He noted the blush and smiled to see her embarrassment. The knowledge of her royal birth hadn't changed her humble modesty.
"What do I tell the boys?" she asked. "Should I tell them the truth?"
"I think they should know. After all, I was younger than they are now when Kewero brought you to us. I've kept your secret all these years. If they know the truth, then they'll understand the need to keep quiet."
She suddenly sobbed. "I want them to still think of me as their Auntie. I don't want to loose that joy."
Leudh pulled her into an embrace. "Don't worry about that, Flin. You’re very much a part of this family. The truth can't change that."
She hugged him tightly and they were quiet for a time. Flindra noticed a chickadee sitting on a branch in a nearby tree. She loved the chickadees since they stayed through the winter, lending their cheerful songs to the emptiness of the snowy world. Looking at the chirping bird gave her a sense of peace and balance. The wild forest and its creatures always made her feel that way. Her heartache started to ease.
"Thank you for listening to me with so much patience and not laughing at my fears," she finally said.
"That's what big brothers are for," he answered with a smile. "Now let's go home. Momma's worried about you."
"Of course." She tucked the crystal under her tunic.
He then took her by the hand, smiled into her eyes, and led her back to the cottage.
Showing posts with label A spiritually rich. Show all posts
Showing posts with label A spiritually rich. Show all posts
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Chapter II, Reading 6
He slid his arm from her shoulders and grasped her hand in loving support. "I've faith in my little sister. I know you'll do what needs to be done. Remember what Papa used to say, something about when the need is great, the power to solve the need is also great."
"Thank you for your faith in me, Leudh. That alone helps more than you can know."
"Have you told Momma any of this?"
"No, I didn't want to worry her. She's had enough to deal with."
"Flin, you should tell her. She's more durable than you think especially when her children are in any trouble or danger. We’re your family. That hasn't changed. You don't need to face this alone. Besides, Momma might know something, something the old woman might have told her when you were left with us."
"You could be right, Leudh. Maybe she knows something of my past and why I was placed here." She removed her hand from his, stood, and started to pace in agitation. "If I'm hunted by some dark evil, I'm putting all of you in danger. The longer I stay the greater the risk for all of you. This is a fine reward for all your care."
"If there really is any danger – and I’m not certain there truly is – it’ll follow you when you go." He stood and stopped Flindra's restless pacing by placing his hands protectively on her shoulders. "I wish I could give you some guidance, Flin. I don't know what to tell you except that I suspect your nightmares and fear are the result of being tired and sad. You've been through a lot of emotional turmoil the last day."
"Maybe."
"At any rate, it does no good to keep silent about your troubles. Let's talk of this again, when the twins are asleep. I'll leave Brehwan to look after them and come over so we can talk together with Momma."
"Does Brehwan know?"
"I told her last night."
"How did she take the news?"
Leudh smiled. "She really wasn't all that surprised. She's always thought there was something special about you."
"Oh." Flindra blushed uncomfortably.
"Thank you for your faith in me, Leudh. That alone helps more than you can know."
"Have you told Momma any of this?"
"No, I didn't want to worry her. She's had enough to deal with."
"Flin, you should tell her. She's more durable than you think especially when her children are in any trouble or danger. We’re your family. That hasn't changed. You don't need to face this alone. Besides, Momma might know something, something the old woman might have told her when you were left with us."
"You could be right, Leudh. Maybe she knows something of my past and why I was placed here." She removed her hand from his, stood, and started to pace in agitation. "If I'm hunted by some dark evil, I'm putting all of you in danger. The longer I stay the greater the risk for all of you. This is a fine reward for all your care."
"If there really is any danger – and I’m not certain there truly is – it’ll follow you when you go." He stood and stopped Flindra's restless pacing by placing his hands protectively on her shoulders. "I wish I could give you some guidance, Flin. I don't know what to tell you except that I suspect your nightmares and fear are the result of being tired and sad. You've been through a lot of emotional turmoil the last day."
"Maybe."
"At any rate, it does no good to keep silent about your troubles. Let's talk of this again, when the twins are asleep. I'll leave Brehwan to look after them and come over so we can talk together with Momma."
"Does Brehwan know?"
"I told her last night."
"How did she take the news?"
Leudh smiled. "She really wasn't all that surprised. She's always thought there was something special about you."
"Oh." Flindra blushed uncomfortably.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Chapter XIV, Reading 4
Dawn found Flindra creeping stealthily through the dense grass of the swamp south of Ladh. The grass was taller than she was so Flindra had a hard time seeing what was ahead. This swamp grass was like nothing she had ever encountered. It was as sharp as a knife along the edges, which made for difficult travel. The ground beneath the grass was soggy with stagnant water and the area reeked of rotting vegetation.
Flindra had examined the area with her crystal orb before she had left her cot this morning. She knew that before them, a mile into the swamp, was a higher area that was free of the swampy waters. Along this ridge, the swamp grass gave way to a dense growth of briar bushes and small trees. The higher area might provide a place to quarter troops. What she couldn't understand was why anyone would want to hide troops in this awful place.
Sergeant Leitho was following a few paces behind her. She could hear the sucking sound that came whenever he pulled a foot out of the muck. Lieutenant Kalmyk generally assigned him to accompany her whenever she was sent ahead to scout. She suspected it was his way of providing an element of protection for her.
Flindra saw several birds take to flight and instinctively dropped to the ground. She heard Leitho doing the same. As she lay in the mud, he slowly crawled up to her.
"See anything?" he whispered.
"Birds," Flindra replied in a whisper and pointed to the area where the birds had left.
They lay still for several more minutes and heard nothing more. Flindra was about to get up when she felt a warning pulse from the crystal orb, which was tucked beneath her tunic. This was a new occurrence for her. The only time she had experienced anything remotely similar was the time she had triggered the Ansu trap when she was seeking Kewero.
Flindra had examined the area with her crystal orb before she had left her cot this morning. She knew that before them, a mile into the swamp, was a higher area that was free of the swampy waters. Along this ridge, the swamp grass gave way to a dense growth of briar bushes and small trees. The higher area might provide a place to quarter troops. What she couldn't understand was why anyone would want to hide troops in this awful place.
Sergeant Leitho was following a few paces behind her. She could hear the sucking sound that came whenever he pulled a foot out of the muck. Lieutenant Kalmyk generally assigned him to accompany her whenever she was sent ahead to scout. She suspected it was his way of providing an element of protection for her.
Flindra saw several birds take to flight and instinctively dropped to the ground. She heard Leitho doing the same. As she lay in the mud, he slowly crawled up to her.
"See anything?" he whispered.
"Birds," Flindra replied in a whisper and pointed to the area where the birds had left.
They lay still for several more minutes and heard nothing more. Flindra was about to get up when she felt a warning pulse from the crystal orb, which was tucked beneath her tunic. This was a new occurrence for her. The only time she had experienced anything remotely similar was the time she had triggered the Ansu trap when she was seeking Kewero.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Chapter XIV, Reading 3
Flindra had learned that she could see the land ahead by projecting her mind through the crystal. In her mind, she familiarized herself to the surroundings. She could discover things without risking her safety or that of her comrades.
The ability of the crystal sphere was greatly augmented by her extended memories. The memories gave her valuable clues to the land and to the nature of the enemies they sought. The wisdom of those who had passed before her added greatly to her innate skills.
These tools and abilities Flindra kept secret for she remembered Kewero's warning that she should not reveal her true identity. Only in the deepest recesses of her heart did she admit to their existence. Flindra trained her thoughts to react to situations as if she was only a simple maid who just happened to be one with the forest. She created the image of a skilled woodsman's daughter - nothing more.
Lieutenant Kalmyk and his Rangers had been ordered to penetrate deep into Bhrag's territory to gather information on the movement and strength of the Duke's troops. There had been increasingly frequent rumors hinting that the Duke was massing his troops and the High Command wanted details. None of the scouting parties sent out to confirm this information had returned.
The High Command had decided that Kalmyk's collection of Rangers stood the best chance of getting the required information and surviving to pass it on. They were depending on the skill and wisdom Kalmyk had demonstrated so well during the spring and early summer. It was a dangerous assignment.
Kalmyk was under orders to capture and detain any of Bhrag's people they encountered during this action. The captives would be questioned and holding them would prevent the flow of information back to the Duke.
The ability of the crystal sphere was greatly augmented by her extended memories. The memories gave her valuable clues to the land and to the nature of the enemies they sought. The wisdom of those who had passed before her added greatly to her innate skills.
These tools and abilities Flindra kept secret for she remembered Kewero's warning that she should not reveal her true identity. Only in the deepest recesses of her heart did she admit to their existence. Flindra trained her thoughts to react to situations as if she was only a simple maid who just happened to be one with the forest. She created the image of a skilled woodsman's daughter - nothing more.
Lieutenant Kalmyk and his Rangers had been ordered to penetrate deep into Bhrag's territory to gather information on the movement and strength of the Duke's troops. There had been increasingly frequent rumors hinting that the Duke was massing his troops and the High Command wanted details. None of the scouting parties sent out to confirm this information had returned.
The High Command had decided that Kalmyk's collection of Rangers stood the best chance of getting the required information and surviving to pass it on. They were depending on the skill and wisdom Kalmyk had demonstrated so well during the spring and early summer. It was a dangerous assignment.
Kalmyk was under orders to capture and detain any of Bhrag's people they encountered during this action. The captives would be questioned and holding them would prevent the flow of information back to the Duke.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Chapter XIV, Reading 1
Flindra's days with the Rangers turned into weeks and then months. She had developed an easy rapport with the men during her first few days with them. Her quiet confidence and unusual abilities had quickly won her the respect and friendship of her comrades. Her skills made their tasks easier and safer to accomplish and thus made their lives better. It was relatively easy to be accepted by a group when one added something to the collected talents of the whole.
She was content with the situation for she truly felt that she was making a worthy contribution to the cause of Prince Storos. She was fulfilling her destiny and this added meaning to her life. She had taken another step on the journey to the final confrontation with the Nameless Ones. She was content to allow the Spirit to control her actions.
The discipline and regimentation of a soldier's life agreed with her as well. Her duties kept her busy so she never had the time to feel overwhelmed by her destiny or to be touched by the sorrow in her life. The friendship she had been granted by her comrades helped to fill the aching void in her heart. They could never replace her family, but they kept her from missing them too much.
At night, in the privacy of her tent, she routinely contacted her mother and Leudh as well as Kewero. They worried about her, certainly, but they also were pleased that she had found a situation where she could begin her destiny. Leudh was a source of information she frequently called upon when her own skills of woodcraft seemed lacking. More than anything, he just bolstered her confidence in her own knowledge. She knew what she needed to perform her duties she just had to believe in herself.
Once her skills were fully appreciated by the Rangers and the beginning of friendships had started, the men began to ask questions of her, hungry to learn the wisdom of the forest. They were in a perfect situation to learn and to use this wealth of knowledge to successfully carry out their orders. They began to apply their newfound wisdom and their success was greatly enhanced.
She was content with the situation for she truly felt that she was making a worthy contribution to the cause of Prince Storos. She was fulfilling her destiny and this added meaning to her life. She had taken another step on the journey to the final confrontation with the Nameless Ones. She was content to allow the Spirit to control her actions.
The discipline and regimentation of a soldier's life agreed with her as well. Her duties kept her busy so she never had the time to feel overwhelmed by her destiny or to be touched by the sorrow in her life. The friendship she had been granted by her comrades helped to fill the aching void in her heart. They could never replace her family, but they kept her from missing them too much.
At night, in the privacy of her tent, she routinely contacted her mother and Leudh as well as Kewero. They worried about her, certainly, but they also were pleased that she had found a situation where she could begin her destiny. Leudh was a source of information she frequently called upon when her own skills of woodcraft seemed lacking. More than anything, he just bolstered her confidence in her own knowledge. She knew what she needed to perform her duties she just had to believe in herself.
Once her skills were fully appreciated by the Rangers and the beginning of friendships had started, the men began to ask questions of her, hungry to learn the wisdom of the forest. They were in a perfect situation to learn and to use this wealth of knowledge to successfully carry out their orders. They began to apply their newfound wisdom and their success was greatly enhanced.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Chapter XIII, Reading 10
The next morning Lieutenant Kalmyk called Flindra to him. "I was impressed by your tracking abilities yesterday," he began slowly. He wanted to gauge her reaction to his offer. He trusted his eyes to read her true feelings by watching her countenance.
"Thank you, sir."
"I was wondering if you would consider staying with us to be my scout. I have need of someone with your talents."
A look of surprise passed over Flindra's features. She couldn't believe her incredible good fortune! As a scout, she would be in a position to help Prince Storos.
Kalmyk misread the look on her face. He took it for shock at the potential impropriety of his suggestion. He quickly tried to clarify the situation. "I know it's a bit unusual for a woman to ride with soldiers, but I give you my word that you will be treated with honor and respect."
Flindra smiled at this avowal. "Sir, I would consider it to be a great honor to serve you and the cause of Prince Storos. I'm not concerned about your men, they have already treated me with honor and respect."
Kalmyk smiled in relief. His pleasure was echoed on Leitho's face from where he stood just behind his lieutenant. "Now that you have accepted, what other skills do you have which could be of use? You any good with your bow?"
"I know how to use it."
"I see that you are too modest to tell me just how good you are, so you will have to show me. Sergeant, fetch her bow. I want to see a demonstration of her skill."
Sergeant Leitho quickly returned with Flindra's bow and quiver of arrows. As he handed them to her, he gave her a toothy smile and a wink of encouragement.
"See that tree over there, the big one with the crooked branch," Kalmyk said as he pointed. "See that the lower limb has a knothole which looks like a face. Try to hit that branch. Even better, try to hit the knothole."
It was a difficult shot, although Flindra had succeeded in striking harder targets. She strung her bow and selected a straight arrow. She was aware that the Rangers had grouped behind her. This made her slightly nervous. She took a deep breath to calm her nerves.
She nocked the arrow and drew back the bowstring until it brushed against her nose. She focused on the center of the knothole and held her breath. With a twang, the arrow leaped forward and sped directly toward the branch. The arrowhead hit the branch and was embedded deeply in the center of the knothole. Only after she saw that the arrow had hit its target did Flindra finally breathe.
There was a moment of silence as the measure of her skill was fully appreciated. Then the air was split with the cries, "Well done! Good shot!"
Sergeant Leitho had been standing slightly behind her as she shot. Now he slapped her enthusiastically across the shoulders. "Good job, Flindra! I knew you could do it."
Flindra turned to look at Lieutenant Kalmyk, silently seeking his approval.
He understood her unspoken entreaty and nodded his head slightly. "You were right to stay quiet about your skill, Flindra. I would have dismissed your claims as bragging. I think you will make a fine scout."
She smiled at his praise and silently thanked the Spirit for this opportunity.
"Thank you, sir."
"I was wondering if you would consider staying with us to be my scout. I have need of someone with your talents."
A look of surprise passed over Flindra's features. She couldn't believe her incredible good fortune! As a scout, she would be in a position to help Prince Storos.
Kalmyk misread the look on her face. He took it for shock at the potential impropriety of his suggestion. He quickly tried to clarify the situation. "I know it's a bit unusual for a woman to ride with soldiers, but I give you my word that you will be treated with honor and respect."
Flindra smiled at this avowal. "Sir, I would consider it to be a great honor to serve you and the cause of Prince Storos. I'm not concerned about your men, they have already treated me with honor and respect."
Kalmyk smiled in relief. His pleasure was echoed on Leitho's face from where he stood just behind his lieutenant. "Now that you have accepted, what other skills do you have which could be of use? You any good with your bow?"
"I know how to use it."
"I see that you are too modest to tell me just how good you are, so you will have to show me. Sergeant, fetch her bow. I want to see a demonstration of her skill."
Sergeant Leitho quickly returned with Flindra's bow and quiver of arrows. As he handed them to her, he gave her a toothy smile and a wink of encouragement.
"See that tree over there, the big one with the crooked branch," Kalmyk said as he pointed. "See that the lower limb has a knothole which looks like a face. Try to hit that branch. Even better, try to hit the knothole."
It was a difficult shot, although Flindra had succeeded in striking harder targets. She strung her bow and selected a straight arrow. She was aware that the Rangers had grouped behind her. This made her slightly nervous. She took a deep breath to calm her nerves.
She nocked the arrow and drew back the bowstring until it brushed against her nose. She focused on the center of the knothole and held her breath. With a twang, the arrow leaped forward and sped directly toward the branch. The arrowhead hit the branch and was embedded deeply in the center of the knothole. Only after she saw that the arrow had hit its target did Flindra finally breathe.
There was a moment of silence as the measure of her skill was fully appreciated. Then the air was split with the cries, "Well done! Good shot!"
Sergeant Leitho had been standing slightly behind her as she shot. Now he slapped her enthusiastically across the shoulders. "Good job, Flindra! I knew you could do it."
Flindra turned to look at Lieutenant Kalmyk, silently seeking his approval.
He understood her unspoken entreaty and nodded his head slightly. "You were right to stay quiet about your skill, Flindra. I would have dismissed your claims as bragging. I think you will make a fine scout."
She smiled at his praise and silently thanked the Spirit for this opportunity.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Chapter XIII, Reading 9
"Well, that explains her ability. The people of the forest, at least in these parts, excel in woodcraft - tracking and hunting. I'd wager she is pretty good with the bow that was hanging from her saddle."
Kalmyk shook his head. "Is it normal practice for these skills to be taught to girls? I would guess that household chores would be their proper domain."
"I don't know. It might be that Flindra's an only child. If that's the case, I could understand her growing up rather like a boy."
Kalmyk refilled their goblets with wine before he continued. "I don't know. There is something about her that puzzles me. There's a quiet strength about her and she's very confident for a rustic. She didn't hesitate at all to look me in the eyes."
"You might be confusing her sorrow for strength, Kalmyk. Did you see the pain flash through her eyes when she talked about her parents?"
"I did. You could be right, Leitho, but I don't know. I've a gut feeling that there's more to her than meets the eye. Too bad she's not a lad. I could use someone of her skills. We still need to replace our last scout."
"What's the problem with her being a girl? She could be our scout and not be in much danger."
"I don't know. I just feel it isn't right to have a young and pretty maid riding with a bunch of hardened soldiers."
"I don't think you have much to worry about there. They're already treating her like some long lost sister. Did you notice that Gwher is guarding her tent like some old wolfhound? I would hate to be the man to try to cross him. She'll be safe enough with us, safer than with her family. They didn't stand a chance against Bhrag's renegades."
"Speaking of which, did you notice the way Bassus stared at her. If looks could kill I'm afraid Flindra would only be a memory," Kalmyk noted.
"He thought his hole-in-the-wall was safe from discovery. She punctured his delusion without much problem."
"She did at that." Kalmyk smiled and rubbed his chin. "Do you think she would consider staying and becoming our scout?"
"It couldn't hurt to ask. She might consider it better than begging food and lodging from some distant relative in Deodar. She's proud and I don't think the prospect of begging suits her. I wouldn't care much for it, myself, if I were in her position."
"Possibly." Kalmyk leaned back in his chair and took a sip of wine. "I guess I'll ask her in the morning. In the worst case she'll say no."
"I think she will probably say yes. At least I hope so. I'm getting tired of spending days crisscrossing the forest looking for signs of the renegades. A skilled tracker is a must with this kind of duty and the High Command hasn't seen fit to replace our last scout."
Lieutenant Kalmyk smiled. "Well, if the High Command won't give us another scout we will just have to find our own."
"I can't argue with that."
Kalmyk shook his head. "Is it normal practice for these skills to be taught to girls? I would guess that household chores would be their proper domain."
"I don't know. It might be that Flindra's an only child. If that's the case, I could understand her growing up rather like a boy."
Kalmyk refilled their goblets with wine before he continued. "I don't know. There is something about her that puzzles me. There's a quiet strength about her and she's very confident for a rustic. She didn't hesitate at all to look me in the eyes."
"You might be confusing her sorrow for strength, Kalmyk. Did you see the pain flash through her eyes when she talked about her parents?"
"I did. You could be right, Leitho, but I don't know. I've a gut feeling that there's more to her than meets the eye. Too bad she's not a lad. I could use someone of her skills. We still need to replace our last scout."
"What's the problem with her being a girl? She could be our scout and not be in much danger."
"I don't know. I just feel it isn't right to have a young and pretty maid riding with a bunch of hardened soldiers."
"I don't think you have much to worry about there. They're already treating her like some long lost sister. Did you notice that Gwher is guarding her tent like some old wolfhound? I would hate to be the man to try to cross him. She'll be safe enough with us, safer than with her family. They didn't stand a chance against Bhrag's renegades."
"Speaking of which, did you notice the way Bassus stared at her. If looks could kill I'm afraid Flindra would only be a memory," Kalmyk noted.
"He thought his hole-in-the-wall was safe from discovery. She punctured his delusion without much problem."
"She did at that." Kalmyk smiled and rubbed his chin. "Do you think she would consider staying and becoming our scout?"
"It couldn't hurt to ask. She might consider it better than begging food and lodging from some distant relative in Deodar. She's proud and I don't think the prospect of begging suits her. I wouldn't care much for it, myself, if I were in her position."
"Possibly." Kalmyk leaned back in his chair and took a sip of wine. "I guess I'll ask her in the morning. In the worst case she'll say no."
"I think she will probably say yes. At least I hope so. I'm getting tired of spending days crisscrossing the forest looking for signs of the renegades. A skilled tracker is a must with this kind of duty and the High Command hasn't seen fit to replace our last scout."
Lieutenant Kalmyk smiled. "Well, if the High Command won't give us another scout we will just have to find our own."
"I can't argue with that."
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Chapter XIII, Reading 8
Flindra was more or less ignored as darkness descended. Finally, a trooper approached and told her to go into the tent where her things were. She would sleep there. Flindra walked to the tent, entered, and tied the flap closed. She heard the soft jingling a mail shirt just outside the entrance - a guard had been posted. Flindra didn't quite know if the man was there for her protection or to keep her from leaving or a combination of both.
Not that it mattered much. Flindra had no intention of leaving. This situation might prove to be an opportunity to begin her task of helping Prince Storos. She would just have to watch and wait and be ready to seize any opportunity that was presented to her.
Flindra snuggled deep in her blankets and started to imagine what Prince Storos would be like. Kewero didn't know much about the personal details of the Prince, such as the quality of his personality. Flindra was impressed by the caliber of these Rangers and felt it was a good indication of the Prince's nature. Quality had a tendency to draw quality. She fell asleep trying to imagine what it was going to be like to meet him.
She was innocent of the fact that even as she was drifting off to sleep she was the object of discussion in the lieutenant's quarters. In the privacy of his tent, the lieutenant talked to Sergeant Leitho. They were friends and it was obvious the lieutenant respected the opinions of his sergeant.
"So Leitho, what to you think of this girl, Flindra?" he asked.
He swallowed a sip of his wine before he answered. "She's pretty quiet. I think it's obvious she has seen some hardship during her years. She showed a certain amount of weariness in the way she held her shoulders. Why do you ask, Kalmyk?"
"I was impressed with her abilities today. Did you notice her skill in the forest? I've seen expert trackers enough to recognize the fact that she is good, really good. We could have wandered around for days and never stumbled onto that cave. And she was right on the mark about that lame horse."
"I noticed that, too. But didn't she say that she's a woodsman's daughter?"
"Yes, I believe she did."
Not that it mattered much. Flindra had no intention of leaving. This situation might prove to be an opportunity to begin her task of helping Prince Storos. She would just have to watch and wait and be ready to seize any opportunity that was presented to her.
Flindra snuggled deep in her blankets and started to imagine what Prince Storos would be like. Kewero didn't know much about the personal details of the Prince, such as the quality of his personality. Flindra was impressed by the caliber of these Rangers and felt it was a good indication of the Prince's nature. Quality had a tendency to draw quality. She fell asleep trying to imagine what it was going to be like to meet him.
* * *
She was innocent of the fact that even as she was drifting off to sleep she was the object of discussion in the lieutenant's quarters. In the privacy of his tent, the lieutenant talked to Sergeant Leitho. They were friends and it was obvious the lieutenant respected the opinions of his sergeant.
"So Leitho, what to you think of this girl, Flindra?" he asked.
He swallowed a sip of his wine before he answered. "She's pretty quiet. I think it's obvious she has seen some hardship during her years. She showed a certain amount of weariness in the way she held her shoulders. Why do you ask, Kalmyk?"
"I was impressed with her abilities today. Did you notice her skill in the forest? I've seen expert trackers enough to recognize the fact that she is good, really good. We could have wandered around for days and never stumbled onto that cave. And she was right on the mark about that lame horse."
"I noticed that, too. But didn't she say that she's a woodsman's daughter?"
"Yes, I believe she did."
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Chapter XIII, Reading 7
The group rode out of the forest with the prisoners closely guarded. Flindra noticed one of the prisoners staring hatefully at her. She couldn't recall ever seeing the man before. He was slightly built with a sallow complexion. Long, greasy, brown hair hung loosely about his face and shoulders. He looked like a scoundrel and she wondered if he was the type of man who had been recruited to fight under Duke Bhrag's banner. If he was, it didn't speak well for the Duke's judgment.
He continued to scowl in her direction and she could sense almost palpable waves of malice accompanying his stares. She strengthened the purple aura about herself but kept it safely at skin level to avoid detection.
The Rangers finally halted for the night, several hours shy of the next village. With practiced efficiency, the troopers began preparing the encampment for the night.
Flindra dismounted and looked uncertain what to do.
"We're camping here for the night," the lieutenant explained gruffly. "Stay by the fire and keep out from under foot."
She nodded. "Yes, sir."
He turned and walked off without another word. A trooper took Deru's reins from her and motioned towards the fire with his head. "We'll take care of your gear so go sit." His tone was firm, but not unkind.
One of the men placed a stump close to the fire for her. She sat on it and watched another man unsaddle Deru and place her belongings in one of the tents that had been quickly erected.
Flindra was eventually served a bowl of salt pork and beans for supper. Some of the troopers started to talk as they ate their food, forgetting her presence. They talked of the war, how things didn't look very hopeful for a quick campaign. All of the men spoke of the Duke's soldiers with a tone of contempt. Apparently, the renegades they had captured today were typical of his men.
He continued to scowl in her direction and she could sense almost palpable waves of malice accompanying his stares. She strengthened the purple aura about herself but kept it safely at skin level to avoid detection.
The Rangers finally halted for the night, several hours shy of the next village. With practiced efficiency, the troopers began preparing the encampment for the night.
Flindra dismounted and looked uncertain what to do.
"We're camping here for the night," the lieutenant explained gruffly. "Stay by the fire and keep out from under foot."
She nodded. "Yes, sir."
He turned and walked off without another word. A trooper took Deru's reins from her and motioned towards the fire with his head. "We'll take care of your gear so go sit." His tone was firm, but not unkind.
One of the men placed a stump close to the fire for her. She sat on it and watched another man unsaddle Deru and place her belongings in one of the tents that had been quickly erected.
Flindra was eventually served a bowl of salt pork and beans for supper. Some of the troopers started to talk as they ate their food, forgetting her presence. They talked of the war, how things didn't look very hopeful for a quick campaign. All of the men spoke of the Duke's soldiers with a tone of contempt. Apparently, the renegades they had captured today were typical of his men.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Chapter XIII, Reading 5
The lieutenant transfixed her with a stare. "Is there a place hereabout where a group of men could hide?"
"There are many such places. The hills around here are riddled with caves."
"And I suppose you know where they are?"
"Yes sir. My father was a woodsman. I spent much time in the forest with him. My mother would send me out to bring him his mid-day meal. I learned where the caves were because my father taught me to avoid them. They were frequently the hiding places for smugglers and thieves."
"I see. Well then, Maid Flindra, I don't suppose you would care to show us these caves?"
"I would be happy to, sir."
"Then do it."
Flindra smiled discreetly while she urged Deru to the head of the column. The Spirit might have solved her problem for her. She was working with the Prince's men. Perhaps this could be the opportunity she needed to move into a position to help Prince Storos.
They trotted down the road for half a league before she veered to the left on a barely noticeable path. The path twisted through the forest, obviously made by men who wished to avoid pursuit or detection. The trail would have been difficult to follow if one did not know it, but she knew it well thanks to the gift of her extended memories.
Eventually the path intercepted another. Flindra stopped here, dismounted, and examined the ground.
"What is it?" the lieutenant demanded.
"There are tracks here. Seven, no eight, horses passed this way within the last few hours. One of the horses has a worn shoe. It looks like he is about to lose it. The horse will turn up lame before his rider makes it to the caves."
"I see you are a skilled tracker," the lieutenant said respectfully. His own skills where rather rudimentary but he knew enough to recognize her expertise.
"Thank you. I had a good teacher."
"There are many such places. The hills around here are riddled with caves."
"And I suppose you know where they are?"
"Yes sir. My father was a woodsman. I spent much time in the forest with him. My mother would send me out to bring him his mid-day meal. I learned where the caves were because my father taught me to avoid them. They were frequently the hiding places for smugglers and thieves."
"I see. Well then, Maid Flindra, I don't suppose you would care to show us these caves?"
"I would be happy to, sir."
"Then do it."
Flindra smiled discreetly while she urged Deru to the head of the column. The Spirit might have solved her problem for her. She was working with the Prince's men. Perhaps this could be the opportunity she needed to move into a position to help Prince Storos.
They trotted down the road for half a league before she veered to the left on a barely noticeable path. The path twisted through the forest, obviously made by men who wished to avoid pursuit or detection. The trail would have been difficult to follow if one did not know it, but she knew it well thanks to the gift of her extended memories.
Eventually the path intercepted another. Flindra stopped here, dismounted, and examined the ground.
"What is it?" the lieutenant demanded.
"There are tracks here. Seven, no eight, horses passed this way within the last few hours. One of the horses has a worn shoe. It looks like he is about to lose it. The horse will turn up lame before his rider makes it to the caves."
"I see you are a skilled tracker," the lieutenant said respectfully. His own skills where rather rudimentary but he knew enough to recognize her expertise.
"Thank you. I had a good teacher."
Monday, January 5, 2009
Chapter XIII, Reading 4
The young sergeant swore under his breath. "Who did this crime?" he demanded.
"I don't know who the men were."
"Didn't they show any livery?"
"No, sir. Their clothing was plain."
The sergeant quietly swore again. "It's just like the Duke's men to remove their insignia. This isn't the first time we've heard of the Duke's minions attacking innocent civilians."
The lieutenant and the sergeant withdrew slightly - just out of earshot. Flindra absently stroked Deru's neck while the two men discussed her. She hated to lie, but she couldn't tell them the truth. In any case, there was an element of truth to her story. It was true that her parents had been murdered, although their deaths had occurred years before.
The officers returned. "You'll ride with us until the next village," the lieutenant commanded. "I'll see to it that you will have some sort of escort as far as Deodar."
"Thank you, sir. I appreciate your concern."
Flindra mounted Deru and was surrounded by the horsemen as they took up their positions in their formation. She rode behind the young sergeant with a trooper on either side of her. She was surrounded by the sounds of creaking leather and rattling chain mail. The men rode in tense silence and it was obvious that they were searching for someone.
As they rode south, the terrain became increasingly familiar. Flindra relaxed and drew upon her extended memories. She was pleased she could draw upon the knowledge of her ancestors with such ease. A distant grandfather had grown up in this region. She committed his knowledge to her own memory.
The lieutenant signaled a halt with a raised hand. "Leitho, do you know of any place those renegades could hide? They couldn't have made it this far."
The sergeant scratched his chin with the back of his hand. "I'm just not that familiar with this area, Kalmyk. I've passed through dozens of times but I've never strayed off the road."
The lieutenant turned his question to the men. "Did any of you grow up around here?"
There was no affirmative answer.
Finally, Flindra thought it wise to speak up. "Excuse me, sir. My family spent several years in this area when I was a child. Could I help you?"
"I don't know who the men were."
"Didn't they show any livery?"
"No, sir. Their clothing was plain."
The sergeant quietly swore again. "It's just like the Duke's men to remove their insignia. This isn't the first time we've heard of the Duke's minions attacking innocent civilians."
The lieutenant and the sergeant withdrew slightly - just out of earshot. Flindra absently stroked Deru's neck while the two men discussed her. She hated to lie, but she couldn't tell them the truth. In any case, there was an element of truth to her story. It was true that her parents had been murdered, although their deaths had occurred years before.
The officers returned. "You'll ride with us until the next village," the lieutenant commanded. "I'll see to it that you will have some sort of escort as far as Deodar."
"Thank you, sir. I appreciate your concern."
Flindra mounted Deru and was surrounded by the horsemen as they took up their positions in their formation. She rode behind the young sergeant with a trooper on either side of her. She was surrounded by the sounds of creaking leather and rattling chain mail. The men rode in tense silence and it was obvious that they were searching for someone.
As they rode south, the terrain became increasingly familiar. Flindra relaxed and drew upon her extended memories. She was pleased she could draw upon the knowledge of her ancestors with such ease. A distant grandfather had grown up in this region. She committed his knowledge to her own memory.
The lieutenant signaled a halt with a raised hand. "Leitho, do you know of any place those renegades could hide? They couldn't have made it this far."
The sergeant scratched his chin with the back of his hand. "I'm just not that familiar with this area, Kalmyk. I've passed through dozens of times but I've never strayed off the road."
The lieutenant turned his question to the men. "Did any of you grow up around here?"
There was no affirmative answer.
Finally, Flindra thought it wise to speak up. "Excuse me, sir. My family spent several years in this area when I was a child. Could I help you?"
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Chapter XIII, Reading 3
All the Rangers were heavily armed. She could see they all carried heavy broadswords beneath their green cloaks. Most had a bow and a quiver of arrows hanging over the pommels of their saddles as well. The men were wearing chain mail under their surcoats. Their helmets were conical in shape, with a section of steel extending down from the cone to cover the ears and the back of the neck.
The leader of the troop was a large man with the insignia of a lieutenant on the breast of his green surcoat. He had that stern look around the eyes that comes from being a veteran soldier. This man was used to being obeyed. His helmet hid his hair but Flindra noticed his brown mustache and guessed his hair would be much the same color. His eyes were brown and the wrinkles around them indicated he squinted often.
To his left rode a sergeant. He was as tall as the lieutenant but was leaner in build. He was clean-shaven, which gave him a very youthful appearance. His blue eyes looked grim today, but Flindra guessed they could sparkle with laughter in the right situation.
The lieutenant addressed her gruffly. "You lad, what is your name?"
"My name is Flindra, sir."
There were a few chuckles among the men.
"A maid's name. What's a lad doing with a maid's name? Couldn't your mother tell the difference?"
The chuckles turned into raucous laughter.
Without answering, Flindra drew back her hood exposing her long auburn braids. She shook her head slightly to make sure that her hair was seen. All the while she had been looking directly into the lieutenant's eyes.
"Well, I see you are indeed a maid. I guess your mother could tell the difference after all." There was a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Now tell me, what are you doing here?"
"I'm on my way to Deodar," Flindra answered truthfully.
"And what do you intend to do there?"
"I have family in Deodar, sir. I'm going there to find them."
"Do your parents know you are traveling alone?" The lieutenant had concluded that Flindra was a runaway. Probably running away from an unwanted arranged marriage.
"My parents were murdered," Flindra said softly with a catch in her voice. "What family I have left is in Deodar."
The leader of the troop was a large man with the insignia of a lieutenant on the breast of his green surcoat. He had that stern look around the eyes that comes from being a veteran soldier. This man was used to being obeyed. His helmet hid his hair but Flindra noticed his brown mustache and guessed his hair would be much the same color. His eyes were brown and the wrinkles around them indicated he squinted often.
To his left rode a sergeant. He was as tall as the lieutenant but was leaner in build. He was clean-shaven, which gave him a very youthful appearance. His blue eyes looked grim today, but Flindra guessed they could sparkle with laughter in the right situation.
The lieutenant addressed her gruffly. "You lad, what is your name?"
"My name is Flindra, sir."
There were a few chuckles among the men.
"A maid's name. What's a lad doing with a maid's name? Couldn't your mother tell the difference?"
The chuckles turned into raucous laughter.
Without answering, Flindra drew back her hood exposing her long auburn braids. She shook her head slightly to make sure that her hair was seen. All the while she had been looking directly into the lieutenant's eyes.
"Well, I see you are indeed a maid. I guess your mother could tell the difference after all." There was a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Now tell me, what are you doing here?"
"I'm on my way to Deodar," Flindra answered truthfully.
"And what do you intend to do there?"
"I have family in Deodar, sir. I'm going there to find them."
"Do your parents know you are traveling alone?" The lieutenant had concluded that Flindra was a runaway. Probably running away from an unwanted arranged marriage.
"My parents were murdered," Flindra said softly with a catch in her voice. "What family I have left is in Deodar."
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Chapter XIII, Reading 1
The black horse drank greedily in the cool forest stream. Flindra was filling her water bags upstream from where Deru was standing. She rose and carried the dripping bags to him. She looked at her horse remorsefully.
"Sorry Deru," she said as she stroked his neck. "I didn't mean for you to do without water for so long, but I didn't think it wise to ride up to the last spring with all the King's Rangers camped there." She hung a water bag from either side of her saddle to keep her gear balanced on his back.
Flindra looked around and smiled at the tiny green leaves sprouting on the nearby trees. The infant leaves were a pale, yellowish green, which would quickly turn to deep green in the coming month. The first flowers of the season were bravely baring their delicate lavender petals to the fickle weather of early spring.
She had been surprised to find that spring was just beginning to break the hold of winter. She had spent the better part of a year with Kewero and only a season had passed here in the world. Kewero was right, it was futile to compare the time systems of the world and the caverns. They seemed to be entirely independent of each other.
Amidst the gentle beauty of the coming spring was the harsh evidence of an escalating civil war. Flindra knew that when King Audaz had died, Prince Storos was too young to assume the crown. The King's brother-in-law, Duke Bhrag, had been made regent of Ostar and the guardian of the young prince. Now Prince Storos had reached manhood and wanted to come into his inheritance. The problem was that Duke Bhrag had grown fond of power and was loath to relinquish the crown to his nephew. Even before Flindra had left to find Kewero, she had heard of the growing violence to the south of the Kingdom.
The violence had spread to the north in the time she'd been in the caverns. She had passed more than one burned ruin on her journey south. It didn't seem to matter if the dwelling was a cottage or a castle; everything appeared to be a fair target for the violence. Both the Prince's Rangers and the troops of Duke Bhrag patrolled the roads in force and it had been challenging to safely avoid the armed parties.
"Sorry Deru," she said as she stroked his neck. "I didn't mean for you to do without water for so long, but I didn't think it wise to ride up to the last spring with all the King's Rangers camped there." She hung a water bag from either side of her saddle to keep her gear balanced on his back.
Flindra looked around and smiled at the tiny green leaves sprouting on the nearby trees. The infant leaves were a pale, yellowish green, which would quickly turn to deep green in the coming month. The first flowers of the season were bravely baring their delicate lavender petals to the fickle weather of early spring.
She had been surprised to find that spring was just beginning to break the hold of winter. She had spent the better part of a year with Kewero and only a season had passed here in the world. Kewero was right, it was futile to compare the time systems of the world and the caverns. They seemed to be entirely independent of each other.
Amidst the gentle beauty of the coming spring was the harsh evidence of an escalating civil war. Flindra knew that when King Audaz had died, Prince Storos was too young to assume the crown. The King's brother-in-law, Duke Bhrag, had been made regent of Ostar and the guardian of the young prince. Now Prince Storos had reached manhood and wanted to come into his inheritance. The problem was that Duke Bhrag had grown fond of power and was loath to relinquish the crown to his nephew. Even before Flindra had left to find Kewero, she had heard of the growing violence to the south of the Kingdom.
The violence had spread to the north in the time she'd been in the caverns. She had passed more than one burned ruin on her journey south. It didn't seem to matter if the dwelling was a cottage or a castle; everything appeared to be a fair target for the violence. Both the Prince's Rangers and the troops of Duke Bhrag patrolled the roads in force and it had been challenging to safely avoid the armed parties.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Chapter XII, Reading 8
Kewero looked pensive. "I guess the only thing left to tell you, little one, is to be careful."
Flindra sighed again. "Kewero, will I ever see you again? Will you ever leave these caverns? I would welcome you as my adviser and friend when I am Queen."
"I am honored at the invitation, Flindra. After we have succeeded in defeating our enemy, I'll finally be free to return to the world. I would enjoy serving you, my Princess. Until then, I think I will serve you best by staying here, communing with the Spirit, and searching for any additional knowledge, which may help our fight. Think of me as a resource much like a library. If you need to research something, I'll be able to do it for you."
Kewero grasped Flindra by the shoulders. "You have the power to contact me with your orb so we won't be totally separated."
"It's not the same." Flindra was crying now.
"I know, but we all must accomplish our assigned tasks in life. Don't shrink from yours."
Although there were tears in her own eyes, she brushed the wetness from Flindra's cheeks with a gentle touch.
"I love you, Kewero," Flindra said as she pulled the old woman into an embrace.
"I love you too, Princess Flindra. King Meldh and Queen Kwenth would be proud of you. The nobility of their line has continued to you. Do them honor by facing your fate with courage."
"I will do my best," she promised. She took a deep breath and took a step back. "I guess it's best to leave now before my resolve weakens."
"I think so, Flindra. Know that I am proud of your courage, my Princess." She kissed Flindra's noble brow. "I'm always at your service, Your Highness. Never feel afraid to call upon me."
"I promise I'll ask for your help when I need it."
"I think it's time to go out to the yurt. Daylight is still short this time of year. Let's not waste it with prolonged good-byes."
Flindra nodded in agreement. "There's no need for you to go out with me. I've been practicing with the doorway."
"I know child. I'm proud of your skill. I just want to be with you for as long as I can. Indulge me."
"I'd be proud to."
"I'm not going to say good-bye for we will be in communication through the crystals. Have a good and safe journey, Princess Flindra. Trust the words of your heart."
"All right. I look forward to the day when we have defeated the Ansu and you can come to me to be my advisor. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with me. I love you." Flindra shook her head. "The words sound so hollow. They don't even come close to matching how I feel."
"I understand. Thanks aren't necessary. I just want to say that I have been honored to be your teacher. I wish you well, Princess Flindra. Take care of yourself. Never let your guard down and let Rigga protect you."
The women briefly hugged each other in silence and then Flindra mounted Deru. Kewero took hold of his reins and led them through the shimmering zone to the yurt. She unlashed the fastenings of the door and then turned to her surrogate daughter. Kewero held up her hand in parting. "Good journey, little one. May the Spirit guide your days and guard your nights."
Flindra bit her lip to keep from crying. "Be well, Kewero, and may the Spirit bless you." She bowed her head in respect and then rode out of the yurt and into the bite of the northwind.
Flindra sighed again. "Kewero, will I ever see you again? Will you ever leave these caverns? I would welcome you as my adviser and friend when I am Queen."
"I am honored at the invitation, Flindra. After we have succeeded in defeating our enemy, I'll finally be free to return to the world. I would enjoy serving you, my Princess. Until then, I think I will serve you best by staying here, communing with the Spirit, and searching for any additional knowledge, which may help our fight. Think of me as a resource much like a library. If you need to research something, I'll be able to do it for you."
Kewero grasped Flindra by the shoulders. "You have the power to contact me with your orb so we won't be totally separated."
"It's not the same." Flindra was crying now.
"I know, but we all must accomplish our assigned tasks in life. Don't shrink from yours."
Although there were tears in her own eyes, she brushed the wetness from Flindra's cheeks with a gentle touch.
"I love you, Kewero," Flindra said as she pulled the old woman into an embrace.
"I love you too, Princess Flindra. King Meldh and Queen Kwenth would be proud of you. The nobility of their line has continued to you. Do them honor by facing your fate with courage."
"I will do my best," she promised. She took a deep breath and took a step back. "I guess it's best to leave now before my resolve weakens."
"I think so, Flindra. Know that I am proud of your courage, my Princess." She kissed Flindra's noble brow. "I'm always at your service, Your Highness. Never feel afraid to call upon me."
"I promise I'll ask for your help when I need it."
"I think it's time to go out to the yurt. Daylight is still short this time of year. Let's not waste it with prolonged good-byes."
Flindra nodded in agreement. "There's no need for you to go out with me. I've been practicing with the doorway."
"I know child. I'm proud of your skill. I just want to be with you for as long as I can. Indulge me."
"I'd be proud to."
"I'm not going to say good-bye for we will be in communication through the crystals. Have a good and safe journey, Princess Flindra. Trust the words of your heart."
"All right. I look forward to the day when we have defeated the Ansu and you can come to me to be my advisor. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with me. I love you." Flindra shook her head. "The words sound so hollow. They don't even come close to matching how I feel."
"I understand. Thanks aren't necessary. I just want to say that I have been honored to be your teacher. I wish you well, Princess Flindra. Take care of yourself. Never let your guard down and let Rigga protect you."
The women briefly hugged each other in silence and then Flindra mounted Deru. Kewero took hold of his reins and led them through the shimmering zone to the yurt. She unlashed the fastenings of the door and then turned to her surrogate daughter. Kewero held up her hand in parting. "Good journey, little one. May the Spirit guide your days and guard your nights."
Flindra bit her lip to keep from crying. "Be well, Kewero, and may the Spirit bless you." She bowed her head in respect and then rode out of the yurt and into the bite of the northwind.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Chapter XII, Reading 7
The day came when Flindra was ready to leave the caverns. She had gathered her belongings and had saddled Deru. The only task that remained was saying good-bye to her mentor. The sorrow in her heart made her steps slow and heavy as she led Deru to the main cavern. Kewero was waiting for her there.
"Do you have everything?" the old woman asked in a low voice. She was struggling against her tears and couldn't speak normally.
"Yes, dear mother, I have everything I need to take. I still feel I'm leaving you with scant supplies, you've given me so much food."
"I'm an old woman, child, and I don't eat very much. You will need to keep up your strength on your quest. Don't feel guilty about what I'm sending with you. You need it more than I do."
Flindra nodded her head in understanding but said nothing.
Kewero questioned her to see if she recalled what her next task should be. She had drilled her on the subject before, but it was of critical importance so she asked again. "Before the fateful choice destiny has placed before you can even be made, there must be two kings. Do you understand you must help Prince Storos gain his crown?"
"I know what I must do but I'm still unclear how to go about it. I mean I can't just ride up and announce that I'll save his crown. He'll think I'm nothing but a fool."
"Study the situation and use your imagination. Use your intuition. You also have the knowledge of your memories. They might help you to assist the Prince's cause."
"I'd feel more comfortable about things if you could be more specific."
"I would be if I knew more. I just know what you need to do not how to do it. That is up to you to discover. Trust the Spirit, Flindra, you leave this place in service to the Beloved Spirit. You will be guided when you need it."
Flindra sighed and nodded her head in understanding.
"Do you have everything?" the old woman asked in a low voice. She was struggling against her tears and couldn't speak normally.
"Yes, dear mother, I have everything I need to take. I still feel I'm leaving you with scant supplies, you've given me so much food."
"I'm an old woman, child, and I don't eat very much. You will need to keep up your strength on your quest. Don't feel guilty about what I'm sending with you. You need it more than I do."
Flindra nodded her head in understanding but said nothing.
Kewero questioned her to see if she recalled what her next task should be. She had drilled her on the subject before, but it was of critical importance so she asked again. "Before the fateful choice destiny has placed before you can even be made, there must be two kings. Do you understand you must help Prince Storos gain his crown?"
"I know what I must do but I'm still unclear how to go about it. I mean I can't just ride up and announce that I'll save his crown. He'll think I'm nothing but a fool."
"Study the situation and use your imagination. Use your intuition. You also have the knowledge of your memories. They might help you to assist the Prince's cause."
"I'd feel more comfortable about things if you could be more specific."
"I would be if I knew more. I just know what you need to do not how to do it. That is up to you to discover. Trust the Spirit, Flindra, you leave this place in service to the Beloved Spirit. You will be guided when you need it."
Flindra sighed and nodded her head in understanding.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Chapter XII, Reading 6
"What will you do with the spinel? After all, it was part of King Meldh's gift to you."
"I will give it to my King along with the other treasures. It will be part of my dowry."
"You understand, of course, that all must be kept safe until the right time?"
Flindra smiled briefly before she answered. "I understand. Everything will be safe with me." She wrinkled her brow as she concentrated on her coming journey. "I'll have to come up with some way to hide them."
"Already taken care of. See this saddle?"
"Yes."
"It was made by a smuggler. We'll be able to hide everything in the wooden saddletree and no one will be the wiser."
"You think of everything!" Flindra noted in amazement and then she grinned mischievously. "How is it that you're familiar with a smuggler, Kewero?"
The old woman laughed. "When one has lived as long as I have, one has the chance to befriend many different sorts of people. Sometimes friendships grow in the most unexpected places. Keep that in mind when you search for your comrades in this fight."
"I will."
"Trust Rigga and your own heart when meeting new people. You should be able to see into their natures."
"I'll do what I can."
Kewero smiled. "All right. Now that I've given you the treasures you need to take with you, it's time to review what you have learned. Show me my time has not been wasted and that you've been listening to your lessons."
Flindra laughed. "Very well, my mentor. Let me unpack everything you've crammed into my brain. Holler if you see anything missing."
Kewero could only hug Flindra as the two of them laughed together.
"I will give it to my King along with the other treasures. It will be part of my dowry."
"You understand, of course, that all must be kept safe until the right time?"
Flindra smiled briefly before she answered. "I understand. Everything will be safe with me." She wrinkled her brow as she concentrated on her coming journey. "I'll have to come up with some way to hide them."
"Already taken care of. See this saddle?"
"Yes."
"It was made by a smuggler. We'll be able to hide everything in the wooden saddletree and no one will be the wiser."
"You think of everything!" Flindra noted in amazement and then she grinned mischievously. "How is it that you're familiar with a smuggler, Kewero?"
The old woman laughed. "When one has lived as long as I have, one has the chance to befriend many different sorts of people. Sometimes friendships grow in the most unexpected places. Keep that in mind when you search for your comrades in this fight."
"I will."
"Trust Rigga and your own heart when meeting new people. You should be able to see into their natures."
"I'll do what I can."
Kewero smiled. "All right. Now that I've given you the treasures you need to take with you, it's time to review what you have learned. Show me my time has not been wasted and that you've been listening to your lessons."
Flindra laughed. "Very well, my mentor. Let me unpack everything you've crammed into my brain. Holler if you see anything missing."
Kewero could only hug Flindra as the two of them laughed together.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Chapter XII, Reading 5
Kewero then displayed the crystals. Flindra picked them up and probed each with her mind. She felt their individual essences and their combined power. Then she placed her own orb next to them and felt the synergistic response. There was far more power here than expected. She withdrew her white orb and the energy level dropped to the combined power of the three crystals. She advanced her sphere. The power surge was again greater than the added powers of the four gems. True synergism. Moreover, the white crystal was the catalyst.
"Did you feel that?" she asked.
"Yes, I did child. The crystals are responding to your power. You are the key to our fight and the White is reflecting that."
"Oh." Flindra then placed all but the blue crystal on the floor. She picked up the scepter and held it next to the blue gem. "This doesn't feel right," she murmured as she looked at the two.
She gazed at the ruby spinel at the top of the shaft. It was a large stone - dark red with faint traces of black in the interior of the gem. In her heart, she knew that as beautiful as the gem was it didn't fit the purpose of the scepter. Flindra grasped the spinel and with a quick twist of her hand popped the gem from its socket on the scepter.
Kewero gasped in shock at her audacity. "Flindra what are you doing?"
"Bear with me, Kewero. You will soon see what must be."
Flindra then took the blue crystal and held it to the shaft of the scepter. An intense light erupted from the crystal as she withdrew her hand. Both women had to look away from the blinding intensity of the light. After several moments the light faded and they could look at the scepter.
The blue gem had fused itself to the shaft. The gold had melted around the crystal forming a perfect setting for the gem. The crystal radiated in a newfound power. This was the place for the blue ellipsoid. It fit.
"Well I'll be...How did you know, Flindra?"
She shrugged her shoulders. "I don't know really, I just felt that this was the way it was supposed to be. This is the crystal meant for my King. It is appropriate to have it in the scepter. It combines the functions - King and champion."
"Did you feel that?" she asked.
"Yes, I did child. The crystals are responding to your power. You are the key to our fight and the White is reflecting that."
"Oh." Flindra then placed all but the blue crystal on the floor. She picked up the scepter and held it next to the blue gem. "This doesn't feel right," she murmured as she looked at the two.
She gazed at the ruby spinel at the top of the shaft. It was a large stone - dark red with faint traces of black in the interior of the gem. In her heart, she knew that as beautiful as the gem was it didn't fit the purpose of the scepter. Flindra grasped the spinel and with a quick twist of her hand popped the gem from its socket on the scepter.
Kewero gasped in shock at her audacity. "Flindra what are you doing?"
"Bear with me, Kewero. You will soon see what must be."
Flindra then took the blue crystal and held it to the shaft of the scepter. An intense light erupted from the crystal as she withdrew her hand. Both women had to look away from the blinding intensity of the light. After several moments the light faded and they could look at the scepter.
The blue gem had fused itself to the shaft. The gold had melted around the crystal forming a perfect setting for the gem. The crystal radiated in a newfound power. This was the place for the blue ellipsoid. It fit.
"Well I'll be...How did you know, Flindra?"
She shrugged her shoulders. "I don't know really, I just felt that this was the way it was supposed to be. This is the crystal meant for my King. It is appropriate to have it in the scepter. It combines the functions - King and champion."
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Chapter XII, Reading 4
It was not long before Flindra joined her in the cave. "I missed you at breakfast. Have you been awake long?"
"Not that long. I needed to fetch some things before we started today's discussion."
"What things?"
"Some tools you will need for your quest. It is time when you need to start preparing yourself to leave."
Flindra looked a little surprised at these words, surprised and sad. "So soon?"
"I'm afraid so, child." Kewero reached over and took Flindra's hand.
"I suppose it had to happen sometime," Flindra remarked sadly. "I've learned to feel at home with you, Kewero. It's going to be hard leaving you."
"Thank you for saying so, Flindra. I will miss you, too, but it's time for you to follow your destiny. It was hard for me to leave my beloved King and Queen to search out these caves, but I did what I had to."
Flindra nodded her head slowly. "I know what must be done, Kewero, and will do what is required. I will miss you, dear mother."
Kewero smiled. "We have a few more days together, my child, so let's not get too sentimental quite yet. There are a few more things I need to show you."
"What?"
"Look. I'll show you." Kewero pointed to the old leather satchel. "These are the tokens of your heritage. They will serve as the proof of your birth and as a dowry." She removed the relics of King Meldh from the bag and spread them out for Flindra's inspection. "I've kept these safe from harm since the time His Majesty entrusted them to my care. They are yours."
Flindra picked up the crown and looked at it carefully. "It's beautiful," she murmured. "What shall I do with it?"
"You need to give these treasures to the king who has properly discovered your identity, but only after the choice is made. Your King must determine your nature on his own - without this proof. Never forget, my Princess, that you are the Heir of King Meldh! Don't cheapen yourself by helping the wrong man win your hand. Keep your identity a secret."
"The memories of my forebears are with me, Kewero. I will respect my heritage and I will remember your words," stated Flindra in the tone of an oath.
"Not that long. I needed to fetch some things before we started today's discussion."
"What things?"
"Some tools you will need for your quest. It is time when you need to start preparing yourself to leave."
Flindra looked a little surprised at these words, surprised and sad. "So soon?"
"I'm afraid so, child." Kewero reached over and took Flindra's hand.
"I suppose it had to happen sometime," Flindra remarked sadly. "I've learned to feel at home with you, Kewero. It's going to be hard leaving you."
"Thank you for saying so, Flindra. I will miss you, too, but it's time for you to follow your destiny. It was hard for me to leave my beloved King and Queen to search out these caves, but I did what I had to."
Flindra nodded her head slowly. "I know what must be done, Kewero, and will do what is required. I will miss you, dear mother."
Kewero smiled. "We have a few more days together, my child, so let's not get too sentimental quite yet. There are a few more things I need to show you."
"What?"
"Look. I'll show you." Kewero pointed to the old leather satchel. "These are the tokens of your heritage. They will serve as the proof of your birth and as a dowry." She removed the relics of King Meldh from the bag and spread them out for Flindra's inspection. "I've kept these safe from harm since the time His Majesty entrusted them to my care. They are yours."
Flindra picked up the crown and looked at it carefully. "It's beautiful," she murmured. "What shall I do with it?"
"You need to give these treasures to the king who has properly discovered your identity, but only after the choice is made. Your King must determine your nature on his own - without this proof. Never forget, my Princess, that you are the Heir of King Meldh! Don't cheapen yourself by helping the wrong man win your hand. Keep your identity a secret."
"The memories of my forebears are with me, Kewero. I will respect my heritage and I will remember your words," stated Flindra in the tone of an oath.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Chapter XII, Reading 3
Kewero fingered the chain and enjoyed the touch of the cold metal against her skin. The look and the feel of the chain brought back the memory of the last time she had seen King Meldh wear it. The links of the chain blurred for there were tears in her eyes.
The King had worn it at the Spring Festival, the festival celebrating the continuation of life. It had been a glorious time, the beautiful weather alone was worth celebrating. The King and Queen wore smiles that were as warm and generous as the rays of the sun raining down from the sky. Troubles were forgotten and all the people rejoiced.
However, the forgotten troubles hadn't left and it was not long afterwards that the Ansu attacked and robbed the world of joy.
Kewero spoke to the memories in her heart. "Dear King, let the time be now for our revenge!" She could feel his answering rage coming to her from across the ages.
She put everything back in the satchel and stood up. Spying the saddle, she picked it up along with the satchel and left the storage area. Kewero took them both to the crystal cave and set them on the floor.
She then sought out a secret niche in the cave wall. Here she found the three remaining crystals. The first crystal she picked up was the Blue. It was an ellipsoid. It was as broad as her palm and in length it extended from the heel of her hand to her fingertips. It radiated a soft blue light, which was somehow soothing and calming. There was strength and wisdom in this crystal.
Kewero held the yellow crystal. It was incorrect to call this crystal an orb for it was a perfect tetrahedron. The sharp edges of the four faces matched the restless energy emanating from the gem. Here was purposeful and decisive action.
The final gem she removed from the niche was the red orb. It was a smooth sphere and was rather opaque and lusterless. No light shone from its dull, blood red surface. Even so, the depth of its emotion was overpowering. This was memory. This was revenge.
Kewero placed the three crystals next to the saddle and satchel. Flindra would have to match the gems to the proper people. The Blue would go to her husband, the King. She didn't know who would get the other two but she had faith that Flindra would select well.
The King had worn it at the Spring Festival, the festival celebrating the continuation of life. It had been a glorious time, the beautiful weather alone was worth celebrating. The King and Queen wore smiles that were as warm and generous as the rays of the sun raining down from the sky. Troubles were forgotten and all the people rejoiced.
However, the forgotten troubles hadn't left and it was not long afterwards that the Ansu attacked and robbed the world of joy.
Kewero spoke to the memories in her heart. "Dear King, let the time be now for our revenge!" She could feel his answering rage coming to her from across the ages.
She put everything back in the satchel and stood up. Spying the saddle, she picked it up along with the satchel and left the storage area. Kewero took them both to the crystal cave and set them on the floor.
She then sought out a secret niche in the cave wall. Here she found the three remaining crystals. The first crystal she picked up was the Blue. It was an ellipsoid. It was as broad as her palm and in length it extended from the heel of her hand to her fingertips. It radiated a soft blue light, which was somehow soothing and calming. There was strength and wisdom in this crystal.
Kewero held the yellow crystal. It was incorrect to call this crystal an orb for it was a perfect tetrahedron. The sharp edges of the four faces matched the restless energy emanating from the gem. Here was purposeful and decisive action.
The final gem she removed from the niche was the red orb. It was a smooth sphere and was rather opaque and lusterless. No light shone from its dull, blood red surface. Even so, the depth of its emotion was overpowering. This was memory. This was revenge.
Kewero placed the three crystals next to the saddle and satchel. Flindra would have to match the gems to the proper people. The Blue would go to her husband, the King. She didn't know who would get the other two but she had faith that Flindra would select well.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Chapter XII, Reading 2
Kewero didn't feel like eating so she went instead to a storage room deep in the heart of the caverns. It was in this hidden room that she kept her dearest possessions. Among her treasures was the leather satchel King Meldh gave her when she left his court. She sat down beside the common looking bag and knew the greatest treasures of the world were hidden within its stiff leather sides. A wave of memories flooded over her when she opened the latch and peered inside.
Somehow, it seemed only yesterday when she had been summoned into the King and Queen's presence. It had been the last time she had seen them and the sorrow she felt now was as keen as it had been then. Tears streaked down her wrinkled cheeks and she made no attempt to stay them.
The first treasure she withdrew from the bag was King Meldh's crown. It looked like a solid circle of gold encrusted with precious jewels, including a huge diamond at the front of the crown. Kewero knew by experience that the wholeness was deceiving. The crown actually consisted of a dozen segments connected by concealed hinges. It could be taken apart, folded, and packed into a small space.
This design made perfect sense when one remembered that King Meldh's clan had originated as nomads - fierce and untamed - before they came to power. After that, the line had produced strong and able kings who had ruled justly and wisely. This crown had rested on the brow of many a good king. Kewero finally put down the crown and picked up the next treasure.
The scepter was a beautiful piece of workmanship. Along the shaft, the King's crest was engraved repeatedly so the heraldic symbol merged and formed a pleasing design and texture. There was a large ruby spinel set at the top of the scepter. This gem had been in the family's hands for so long that no one could remember the full history surrounding the jewel. The scepter had been made so it was no longer than the length of a saddle. It, too, was designed to be portable. There would be no problem stashing the scepter in the smuggler's saddle.
Kewero withdrew the final treasure from the satchel. It was a heavy neck chain that the King wore with his robes of state. In many ways, it was a simple piece, nothing more than interlocking links of yellow and white gold, but it had been a wedding gift from his Queen and had numbered among his most cherished possessions.
Somehow, it seemed only yesterday when she had been summoned into the King and Queen's presence. It had been the last time she had seen them and the sorrow she felt now was as keen as it had been then. Tears streaked down her wrinkled cheeks and she made no attempt to stay them.
The first treasure she withdrew from the bag was King Meldh's crown. It looked like a solid circle of gold encrusted with precious jewels, including a huge diamond at the front of the crown. Kewero knew by experience that the wholeness was deceiving. The crown actually consisted of a dozen segments connected by concealed hinges. It could be taken apart, folded, and packed into a small space.
This design made perfect sense when one remembered that King Meldh's clan had originated as nomads - fierce and untamed - before they came to power. After that, the line had produced strong and able kings who had ruled justly and wisely. This crown had rested on the brow of many a good king. Kewero finally put down the crown and picked up the next treasure.
The scepter was a beautiful piece of workmanship. Along the shaft, the King's crest was engraved repeatedly so the heraldic symbol merged and formed a pleasing design and texture. There was a large ruby spinel set at the top of the scepter. This gem had been in the family's hands for so long that no one could remember the full history surrounding the jewel. The scepter had been made so it was no longer than the length of a saddle. It, too, was designed to be portable. There would be no problem stashing the scepter in the smuggler's saddle.
Kewero withdrew the final treasure from the satchel. It was a heavy neck chain that the King wore with his robes of state. In many ways, it was a simple piece, nothing more than interlocking links of yellow and white gold, but it had been a wedding gift from his Queen and had numbered among his most cherished possessions.
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Queen Flindra's Prayer
Strength in Adversity!