Jared's Song Elrek's Rise

Jared’s Song

Elrek’s Rise

Mike Ginns

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© 2013 Mike Ginns. All rights reserved.

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Published by AuthorHouse 6/13/2013

ISBN: 978-1-4817-8928-8 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4817-8929-5 (e)

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Mike Ginns

Mike returned from his stay in America re-settling in his old familiar surroundings in Mitcham England, the following quickly passing years have been filled with the music of Jared’s Song. Each character a single instrument, intertwining in a symphony of words with adventurous passages, delicate movements, funny and sometimes sad melodies, resounding battles and heart stopping moments.

Mike has always been very imaginative, creating works both in paint and words, both professionally and to express himself. This book series is his masterpiece an amazing original story about one mans life, Jared a legend in his own lifetime. Mike is somewhat reclusive and reserved due in part to poor health, his artwork exclusively created on the computer now projects the characters of his books into life before our eyes on the covers of the Jared’s Song series, wonderfully not someone else’s interpretation of the characters in the books but exactly how the author himself sees them.

Front cover illustration

Elrek and Anja.

Spine illustration

Korvessa Cavalryman

Back cover illustration

Ivak the Mastersmith

Also

by

Mike Ginns

Jared’s Song

Jared’s Song - The Second Verse

The Jared’s Song Series

Continues after Elrek’s Rise with

Elrek’s Rise – The Second Verse

High King

High King – The Second Verse

Jared’s Song – Resonance

I dedicate this book

Elrek’s Rise

In memory of

Kate

faithful friend and companion

"But Father, they do have uses! And the more they are used, the more these little problems will be sorted out. Elrek said. Jared looked sceptically at his son and then back at the tangled remains of the small demonstration model of the new steam machine. It was my usual luck that it had to have a major problem when I was showing you. Elrek sighed, his slim shoulders drooping. Jared nodded, Well, that I can understand. That always happens if you are desperate to impress someone. Come and walk with me and explain what sort of uses they could be used for. He said. Elrek sighed and walked beside his Father along the paved way that ran along the seawall. Well, attached to the base of a crane, they can lift many times more than men can at the moment, without making too much of a change, and turn the crane too. If you see them as power units just waiting to be connected to something, it helps. They can power threshing machines, and larger harvesters, they can power hammers for forges that are not near a stream or be a secondary power source for mills on windless days. Jared stopped and they leaned on the seawall and looked out over the beach. The quarries are interested in them, as are the sawmills. Father, they will never replace men or horses, just be there to do the dangerous heavy lifting or pulling. Yes, they are still a little unstable at the moment, but then, at the moment, ropes can break or horses can go lame or kick. Jared smiled, listening to his son making his case. Wait a minute! he said as he realised, Replace horses? he asked, looking at Elrek. Elrek flushed, Ah, well. You see, if you make a special wagon, one of those units can drive it, without a horse pulling it. Master Gato says that he can foresee a time when even ships could be driven by such a unit, though a large one. Jared frowned. It’s all just a matter of gears and drive shafts. Elrek said. Jared stared out across the ocean, and thought, as Elrek stood silently beside him. Jared turned and looked at his son, Alright. I think there is an old storehouse over at the edge of the compound, though it might need some work on the roof. Master Gato can work there, and I will allow him to access the other workshops, as long as he doesn’t stop their work. You can finance him." Elrek grinned and hugged Jared, who laughed.

Alisha smiled as Jared walked into the dining room, I see you survived Elrek’s demonstration. She said, We heard the bang up here. Jared chuckled, It was sort of impressive, even when it exploded, but it is the future, dear. I have given this Gato an old storehouse to work in, and because Elrek seems so interested in these steam machines. Alisha chuckled, He has too many ideas. He tells them to me, but I don’t understand half of them. It must be all those hours he has to sit listening to all those boring legal cases. Jared said, grinning. Just then Pelona entered, and stopped seeing just the two of them talking, and attempted to creep out again. And where do you think you are going, Pelona? Alisha asked. Pelona stopped and turned, I thought you might be talking privately, so I… Dear, I keep telling you. If we want to talk privately, we do so in our chamber or our minds. Come in and sit down. Pelona entered, as timid as usual. Jared smiled to her then remembered, Ah! We are to go exploring today! Pelona nodded, Yes, sir. Jared nodded, I will eat a little and go and change, and we will be off. Alisha glanced from Pelona to him, Why did you not say anything what she called you sir? she asked. Jared sighed, This is the best we have got to, dear. She cannot bring herself to call me by my name, for reasons I still do not understand. I growl at her when she calls me ‘Sire’, so we have settled for ‘sir’, which she said a well brought up Daughter would call her Father. He said, and shook his head while making himself a thick sandwich. Alisha grinned, glancing to Pelona. And what is this ‘exploring’? She asked, looking at Jared. It is Pelona, myself and a small wyvern, and our horses, because I am still not allowed to travel far by myself. Alisha frowned, No guards? Jared chewed whilst looking at Alisha, finally answering, Oh, I forgot, yes, a company of guards, a cook and accompanying staff for lunch, a map-maker, and various gentry to just get in the way and look good. He said. Alisha looked at him, I ask because I worry about the two of you. There is no need of cutting remarks, dear. Jared muttered to himself, and then said, I am planning on hopping from high point to high point, stopping long enough to make a quick map and off again. Line of sight with the wyvern scouting out ahead. We will be safe, because I know you will shout at me if we are not. If there is trouble, we just travel back here. Alisha nodded.

She fusses too much. Jared said, looking around from the top of a hill. Because she cares about you, sir. Pelona said. It is because Elrek and Druna have grown up, so she turns her attention to me. He said directing the wyvern to the next hill across the valley. Alisha loves you sir, it is natural that she cares for you. Pelona said, not looking up from the rough map she was sketching out. Jared grumbled to himself, and checked the small direction device to check that they were still heading basically south. Um, shouldn’t it be getting warmer? I mean, if you go south in Korvessa, there’s that huge desert that is damned hot. Jared said. Pelona rolled up her paper and put it back in the travel tube hung from her horse’s saddle. I did wonder about that. She said, looking around, All it seems to be doing here is getting wetter. Jared nodded, Those trees are tall, look, over there, much taller than I’ve ever seen. Closer together, too, sir. Pelona said. They travelled to the next hilltop, which was a little higher than the last, and just had grass on top.

Finally they came back, their clothes soaked in what seemed to be a perpetual mist of water that had penetrated everything. Pelona was quite upset that her map had got wet, but Jarl assured her that it would dry out, and praised her for her attention to detail. When she returned, she found Jared telling Oleth and Varie about the jungle they had found. Here is Pelona! She’ll tell you! Pelona, was there not a little bright frog living in a plant? Jared asked. Pelona smiled and nodded, There was indeed, such a tiny thing too. Everything seemed to have things living on it there. I’m not sure I’d like to live there though. Jared said. Varie looked at Pelona, Pel, you don’t look very well, are you okay? Pelona frowned, Why, certainly. I feel just a little hot… her world seemed to fade and she collapsed. She seemed to be aware in a sort of dream-state, though she couldn’t move, and voices seemed to come from a distance. She was lifted up and floated to be put on her bed, and Druna bent over her, frowning down at her. Pelona? Can you hear me? Pelona tried to nod, but she couldn’t seem to make her head move. What did she touch? Druna asked, Her left hand looks like it is burned, but it isn’t, her right hand fingers too. Jared’s lower voice said, Not much, she is a careful girl and wears her gloves. Think, Father! Druna said, Oh, the little frog! he said. I’ll go and get it! and he vanished. Pelona wanted to warn him, but she couldn’t. Her eyes closing at last.

Jared returned with his clay jar and inside a tiny black and fiery orange mottled frog. Alisha and Druna looked at it, It is so small! Alisha said, and Jared nodded, It was living between the leaves of a plant, where water had collected. Druna looked closer, Ah! See? Its skin has a slime upon it. I have noticed that animals that wear vivid colours do so to warn of danger. I must get this to the Temple. Try to keep Pelona cool please, Mother, I’ll be back as soon as I can. She took the frog and vanished. Jared sat beside Pelona, who now lay flushed and sweating so that Alisha had taken her outer robe off to leave her in her thin under robe. Perhaps you should not be here, Jared. Alisha said. Jared looked up at her, You think I’ll ravish her? My Daughter? Alisha shook her head, No, but she might still be conscious in there somewhere, and you know how shy she is. Alisha said. Jared sighed and nodded, and left the room sadly. So he and Tasha travelled instead to the mountains to return with buckets of ice and snow for Pelona, leaving them outside her door so Alisha could get to them. Then a tired Druna returned with several potions and lotions. The slime is a very nasty poison. It seeps into the skin. She explained, and then sat with Alisha as the two of them worked on Pelona. Jared, now having nothing to do, sat out in the gardens and just worried. It was almost two hours later that Druna sat back and smiled to her Mother, She is growing stronger. Look, her colour is better now. Alisha smiled, nodding. I saw the point that she changed a time ago, but I know there is always a doubt. You go and tell your Father and I will see to her. Druna paused only long enough to wash herself, and then proceeded down into the garden, now lit by the few oil lamps. He sat hunched on a stone bench, by himself, as though in thought. She smiled and walked to sit beside him, draping an arm across his shoulders. He looked around to her, smiling to her. Stop worrying about Pelona, Father. She is out of danger now. Druna said. She felt his shoulders relax beneath her arm and he closed his eyes briefly. Thank you, Daughter. She must regain her strength, for I will not endanger her life any further. I will explore alone from now on. Druna frowned, That is not really a good idea, Father. It could just have easily been you in there. He shook his head, No, I would not have picked the frog up. When I am on my own, I have no need to be sociable to another, or make another smile. I can get on and forge ahead. It seems that only when others are with me, that injuries happen. Now you return and sleep. Thank you again for your help.

In a few days, Pelona was sitting up in her bed and aware again, but now eating only a little and talking even less. Alisha, realising what might be wrong, visited her, sitting beside her. So, young lady, as a Healer, you know that being like this is not conducive to getting better. Pelona whispered, Sorry, Mam. This made Alisha almost growl. Look at me, please, and not at the sheet. Alisha said. Pelona raised her pale face and Alisha saw she had been crying. Ah, so you are convinced that you are being punished now that Jared is off alone? Pelona began to lower her eyes. Look at me. Alisha said, and the green eyes looked up. Alisha sighed, taking Pelona’s hands, He does not punish you, and I doubt if it ever crossed his mind that you would think he had. Rather it is a mark of his love for you, as his Daughter that he has left you here. Pelona frowned, confused. Alisha smiled, He leaves you here where you are safe, and has charged me with looking after you to see that no harm comes to you. Let me see if I can remember his words, ‘She is too meek and gentle to be out in unknown lands with an old fool who would treat her as a son, and not as a Daughter.’ So yes, he cares very much for you, and sought to protect you by keeping you safe with me. But I am his Healer! How can I care for him if I am not at his side? Pelona asked. Alisha sighed, Well, yes, there we have a problem. I did point that out to him, but he just got stubborn and started in on his old run about being unable to just sit around the palace and ‘vegetating’. Alisha said and grinned. Oh, I know what his problem is, though he has never told me of it. He is a warrior, and as such, he has a need for challenge and a certain amount of danger in his life. Inside he knows this, and he realises that while he needs this, it is not good for others, and makes him less than ideal when it comes to caring for another who accompanies him. She sighed, Maggie assures me that if anything does happen, Tasha will bring him back, or if she cannot, she will call to Maggie. Also the wyvern has similar instructions from Skarth. If Jared had his way, he would be out there totally alone.

When Pelona recovered, she waited for Jared to return, and checked him over as he stood patiently, often muttering about nursemaids, which she ignored. Many times he would be dirty and scratched, sometimes wet or muddy, trying to brush off her concern by making light of his adventures, or making a joke of things. Then he’d show her little things he’d found, or strange cuttings he’d taken, and show her his rather rough-drawn maps. Several times he almost said he missed her company, and then he’d stop and change the subject. So Pelona thought about the situation, and realised she needed advice on things. So she asked for a private meeting with Jilea, and to her surprise, was granted one immediately.

She travelled to where Jilea was and found herself outside, beside the end of a canal and two large grassy fields with large animals grazing in the fields. Jilea smiled at her, Come and sit with me, here. She pointed to a large dark stone that lay across the ground just beyond the end of the canal. They sat facing down the long length of the canal, and Pelona realised it was a wonderful place for meditation – to gaze upon the almost perfect reflection of the sky. This is quite beautiful. She said. Jilea chuckled, Not what you expected from the crazy one of the family? she asked. Pelona shook her head, No, not at all. I have seen your brother pick similar spots several times. Jilea smiled, Now, Healer, why do you wish to talk to me? she asked. So Pelona told Jilea why Jared was now leaving her behind on his expeditions, and the basic facts of her sickness. Jilea listened whilst looking at the water, nodding occasionally. She thought a little when Pelona had finished, then said, So you wish to accompany Jared, for professional and personal reasons, but do not know how to achieve this. Correct? Pelona looked surprised, and said, More or less, yes. Jilea laughed softly, and looked to Pelona, He has told me of you, Healer, perhaps more than he has told anyone. Yes, he does care greatly about you and therefore your safety would concern him. However, you are a Ward, and therefore, to me, a niece, though I see you also as a Daughter, I know, confusing. Let me think a little. She stood up fluidly and walked around, not as Jared did, but with her hand on her sword hilt, her head lowered. At one point she stopped and asked, How far are you willing to adjust to achieve this? If it serves my purpose as his Healer, as much as I can. Pelona said. Jilea nodded, and continued to walk. Finally she came back, to sit on the stone with one leg curled beneath her. Yes, I think I can help you, if you are willing to adjust. I will take you on as my apprentice. No one needs to know of this. You travel here each day, first thing, and travel back before he returns. If Alisha asks, you tell her that you are helping in the New Kingdoms, which is no lie. Pelona nodded. I will teach you to be as much a warrior as I can, without compromising your code as a Healer. After all, you will not have to fight, but to react as a warrior.

After the two weeks, Pelona, who had thought herself fit, wondered why she had volunteered herself for such torture. Wearing the long Healer’s gown helped and she forced herself to adopt her previous timidity, and as soon as she could, fled to her bed. Jilea took her from the canal to her old place in the Canyons, and there, they both changed into skin-tight suits and Jilea became the taskmaster. In the mornings she ran Pelona through the basics of the sword exercises, the first week with a light sword, the second with a heavier sword until she ached in every muscle. Then, after a ten-minute rest, she was put through an intense practice fight with dulled swords and gathered bruises. A light lunch during which Jilea explained theories, and then in the afternoons it was running and jumping and rolling and dodging, until Pelona sat gasping like an old woman. She did not complain, as in everything, Jilea accompanied her, and at the end, she stood grinning. Slowly Pelona realised that Jilea, who had read Jared and knew him better almost than Alisha, was teaching Pelona how to react to him. Despite the subterfuge, Alisha noticed the subtle changes in Pelona and so did not question her daily absence, willing to sit back and wait.

It was almost four weeks when, one afternoon, Jilea arrived just after Pelona, and just before Jared was expected back. Alisha, sensing something was up, decided to collect some flowers for the dining table, and so went down to the gardens with her basket as Jilea stood waiting a little way away from where Pelona stood waiting for Jared. Then suddenly Tasha and Jared were there, with both having wet mud up to their knees. Jared greeted Pelona as he dismounted, and assured her that he was not hurt and had drank enough water and eaten his lunch. Then he spied Jilea, Sister! Good to see you! he said, walking to her to hug her. He saw she carried a leather shoulder belt with a slim single sword in a sheath on it, and was about to remark on it when Jilea said, Brother, I am concerned about you exploring on your own. He sighed and was about to reply when she held up her hand and stopped him, I cannot go with you, unfortunately, but would you allow my apprentice to go with you? he raised his eyebrows in surprise. You have taken on an apprentice? They must be special. Yes, I think I would, as you would not choose to teach a fool. Who is it? Alisha had given up pretending to gather flowers and stood watching now. Jilea waved Pelona over to her, and slipped the shoulder belt over Pelona’s head so it hung on her right shoulder. Pelona? Jared asked in confusion. Jilea nodded, Yes. I will continue her instruction during the days you are not out, though she learns fast and will not need much more. Jared half-smiled, unsure if it was a joke. He pointed to the sword hung at Pelona’s waist and asked her, You know how to use that, Healer? Pelona flushed and said, Yes sir, I hold the blunt end and poke the sharp end at the enemy. Alisha grinned, having heard Jared himself say that very thing to another. He nodded, smiling. Let me look at it. He said reaching for it, but Pelona swayed aside. Jared frowned, and stepped to try again, but Pelona gracefully avoided him again. Hmmm. He said, and chuckled, nodding. Jilea watched him with her arms folded. He glanced at his Sister, You’ve trained her in the basics? Jilea nodded, As much as I could in the time allowed without her reading me. Though we could try that, brother. No, that is okay, Jilea. Pelona is a Healer, we are the killers. Jilea grinned and nodded, Try her, brother, this is no game we play on you. She said. Jared looked up, directly into Alisha’s eyes, which told her he had been aware of her all the time, Your thoughts upon this, my love? he asked. Alisha walked to them, smiling at Jilea and Pelona, I too would feel better if she were with you, as you already know, dear. She has chosen to better herself to achieve this, with Jilea’s help. The least you can do is honour their hard work and give it a try. Jared smiled, turning to Jilea, I accept your apprentice, Sister.

Alisha had the palace seamstresses quickly make up a thin suit from the new material that Pelona could wear beneath her Healer’s robe, that was also altered, split up either side so she could run in it, and shortened a little, and Jared approved of it. Waterproof too. He said. Alisha saw Pelona wearing just the suit and smiled, It suits you dear. You always were slender, but now with your training, you have filled out a little so as to be slim now. Good, it fits you well, not too tight. You might just change how some Healers are trained. Pelona grinned, Well, now I can see the sense of it for someone like Jared. I am surprised he put up with me for so long as I was before. She said. Alisha raised her eyebrows, You are family, he would have always put up with you, dear. But now you have changed in other ways too, you have more self-confidence, and he will appreciate that too.

That evening, after dinner, Jared snared Pelona and had her wait while the other young people left. Now, what you have to do is apply your new training to your medical supplies. He told her. Pelona tilted her head on one side, and Jilea grinned. Jared looked at Jilea, There was no way you’d know this, but she takes nearly everything she can think of with us. He said. Oh no, that won’t do! Jilea said. Pelona looked to her, It won’t? Jilea shook her head, Battle training – which is difficult as you have never been in battle. You must take the least that will do the most. It’s like the sword. A sword is very fine for defending yourself against other swordsmen yes, but it’s also good for digging, chopping wood, sharpening stakes, even in cooking, as long as you don’t mess up the temper of it. And if everything goes wrong, it makes a good grave marker. Jared chuckled at this as Pelona frowned. Well, I can leave out a few things, I suppose, but to be most effective, I should carry as much as I can. She said. Druna walked in, Yes, oh insistent and ill-timed Father? she asked, fastening her hair back. Alisha fought against grinning as Jared looked at his Daughter, Well, you could have said I was interrupting something. He said. Druna shook her head, No, because by the time I’d formulated the answer, I’d lost the concentration, and Luven said he’d wait anyway. She said, sitting down and waving across the table to Jilea, who waved back. Why does poor Pelona look picked upon, as usual? she asked. Alisha explained the problem, and Druna nodded, Okay, I’m up to speed. Yes, it’s the age-old problem. You can, at a pinch, manage with about four things, but that then requires intense effort from the Healer, which is why we supply them with half a ton of supplies. Druna said, grinning. Explain? Jared asked. Druna said, Look, when any of you get yourselves hurt, a call goes out from the Healer attending you, and you’ll see about three or four other Healers arrive in seconds, yes? Jared nodded. All of them are carrying a basic kit, and different supplies, so as to build up as full a medical kit as possible. Druna said. Wait a minute! When we go out, Pelona already carries enough for a platoon of guards. Jared said. Druna grinned, shaking her head, And that is about a tenth of a full kit. Let me explain what happens. She poured herself a cup of water and gulped some.

Let us say you, Father, in your talented way, whilst exploring, manage to fall off your horse and roll down a steep incline, through a thick patch of unknown plants and broken timber, to lay moaning at the bottom. Alisha covered her mouth with her hands, her eyes twinkling as Jared looked hurt at this. Brave Pelona leaps off her horse, avoids everything and runs down to where you are lying. She has already sent a call to the Temple, warning us that she may be calling for help soon. So she forces you to lie still, no mean feat, and carefully checks you over, finding perhaps that you have been poked by various bits of timber, and are beginning to develop purple blotches on exposed skin. Pelona nodded and Jared just sat listening. This is also relayed to the Temple, and probably another Healer would arrive with a large box of supplies. Pelona would take your pain away automatically, though we are rethinking this, due to you, as pain tells us where injuries are. Anyway, Pelona would attend the poked bits with her bag, and the other Healer would pay attention to the purple blotches, with a trainee coming to take samples of the unknown plants to return to the Temple. With me so far? Jared nodded. As it is you, work would be set aside to analyse the plants as quick as possible. The first question being, are they poisonous? Meanwhile, the second Healer would be sending back a running commentary on your symptoms and her attempts to alleviate them with what she is carrying. We work as a team. She drank more water. The danger is, of course, that for some reason, Pelona cannot contact the Temple in the first place, or that a situation exists that other Healers cannot get to you. If that is the case, I send to here and your guards will travel to you. And, Father, if something happens to Pelona, you become the Healer, and call me. Jared nodded. So, yes Pelona, let’s go and look at your kit, I’m sure we can thin it down a little.

Actually, I am rather happy that we are a team again. Jared said as he and Pelona sat on their horses on top of a bush-covered high hill. Thank you, sir. Pelona said, smiling. As intelligent as Tasha is, she does not make for good conversation. He said, and Pelona grinned. Now, The Ocean is behind us, and over to that side, some distance away, is the new city. You can just make out the mountains beside it. According to my sources, this part of the land is older that Landersill, and relatively untouched by the destruction of the Fall. However, that could mean there are still ancient things here, so we need to be especially careful. If you see anything that looks dangerous, shout, and we will travel to the new city and talk about it. Okay? She nodded, And you do the same. She said, and he smiled, nodding. She drew out what she could see as Jared walked around looking at the ground, then he mounted, and they travelled to the next hill, about fifteen miles away, this one more of a flat-topped craggy spire, quite tall. Well, unless the wyvern had not indicated a flat top, I would not have chosen it, but it is quite pleasant up here. Jared said, shading his eyes to look out. You can see a long way from here, sir. Pelona said. He nodded, That you can. Pelona stood and began to sketch and Jared walked around to look down. Now, that is strange. He said. What’s that? Pelona asked, and walked over to where he stood. He pointed down into the valley below. See down there, over the far side, there is that almost circular grassy patch? She looked, Yes, I see it. Well, look, the animal paths all run around it. There, they lead up towards it fairly straight, then go around it, then continue straight. Pelona frowned, Yes, so they do. Could it be a swamp? she asked. He shook his head, No, it lies on a slope, and I see no sparkle of water. I might go down there after we finish up here and look closer.

They travelled down a little distance from the strange area. Stand there. He said, and rummaged in his saddlebags and got a small device out, and slowly walked towards it, then returned, putting the device away. Well, it is not a dangerous residue of the Fall, which I thought it might be. He said, and they walked closer. Pelona saw something laying in the grass in the clearing, and put her hand on his arm, and he stopped. Look, down in the grass, sort of overgrown. He squatted down to see better. Animal bones. Quite a large animal too. He said. He carefully walked around, not getting near the edge, There is bones from more than one animal, some older than others. Some look crumbly. Tasha snorted and backed away from the area. Pelona glanced at her, and from the corner of her eye, she saw the grass ripple towards where Jared stood closer to the edge. Jared, move back! she called. He smartly moved back, and saw the grass ripple. He walked back around to her. The grass moves! No wonder the animals avoid it, well, most of them. How strange. Pelona marked the spot on her map and put a warning. Then they travelled again to another hill. Um, I’ve just had a disturbing thought. Jared said. Pelona looked at him. How would we know if there was a patch of that stuff at the top of one of these hills? he said, looking at her. She thought, Could we ask the wyvern to look for bones? she asked. He grinned, Very clever, girl! Yes. Pelona flushed happily. Though I would think it would be more in the valleys, where there is more game. She added. He nodded, I agree, but I’m not risking it. They carefully mapped out two more hills, and then returned home. Jarl was most interested in the moving grass, and he said he would definitely mark it on the map as a danger, and again thanked Pelona for her sketches. Your sketches are far superior to Jared’s. He said with a grin. At dinner, later on, Jared told of the grass patch, and how Pelona’s sharp eyes had seen the danger.

It was a week later that Jared decided that they would have a change of scenery and try towards the east. Zila was interested to find what lay beyond her borders, and if there were any signs of those forces that had attacked. Do you think you should, dear? We know that there are people in that direction, because they attacked. Alisha said. Jared nodded, Well, it makes sense to me to find out if they are near, or far. We are very quiet in how we scout, dear. We do not light fires and we do not raise great clouds of dust, which a troop of cavalry would. And if we meet anyone, as we are not armoured, we can always say we are travellers. Alisha sighed, and nodded, I suppose you are right, but I will worry none the less. He smiled to her and kissed her hand. Dear Alisha, you get grumpy when you have nothing to worry about. He said, his eyes twinkling. She mumbled and swotted at him, I still think you should just stay here where it’s nice and peace… she was interrupted by a distant thump of an explosion. Jared laughed, and Alisha just hung her head. Yes dear. He said, grinning, as several young ones went outside to see if they could see anything.

They travelled to Zila’s palace, where Pelona went to the market for their food, and Jared talked to Zalem and Var, then they jumped to the border of the next country. Right, from here on, it’s the great unknown, again. Jared said, grinning. Pelona chuckled, and then she asked, Who would win between sword and axe? I’m supposed to figure it out, but I get confused. She said. Jared chuckled, All depends on what axe, what sword and what experience either fighter has. It’s all variables. But if it’s just as an example, I’d say swordsman nine out of ten times. Pelona frowned, Why not all the time? Because you can never be certain all the time. That hill way over there, I think. They travelled. If it’s a hand axe, it can be thrown, or the swordsman can throw his sword. A large battle axe can break a sword. He shrugged. Rarely do axe men just have an axe; they carry a long dagger too. So you have to take that into account. Pelona nodded. He looked around, Well, this bit is much like the last bit. Sort of basically flat with the odd hill. No rivers though, makes you wonder why all the green is still green. Pelona smiled as she sketched, Because the water is beneath the surface. She said. Oh. I would think there are lakes and ponds though, probably in the thicker clumps of trees. She added. Okay, I’m finished. She said, rolling the paper up and slipping it in the metal tube, and putting the stopper in. They travelled to the next hill. By lunchtime, or noon, Jared had reckoned that they had covered quite a distance of rather boring landscape. They sat on a slightly higher hill to eat their lunch. Is it me, or do you see a faint smudge of smoke way over there to the south east? he pointed. Sort of, or a low cloud, down on the horizon. I can almost smell smoke, but only just, occasionally. Pelona said. Smoke usually means people, so I might just head in that direction, though it’s further than I would normally have gone. Pelona nodded, Well, if we eat in the saddle, we can start now. She said, and he grinned to her.

It was further than he thought, but they began to get nearer, and saw that it came from a rocky place. I think it could be a camp fire, and we saw it after it had spread out up above. So, we’ll hop closer, to the base of those rocks, and you hold the horses, while I sneak in and have a look. They won’t be upset; everyone is suspicious out in the wild. I’ll talk to you in mindspeak anyway. She nodded. He left her, and started to make his way carefully around the rocks, but then heard the sound of a frightened horses and a feline roar. Oh hell! he said, and ran forwards. He rounded the rocks into a sort of enclave of rock, and saw what he hoped he wasn’t going to. One horse was down, as was a man, and there was what looked like two people at the back by the rocks, with a fire before them. Before the fire stood a large man wearing a leather breastplate and sort of skirt, holding a club, his left arm clawed and hung at his side. Before him were three lions, one a large male with a dark mane. Jared was behind the lions. ‘Pel, get Varie now! We have three lions attacking people.’ He said in mindspeak. Then he drew his sword and walked out. He licked his lips and shouted at the lions, and the wounded warrior looked at him in surprise. The lions spun around, then the male lion growled at the females, who turned back, and he stepped towards Jared warily. Jared grinned, Hang back, old man, you don’t want to start a fight with another lion. He said, and tried to mindspeak to the lion. The lion stopped, shaking its head and growling, confusing the females. ‘I’m here, Jared.’ Varie said in his mind. ‘Take one female out, try to leave the male.’ He sent back, and then stood up straight, looking at the maned lion, Go home! he shouted to it. The female on the far side leapt up into the air with a bark and fell into a heap with an arrow in her skull. Jared waved his arms, Go! We’ll fight another day, you and I. The male hesitated, looking at the fallen female, and edging sideways. Jared! Pelona shouted, Jared turned to see the other female running at him low and fast, and then she somersaulted, and lay still. He turned, just as the male jumped at him. Jared knelt and thrust his sword upwards into the lion’s chest, seeing Varie’s arrow raise dust from the lion’s fur as it hit his side, passing deep into him, then the lion hit Jared hard.

Jared, who was still in a kneeling position beneath the smelly, dusty dead lion, used his legs to push the animal to the side and rolled. Varie ran to him, and slowed, grinning, Pelona behind her. Pelona, go see to the wounded, I’m okay. He said. He got up, and dragged his sword out of the lion, wiping the blood off before sheathing it. Thank you, Varie, fine shooting, as always. He said, smiling to her. You are welcome, Sire. She said, looking at the feathers of her arrow just visible in the lion’s side. Just for a second, I thought he was going to go away. Jared said, and sighed. I think he might have if the lioness hadn’t attacked. Varie said. They walked back towards the camp. She came in fast, I didn’t see her. Jared said. Pelona was using her sleeve to mop the blood from the big man’s arm, as he stood looking confused. I feel no pain. He said. Jared smiled, The Healer takes the pain away, sir. It is part of what they do. Ah, here come more. Two more Healers ran towards them, carrying their larger boxes on slings. The man looked around, Where do you all come from? he asked. Jared chuckled, Ah that is a little bit of a secret, sir. He said. The big man nodded, and then looked alarmed, Please, my Princess is sick! Over there, against the rocks. He pointed, and one of the Healers swerved off in that direction. Jared walked to the horses, trying to calm them, using mindspeak, and Varie helped him. Then Pelona’s horse trotted over to Pelona so she could get at her medical supplies, and better treat the big man. Sire, have you noticed the man’s skin? Varie asked. Jared frowned and looked, seeing the man’s skin was a light brown, but not like his weathered suntanned skin. No, I hadn’t noticed before, Jared said, looks like we have found a new people.

As the light dimmed, Jared built the fire up, and some of his guards came. The dead horse was dragged aside, as were the lions, and food was brought in, and water, as it was discovered that the party had very little of both. Pelona came to Jared, The young lady, the Princess, is suffering from long-term thirst and exhaustion, Sire. A week’s rest and she will be almost at full strength again. It is strange, as the other two are also suffering from the same, though the big man had more strength to start with. The other man is older, and he has been taken to the Temple as he was in a dangerous condition. Jared nodded, Thank you, Pelona. She smiled. Jared sat beside the warrior, Your Princess needs rest, food and water, as you do. The older man has been taken to a place of healing, as he was in a serious condition. The man nodded, Thank you for helping, Sir, but please, my Princess will not rest, we have a most important mission. Is there not something that can be done to give her some strength for now? If not, I will carry her. Jared nodded, Let me ask. He got up and went to ask Pelona, who was standing beside the Princess, who another Healer was seeing to. He told Pelona what the warrior had said, So, I suppose we could take them, but it would have to be in hops as we don’t know where they are going. It must be important though for them to have got into this state. Trouble is they have no reason to trust us. Sir? Jared looked down, to see the Princess struggling to sit up. He knelt beside her, Yes, young lady? he asked, Pelona relieved the other healer, and knelt to the Princesses other side, Please do not upset her. She said to Jared, who nodded. Sir, you have helped us. We would not have survived without you – I trust you, and, I thank you. The Princess said in a husky whisper. Jared smiled, Well, I am not the type to stand by and watch people being eaten by lions. You are welcome. Now, I can try to help you complete your mission, but we are strangers to this part or the world. We have a means of travel that is fast, but if we do not know where we go, we have to proceed in, um, hops. The Princess, almost hidden in a dark robe, bowed her head as if in tiredness, Sir, to be honest with you, I do not know where we are going either. She said. Jared frowned, I’m sorry, I don’t understand. You have exhausted yourselves trying to go somewhere you do not know? She nodded. She leaned back against the rocks behind her, We are the last desperate chance for our people. We have ridden out to try to find someone to help us. I- I thought there would be more people around, though. Jared grinned, Well, in that case, you might have found them. What trouble do your people face? An enemy? An illness? he asked. She raised her head, a slim brown hand rising to push her hood back to reveal a brown pretty face with big brown eyes that looked up at him. You can help? Jared grinned, nodding. One of his guards walked to him, bending to him, Sire, the food is cooked. Jared looked to the man, Can you bring three portions, no four to here please, and ask Varie to join me? Yes Sire. The man returned. Sire? You are a king? the Princess asked. Jared laughed, I know I don’t look like one, but yes, I am a king, and yes, we can help you.

Varie slipped in and sat silently, her large bow placed behind her. Then two guards brought the food on wooden platters, and two skins of water and wooden cups. Jared thanked them and told everyone to eat. While they did so, Oleth wandered over with a chunk of something on the bone, I thought perhaps you might need my services, Sire. He said, bowing to Jared. Yes indeed, Oleth. Please could you introduce everyone here to this Princess? I think she does not believe I am a king. Oleth chuckled, Probably because you are dressed like a mercenary, Sire. Certainly. Oh, and yourself, of course. Jared said, grinning. Oleth cleared his throat, Princess, may I introduce this ruffian as Jared HarKesten, Lord High King of Landersill and surrounding territories, Protector of the coastal plains and Arch-Duke of Winds Crag. Beside him, the Healer is Pelona HarKesten, Ward of Landersill. Oleth then walked to stand beside Varie, Lastly Varie and myself, Oleth, as Countess and Earl of Dalmerk. He bowed to the Princess. She sat staring at them all in wonder. Oh, I am so sorry! I am Anja, Daughter to King Cheki, of the nation of the People. Jared bowed to her. Now we are formally introduced, Princess. Now, tell us of your people’s plight, please. Jared said. Pelona filled a cup of water and gave it to Anja, who smiled and sipped it.

We are a peaceful people, who work the land. We can fight to defend what is ours, though we prefer to sing and dance after a day’s work. About six full moons ago, of the large moon, it is how we measure time; there came a distant roaring from the mountains south of us. It lasted for two days in bursts that weakened slowly, and the ground trembled, but although we noted it in our records, we paid it little heed. Within a moon and a half, our large central lake was a dry bowl, and within another moon, our largest river had also dried. My Father, who is old and wise, began to think that whatever happened in the mountains had cracked the rocks beneath the water-bearing layer under our land. There was still water entering our land from the mountains, so he suggested the people move from the centre out to the edges, and most did. Those that thought him foolish saw their crops turn to dust, and then moved, some did not make it. But the smaller rivers dried up, as did the pools and ponds, and the dry area grew, and the people crowded tighter together. Disease began as it does when many people are thrust together, and now there was half as much food, and a quarter as much water as there used to be. Children are most cared for in my nation, and to see them suffer hurts us all, yet all begin to suffer. When we left, the great herds were falling. My Father, to show his people how serious he was, sent me to find help, with his cousin and my bodyguard. As I left, my Father told me; ‘Anja, if you can, seek out the Golden Lion, and we will be saved!’ but I do not know what he meant. She fell back against the rock, and Pelona fussed over her. Oleth stared at Jared, who sat stunned. Varie laughed, Well, I certainly do not understand how, but I would say that it is meant, Sire! Jared nodded, and Anja looked around, Explain, please? she asked. Oleth smiled, The Golden Lion is the family badge of the HarKesten. Only Jared and his two children can carry it, but to his people, it only stands for Jared. Anja stared at Jared, Then I have found the Golden Lion too? She asked, and Jared nodded. Okay, that settles it! He said. Captain! he called and the captain of his guards ran over, Sire? Please bring in all your men and make this area secure, it is our first base. Yes Sire! the man ran back. Jared sat with his eyes closed, then said, I’m calling in Jilea and Zila, as well as Alisha. We will have to plan this. Oh, and Druna. Oleth, what are you muttering about? Jared asked. I was explaining all the names to the Princess, Sire. Jared grinned, Three Queens and a Mother of Trees. He said, Druna will bring something for Anja to give her some energy for a while. Don’t look at me like that, Pelona. We need to sort things out to save a nation. She can recover later.

They all sat around a round table, with Pelona and Oleth standing behind Druna and Jared respectively. Oleth walked to stand behind Jilea, Jilea, bonded to Algan, Queen of the New Kingdom. He said to Anja. He walked to Zila’s chair, Zila, bonded to Var, Queen of Korvessa. He then walked to Druna, Druna, Mother of Trees. Then to Alisha, Alisha, bonded to Jared, Queen of Landersill. He walked to Anja, Anja, Daughter of Cheki, King of the People. They all smiled at the now alert Anja. Mother of Trees? she asked, Druna chuckled, A sort of Queen of Healers, un-bonded. She said. Anja smiled and nodded. Jared gave a shortened version of the history of the problem. Now, I’ve accepted the request for help. Although I think Landersill might be able to do it alone… Oh no! Zila said, You are not leaving us out, Father! the rest nodded. Anja frowned. This is going to get complicated. Jared said. Not at all, dear. Alisha said, Anja, Zila is also a Ward of ours; Jilea is his Sister, Druna our true Daughter and I’m his wife. Easy. She smiled. Um, how many people are we talking about here? Jilea asked. Jared looked to Anja. Well, fortunately we had a national headcount eight moons ago, for a traditional ceremony that we do every ten years, and I think the total was two million. There was a startled silence around the table where everyone looked at everyone else. Damn. Jared said. For once dear, I agree with you. Alisha said. Jilea looked at Jared, Come on, old man, it’s just moving a very large army. She said. Jared nodded, Okay, we walk them out. Wyverns to scout the nearest water, and we head there. If it’s large enough, we also have a base there to supply food packs and Healers to tend the needy. I doubt if there will be any transport, so, Jilea, any chance of any carts or wagons? Even just one will do, there are bound to be young children and mothers to be. Jilea sat back and closed her eyes. We can take the oldest and the babies to the Temple, the sickest too. Druna said. Jared nodded. Zila, you are nearest, and you have an empty kingdom, unless you’ve already filled it? Zila laughed, shaking her head, They are welcome to it. She said. She looked to Anja, It even has five huge cities, all empty. Anja just nodded, completely bemused. I’ll lead them; after all, I sort of have to, really. Jared said, smiling. Pelona shook her head, You can’t! You still limp from the last wound, and you never remember your medicine! She said. Wound? Anja asked, looking at him. He shook his head, She worries over much. He said. Excuse me? Druna said, looking at him, and Jared sighed, Look, I have a horse! The white pretty thing with four legs? Called Tasha? he asked. Druna said, You take Pelona with you. Jared sighed and nodded, Okay, I was going to anyway. He muttered and Alisha chuckled, Also dear, remember, we have an almost empty new city. She said. Jared nodded, Yes, we do! Okay, time for bed. Tomorrow Anja, You, Pelona and me will go and visit your Father. Then you will go to my house to rest for a while, while I organise the start of this fantastic venture. Anja looked at him, Um, it took us a week to ride this far. She said. I know. I told you, we have a fast way of travelling. He said.

Alisha had brought Jared a change of clothing, and Pelona a fresh gown. And in the morning, after a refreshing wash, Jared appeared in a more respectable dark burgundy suit made from the seacloth, with a polished mail belt where his sword hung, and black boots. Pelona smiled at him, Oh, much better. She said, and he chuckled, Do you think we should take any guards with us? he asked. Well, you are a King, and they are useful, holding horses and such. I’d say two. Also, we need to take Anja’s guard with us. He nodded. He waved the captain over, I’ll need two guards as escort, two with good travel skills. The captain nodded and headed back to where his men were. All had gone last night and Druna returned, and talked to Pelona, passing her a small package. Then she went to see Anja. Anja walked out into the early morning, looking a little better, her guard walking behind her. Good morning, King Jared. She said. He bowed to her, Good morning, Princess. Oh, please, to my friends, I am just Jared, and you, I think are a friend. He smiled to her. She smiled in return, Thank you. Now, I am taking two of my personal guards with us, as escort. Not because I expect trouble, but because I need help with taking you, your bodyguard and your two horses. Also they are useful for other things, like looking impressive and holding horses and things. He said, and Anja smiled. Jared then stepped to the bodyguard, May I ask your name? The big man lowered his eyes, Buno, Sire. He said. Jared smiled, Buno, I’m having the lion skinned, I would like you to have it as a mark of your bravery if that is acceptable to you? the man looked up, his eyes wide, Sire, you killed the lion, you should have the skin. It is a mark of great skill. Jared shook his head, holding his hand out, and Buno gingerly shook it, warrior style. Buno, you defended your Princess with no hope of rescue. If ever you are in need of a job, come to me, I need brave men. Buno bowed, I will, Sire.

Now, Anja. I want you to concentrate on a place close to your Father’s residence. In the open, yet not where it will be crowded. Perhaps a yard or somewhere that will be empty? Just try to see it in as much detail as possible. Pelona here has a skill to see it from your mind. Jared said as they all sat on their horses, the guards holding the reins of the other horses, and Jared holding Pelona’s saddle. Pelona closed her eyes, I have it. We go! Anja gasped, the horses whinnied and Buno grunted as they travelled to a dusty corral surrounded by a high wooden fence. Anja sat with her eyes wide open, as did Buno, staring around him as he gripped his saddle. Well done, Anja! Many have trouble on their first time. Jared said, grinning. The two guards moved to form up behind Jared. H- how? Anja asked. As I said, we can travel fast, but unfortunately, only in small groups, and only with a destination. Now, when you are ready, let us go and see your Father. Anja looked at Buno, and nodded to Jared. They rode out at a walk, and into the large compound of a series of buildings, the ground dusty and dry, though marked by stones into paths. This was once all grass and flowers. Anja said sadly. Jared nodded, looking about him, seeing people staring at his party. They headed for a large wooden building, with beautifully carved thick posts and rails, and wide steps leading up to a covered veranda. Standing upon it was an older man draped in a brilliant white robe and holding a wooden staff, watching them with a smile. Your Father. Jared said, and Anja looked at him, Yes, how did you know? Jared smiled, Because he is aware of what happens in his house. He said. He halted his horse, and dismounted, helping Anja from hers, then Pelona. He let Anja precede him as they walked towards the steps. Father, I found your Golden Lion. Anja said, turning, to hold her arm out towards Jared. King Cheki laughed, Of course you did, Daughter! Come, Sir, come into my house and be welcome!

Inside was a main hall with a beautifully carved wooden throne down the far end, but what surprised Jared was that a table was set up in the centre of the hall, with four chairs around it, and bowls of sliced meat and fruit on it. Come and sit, and refresh yourselves while we talk. The King said. Anja hugged her Father and sat in a chair, with Pelona beside her, the King sitting, with Jared beside him. Anja told of Jared’s bravery in rescuing her, and of the wonders of his people that she had seen, and lastly, his acceptance of helping them. Cheki, his age indeterminable, chuckled to Jared, I thank you, great King, for your offer of help, for we are in sore need of it. Jared smiled, I have never refused a request of help, Sire. I am fortunate that my kingdom is a land of bounty and now, of peace. We can afford to offer help. I am confused as to why you left it so late to ask though. Cheki chuckled, "I have some skill in reading the weave of the future, and I saw that it wasn’t until now that you would be close enough to reach. Even