calm the group, Kashien pulled a rolled scroll from his waistline and handed it to Trendal. Rubbing his hands together, orange sparks danced between his fingers. Slowly pulling them apart, an orb began the form. It spread wider, opening a window to a green field of waist-high grass. Two other orbs formed on either side of Kashien.

  Ravion glanced over, seeing several spellcasters working their hands in a similar fashion.

  The three orbs expanded, becoming a single entity. Taking form, a wide doorway stood in the air offering entrance to the field. It quit growing and shimmered majestically, as if it the forces on the outer edge were revolving opposite of those within.

  “The gateway is stable. You may pass.” Kashien said through labored breaths, straining the keep his hands positioned properly.

  “Forward, march!” Trendal ordered and they stepped into the portal, disappearing ten at a time.

  Chapter XIV

  Flanking Maneuvers

  A single beam of sunlight shot through the smallest of cracks between the wooden beams crudely nailed over the lone window. Mildew had formed on the rafters and stone walls from the lingering moisture. The scent of rotten meat and stale air loitered, attracting an assortment of flies and other insects.

  Gareth scrunched his nose in a feeble attempt to shoo away the fly that was biting into his flesh. He could feel a trickle of blood running from the fresh wound. Straining against his unseen prison, he couldn’t move so much as a finger. Worse than that, he was trapped in his mind. Nothing seemed to help. He thought of his family, of the dreualfar that murdered them. Nothing was strong enough to break free. Feeling exhausted from the constant fighting, his eyelids got heavy.

  “Hey, Gareth. Stay awake!” Mejra’s voice reached him in the dark room. Normally it wouldn’t have bothered him, but the single strand of light kept his eye from being able to focus.

  Straining, he could just make out her form against the opposite wall. “I thought they’d already taken you.”

  “They haven’t yet. Ye’ need to keep ‘yer eyes open and quit fighting da’ binds. Ye’re just exhausting ‘yerself. If we’re gonna’ find a way out o’ this, we need ta’ maintain our strength. When they remove da’ spell, we can make a break ‘fer it, but until then I need ya’ ta’ stay awake.”

  “How do you know so much about this? Spells and such.”

  “Me father required I learn da’ arcane arts. He said knowledge is power and if I’m ta’ lead our people, I have ta’ gain all da’ power I can.”

  “Lead your people? You’re a princess?” Gareth laughed at the concept.

  “Aye, that’s one word ‘fer it. I wasn’t completely honest with ya’ earlier. I said my name was Mejra. And while that remains true, my actual name is Alonia, daughter ta’ Tsar Mejra and heir ta’ da’ devonie throne.”

  “Well, I must say this is a first. I can now honestly say I’ve seen a princess naked.”

  “Gods, is that all ya think about? Seeing me naked? Ya’ must have seen dozens, or maybe even hundreds of women naked. Are we really so different that ya’ have ta’ compare us?”

  “The way I see it, if you’ve seen one woman naked—,” Gareth paused a moment, considering his next words. “—you pretty much want to see ‘em all.”

  Mejra sighed heavily. “Fine, ya’ want ta’ see me naked? Get us out of here and I’ll let ya’ see anything ya’ like!”

  “Anything?”

  “Within reason. Asshole!” She scoffed, yet found humor in his timing. Though there was no way she was going to give him the satisfaction of knowing that.

  Gareth chuckled, feeling a bit of his strength return. Annoying her seemed to inspire him in ways he didn’t understand.

  The door at the top of the stone stairs creaked open, allowing blinding light to fill the room. Several boots echoed on the hard steps, moving ever closer. The first two dreualfar to reach the bottom approached Mejra and took position on either side.

  “Keep your god damned hands off her!” Gareth shouted, seeing her move into view for the briefest moment.

  Stay calm, ya’ know what ya’ must do. Her voice echoed in his mind.

  He wasn’t sure if she actually spoke or not. Either way he understood her message. Calming himself, we watched the dreualfar carry her up the steep stairs. Another dreualfar approached him, grabbing the top of his stubble covered head.

  “Keep your damned hand off me or I’m gonna’ rip it off and shove it up your ass.” Gareth spat, feeling his hatred rise.

  “Calm yourself. There’s no need for such graphic threats of violence.” Jorin’otth stepped into view, near glowing in the dimly lit room.

  Seeing the hydralfar, Gareth strained against the unwelcome grip. Unable to resist, his head craned to one side, revealing his neck to the captors. A sharp pain stabbed into his flesh. He fought as best he could, unable to escape the puncturing instrument.

  “Be still. This will be over in a minute.” Jo
rin’otth assured.

  It didn’t make Gareth feel any better. In fact, it made him want to fight harder. But what could he do? He was still weak and his body was frozen in some kind of stasis. His options were limited. All but Mejra’s plan, which seemed the only feasible one he had.

  Jorin’otth pulled the thin needle from Gareth’s neck and exposed a small glass vial to the beam of light, inspecting it closely.

  The dreualfar released him and disappeared up the stairs.

  Stretching his neck as best he could, Gareth realized what they’d taken from him. “What the hell do you need my blood for?”

  “That’s none of your concern. Just trust that it won’t go to waste.” Jorin’otth turned to leave, stopped himself, and turned back toward Gareth. Approaching a second time, he looked deep into the helpless warrior. “I must say, I like you better this way. You’re gruffer. Some might go so far as to say rabid. But I think that’s just for show. I mean, if we’re being honest, the last time we met I found you kind of boring and dull. This is certainly an improvement.”

  “What the hell are you talkin’ about? I’ve never see you before in my life!” Gareth demanded, feeling uneasy by the hydralfar’s words. He suspected him of lying, but what would that accomplish? There had to be some ulterior motive for his statement.

  “Oh, you don’t remember? How precious is that?” Jorin’otth chuckled, both curious and amused by this turn of events. He’d avoided Gareth for so long, believing the bald warrior would remember every detail. If he’d know there was no recollection, he’d have killed him years ago.

  “We’ll, I’m not one to spoil a lovely surprise. But I will say I’m relieved you survived the island. I wasn’t at first, mind you. After going through so much effort to kill you, I wanted it done. But I’ve had some time to think it over. I’m glad you didn’t die that day. Had you perished, I wouldn’t have become who I am today.”

  “I don’t know what kind of game you think you’re playin’, but I’ve never see you before. So, tell me what the fuck you know or I promise, when I get free, I’m going to bash your skull in with my bare hands!”