The Cavalier

Nine

Annure



Jonas had thought that Finarth was a wonderous city, but he was dumfounded when he looked up at the gates of Annure. The city walls were shining white and shot up towards the clouds like a god’s palace. There were no shacks or small homes speckling the land before the city. Spacious green grasslands, uncluttered by habitation, flowed right to the base of Lake Lar’nam where the city sat nestled into the water’s edge. At least ten round towers rose to the clouds, with the flag of Annure jutting from each one, all flapping in unison as the gentle breeze blew in off the expansive waters.

Kiln explained to them that Annure was a major port city and because of that they were able to charge high tariffs on goods imported into their lands. Lake Lar’nam was immense, like a fresh water ocean. It took weeks to sail across it, and many large trading ships went down in the turbulent winter storms.

Annure was a rich kingdom which brought many travelers throughout its lands every year. To live in Annure was costly, but the wages were higher than its neighboring towns. Good jobs were hard to find but if you managed to find work then you could live a good life in Annure. There was a high demand for dock workers, and since the pay was good, competition was steep.

Taleen had left her horse several miles from the city where it could graze in the grasslands. She explained to Jonas that a cavalier’s steed did not need to be stabled, that her steed would be there when she returned, refreshed and eager to travel.

“Will Kormac be okay out here by himself?” Jonas asked when Taleen left her animal standing in the middle of the field.

“He will. He can take care of himself.”

“But he’s not even tethered,” Jonas said, a little unsure about whether the horse would still be there when they returned.

“A cavalier’s steed does not need to be tethered, Jonas. Kormac will be here when I return.” Taleen smiled, seeing his expression of doubt. “Come, Jonas, let us see this Annure.”

As they neared the huge black gate Jonas stared up at the towering round buildings that seemed to poke holes in the clouds. The colossal gate was covered with sheets of black iron, in stark contrast to the white walls surrounding it. Jonas had never seen anything constructed in such size and strength.

“It would take a dragon to break through that gate,” Jonas said, awestruck by the sight.

“Indeed it would,” replied Kiln who was also staring in admiration at the seemingly indestructible wall.

There was a small caravan of six carts entering the gate before them. The caravan was flanked by guards, several on horseback. They all easily managed to fit through the expansive entrance. It looked like a merchant’s caravan and that thought momentarily brought Jonas’s mind to Allindrian and Landon. What were they both doing? Would he see them again?

Jonas was deep in thought as they entered the open gate. Two guards wearing the green of Annure stood on each side of the entrance. The Annurian royal crest, a ship sailing with the sun setting behind it, was embroidered in gold on the front of each tunic. Jonas was amazed at the intricate embroidery of the crest. They were works of art probably worth a small fortune.

Kiln saw Jonas’s eyes and answered his un-asked question. “Annure is a very rich kingdom. Not only do they earn high tariffs, but the mountains surrounding the kingdom are filled with precious minerals. King Olegaurd has several rich and productive mines in the area bringing in gold, silver, and lots of iron ore.”

“They must. If every guard is dressed like this, then the king must have a large treasury indeed.”

Annure was an open city and Kiln told them that they would not have a problem getting inside. Some cities were strict on who came and went, especially during certain times of the night. Annure had a strong city watch and the rules within the city were strictly enforced. It was not a place that welcomed pick pockets and thieves. The strong security made the city a welcoming environment to traders and anyone who was interested in honest work; therefore the city gates were open to all, as long as they walked the line of the law.

As they walked past one of the guards, Jonas noticed the man’s eyes sweep over them and widen slightly as he recognized the symbols on Jonas’s and Taleen’s breast plates. The middle aged man was outfitted with a long chain mail shirt under his green tunic. He also wore a long sword dangling from a black leather sword belt cinched tight at the waist and knee high leather boots plated with pieces of shiny steel. Each guard held a long sharp spear with a thick wooden shaft.

The guard near them bowed slightly as they passed, and Jonas couldn’t help but notice that the guard was staring at Taleen and himself, focusing on their breast plates which bore the marks of their gods.

“Welcome, cavaliers,” the man announced. Jonas and Taleen nodded as they walked by the soldier.

“It seems I’m in the presence of royalty,” Kiln chuckled behind Jonas.

“Kiln is nearly right, Jonas. As a cavalier you will be welcomed everywhere and people will treat you with deference, but it comes with a price. You will also be asked to do things that may or may not be within your power. When the world has high expectations of you, it can be easy to let people down. We are not gods, but some people don’t seem to understand that.”

“True words, Taleen,” agreed Kiln.

“I can’t believe they recognized me as a cavalier,” Jonas said as they entered the main entrance to Annure.

“Look at yourself. If you were standing here three years younger, watching yourself walk through these gates, what would you think?” asked Kiln.

Jonas looked down at his immaculate clothes and shining armor. The symbol on his sparkling breast plate glittered like fish scales in the sun. His legs and wrists were covered with mirror-like metal guards all decorated with intricate designs. His incredible horned helm was strapped to his pack. That unique piece alone would draw someone’s attention. He wore two beautifully crafted swords at his belt and on his back was a black leather quiver also decorated with intricate symbols. The black shafts that jutted from the quiver were perfectly crafted with silver and blue feathers, which obviously did not come from nature. The gloss black long bow he carried in his hands was obviously built by a master craftsman. They were truly magnificent weapons.

“I see what you mean,” Jonas said, looking around him for the first time. Annure was bustling with activity. There were people everywhere, walking up and down the many streets lined with shops and markets of all kinds. Annure reminded Jonas of Finarth, except Annure was much cleaner and had more of an open feel.

Jonas took a deep breath, smelling the fresh air blowing in from the lake waters. The streets were spacious and all the structures were built from the same white stone that was used to create the immense walls that protected the city. It gave the place a god-like look and Jonas immediately felt safe here.

“We need to procure rooms and find out where the kulam is located,” Kiln announced as he, too, took in his surroundings.

“What’s a kulam?” asked Jonas.

“That is what the cavalier training facilities are called,” Taleen answered. “Let us ask a guard where good rooms and food may be found.”

“I agree, but let’s look around a bit first. It’s been a long time since I’ve been in a city like this and I wouldn’t mind exploring some,” said Kiln.

“I’d like that,” added Jonas, not able to hide his enthusiasm.

Kiln led the way and Jonas and Taleen followed closely. They walked down the main street looking at everything around them. It was loud with people shouting and selling wares everywhere they went. Jonas saw a large variety of fruits and vegetables and meats of every sort. He saw expensive cloth, beads, and intricately carved furniture that he had never seen before. The fragrance of exotic spices, baked bread, and fresh flowers mingled with the clean air that continuously blew in off the lake.

Everyone passed curious glancesat the trio at first until they saw the two cavaliers. Most people then quickly bowed their heads and muttered a greeting with a smile.

They walked by an alley and Jonas noticed a small boy huddled in the shadows. He was young, maybe eleven winters, and he wore dirty clothes. But it was not his clothing that caught Jonas’s eye. It was the crutch that lay next to him as he sat watching the people walk by, despair surrounding him almost palpable. Jonas noticed that his right foot was twisted and deformed, and in his right hand he held out a small tarnished cup, hoping that someone would stop and drop in a copper coin. His greasy hair was ratty and dirt covered his cheeks in patches.

Jonas stopped, kneeling by the boy. The boy’s sad eyes widened slightly as he looked upon the magnificent cavalier.

“Hello, son, what is your name?” Jonas asked softly.

The boy hesitated for a few moments before answering. His voice was shaky. “My name is Piton, sir. Are you a cavalier?”

“I am. What happened to your foot?”

“I was born like this,” the boy hesitated. “Is it true that cavaliers can heal?”

“Yes, some of us can,” Jonas responded.

“Can you? Can you heal my foot, sir?” the young boy asked bluntly.

Jonas looked back at Taleen and Kiln who stood behind them, their faces reflecting concern. Jonas knew they could not heal an inherited deformity, but it pained him to admit it to the boy. “I’m sorry, Piton, but we cannot heal the type of injury that you have. Your bones in your foot have a certain shape to them and I cannot change that. Do you understand?”

Piton lowered his head in dejection and nodded his understanding.

It was heart breaking to Jonas, but he could do nothing. Perhaps that was the hardest part. Despite his power and strength, he could not help this little boy. “Where do you sleep, Piton?” Jonas asked.

The boy used his hands to gesture into the alley. “I usually sleep in the streets. Sometimes I can find a bed in one of the temples. It’s not too bad, except for the winter. It can get pretty cold.”

“Where are your parents?” asked Jonas.

“I never knew my dad, my mom died of some sickness a year ago.”

Jonas reached into the leather pouch at his side, fingering the gold coin that was there. It was the coin that was given to him by Airos, and he had kept it to remember his mother by, but this boy needed it more than he did. Besides, it felt right to Jonas. The coin had been passed to him by a cavalier who recognized his need, and now it was being passed from another cavalier to another cripple. The boy was in desperate need and this was the only thing Jonas could do to help him.

Jonas lifted out the gold coin and handed it to the young boy. Piton held the heavy coin in his hand and his eyes lit up with astonishment as he realized what it was.

“Is that gold?”

“It is, Piton, given to me years ago by a cavalier,” Jonas said.

“Thank you, sir. I have never had gold before.” The boy dropped his cup, reached for his crutch and struggled to stand up.

Jonas reached down, lifting him to his feet. That simple act brought a flash of an image to Jonas’s mind, an image of Airos lifting him from the ground when he had slipped on the ice four years ago. Jonas smiled as he looked at the boy's beaming face. Piton smiled broadly. No amount of dirt on his face, or lack of food in his stomach, could crush the boy’s joy. It wasn’t so long ago where the simple act of another had given Jonas a similar feeling of happiness. It warmed Jonas’s heart to see the young boy smile so.

“Promise me you will buy food and warm clothes for the winter. I am a cavalier and I will know if you don’t.”

Piton smiled and his body shook with excitement. “Oh, don’t worry, sir. I will not waste it. I will do as you ask. Thank you.”

Jonas squeezed the boy’s shoulders before standing up. “You’re welcome, young Piton.” Then he turned and rejoined his friends on the sidewalk.

Taleen smiled at him warmly but she said nothing about the boy. She knew that there was nothing else they could do. There were likely hundreds of boys like Piton in Annure and many more living in less prosperous cities.

They continued to explore the lively city. At first, Jonas liked the attention, but it began to wear on him as the day progressed. People were continuously greeting them, diverting his attention from the many wondrous things that the city had to offer.

Kiln led them into a small shop that sold various weapons, knives, and armor. Two armed guards stood at attention inside the store keeping a watchful eye over the store’s products. The room was small but immaculate. The walls were lined with glittering weapons of all sorts. Glass cases were filled with small jeweled knives and silver and gold jewelry made with precious gems.

Kiln approached one of the guards who looked at him curiously. “Excuse me, soldier, might you answer a few questions for a traveler?”

The soldier saw something in Kiln that all fighting men see in him, strength, courage, and possible danger. He glanced at Jonas and Taleen, then suddenly smiled, his stoic demeanor melting as he became the young boy that he was. “Yes sir. I would be happy to help you if I can.”

“Might you know where we could find an honest establishment to get a good room and food for the night?” asked Kiln.

The warrior glanced quickly at Taleen who smiled back. The man flushed slightly, fidgeting with his sword belt. “I do. I would recommend the White Unicorn. If you follow this main street down to the fourth road and then take a left, you will see the inn on your right. It has the best food in Annure and the rooms are clean and spacious. It is costly, but the innkeeper, Bomm, will probably give you a deal considering who you travel with. May I ask you your names, cavaliers? You are a rare sight lately, even in Annure.”

“My name is Taleen, I am a cavalier to Helikon.”

“Helikon?” asked the young warrior, not recognizing the name.

The other soldier had moved closer to the group to hear the conversation. He was a bit older and heavy in the shoulders and belly. “Helikon is who we call Bandris,” interjected the older soldier.

“Oh, that is good, a warrior’s god. I pray to Bandris often,” added the young soldier.

“I hope that his prayers follow you into battle, young man,” added Taleen with a smile. “This is my friend, Jonas. He is a cavalier to Shyann.”

“Nice to meet you both,” Jonas said with an awkward smile.

The older soldier’s face showed a little confusion. “Shyann? I have never met a cavalier to Shyann. Are there many of you?”

“No, I am the first,” replied Jonas.

The big man smiled warmly. “I am glad that you are here. We have heard some disturbing news, that cavaliers are being killed. We have not seen any cavaliers at Annure for many months now. You are both a welcome sight. Is there anything else that you need?”

“Yes,” replied Kiln. “Where is the Kulam?”

“Oh, of course. Go to the northeastern section of town, near the docks. Ask anyone and they will point you in the right direction. You can’t miss it. It is a beautiful building.”

“Thank you for your help,” Kiln added.

“Anytime, sir. May I ask your name?” the older soldier asked.

Kiln had already turned, moving toward the front door. “Kiln, of Finarth,” he replied, striding through the wooden door.

Jonas glanced at the two men and noticed the shocked expressions on their faces at the mention of Kiln’s name. It seems that cavaliers are not the only famous people in Annure thought Jonas. He smiled and followed Taleen and Kiln out the door into the street. He was excited about the prospect of sleeping in a warm bed and eating a hot meal.

The trio arrived at the White Unicorn easily enough. The front door was thick and plain but above the door was a sign with a majestic white unicorn painted on it.

They entered the door, looking about the large spacious room. The ceiling was high and vaulted; maybe twenty paces at its peak. To the right was a giant stone fireplace that was as wide as a man is tall. The day was still warm so the fire was unlit. The stone chimney rose up the wall disappearing into the roof.

The bar was straight ahead and it ran the entire length of the room. A burly man with a bushy mustache worked behind the counter washing thick clay mugs. There were many sturdy wood tables and benches sporadically placed throughout the room. A set of stairs on the left led to a landing on the second floor. Jonas could see at least six doors above that, each leading to an individual room.

As he looked up his eyes were drawn to an incredible chandelier. It was huge and constructed of numerous sets of antlers. The massive racks were intricately entwined and interwoven. There were countless thick candles set into metal bowls to collect the wax. There must be a hundred candles thought Jonas.

There were only a couple patrons at the bar since it was the time between lunch and dinner. Kiln strode up to the bar and Jonas and Taleen followed. “Excuse me, barkeep, is Bomm around?”

“You’re looking at him,” replied the heavyset man as he looked up from the counter. “What can I do for you?” Bomm had a large friendly face that was completely devoid of hair except for his bushy mustache. His face glistened with perspiration and his cheeks were slightly flushed from his work. He had the look of an old burly warrior who had put on some extra pounds.

“My friends and I need two rooms and food,” Kiln replied.

“No problem at…” Bomm stopped in mid-speech as he looked at Jonas and Taleen, “all. You’re cavaliers. It is good to see you both. I am Bomm and I own this place.” The big man reached out, shaking each of their hands.

“I am Taleen, cavalier to Helikon.”

“My name is Jonas.” Jonas could not quite bring himself to say he was a cavalier. It didn’t feel right considering that he had not been through the same training as Taleen.

That omission did not sneak by Bomm and he eyed Jonas curiously, but something told him not to press the issue. Bomm finished by shaking Kiln’s hand.

“And I am Kiln, of Finarth,” Kiln said.

Bomm’s hand stopped in mid-shake and he looked at Kiln with surprise. “General Kiln?” He slowly released Kiln’s hand.

“The same, but just Kiln now.”

Bomm looked at Jonas, Taleen, and then back to Kiln. After a few seconds he recovered from his surprise. “Well, it seems I have some esteemed guests tonight. We don’t have much warm food available yet. The kitchen is getting prepared for dinner, but I can get you some dried meats, bread, and the best cheeses from Cer’une if you’re interested in that.”

“That will do nicely,” Kiln replied.

Bomm walked over to a back wall, removed two sets of keys, and handed them both to Kiln. “You can take room three and four. Why don’t you get settled in your room and I will have Wes, my son, bring up some hot water so you may refresh yourselves. Would you like the meat platter in your rooms or down here?”

“Down here is fine. When will the dinner crowd arrive?” asked Kiln.

“Around sunset.”

“Thank you. We will be down momentarily to eat. How much do we owe you?” asked Kiln.

“Nothing, your presence here is payment enough.”

“We thank you for your generosity,” Kiln said, tilting his head down in a barely perceptible bow.

“It is my pleasure, sir,” Bomm replied with a smile.

Jonas and Kiln took room three while Taleen took room four. The rooms were large and clean just as the soldier had promised. Each room had a large glass door that opened up onto a narrow balcony that looked at a garden courtyard. It was just after mid-day and the sun’s rays shone brightly through the door, spreading shadows throughout the room.

It wasn’t long before they heard a knock at the door. Jonas went to the door and opened it. There was a young boy standing in the doorway holding a steaming bucket of hot water.

“You must be Wes?” Jonas said kindly.

The boy was young, maybe ten, and his round freckled face shone with the vitality of youth. His sandy blonde hair draped his head like a mop. The boy’s eyes were wide and sparkling with excitement. “I am, sir. Are you really a cavalier?”

Jonas laughed, looking around the room like he was going to tell the boy a secret. “I am, young man, can you keep that a secret?” Jonas whispered.

“I sure can, sir,” whispered the boy in return. “But won’t people know you’re a cavalier just by looking at you?”

“You may be right, young man,” laughed Jonas. “You are very observant.”

“Thank you, sir. If you need anything you just let me know. I am really tough and my dad taught me how to punch.”

“I will certainly look for you, Wes, if I need help. Now why don’t you put that water in the wash basin.”

“Yes, sir.” Wes stepped inside, moving quickly to a large copper bowl sitting on the table. He poured the hot water into the bowl and laid down two clean towels next to it. “There you go, sir.” Wes looked at Kiln for the first time and walked over to him boldly. “I am, Wes, sir. Are you a warrior too?”

Jonas choked back his laughter while Kiln smiled down at the boy. “I am, young Wes, but I am no cavalier.”

“I want to be a warrior also, but my father just wants me to work here.”

“Your father runs a good establishment. It is a noble profession and you should be proud to have that opportunity.”

“Yes, I guess so. Well I better get back to my chores. I have a lot of work to do before the dinner rush. It was nice to meet you both. Oh, father said that your food is ready.” Wes turned and walked out the door. Jonas looked at Kiln and they both laughed.

***



The dried meat was exquisite; cured with exotic spices that made Jonas’s mouth water. He washed it down with some hearty ale before stuffing a thick slice of white cheese in his mouth. The food was delicious, better than anything he had ever tasted.

“What’s the plan now?” asked Jonas, reaching for another slice of cheese.

“I say we go to the kulam and try to get those answers you came for. Then we come back here for dinner. After that, your guess is as good as mine,” replied Taleen.

“I agree. Let’s go to the kulam first. See if we can find anything out about Jonas, the demon that attacked us, the missing cavaliers, and whatever they know about Malbeck. What we learn will decide our next course of action.”

“What do you think will happen to me?” asked Jonas.

“I don’t know,” Taleen replied. “They will probably want to test you. It is unprecedented that you would have the powers of a cavalier without going through the training. I imagine they will have a lot of questions for you as well.”

“I would really like to travel to Finarth with Kiln.”

“That may or may not be possible. You may get a calling, or the council may request that you stay here for more testing. I do not know,” Taleen responded as she finished the last piece of cured meat.

“What of you, Taleen. What will you do?” asked Kiln.

“If I get a calling then I will go where I’m directed. If not then I will stay with Jonas. Something tells me that we need to stay together.”

Kiln nodded his head in agreement. “I agree. Let us go to the kulam and get some information. It is a waste of time to speculate until we know what the council will do with Jonas.”

They found the kulam easily. It was a huge stone temple, as big as a small castle, and at least three levels high. The building was surrounded by a well manicured lawn. It was an oasis in the middle of the bustling city. The center part of the temple stood fifty paces high with sharp spires rising towards the clouds. The entire façade was covered with carvings of gods and their symbols, Shyann’s great oak, Ulren’s four pointed star, Bandris’s axe, and many more.

There was a main door located at the center of the impressive structure. It was made from a solid white stone over ten paces high. The symbol of Ulren was carved into the stone and the seam that split the double doors was so thin that it was barely visible. It gave the door the appearance of a solid piece of flat rock.

Flanking the large temple were two large buildings that appeared to be two story barracks or warehouses. There were several entrances along the fronts of these buildings, and the entire kulam was made from the same white stone. Taleen explained that the center building was a temple representing the various gods of the realm. The outer two buildings were the training facilities and living quarters for the potential cavalier candidates.

They walked up the stone stairs that led to the white stone door. As they neared the door its marvelous craftsmanship became apparent. The polished stone was covered with a detailed carving of Ulren’s symbol, one that was so intricate and the lines so graceful that it was obviously done by a master craftsman.

“It doesn’t even look like a door. You can’t see the seam or the hinges,” Jonas said, running his hand over the smooth stone.

“This must have been created by dwarves. No one else could do this,” added Kiln.

Taleen reached out and grabbed what looked like an impression in the middle of the door. There were two impressions on each side of the middle seam and once your hand was inside you could firmly grip an inner edge giving you the leverage to pull. She pulled hard expecting the door to be heavy and cumbersome, but she almost fell backwards as the door, a foot in thickness, easily swung outward on invisible hinges that made no sound.

“Incredible,” muttered Taleen.

They stepped into a large interior room covered with polished stone. Jonas looked down and saw a large mosaic of Ulren’s four-pointed star on the floor. The mosaic was made from different pieces of marble ranging from colors of white to black. The symbol itself was gray and black while the background was white in contrast. There was silver inlaid writing over the top of the symbol that Jonas thought was elvish.

Taleen read it out loud. “Araste makatar nih daia dadutha dandis”

“What does it mean?” asked Jonas.

“Some must live by the blade to stand against the shadow,” interpreted Kiln. Jonas liked the saying, smiling as he contemplated its meaning.

They stepped across the symbol into the entryway. Sunlight shone through colorful stained-glassed windows highlighting a large double door before them. The walls were lined with expensive tapestries and paintings. There were wide cathedral hallways on their left and right, each ending with extravagant stone stairways leading to another level. The hallways were lined with thick stone columns and statues of magnificent warriors in various poses.

“This place is beautiful,” muttered Jonas in awe. Taleen approached the large double doors in front of them. The doors were made of thick oak and in the center was an inlaid carving, presumably created from a softer wood. The carving brought a smile to Jonas as it was clearly Shyann’s oak tree.

As Jonas glanced around the incredible room he noticed it was covered with many different carvings. Parts of the ceiling, walls, and stone columns were covered with impressive carvings so detailed they seemed to be alive. He saw Ulren’s four-pointed star, Bandris’s double bladed battle-axe, Shyann’s oak tree, Inis’s rose, and the symbol of Nomis, God of farming and weather. His symbol was a scythe. He noticed the trident head symbol of Halyean as well.

Taleen walked up to a large metal gong that was placed next to the door. She grabbed the wood mallet and hit the gong once, the sound reverberating through the halls and echoing off the tall ceiling.

“That won’t go unnoticed,” said Kiln.

A few minutes later as the trio was inspecting the expansive entry, the door in front of them opened, and an old man appeared, wearing a long gray robe of fine cotton. Tall and thin, his straggly gray hair draped a face that looked like a dried out grape. He held a carved wooden cane that supported his bent body as he walked. Around his neck was a silver necklace that bore the symbol of Halyean, god of the seas. The man’s face was passive as he ran his eyes over the trio standing before him.

“Good evening, priest, I am Taleen, cavalier to Helikon. This is Jonas Kanrene and Kiln from Finarth. We seek a conference with the council.”

The old man fixed his gaze on Kiln first and then Jonas. His eyes lingered on Jonas for a while and suddenly Jonas felt something jab at his consciousness, something subtle but intrusive. It felt like light tendrils were slowly wrapping around his brain, looking for something.

Jonas reacted on instinct. He threw up a cognitive barrier and reached out mentally towards the old man. “It is not polite to enter one’s mind without permission.” Jonas was shocked that he was actually conversing silently with the man.

The priest’s eyes flared briefly with astonishment but he quickly regained composure, smiling softly. Jonas was equally shocked. He had not known that he could mentally speak inside the minds of others. Another of the cognivant powers of which he had not been aware.

“Forgive me Jonas Kanrene. I did not know you were a cognivant. It is standard policy to probe the minds of any that wish entrance into the kulam. Guests do not even know of the intrusion, unless of course they are cognivants, which is so rare that it has yet to happen, until now of course. Rest assured that I do not intrude in their minds for more than the few seconds it takes me to ascertain their purpose here.” The old priest smiled warmly at them all. “I am Rayall, high priest to Halyean.” The priest looked at Taleen, bowing his head slightly. “It is good to see a cavalier. I’m afraid we have not had a cavalier here for many months.”

“So I’ve heard. Thank you Rayall, it is good to be here,” replied Taleen.

Rayall looked at Kiln, nodding his head in greeting. “General Kiln, your reputation precedes you. I did not know you were still alive.”

“Alive and well, Rayall,” replied Kiln.

“And you, young man. What brings a cognivant who looks like a cavalier to a Kulam?”

“Sir, meaning no disrespect, I would like to tell that story to the entire council. That is why I am here.” Jonas wondered if maybe he was able to speak inside the priests mind because he too was a cognivant. He made a mental note to ask the priest about it later if they had time.

“I see,” replied the old man. “No offense taken. I think that you three are of sufficient interest to bring the council together. If you will please follow me,” Rayall said, slowly turning and walking through the large double doors.

The three kept up with him easily as he slowly ambled through a huge temple. The ceiling was at least forty paces high and the walls were built of the same white stone. Rows of benches lined the floor along the aisle that led to a large altar. Light shone through expansive sky lights lining the ceiling. Behind the altar was a stone statue of Ulren reaching all the way to the ceiling. His muscular arms appeared to hold up the stone roof.

Jonas immediately understood the artists meaning. The High One was holding up the temple with his bare arms, symbolic of his strength in holding up all that is good. The walls were lined with statues of all the gods.

Jonas’s eyes were immediately drawn to a female warrior at his right. The statue was twenty paces high and she stood gracefully holding a long sword and shield. She wore no helm and the artist captured her beauty perfectly. Her chest plate was decorated with the very same symbol tattooed on his chest and embossed on his own armor. From the folds of her cloak to the waves of her hair, the statue was stunningly lifelike. The work was incredible and Jonas could hardly believe that a person could create something so beautiful.

They walked to the end of the aisle and the priest motioned for them to sit on a bench. “Please have a seat. I will assemble the council. Someone will come to summon you when they are ready.”

“Thank you, Rayall,” replied Taleen. The priest nodded his head and moved across the floor to a wood door on the far wall.

“This is amazing,” whispered Jonas as he gazed at the magnificent temple.

“It truly is. I’ve never seen anything so beautiful,” added Kiln.

“This is a temple to all the benevolent gods of Kraawn. My Kulam is very similar. All the followers of all the gods are welcome here. There is Helikon,” Taleen said, pointing to her left.

Jonas followed her finger to a statue of a powerful warrior wearing only a leather and metal skirt, accentuating his muscular chest and powerful arms. In his right hand he held a thick broad sword and in his left he held onto a shaft tipped with a long sharp blade. His face was bearded and long wavy hair hung down to his strong shoulders. He looks every bit the warrior’s god thought Jonas.

“This is Inis, the wife of Ulren,” Taleen continued as she pointed at another statue.

Jonas looked upon a beautiful lady wearing what looked like a thin cotton robe that clung to her perfect form. Her long hair was swept back from her face by an invisible breeze. In one hand the goddess held a bouquet of roses and in the other she held a basket of food.

The sun shone through the ceiling in such a way that it lit up each statue like a spotlight. The architecture was truly incredible, allowing the sun’s light to purposely highlight each figure.

“Inis is the goddess of beauty, passion, and kindness,” Taleen said as she continued her explanation of the gods.

Jonas took a few minutes to look at all the statues that lined the circular walls. For the first time he noticed that at the bottom of each one was a mini altar and they all had melted candles that covered the base of the statue.

“Taleen?” asked Jonas.

“Yes?”

“I spoke with an elf once, well she was a half-elf, but anyway, she said that elves do not believe in gods. How can they not believe in the gods when we have proof of their existence?”

“What proof do we have?” Taleen asked.

“Our magic of course,” Jonas replied, a little taken aback by her question.`

“Well, the elves do not believe in gods, but they do believe in what we call our gods,” she said.

“What do you mean?” he asked

“It’s a matter of perspective, Jonas,” Kiln interjected.

Taleen nodded her head in agreement. “Exactly. The elves believe that Ulren, Bandris, Shyann, and all the gods, including the Foresworn, are not really gods at all, but people who somehow achieved enough power to become god-like, powerful enough where people believe they are gods. The elves do not believe that our gods made all things, but that they themselves are a result of the true power.”

“The Ru’Ach,” muttered Jonas.

“Yes. They believe that our gods were once great people who somehow accessed the Ru’Ach and gained tremendous power. Most priests do not believe this. They believe that the gods created all things, including the Ru’Ach.”

“What do you believe?” Jonas asked.

“Does it matter what I believe? Helikon is real, that I know. Was he made a god because he knew how to use power from the Ru’Ach, or has he always existed as a god, a creator of all things? Maybe he is a being of another world, another plane of existence. I do not know, Jonas, but either way it does not change who he is, or who I am. Helikon is a warrior god who fights for justice and courage, and I am a protector of these ideals. That is all I need to know. The question is…do YOU need to know more?”

“I do not know, Taleen. I shall think more on it.”

“That is good. Such decisions should not be hastily made.”

“What do you believe in, Kiln?” asked Taleen.

Kiln swung his piercing gaze toward her. “I believe in myself. That is the only constant in my life,” he replied sharply.

“I see,” she replied. “And Jonas, I did not know you were a cognivant. Can you tell me about it? I have never met anyone with that power.”

“I do not know much myself. It surfaced several years ago when I was fighting against some mountain giants. I was able to mentally stop one of the giants clubs.”

“So you can control objects?” Taleen asked.

“Yes, I guess. In my mind I can see the energy that makes up everything, and I can control it to some degree. But I’m still learning the extent of this power.”

“And you can speak in people’s minds as well?” Taleen asked.

“I guess. Today was the first time I’ve done that. I think perhaps I can only do that with another cognivant since that power had never surfaced before. There is much I do not know about this power.”

“You are not alone in that respect, for it is such a rare ability. Are there any limits to it?” she asked.

“Yes, the more power I try to control and use, the more severe the headaches. In some cases they are so extreme that I pass out. But my meditative training with Kiln has helped strengthen my cognivant powers and lessen the pain when I use them.”

Taleen looked at Kiln with interest. “Meditative training? I would like to hear more of this.”

Suddenly a door opened to their left, ending their conversation. The sound of the opening door echoed against the large stone walls. A young man, maybe a year younger than Jonas, walked gracefully toward them. His short blond hair framed a thin tanned face. The short sleaves of his green cotton shirt exposed his muscular forearms. Loose fitting, black cotton pants, flowed around his legs as he walked. The boy’s green shirt was long and laced at his waist with a black cotton belt. No weapons dangled from his belt but he looked like he didn’t need any. They all stood up from the bench as the young man neared them.

“I am Kandris, a cavalier candidate to Ulren. It is a pleasure to have you here, cavalier.” The young man bowed deeply to Taleen who nodded her head in acknowledgement.

The young man then turned his attention to Kiln. “And to you, sir.” The boy tried hard to hide his excitement, his voice shaking a bit with nervous energy. “I have heard stories about you all my life.”

“Some that are probably not true,” replied Kiln, inclining his head toward the boy.

“I hope not, sir. There are many different tales swirling around the name of Kiln the General, not all of them tales to be proud of.”

“And what do you make of the tales, young man?” Kiln asked with interest.

The young man smiled. “I think that lesser men are always trying to mar the reputation of great men, sir.”

Kiln’s cold features dissolved slightly, replaced by the hint of a smile.

“Remember, Kandris, all men make mistakes, whether they are great men or not.”

Kandris bowed his head in acknowledgement. “I will remember that, sir.” He then pivoted smoothly to face, Jonas. “Jonas Kanrene, it is a pleasure to meet you.” Jonas caught Kandris’s eyes quickly glance down toward his chest. He looked confused for a moment but he quickly recovered, smiling kindly at Jonas. “You look like a cavalier.”

“That I do,” said Jonas.

Kandris nodded his head and his smile disappeared. “It is not my place to pry, sir. I apologize.”

“You are not in the wrong, Kandris. It’s not that simple, I’m afraid,” Jonas said, trying to reassure the young warrior. “And I am no sir, just a few years older than you actually.”

“Very well, and thank you. Well, if you will all follow me. I will take you to the council room.” Kandris turned, walking back the way he had come.

The council room was large and empty except for six chairs sitting on a raised ledge on the far side. The wooden chairs were carved with intricate symbols and writing. Above each chair on the wall was an embroidered tapestry representing each of the benevolent gods of Kraawn.

The chairs were all occupied as they entered the room. Kandris bowed deeply to the six occupants of the chairs and then left the room quickly. Jonas recognized the old priest Rayall sitting in the chair below the symbol of Halyean. The old man smiled at them as they walked closer to the priests.

“Welcome to Annure, it is a pleasure to see a cavalier in our halls,” said a middle aged man sitting in the middle chair. The four-pointed star above him marked him as a priest of Ulren. “I am Lyrus, high priest to Ulren.” The man was tanned and his curly brown hair was streaked slightly with gray above the ears. His smile was warm and sincere. “You have met Rayall already. To my right is Tundis, high priest to Nomus, and Jeweleasiam, high priestess to Inis. On my left is Weelon, high priest to Bandris, and Lulaylin, high priestess to Shyann.”

They all nodded as they were introduced.

“Thank you, high priest Lyrus, for agreeing to meet with us. As you know, I am Taleen, cavalier to Helikon. This is Kiln and Jonas. We have many questions that need answering and we came here as the likely source for those answers.”

“I’m assuming that your questions concern Jonas,” Lyrus reasoned.

All the priests stared at Jonas intently.

“They do,” replied Taleen.

“Jonas, can you please tell me how you bear the armor and weapons of a cavalier and yet we know nothing of you?” Lyrus asked.

“I can, and I will sir,” replied Jonas, taking a deep breath to prepare for his story. Jonas began his tale again. The council members all leaned forward in their chairs as the story progressed. He tried to judge their reactions as the story unfolded, but they were very good at masking their emotions. Finally, Jonas finished with the battle against the Greever. There was only silence in the room as the council members digested the tale.

“Jonas, may we see this symbol that you speak of?” asked Lulaylin, priestess to Shyann. She was older than the rest and she wore a silver hairpiece with Shyann’s symbol etched into it. It covered her forehead and her long gray hair was pulled back behind her ears. Her gown was made from expensive green silk that matched her eyes perfectly. Lulaylin was beautiful for someone her age and Jonas was drawn to her sparkling green eyes. But once there, he saw an underlying intensity that did not match her appearance.

“You may,” Jonas said as he began unbuckling his breastplate and setting it on the smooth polished stone at his feet. He then lifted the tight chain mail shirt over his head.

“Where did you get that armor?” Lulaylin asked.

“From Shyann’s tomb,” he replied, setting the light metal shirt on the ground.

Lulaylin stood up in her chair in shock. “That cannot be! No one has found her tomb in a thousand years!” she said as her voice rose in disbelief.

Jonas did not react to her outburst but looked at her sincerely. “I do not lie. I was led by a huge stag to her tomb underneath a giant oak tree. It was there that she gave me this armor and these weapons.”

Lulaylin sat back down, but her eyes still reflected her shock. “That cannot be. You are not even a cavalier.”

“It is true,” replied Kiln. “I was there.”

Lulaylin directed her fiery eyes toward Kiln. “Your loyalty and honor is in question General. Why would we believe an oath breaker?”

“Lulaylin!” bellowed Lyrus. “General Kiln is our guest. Do not show disrespect.”

Kiln’s face was calm and emotionless as he addressed the priestess. “You know nothing of my loyalty other than rumors and stories that have been told for over twenty years. Until you know the truth of it, I recommend you keep your ill mannered comments to yourself.” Kiln’s eyes, cold as the tone of his voice, left no room for argument.

“Besides,” replied Jonas. “I believe this mark will represent the truth where our words have not.” Jonas lifted off his cotton shirt and set it next to his armor. He stood up straight and the six council members sat back in their chairs in shock.

“Come closer, Jonas,” ordered Rayall. Jonas stepped closer to them all so they could clearly see the God Mark. He finally stepped in front of Lulaylin so she could view the mark for herself. His toned muscular torso was covered with the God Mark.

“And you say that you have powers like a cavalier?” asked high priest Weelon. The burly man was obviously once a warrior. He had that look, and his face was scarred in several places.

“Yes,” said Jonas with some trepidation. “I can bring forth God Light, heal, detect evil, and I can wield God Fire, although I have not had much experience with any of those powers.”

“The skills of a first rank cavalier,” muttered Weelon to himself.

“Show us, Jonas, bring forth light,” ordered Tundis, high priest to Nomus. His voice was soft and inviting. Tundis was a small man and his face reflected many years of working in the sun. His skin was tough and tanned and his long wavy black hair was speckled with gray. He wore a simple tan tunic with loose gray pants common to a farmer. Jonas could even see dirt stains covering his knees as if he had just come from his garden.

Jonas looked within himself and called upon Shyann’s magic. He felt it boil up within him and he released it in a brilliant flare of light. The bright light appeared quickly causing the six council members to rock back in their chairs in surprise. As the light bathed them, any remnants of tension and disbelief disappeared in a flash. Jonas let it flare briefly before dispelling it. They all stared at him for several seconds, their shock apparent on their faces.

Taleen broke the silence. “When we healed Kiln, Jonas channeled his energy into me. I have never felt that much power. It almost consumed me. As you know, only a rare person can control the power needed to be a first rank cavalier. I believe that we are looking at our first true god picked cavalier.”

“It is hard to imagine that being possible. We have never known that to happen. We have no record of it, nor have we ever seen a cavalier to Shyann,” muttered Lyrus in disbelief.

“And yet we have a young man standing in front of us who can bring forth light, and he bears her mark on his chest. What else could it be?” asked Jeweleasiam, the beautiful priestess to Inis.

“And we have the word of a true cavalier that he wields great power. How else would he have it unless it was god given?” asked Weelon.

“May I see your swords, Jonas?” asked Lulaylin gently, her disbelief and frustration seemingly extinguished.

Jonas reached down, drawing forth a sword. He approached Lulaylin, handing it to her hilt first.

She grasped the bone handle and lifted it into the air. She closed her eyes and Jonas saw her lips moving slightly. Suddenly the blade flared brightly and receded just as quickly. Lulaylin opened her eyes and for the first time smiled warmly at Jonas.

“There can be no question. These blades were given to him by Shyann herself.” She handed the blade back to Jonas. “Jonas, I am sorry for my outburst and for doubting you. It was just so hard to believe. Being allowed to see her tomb is a great honor, one that I wish was bestowed upon me. It was envy and doubt that sparked my emotional response. I am sorry. You are indeed a cavalier to Shyann. I am convinced.” Lulaylin turned her eyes on Kiln and bowed her head slightly. “I must apologize to you as well, General. I spoke rashly and I hope you will forgive me.”

Kiln simply nodded his head in acknowledgment but said not a word.

“I understand, priestess. I can hardly believe it myself,” replied Jonas.

“Know this, young man. You are very much needed,” Lulaylin continued. “Lyrus, please tell them what is happening.”

Jonas looked around at all the faces before them. They now looked at him differently, no doubt was apparent in their expressions. “What did you do to my sword?” asked Jonas.

“I asked Shyann to tell me the truth, and she did. You are a cavalier. It is unprecedented, but true nonetheless.”

“You spoke with her?” Jonas asked.

“No, not exactly. I asked her if the sword was hers, and she responded in confirmation,” Lulaylin replied.

“Jonas, Taleen,” interjected Lyrus. They both looked at the high priest as he sat forward in his chair. “There are no more cavaliers that we know of.”

Taleen stepped back in shock as the disturbing news assaulted her. Kiln, who seldom showed emotion, was also visibly stunned by the horrible declaration. Jonas just stood, lowering his head in shock, his entire body deflating. It was too much to comprehend. The guardians of the righteous were dead. Who would protect the people against the darkness? The question lingered in Jonas’s mind as Lyrus spoke again.

“An army marches toward Finarth as we speak. King Gavinsteal has sent out riders requesting aid. We have no cavaliers to send and we have not heard from any except you two. We only have three candidates that are close to finishing their training and they are still years away. Kandris, the young man you met, is furthest along and he still needs two winters, if he makes it all. The Kulam at Rohindrin has two candidates that are close, but they are still several years away. ” Lyrus sighed deeply, his weariness finally surfacing.

“Do the people of Kraawn know about the dead cavaliers?” Kiln asked.

“Most do not,” Lyrus said. “I suggest we keep it that way. It would not help matters if word got out that there are no cavaliers to protect them.”

“King Olegaurd sent ten thousand men to Finarth four days ago. They should arrive at Finarth in several days,” said Tundis.

“What would you have me do?” asked Jonas.

“Jonas, it is not the job of the council to direct a cavalier. It is up to Shyann’s will. Have you received a calling?” asked Jeweleasium.

“No, that is why we came here. To get some answers.”

“I, too, have received no calling,” Taleen added. “I spent many weeks traveling across the Tundrens at Helikon’s request. He sent me to help Jonas, but now I am unsure of our next quest.”

“I will leave at first light for Finarth,” Kiln announced. “They are in need of my skills. I think the cavaliers should accompany me to Finarth. Their gods may call them soon, but until then, their powers will be needed there.”

“I concur with the general,” Rayall spoke up. “If we had cavaliers here then I’m sure several of them would have been called to that conflict. I think that Jonas and Taleen should accompany Kiln to Finarth. We do not have the time to test Jonas any further. He will be needed there. There is one more thing I wish to speak of,” he added. “Jonas is also a cognivant.”

“A cognivant? Are you sure, Rayall?” asked Lyrus in disbelief.

“I am. I wish I had more time to help you understand your potential as a cognivant, but the truth of it is my powers are limited. I can read minds and that is all. What cognivant powers have you realized thus far, Jonas?”

“So far I am able to see the true make up of all things, the magic that makes up everything around us. This ability has given me the power to control objects.”

“That is indeed a rare thing. Use that power wisely, young cavalier. That magic is old, and we know very little about it,” Tundis cautioned.

“Jonas, do you get headaches after you use this power?” asked Rayall.

“I do. The more power I use, the more severe the pain.”

“You may want to practice this power so you know what your limits are,” Rayall said. “It would not be prudent to find the end of your strength during battle. It could prove disastrous.”

Rayall’s advice was sound and Jonas nodded his head in thanks. “I will think on that, high priest Rayall, thank you.”

“I wish we could further test you and help you understand your power, but I think we are running out of time,” said Weelon.

“Do we know what army it is that attacks Finarth?” asked Kiln.

“Yes, it is an army led by Lord Moredin, but we believe that he is backed by Malbeck’s power. A second force is marching from Banrith Castle toward Tarsis as we speak,” added Lyrus.

“Malbeck is back then?” asked Taleen.

“There can be no doubt. But we have yet to learn how this has happened,” said Lulaylin.

“What aid will you need to get to Finarth?” asked Lyrus.

“Horses and provisions,” replied Kiln.

“Will you be in need of an escort?” asked Weelon.

“No. We three will travel faster alone. I do not intend on taking the roads.”

“Very well. I will have horses and provisions brought to the main gate at sunrise. We wish you a fast and safe journey,” added Lyrus as he stood up, signaling the end of the meeting.

“Remember, it is very likely that you are both still being hunted. Be vigilant,” cautioned Lulaylin.

“We will,” replied Jonas. He looked at each of the council members and they nodded their heads in farewell. The trio turned and walked from the room without another word.

***

The White Unicorn was busy; patrons crowded around the bar and filled the many tables in the dining room. Hundreds of candles and oil lamps lit the area casting orange hues throughout the large bar. The crackling fire blazed and the flames danced as if they wanted to leap out of the fireplace. The sounds of laughter and idle conversation filled the large room making it difficult to hear the gossip that seemed to be on everyone’s tongues.

Jonas, Taleen, and Kiln sat alone at a table close to the fire. Bomm had saved it for them for more than an hour before the trio came back from their meeting at the Kulam. They were hungry and ordered Bomm’s recommendation, smoked mutton pie, oven baked and filled with onions, wild mushrooms, potatoes, mutton, and covered in gravy. They sipped cold water and discussed the new adventure ahead of them.

“Kiln, tell me of Moredin,” Jonas asked.

“Moredin is the ruler of Stonestep, a bandit city far to the east. Stonestep is a staging base for every invasion into Finarth, Tarsis, and Annure. On the surface Moredin stays out of most politics, but under the surface he is ruthless, conniving, and does whatever he can to gain more power, land, and wealth.”

“Who are his allies?” asked Taleen.

“None really. His kingdom is vast and surrounded by the nomad lands and Flatlands south of Mt. Ule. He usually allies himself with tribes from the Sithgarin and nomads from the Tarsinian Plains. He also has a decent relationship with Prince Bomballa of Numenell. Their relationship is one of convenience and they are not official allies,” Kiln added before he took a long sip of his water, his eyes scanning the room instinctively.

Many of the patrons cast curious glances at the trio. Kiln hoped that Bomm had kept his mouth shut about who he was. He knew that Jonas and Taleen would be seen for what they were, but he did not want his identity known. Many patrons smiled, acknowledging the cavaliers, but none had the courage to approach them.

“Why would Moredin risk everything by attacking Finarth? What is in it for him?” asked Jonas.

Kiln returned his attention to them both. “I don’t know. His chance of winning is slim if King Gavinsteal’s allies arrive in time. Even if they didn’t, Finarth’s forces should have no problem repelling Moredin’s army.”

“Even with Malbeck’s help?” Taleen asked skeptically.

“That I don’t know. The only way to know is to scout Moredin’s army. Find out how many men, cavalry, and siege machines exist, and if Malbeck has sent his minions there to help him.”

Kiln looked around the room again. Something didn’t feel right to the old warrior.

“Would Lord Moredin fight alongside orcs, boargs, and other monsters?” asked Jonas.

“I imagine so, especially if riches, power, and land were involved,” replied Kiln as he leaned back in his chair, getting a better look at their surroundings. He felt like they were being watched, and Kiln never questioned his instincts.

Out of the crowd came a buxom serving girl carrying a large tray of steaming food. She smiled warmly at them, setting the tray down. Jonas’s mouth began to water when he saw the food. Each plate contained huge slices of mutton pie. The crust was thick and slathered with gravy, mushrooms, and onions. Jonas quickly grabbed his plate and began to consume the delicious and hearty food.

“Can I get you anything else?” asked the rosy cheeked bar maid. She was pleasantly plump and her ample bosom was barely contained by her bodice. Her infectious smile was warm and made her average face seem attractive.

“No thank you. Thank Bomm again for the meals,” added Taleen.

“I will indeed.” The waitress quickly turned, disappearing into the boisterous crowd.

The three ate their food in silence. The succulent flavors were enough to halt their conversation.

As Kiln ate, he continued to monitor the crowd. The feeling was still there, the hairs on the back of his neck were standing up in warning.

Jonas looked at him with concern, his mouth full of mutton. “What is it?” he asked.

Kiln looked at him seriously as he set his fork down. He took a shallow drink of water before responding. “Something is wrong. I can feel it. Do either of you sense anything?”

Taleen and Jonas looked at each other, replying in unison. “No.”

“Would you sense something if it wasn’t directly evil?” asked Kiln.

“No. Our powers enable us to detect, or be warned, in Jonas’s case, of true evil, evil that is deep and black, but we might not detect a normal person who chose to do an evil act. It is hard to say, it really depends on the person and the situation.” Taleen took another sip of her water. Following Kiln’s lead, she leaned back in her chair, away from the table’s edge.

“I wonder why I didn’t detect the gnolls we fought up in the Dragon’s Spine?” Jonas mused as he drank from his mug.

“There could be many reasons. Maybe they were too far away, or maybe they were not directly a danger to you. A cavalier’s power is very specific; each cavalier has different degrees of power as well as slight differences in how their power works. No two are the same,” answered Taleen. “How did you end up fighting them if they were not a direct danger to you? Surely you would have been warned if they attacked you?’

“We found the gnoll tracks which led us to them. We attacked them as they ate at their fire,” said Jonas.

“Without knowing their purpose?” Taleen asked with an edge to her voice.

“They were gnolls who stole my cattle,” answered Kiln as if that were enough.

“Are all gnolls doomed because of their race?” challenged Taleen.

“Have you met a gnoll whose heart was not black?” asked Kiln.

“No, but that does not mean that one does not exist. Not everything in the world is black and white, General.”

“Easy to say from one who can detect evil. For the rest of us, living in the realm of absolutes can keep us alive. It was a raiding party that would have eventually attacked. I learned long ago to take every advantage in battle, so I brought the fight to them before they could bring it to me and my men. By killing those gnolls as we did, I probably saved lives,” Kiln said.

Kiln suddenly shifted his attention to his surroundings. Jonas and Taleen both noticed the change in his demeanor.

“You are making me uneasy. What is it?” asked Jonas.

“I don’t know. Stay alert. My senses are not usually wrong,” added Kiln.

Jonas slid his left hand down to one of his swords. The bone handle gave him some reassurance and made him feel a little better.

Jonas watched Kiln close his eyes for a few seconds and then reopen them. His posture had changed and so had his eyes. He had just entered Ty’erm. Jonas, too, closed his eyes and concentrated on his breathing. After a few seconds he opened his eyes. He was in the relaxed state of Ty’erm and in that state the room seemed quieter, and everyone was moving more slowly, at least in his mind.

Jonas scanned the crowd, looking for anything that warned his heightened senses. He was able to focus on separate conversations and shut out the other noises. Kiln was also scanning the crowd, looking for anything strange and out of the ordinary.

“Do you see anything?” asked Taleen who had brought both hands under the table closer to her weapons.

“Not yet,” replied Kiln. “Wait,” Kiln whispered as he looked to his left between two men standing about four paces away. It wasn’t the men that caught his attention, but the man moving just beyond them. A dark haired man with an un-kempt beard moved toward them. It was his posture that triggered Kiln’s instincts. He was moving with purpose, and his pace was accelerated.

Just then Jonas’s eyes looked up, scanning the railing that lined the landing on the second floor. It was dark, but the many candles from the chandelier shed a finger of light onto the edge of the railing. Just enough to see the sparkling crossbow bolts slowly emerge from the darkness.

Instantly Jonas reacted, calling on his IshMian powers. “Crossbows! above!” he yelled, standing up quickly and raising his right hand. In his mind everything around him changed hues as he saw the spinning particles and the energy that moved them. Just like he had done when he practiced with the rocks, Jonas concentrated on the energy around them, drawing it into a translucent shield that covered the table in front and above them. He did this in a matter of seconds just as the bolts were fired. They hit the invisible shield, falling harmlessly to the ground. Everyone around them screamed in confusion, looking around trying to figure out what was happening.

Kiln instantly slid his chair out and drew his sword in one smooth motion. The dark haired assassin barreled through the two unsuspecting men and tried to lance Kiln with a sword that he had hidden in his long black cloak. Kiln side stepped the blade easily and flicked his razor sharp edge across the man’s throat. The move seemed casual and effortless, but the result was devastating to the assassin. Blood sprayed from the gruesome wound and the man crashed face first into the table.

As soon as the blades were out, everyone around the three warriors scurried out of the way in panic. Kiln scanned the crowd looking for another attacker.

Taleen had leaped back, drawing her sword just as the man tried to skewer Kiln. She saw movement to her left and pivoted out of the way as a huge axe came crashing down onto the table, easily splitting the wood. She brought her sword down onto the attackers arm, severing it cleanly. The man jumped back screaming, but not before the deadly cavalier reversed her swing and drove the point of her blade into his heart. He fell backwards, disappearing into the frenzied crowd.

In a matter of seconds everyone around the trio had run frantically out of the way, leaving the warriors alone with swords drawn and glistening in the firelight.

Jonas saw the men from the landing stand up and reload their crossbows. There were three of them, but it was still too dark to make out their features.

Jonas quickly looked around for something that he could use against the dangerous crossbowmen. He didn’t have his bow so that was out of the question. Or was it? Jonas saw two of the crossbow bolts that the assassins had fired lying on the ground in front of him. He quickly seized the bolts with his mind, lifting them in the air. He used his telekinetic ability to fling the bolts toward the men who were now leaning over the railing with reloaded weapons.

Jonas focused on two of the assassin’s throats and the bolts smashed into their windpipes before they could fire their second volley. They dropped the crossbows and grabbed the feathered shafts that were buried in their necks. One fell back into the darkness of the landing, while the other fell over the railing to land hard on a table, shattering it into several pieces.

The third assassin got his shot off as his comrades died. The twang of the crossbow was followed by the phhhhhht of the bolt as it zipped through the air. It took Taleen in her right shoulder, causing her to stumble backwards against the rock fireplace.

Jonas didn’t have time to see if she was okay, because four men with swords drawn were running at them. They were all hard-faced men, wearing black, loose fitting clothes. Jonas drew his blades and sprang towards them with Kiln at his side, attacking the assassins with deadly silence.

One man lunged at Jonas with his long sword while the other chopped downwards with a powerful stroke. Both of Jonas’s blades worked independently. One slapped the lunge to the side while the other blocked the downward stroke. Jonas quickly brought both blades swinging back across each other towards the opposite opponent. His razor sharp weapons cut each man in the thigh and they stumbled backwards, bright blood gushing from the wounds.

Jonas silently thanked Kiln for the many lessons on how to fight more than one opponent at a time. It was one thing to face a skilled swordsman, but facing two or three at a time required a totally different skill set, techniques that now were paying off.

Moving forward, Kiln’s left arm snaked sideways, hurling his hunting knife into the throat of the nearest attacker while he engaged the second man with his long sword. The nearest assassin’s eyes opened with shock as the hunting knife buried itself to the hilt just under his chin. He fell backwards like a limp rag doll.

The other attacker quickly engaged Kiln, his long sword vainly trying to find any gaps in Kiln’s defenses. The cloaked man parried a strike and flicked his blade toward Kiln’s throat. Kiln stepped into the attack, pivoting sideways. He grabbed the man’s sword arm at the wrist with his free hand and used his sword to slice him from his groin across his inner thigh, lacerating an artery. Kiln’s face was right next the assassins, his cold eyes stared into the man’s face as the fatal wound did its work. Kiln pushed him away and he fell to the ground, blood quickly pooling around him.

The two men that Jonas had been fighting fell backwards as their free hands instinctively grabbed at the deep lacerations on their legs. Jonas used the brief distraction to his advantage. He lunged forward with his right blade, skewering one of the men in the heart. The man grunted and fell backwards, but the second assassin was faster and he quickly got his blade up to block Jonas’s second strike. But the retreating wounded man could not stop the third and the fourth strikes. Jonas fell into the attack quickly and had both blades cutting devastating wounds across the man’s chest. The assassin groaned, stumbled to his knees, and fell across a table, upturning it in the process.

Jonas scanned the room for more attackers. His heart pounded and his hands began to shake as the energy of battle still surged through him. These were the first men he had killed, and despite the fact that they had tried to kill him, he felt strangely sad about it. He saw Kiln to his left doing the same, blood dripping from his sword. Now that he had time he glanced back towards the fire and saw Taleen holding herself up against the wall, one hand on her sword and the other holding the shaft that protruded from her shoulder. She smiled weakly at him as she saw his look of concern.

“I’m fine, make sure there are no more assassins,” she ordered.

The bar was now clear of all patrons. Everyone had run outside and away from the danger. Jonas moved toward Kiln who was wiping the blood from his blade on the cloak of one of the assassins.

“What do you make of them?” Jonas asked.

“Assassins it would seem,” Kiln replied nonchalantly.

Suddenly, armed men, wearing the Annurien colors, rushed into the bar. They wore metal breast plates embossed with the Annurien symbol. The men fanned out, holding their swords in front of them at the ready.

The commander approached Jonas and Kiln hesitantly, his eyes quickly scanning the room and assessing the situation. As he neared them he lowered his sword. He was beyond middle aged, maybe fifty winters, and had a large shaved head. Tall and muscular, he had the look of a veteran warrior.

“I am Dagmar, captain of the night watch. What happened here? ”

“I am Kiln, and this is Jonas, cavalier to Shyann. We were attacked by assassins. Behind me is Taleen, cavalier to Bandris. She is in need of healing,” replied Kiln.

“I will see to her,” Jonas said.

Kiln nodded his head in approval. He knelt down next to one of the bodies to get a better look. The man wore no armor, just a thin black cloak, and his legs and torso were covered with a dark tunic and leggings. His face was young and unremarkable.

“I had heard that cavaliers were in town. It seems that the rumors of attacks are not mere rumors,” added the red haired warrior. Dagmar motioned to his men. “Get the bodies out of here and get this mess cleaned up.”

“Wait,” Taleen said as she approached one of the bodies with Jonas right beside her. She was able to walk, but the pain from the bolt was evident in her strained voice. “Just a second, I want to check something.” Taleen knelt near one of the bodies and removed the hood. She used her left hand to lift the man’s eye lid and turned it inside out. Jonas had moved up next to her to see what she was doing. On the underside of the man’s eye lid was a small tattoo of a spider. “Just as I thought.”

“What is that?” asked Jonas.

Kiln and Dagmar moved closer to her as she stood up.

“That was Bor-Zan’s mark. I believe you call her, Naz-reen. She magically marks her servants on the inside of the eyelid or the lip.” Dagmar made the protective mark across his chest at the mention of the evil goddess’s name.

“Why were we unable to detect them?” asked Jonas.

“We have the power to detect evil, Jonas, but there are many different shades of darkness, as there is of goodness. Is a man who steals bread to feed his family evil?”

“Of course not,” Jonas said.

“But it can be a start. That is how Naz-reen slowly molds her followers. She takes ordinary men, men who might be good but grow up in situations of her making, situations that test their resolve. She slowly shapes them into the criminals and assassins that you see before you. We didn’t detect them because they were not truly evil, at least not yet. There is definitely a gray area when it comes to detecting evil, and these men fell into that area. They wore no symbols, which would have given them away to us. I do not know exactly, Jonas, but I have learned over the years to always be prepared, as we are not invincible to our enemies. We would have detected a true follower of Naz-reen, like the one you fought outside of Finarth, because they would have had all that is good hammered out of them, until all that remained was a black corrupt shell. These men were forced to do her bidding, maybe even blackmailed, but they had not yet been fully corrupted. They were her lackeys. It is quite sad really.”

“They were weak men. I would rather have died than to have succumbed to her powers,” said Kiln.

“Still no gray area? Black and white, eh?”

Kiln caught her tone and looked at her briefly, his face showing no emotion, before returning his gaze to Dagmar. It was a rhetorical question and he didn’t bother answering it.

“Captain, we are leaving the city in the morning. Please station several guards here tonight in case we are attacked again,” Kiln ordered.

The captain did not hesitate. “Yes sir. I will place my six best men here.”

Dagmar turned to issue his orders just as Bomm approached them from the counter. He was carrying an old crossbow in his hand and he looked worried. “Cavaliers, General, I am sorry about this attack. I have never had something like this happen in my establishment.” Bomm set the crossbow on the table.

“It is not your fault, Bomm, we have had the misfortune of being hunted for awhile now, and I believe it will continue. I’m sorry that it happened in your fine inn,” Jonas replied sincerely.

“Thank you, sir. Rest assured that I got one of the assassins as he tried to flee.” Bomm smiled, tapping his crossbow.

“You got the third crossbowman?” asked Jonas.

“I did. He tried to run out the door and I shot him from behind the bar.”

They all looked toward the door and, sure enough, several of the night guards were trying to remove a dark cloaked man with a feathered shaft buried in his back.

“Good work, Bomm,” added Kiln.

Bomm smiled, lifting up his crossbow again. “I fought one term in the Annurien Legion many years ago. I guess I didn’t forget everything that I learned. Don’t worry about a thing. Go to your rooms and get some sleep. I will take care of everything down here. I will make sure that you are awakened before sunrise and that you get a good warm meal in the morning. I will also pack you some food for your journey.”

“That is good of you, Bomm. Your generosity is much appreciated,” Taleen said.

“It is you who are appreciated. We need you now more than anything.” Bomm bowed as if royalty stood before him. “Now, I have much work to do to get this cleaned up, so if you will excuse me.” Bomm turned and immediately began issuing orders to his staff. They were standing around dumfounded looking at the guards, the cavaliers, and corpses that littered the blood splattered floor.

Jonas looked at Taleen with concern. “Time to get that bolt out.”

Taleen grimaced, smiling awkwardly. “I was hoping you would forget.”

“What do I do first?” asked Jonas, knowing that she was joking. Jonas had heard that pulling a bolt or arrow from your flesh was extremely painful, and he did not relish performing the task on Taleen anymore than she did.

Taleen sat down on a chair. “First you pull the shaft out. Then you heal me as you did Kiln. And please do it fast.”

“I will pull the shaft as Jonas heals,” Kiln said, moving towards her. “It will be faster that way.”

“Very well,” replied Taleen. “Let’s get this over with.”

Kiln stood above her while Jonas knelt down and held her hands. Taleen squeezed his hands as Kiln gripped the shaft and put the other hand on her shoulder for leverage. “Ready?” he asked softly.

“Yes,” Taleen replied through gritted teeth.

“I am,” Jonas added. His eyes were already closed. Kiln tightened his grip and jerked the shaft out with one quick pull. The bolt held for a second and Taleen groaned in pain. Then it ripped free from her flesh and crimson blood gushed from the wound. Taleen leaned over in pain as Jonas flooded her with healing magic.

He felt the power push through him as he asked Shyann for her help. Kiln watched as Jonas’s hands glowed a bright blue. The magic entered Taleen as Jonas concentrated on mending her shoulder. There was no damage to the bone so he was able to focus on mending the torn flesh, cartilage, and blood vessels.

Taleen stood up straighter as the wound sealed and the pain began to recede. Finally Jonas’s work was finished and he opened his eyes. Taleen was staring at him with gratitude. “Very good, Jonas, your power is truly amazing. You healed my wound perfectly and you did it so quickly.”

Jonas stood up, happy that he could help her. “I am glad that I could take away your pain.”

Taleen got to her feet, testing her shoulder by spinning her arm. There was no pain, and it moved smoothly. Kiln set the bloody shaft on the table and looked at them both. “Let’s get some sleep. We have a big day ahead of us.”