Amber Trail Chapter

Do Not Wake The Beast
Table of Content

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AMBER TRAIL
by Patricia I. Williams

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AMBER TRAIL AMBER TRAIL

Shoving the surprised farmer to the ground, Migui leaped over his body to gain the ditch beyond the dusty road.  Filthy rags flapped around him. The stink diverted the angry farmer and other travelers from snatching the thief off his feet.  A loud bellow rose up behind him charging his heart to over drive. Migui jumped into the ditch to scramble up the other side. Thick dust slipping beneath his churning feet made the ascent nearly impossible. A shadow fell across his path, the big chestnut gelding his victim was riding landed before him. His startled fall back into the ditch saved his neck.  The battle-axe swept through the air, the edge just nicking Migui’s face. He shrieked in terror, believing his head severed.  His screams were abruptly cut off when Ullric lifted his writhing body into the air by his throat.  Migui was shaken until most of the dust that layered him was once again returned to earth.  He was barely conscious when his loot was ripped from the inner pockets along with the filthy coat.  The NorBlad raged at him in the heathen tongue of his people, but Migui needed no translation to understand his displeasure. With a roar Ullric tossed the thief over his horse’s neck, nodding in satisfaction when he landed with a solid thump far from ditch and road.  The lump of probable broken bones did not move.

“I think that one will not be lifting purses for some time.”

Raven leaned on the horn of his saddle, unable to hide his amusement at the circumstances.

Ullric did not understand thievery. No warrior would sneak and crawl like vermin to take from another.  If you wanted it you challenged and fought until the other was dead or you were. Raven had been unable to make Ullric understand that just because you could kill a weaker man, did not give you the right to take what was his.  Not only were you a thief but a murderer as well. Ullric had lived in a world where the strongest survived and he interpreted that credo literally. During the months they traveled together, Raven more often than not stood between some hapless fool and Ullric’s axe.  He grinned as the pile of rags began to scuttle across the dusty ground, the desperate wheezing and groaning clearly audible.

Ullric turned and would have ridden after his prey, but Raven laughed and reminded him of the city they were approaching rife with strong ales and women.  Ullric threw one more black scowl at the retreating thief and followed Raven back onto the road and the milling travelers.  Most of them made quick work of leaving plenty of room around the NorBlad. His green eyes blazed with malice. As usual Raven ignored his bad attitude, eventually drifting into the light connection with Chi, which sustained him.  

Ullric scowled at the surroundings.  People clogged the roadway on foot, some herding long legged folly birds, an absurd creature that squawked and staggered around like a drunken man. They were nearly bare, having sparse red and white feathers, short stubby wings and long skinny green legs. The only good thing, they tasted wonderful roasted, baked or fricasseed.

Rickety wagons loaded with hay, various grains and vegetables bounced along, their drivers shouting at stubborn asses and even slower oxen. Periodically one would lose a wheel or break an axle causing a major crush and much milling about as confused angry people attempted to leave the road to go around the blockade.  More than a bit difficult since there were deep ditches bordering both sides.

Prosperous merchants had caravans on the road loaded with fine fabric, lumber, wines and the most precious of merchandise, water.

The thief was the last straw in a series of annoyances that had plagued Ullric since this new leg of their journey began.

He had taken a tavern wench to his bed in the last town at the edge of the midlands. Later a group of drunken idiots ran him to ground demanding he pay for the time he spent with her.  He told them what they could do with their demands and, of course, had to kill them all.  Raven and Chi watched the altercation, the mercenary teasing him for hours about his choice of bed mates.  Then, another inebriated fool attempted to run him through because he was some fabled demon. Raven took this incident more seriously and threatened to end the life of any who thought to attack their company. Ullric cursed him. He was no stripling needing someone to hold his hand.  Chi snorted and Ullric’s face heated.  He hated the beast’s superior air. But Chi cared not a wit for the berserker’s feelings and trotted away leaving the man to stew.  

Ullric snapped the wrist of a well-heeled foot pad trying to cut one of their bags loose from the packhorses just this morning.  Did he look like an easy victim, or was everyone in this new country an idiot?

Disgusted with Raven’s “you must not kill just because you can” attitude and with himself for going along with it, the scowling warrior urged his horse through the crowd hoping just one more fool would give him cause. Raven smiled listening to the shouts of consternation as the people scurried from the horse’s path.  No one demanded payment for the few folly birds oblivious to the warhorse’s great hooves. The big chestnut had been a gift from Jerred, one of three bred from a farmer’s big draft horse and a war mount gifted by one of the middle ranges nobles when Jerred’s father was lord.  He had the stamina to carry the big NorBlad on his wide back.  Enraged bellows and the clash of steel never usurped his serenity and his big hooves had already dented many a head in skirmishes the duo never failed to encounter.  

The pair had traveled south after leaving Jerred’s hold, Raven anxious to get to warmer climes. They passed through the mountains without difficulty stopping only once to discourage a group of heavily armed men from continuing their journey toward Jerred’s lands. Raven staked their heads on pine poles and decorated the bridge the men had attempted to cross with them.  It was a sign the Thanatu were known for displaying on the borders of their territory.  

Ullric found the new country interesting.  There was very thick forest with moss and vine covered bridges.  Each crossed deep canyons of rapid water.  Raven told him the people that built the log crossings disappeared long ago.  No one knows who they were but travelers still kept the bridges clear of growth to make the journey quicker to and from the middle ranges.

Water was abundant so once they reached the lower elevations; Raven took the opportunity to swim in the chill lakes and rivers.  His not so subtle hint regarding the big man’s courage demanded Ullric learn.  Before they left the mountains he could keep himself afloat and paddle across a lake, much to Raven’s amusement. He did not comment on the grimly determine man’s resemblance to a drowning dog as he struggled along.  

Finally they left the snow-capped peaks and Ullric was shocked to see a valley covered with bright yellow gold.  Raven let him live the fantasy for a moment, then rode on to the edge of the field. Flowers, miles and miles of flowers.  Ullric cursed him, while Raven laughed out loud at his disillusionment. The big fool thought men would leave gold lying about?  They camped for the night.  Raven advised him to hobble his horse and strap on the feedbag until they left the area. The tiny golden bells were poisonous to animals. Had Ullric realized not one honey maker, bird or beast moved over the miles of fragrant blossoms?  Ullric advised the Thanatu that no, he had not noticed because he had never seen a honey maker and flowers did not grow where he came from.  

Dangerous or not, the flowers were pretty and harvested for sale in some of the midland cities. They were considered signs of true devotion and given as gifts between lovers.  No mention was made of the untraceable poison that could be distilled from them, this fact known only to a few sorcerers, assassin guilds and the most powerful of the nobles.  Ullric’s incredulous stare caused more laughter. Indeed, men always proved themselves fools. No woman’s bed was worth risking death by flower, what idiocy!

It was a four-day journey around the flowers even with the forced pace Ullric insisted on.  He was not going to sleep anywhere close to poison plants and that was final.  It galled him that Raven found his every action a source of amusement. He didn’t kill the insolent Thanatu because he was unaware of the lands and customs they would encounter.  But one day--

Their journey through the middle ranges was constantly stalled by invitations from nobles curious about their business and anxious for news about Jerred. Men, who would never have spoken directly to the mercenary, now courted his presence and fearfully allowed the NorBlad to their tables. Ullric ate huge quantities and drank twice as much. He spoke little and observed everything with a grim mien.  Late in the night he would watch as Raven wrote down their observations. The dispatches were sent to Jerred, but by what method, Ullric did not know.  Occasionally, Raven would accept a job guarding a caravan or some landowner’s holdings as they wandered further away from the mountains.  They always made quick work of the rabble. Ullric was already missing the colder regions and Jerred, much to his surprise.

So here they were, the middle of the summer season, riding through a land devoid of plant life and water.  Dust covered everything in powdery layers after one of the many windstorms. The change had been an abrupt one.  Raven told him a ridiculous tale of sorcerers and be spelled cities. The cursed people remained tied to the land dependent on outsiders for sustenance. They drew metal from the earth to trade.  Ullric scoffed at the notion.  Men always blamed magic for their own failings. His experience proved magic was an excuse to defend cowardice and greed.   

Ullric could taste the ale waiting at the first tavern they came to.  That is if Raven would buy.  He did not have many coins in his pouch, having spent them on ale and attempts to master games of chance.  He never paid for women, especially not the skinny wenches that populated the taverns or roadside hovels passing for inns.  There was barely any meat on them for a man to hang onto.  If he feared breaking the wench she was no use to him.  Raven warned him that many of the women were diseased and he should be wary. So the first time he found a woman of reasonable health and strength, he had to kill her so called husband and his “brothers” two days later.  He frowned as he wondered if she actually plotted to ensnare her whore master within the reach of his axe.  He shook his head banishing the thought.  No use entertaining the possibility. She was now free to find another “husband” or not.

Once again he rode beside the Thanatu, noticing Raven was at rest, relying on Chi to watch the people churning around them. Finally, the waning sun found them stalled on the road before the walled metropolis.

The city gates were open, high-reinforced sheets of iron!  He had never seen so much metal used for such a thing.  The walls were some kind of stone much the color of the earth they rode upon.  Workers could be seen pushing barrels on wheels, stopping to fill cracks and breaks in the wall with some liquid version of the pale stone.  Men dressed in bright cloaks of orange and black guarded the gates, wearing dark metal helms and chest guards over dark tunic and breeches.  They wore short and long sword, plus daggers at their waists. Some of them searched baggage and wagons while others stood aside with drawn weapons.  

Raven had explained the cities were governed by an hereditary nobility. Saboteurs and spies were a constant problem as one city attempted to undermine trade with the outlying lands.  There was little reason for open warfare. Horses and other animals were kept only by owners rich enough to support the exorbitant amounts of money it cost to import their feed.  At least five hundred leagues separated the cities across the barren terrain.  Assassination attempts, mining accidents and a steady flow of information buying and selling occurred instead of war.

By the time they arrived at the gate, Raven was alert and scanning the crowd. One of the guardsman hurried away at the sight of them.  Raven watched him go with a faint smile. Ullric kept his eyes straight ahead to avoid challenging one of the overdressed follies to battle.  He thought they should be roasting in the ridiculous armor and capes. The Thanatu waited patiently, ignoring Ullric’s grumbles at the delay.  

“Hail Aja”, a helmed figure called.  He was tall and slim dressed as the others except the dagger at his waist was encrusted with jeweled stones of onyx and amber.  

“My lord will be glad of your return.  Annoyances are many since you last resided here.”

“Hail Jirair.  My eyes delight in your presence.”

Ullric rolled his eyes at the womanish greeting.

“As do mine, old friend.  You are unscathed.  It is good.”

Raven dismounted and wrapped his big arms around the slim Captain of the Guard.  Jirair had taken the chance to hire him many years ago, before his sojourn with the Thanatu. It had been a profitable event for both.  Jirair filled his purse and served his lord well enough to eventually rise to Captain. He was content with his lot, thanks to the dark haired young one.  He laughed into the shoulder and pushed away from his brawny captor.  

“I do believe you have added another stone or two to this bulk you carry, Aja”.  He laughed at the faint blush that touched Raven’s face. He had long made his feelings known and Raven took no offense at his frank appraisal.

“Oh, that is Ullric.  He is not has heavy as he looks.”  Raven diverted Jirair’s attention to the scowling barbarian.  The captain laughed and clapped Raven on the back.

“Hail Ullric.  You must be gifted indeed to ride with Aja.  Perhaps there will be profit for you also in my lord’s employ.”

Ullric just glared. He wanted a tankard and off the twice cursed road.

“Forgive me, mighty warrior.  I have not seen my friend in many years. You will abide with me, Aja.  My servants will see to your needs.”

“Your courtesy to one beneath your notice is a noble act Jirair Guerdon.”

It was the Captain’s turn to scowl at the Thanatu.

“Speak not as a servant, Aja. But for you I would still be searching baggage at the gate. Come, no more this.  You are a guest in my home and of greater value than the lord I serve.”

Turning back to the gates, Jirair lead the duo through, denying the soldiers desire to search their packs.  People made way for them, a few bowing and calling out to Jirair. The main roads through the city were wide to accommodate all the wagons. Buildings were populated with taverns, inns and metalworker’s shops, servants and apprentices living above them. Smoke and steam drifted above the street. The cacophony of hammers against metal was deafening. Hawkers called visitors to take lodging and wenches quoted their prices from the upper floors echoed within the alleys of sometimes six storied buildings. Ullric had never seen edifices where people lived stacked upon each other like goods in a storage shed.  Animals squealed and brayed.  People yelled, cursed and occasionally a fight would tumble out into the street.  The orange and black cloaks of the city guard could be seen moving through the crowds, quickly stamping out the violence. The farmers and traders flowing into the streets added to the din.

Eventually Jirair turned off the main thoroughfare and entered another metal gate locked and guarded by two soldiers.  Another duo looked out from the top of the expanse, which connected the gate to buildings on either side housing a troop.  Ullric thought it interesting that the men guarding this place lived outside the walls instead of within.  Laundry hung from windows and someone was playing a wheezy horn to the raucous laughter of their audience.

The guards saluted the Captain and refrained from commenting on his guests. The gates banged shut behind them and the silence was startling. Small houses of the same material as the outer walls lined these streets.  The doors were metal, some aged to a green patina.  Heavy metal shutters anchored the windows for sealing out the dusty air during storms.  Most had covered porches with reclining couches for resting and small tables for refreshment.

“My house is within the next square, Aja.  When you last visited I was still in the barracks waiting for the old captain to retire, now I have taken wives and have children.”

“My heart fills with joy at your good fortune Jirair.  Few have I met who deserved it more.”

“It is to you I owe this fortune.  My heart is glad for I never expected to return in any measure my appreciation.  I trust Ullric, you have found good fortune in meeting my friend.”

Ullric grim face tightened with bad memories.  Jirair’s hand came to rest on his sword.

“Forgive me, warrior.  I meant no offense to a guest and companion to Aja.”

“You offer shelter Jiair. I would not spill your blood today.”

He urged his horse ahead, even though he had only a vague notion where to go. The captain raised an eyebrow at that remark, turning his gaze to Raven.

“It is an unpleasant tale Jirair. All that gives a man reason to continue is lost to him forever.  I can say no more. Ullric is from the northern mountains and one day his story will find its way to your ears.”

“I will walk on soft slippers around him Aja.  He will find peace within my walls.”

“Ullric is plain speaking.  He will not break his word.  He will not spill your blood today. ”

Nothing else was said.  Soon they arrived at a larger house surrounded by a walled barren yard. Jirair directed them through an arch breaking up the plain wall and up the few steps to the porch. Stone benches with red pillows were under the windows along side the carved tables.  He entered the double metal doors and flung them wide.  Raven and Ullric followed, war bags slung across their shoulders.  The entry hall was cool, the ceilings high.  In contrast to the dull gray outer walls, the interior was a blaze of white washed surface edged in filigree designs of scarlet and blue.

“Jin, Jivin”, Jirair called, pulling his helm from the matted dark red hair curled above his ears.

“We have quests.  Quickly, quickly.”

Two slim figures draped in bright cloth hurried into the hall followed by four servants dressed in dull homespun.

“Jin, Jivin calm yourselves”, he admonished over their enthusiastic kisses.  “We must provide comfort and entertainment for Aja and his companion Ullric.”

The woman lay aside the gold mesh veil covering her head and shoulders.

“Behold Jin first wife of my house. Her sacrifice and loyalty honors my lord.  She has gifted me with sons and a daughter to delight the future.”

She smiled brightly and bowed low turning to her husband and signing. She had wide blue eyes and perfumed wavy waist length blonde hair smoothed into a green band around her head.  The lightweight cotton dress brushed the floor and covered her arms to the wrists.  Many gold bracelets jangled on her arms.

“Jin says you are welcome and a blessing on our house. This is Jivin, second wife.  His sacrifice and loyalty honors my lord. He has tended the birth of all my children and they are healthy and firm in limb. His knowledge has insured death is a stranger to us.  In many generations my family has never attracted a healer. We are twice honored by his sacrifice.”

Jivin lowered his golden veil and bowed low.  He blushed as he gazed upon the two giants before him and smiled.  His hair was oiled, perfumed and clung to his head and shoulders in red ringlets.  His eyes were blue and his pale skin was covered in a similar cotton dress.  Gold, copper and silver bracelets encircled his slim wrists.  He also signed to Jirair who burst into laughter and signed to both his spouses.  Jin playfully pushed the grinning men aside and approached Raven and Ullric. Signing slowly she urged them to follow her.

“My servants Jabir, Jaja, Jade and Jarita.  Whatever you need they will provide. All are accomplished in the sexual arts and from the smiles on their faces will be very willing to serve.  Go and let my family care for you.  Jabir and I will see to your animals.  Yes, I know Aja. Your magical beast I will not touch.  His care is for you alone. Even here we know of Thanatu. Perhaps you will enthrall us with the tale how this came to be.”  So saying the captain left the house with a smiling curly haired blonde on his heels to walk the animals around to the stables. Jabir signed something to his master and Jirair’s laughter echoed around the yard.

Ullric followed the family and Raven through airy rooms decorated with murals on the walls to a curtained enclosure containing a wide stone platform covered in bright quilted spiced pillows and comforters of quilted satin. Raven immediately protested their hospitality.  

“Jin, Javin we cannot take your bed.  It is not our wish to intrude.  We are worthless wanderers.  A place in your stables is enough.”

Jin started an agitated series of gestures, obviously demanding he accept their humble offerings.  She bowed and signed, Javin patting Raven’s arms in a not so consoling gesture. Ullric watched the ritual go on with rapidly unraveling patience.  He was tired and hungry and wanted a tankard of ale!

The low rumble of his companion’s stomach caused Raven to bring his reluctant acceptance of the bed to a close.  Jin and Javin smiled however and happily went off with the servants to bring refreshment.

“When does all this jabber end.  I could drink a river and eat two oxen.”

“Put your bag here.” Raven directed as he crossed the room and sat his bags on a bench.  “They will return with plenty to feed us and then we will be washed with probably the last of their water ration for the week.  For the remainder of our stay we will be oiled daily to keep clean.  Hear me Ullric, I will not allow these gentle souls to be insulted. We must share the bed and eat everything they give us.  Jirar and his wives will sleep with the servants as long as we stay.  You must refuse everything they offer and allow them to beg you to accept.  It is custom here. I do not understand it but I always follow it.  Before you finish the last morsel on your platter refuse it and permit them to cajole you.  It will honor the house. When the lord sends for us we must appear promptly. Follow my lead. If the job is right you will leave here with a heavy purse and the lord will favor you when and if you ever return.”

Ullric grunted in response, but before he could say more the servants rushed into the room and set great platters of food on a table in the corner. The northerner’s stomach growled fiercely making the three servants giggle.  He scowled at them and cursed Raven.  Feeling stupid he crossed to the bed and sat on the edge his arms folded across his chest.

“I have decided, I will not eat.”

Raven snorted at the bad acting and hide his grin behind his hand. The servants rushed to the blonde giant and timidly began to pet his shoulders and chest. They gestured to the table and when all effort failed kissed his dusty face and tried to pull his bulk off the bed.

The amused Thanatu pushed Ullric to his limit.  He jumped up, scattering servants and stalked across the room planting himself at the table.  The carved bench groaned beneath his weight causing even more consternation among the servers. Jaja pressed him to wash his hands and face from a bowl of beaten copper. Jade and Javita rushed to fill the empty platter before him with slabs of roasted meat, thick gravy and hot flat bread. A large goblet was filled, not with the ale he craved but a light delicate wine. After much pleading the servants got him to taste it. They actually hugged and kissed him in delight when he drank it down demanding more. He finally tucked into the platter and the trio sighed with relief. Raven finally let go and laughed out loud. He realized he had laughed more in the last few months watching Ullric stomp through his territory than in his entire life. Ullric would kill him if he ever voiced the thought, which caused him to laugh again. Shaking his head Raven went to settle Chi.  

Hours later Raven lolled in the family bath.  The captain and his wives washed him. The happy servants scrubbed every inch of the blond barbarian. After a through rinsing the men were moved to the bed where they were oiled and massaged until sleep claimed them.  The tired family staggered off exhausted, but assured of their guest’s comfort. The servants could not stop speculating on the giants sleeping in the next room. On the morrow Jirair would bring his children from visiting Jin’s family home for Aja’s blessing.  

Sun rarely pierced the gray haze, which covered the barren land plagued by dust storms.  Ullric woke in the dim light, knowing Raven awakened the same moment his breathing changed. He turned over to find the Thanatu gazing at him across the wide space.  

“Why are they mute Thanatu.”  

“Men who claim to rule over others do many things I do not understand.  If a soldier rises in the ranks to the lord’s attention, he makes an oath of loyalty offering the life of his family for betrayal.  Any  wishing to join with him may voluntarily have their throats cut to insure they never betray him or their lord under torture.  It is not required, but considered a great honor if a wife would submit to the knife. Jirair’s household is many times blessed.  So many gold bracelets means his wife is a daughter of nobility and much loved by her husband.  His second wife is a healer born, a rare thing in this cursed land. His bracelets mean he serves all the people and is revered.  As you can see Jirair’s servants are treated well.  Few such as they are permitted to wear metal. The copper bracelets tell everyone of their lord’s favor. By giving up their voices it shows he is an exceptional master. The security of the entire city and metal is his responsibility.  No other captain before him has had that honor.”

“It is a dangerous thing, I think, that your friend is shown such loyalty.”

“Indeed it may cause envy but it also assures the lord of his captain’s devotion. The nobles were probably shamed and rushed their wives and servants to the knife to avoid suspicion by the lord. Many around him may now be mute. If the chosen mate refuses the blade, a treacherous man may rethink his plans.”

Thoughts of the preceding day’s laughter prompted Ullric’s next comment.

“You know Jiair looks on you with lust Thanatu?”

Raven felt the blood rush to his face and turned onto his back.  

“He asked when my first mission was successful if I would remain and join the troop.  He made clear his attraction to me but--I cannot remain inside walls.  It is a prison I can only tolerate for the time it takes to earn my gold.”

Ullric could sense some stress in the Thanatu’s words. Raven was indeed the closest to a fighting equal he had ever known and he did not want to spill his blood over probing into his past.  The berserker rage still licked at the edges of his own mind when the past intruded. The dark warrior was an unknown quality.

“What happens if he is captured by rivals?”

“He will kill himself with poison hidden somewhere on his body. The lord swears to protect his family from that moment.”

“Tell me they do not slit the throats of children.” The young faces of Fox clan wavered before his eyes.  His scarred hands tightened into fists.

“No, no.  It is considered a great wrong to touch children. Too few are born.  Jirair says to harm a child is a sin against their gods. That is why the city captain and manor soldier’s families all live in a city within the city.  Their noble’s protectors must be protected as well. It is this way in the other five cities of the blasted plain. Trade with the people at the edge of the middle ranges is profitable. You saw little poverty within the cities and villages there because of the blasted plain. They need everything to keep their people alive, since they cannot leave for more than a span of days. Two cities further south do not fare as well as this one because the merchants charge even more that dare travel that far. The lands beyond them are distant and untamed with three major nobles struggling for power over the other.  They do not trade for metal because they have it.”

“You do not expect me to believe these people will die if they abandon this dead place. You know I do not believe in magic. There is no such thing.”  He nearly shouted at Raven.

“Think what you will, Ullric.  I have seen with my own eyes a man die before he could return. He fell into a wasting sleep and did not revive.”  Raven sat up just as the curtains parted and Jade entered.  He wiped the frown from his face, not wanting to frighten the delicate woman. She bowed low and signed for first meal. He looked thoughtful enough that she approached him awaiting his direction.  

“I think we could eat Jade, but only a little.  I must not get too fat or I will not be able to work for your lord and then shame would come to Jirair.”

He sighed heavily, just enough pout to his lips to capture a softhearted woman’s attention. Jade hugged his neck and Raven lifted her to his lap. Her long blue-black ringlets trailed over his shoulders. Jade’s eyes were pale blue with black lashes, her skin milk white. She smelled good. Raven thought he could eat later and nuzzled the soft skin behind her ear. She laughed and turned into his shoulder. Ullric watched her small hands caress Raven’s hair and big back. He handled the diminutive woman with such gentleness it made Ullric uncomfortable. He would not have dared mount her as tiny as she was.

He finally got up and left the chamber his stomach growling to announce his presence to the other servants. Jaja showed him to another room and sat him down on a reclining bench. He brought in a large platter with more roasted meat and bread. This time the goblet contained a strong ale, which Ullric drank with much satisfaction.  He noticed that Jaja was also dark haired and nearly identical to the woman who now pleasured Raven.  This one kept his eyes lowered and blushed every time Ullric banged his goblet on the table for more ale.

Ullric did not think of men as pretty or for sex. The further he traveled into the land below storms, the stranger the customs. You might force a proven coward to show your contempt before you killed him.  To lie with a man  for pleasure would be very strange.  He had to admit these servants were very clean and pretty, but to bed one?

The platter had been emptied twice and was being sat down for the third time when Raven came into the room.  Jin and Jivin flanked him holding his big scared hands. The dresses were red today and Jivin’s veil was studded with tiny rubies. It was clear he was the most vain in a household of attractive persons.  

“Well no one has to wonder if you are satisfied with your lot barbarian. Did you leave me anything, or must I go before the lord of this city weak from hunger?

“Rot you Thanatu. You eat as much as I.  Besides you said not to insult them. If they must go hungry to have their honor served, then so be it.”

Raven grinned and sat down at the table. Jade appeared and hurried to the table to serve the wives and Raven.  She waited patiently and went to provide another platter, bringing fruit and tubers to stretch the remaining meat and bread.  Eventually satisfied, Raven belched and rubbed his belly grinning at the silent satisfied laughter of his audience.

The front doors banged open and Jirair entered with a shout of his wives names. Ullric wondered if the man knew the meaning of stealth. High-pitched giggles could be heard before the slap of small bare feet heralded the arrival of the captain and four children. They ran into the arms of the wives shouting their greetings. The captain soon followed and sat at the table. The servants quickly washed dusty hands and faces and then served him fresh platters of food and water. Three boys and a girl were introduced to the warriors. They were dressed in yellow trousers and multi-colored shirts, a single gold bracelet around each wrist. Two of the boys had red hair, the oldest of them very thin, but already taller than his mothers.  The remaining boy was blonde as Jin. The girl’s hair was bright orange like Jivin’s. She looked to be about five turns of the seasons, although tall for her age.  All of the children had blue eyes and freckles. After the hugging and kissing ended, Jirair formally introduced his children to Raven and Ullric. Raven kissed their foreheads.  He spoke to each in quiet tones, the little girl giggling, amused at his words.

“Remember Aja, my children. His people are legend.  Few have been so favored to have his regard.  He may not come again until you have children of your own.  Greet him with honor in my name for good fortune will follow.”

The wives reinforced Jirair’s words with signs, hugs and kisses. The children were then allowed to wash and help themselves to the remainder of the food on the table.

For a time conversation revolved around the upcoming attendance of the oldest son to the academy and the younger siblings already assisting their mother in his healing duties. Raven complimented the children’s accomplishments, to their bashful delight. With a sign Jirair sent his family off to other activities.  

“My lord would see you on rising Aja. Your coming is an omen and he is impatient to put you to work.  We fear Quellon will attempt to join one of the border lords to raid us.”

Ullric spoke at his words.

“Only a fool would attempt to attack you, if what Raven says is true your cities are all too far apart with only the cursed dust between you.  All your metals would not be worth the loss of men and animals.”

“This is true warrior.  But many outsiders do not understand the curse that confines us. The ones who believe they do occasionally find sorcerers to attempt an ending to it.”

“Then it is simple.  We will take the head of the faker and the fool lord will have to think again. ” Ullric snorted his contempt into his goblet as he drained another portion of ale. Jade’s eyes widen as he smacked it onto the table demanding more.  She hurried away giving one more awe struck glance over her shoulder.  Jirair shouted with laughter.

“Ullric my servants will speak of you for many years. You eat for ten men and drank for twice more.”

Ullric found himself at a loss.  He honestly gave little thought to how much he consumed especially after a few tankards of ale.

“Am I taking food from the mouth of you children? Your honor is cursed if I do.”  His face reddened with anger and he sprang from the table.

“No, no my friend, do not fear.  My lord has sent supplies in honor of your arrival. When your mission is completed my house will gain even more of the lord’s blessings.  We will not suffer for your appetites, but will be rewarded.”

At the barbarian’s wary tone Jirair was uncomfortably reminded of immense size and the menace of the Aja’s friend.

“Humph.  If you say so Jirair. I will just sit down--drink my ale. Look to the Thanatu -- pay me no mind.”  He was grateful enough for the timely arrival of Jade and the pitcher, that he gave her a tentative smile.  To his further embarrassment, she draped herself across his wide shoulders and petted him.

Jirair turned again to Raven, hiding his smile. The huge warrior was indeed, short tempered as a wildcat.  Aja must truly have magic since he now commanded two such dangerous creatures.  

“Does your lord still live in the old manor?”

“The one you remember is beneath the floor of the temple. His son rules. Jaap Guerdon is under much duress. Twice assassins have failed to kill him and although he has many wives, the children all die within hours of birth. A wife was taken while shopping in the market, she appeared again with no explanation and gave birth to an unspeakable thing that my lord’s personal guard put to the sword. The wife is a shell that will not die.”

“This is indeed a grave situation, Jirair.”

“If there is more I do not know.  My concerns are the mines and the city walls. It is left to my lord to enlighten you.”

“There is enough ignorance of my people that the sorcerer may not understand to fear our presence.”

“As you say, Aja.  In this I trust my lord will heed your direction.”

The remaining talk centered on Jirair’s meeting his wives and life since Raven was last among them.  Ullric listened with half an ear and did not dissuade Jade from eventually leading him from the room. Javita joined her and mindful of Raven’s warning not to appear too eager, he forced the two women to plead and cover him with kisses before finally lying down. They took command and soon Ullric was writhing on the bed as they used their hands, lips and tongues to pleasure him. He lifted Javita to his face plundered the red curls between her legs until her essence ran down his neck. When she was limp and barely conscious he did the same for Jade who responded with many sighs of pleasure before falling asleep on his chest.

He thought to rise for another tankard when Jabir and Jaja peeked into the room.  The sight forced a grin to the barbarian’s face.  Rising to the occasion, Ullric signed for them to come to him.  Before the candle hour all four of Jirair’s servants were insensible in their master’s bed.  Jirair and his wives smiled a lot and signed to each other furiously when they found the warrior buried under the human blanket.

Ullric slept through the evening meal. The Thanatu found himself welcomed happily by the remaining family into the servant’s quarters.

Raven woke Ullric rather early in the morning.  He did not hesitate to tumble the sleepy foursome into the covers.  Jin and Jivin hurried to cleanse Ullric’s big body.  He could not go before the lord of the city reeking of their servants loving attention. Ullric stood patiently through the oiling and scraping. He was still enjoying the lassitude of sexual gratification. He even put on long pants, standing patiently while the wives laced the rawhide strings from hip to ankle. The Thanatu’s small blades were strapped to his back. So Ullric slung his battle-axe over his shoulder in its strap, settling the wide leather to rest flat against his chest.

Without another word, Raven led him from the house.  The captain was riding a bay lent by the lord from his own stable. The streets were empty as ever. They left the walled compound and mingled with the busy traffic on the other side.  It took some time, as Jirair traveled slowly.  They eventually turned off the main road into a wide side corridor guarded along its length by heavily armed men dressed in the standard orange and black. Archers stood on the walls above them, arrows notched, keeping the trio targeted.  It took six men to push the heavy gate open for them to pass through. Barracks, a blacksmith shop and various outbuildings were to their left.  The scream of a hawk brought their attention to a low building with a big wire mesh cage for a second level. The hunting birds stretched their wings, snared petrified rabbits cowering on the floor and stared relentlessly at the larger prey moving about the yard.  Raven shifted uneasily in the saddle.  He drew a deep breath and shook the chill from his shoulders.

Jirair pulled his attention back to the party as he hailed the guards flanking the steps up to the manor doors.  It was very similar to Jirair’s own home, just on a grander scale. Servants rushed to tend their horses, giving the Thanatu a wide berth when Chi bared his gleaming fangs and forked tongue. The captain soothed the nervous guards with quick words.

Suddenly Chi shied away from the steps.  Raven’s head snapped up and he ripped first blade from his back. The third floor wall exploded and a shriek like thousands dying echoed around the yard. Chi reared to meet the thing dropping upon them. Men ran or lay smashed beneath fallen stone. Chi bit, venom gushing into the wound. Raven’s sword raised and fell even as they were forced backward. He leaped from Chi’s back as the struggling animal was born to earth.  Then leaped once more upon the creature desperately trying to rip the horse from its chest. Ullric came in swinging his battle-axe, which bit deep. Terrified soldiers dragged Jirair, insensible from falling debris, across the yard. Some overcame their terror and rushed to kill the writhing horror in their midst.  Arrows fly from the battlements, trying to find a vulnerable spot on strange dead gray hide. Black gore splattered the combatants and the stench caused many to gag and vomit. For the first time Ullric heard Raven’s voice howling defiance and urged his beast to fight harder. Jaap Guerdon rushed out of the manor struggling against his own guard to see what happened.  

“Help them kill it.  Curse you, help them!”

His guards did leave him to add their swords to the fight and Jaap is free to draw his own weapon. Yelling defiance he rushed in and raised his sword again and again to bring the abomination down.  

Thick talons struck, two men were disemboweled.  The elongated neck dodged blows, jaws snap, bones were crushed.  More men rushed to combat as others fell aside.  Chi struggled to stand as swords and axe fell upon the roaring creature. Maddened by wounds not horse managed to drag himself far enough to rise.  The air was rent by Chi’s unearthly wail. He struck quick as a snake, fangs dug deep in its chest once more.  The creature raised to muscled hindquarters dragging Chi into the air.  He refused to relinquish his hold.  Ullric’s axe finally chops though shoulder muscle and one leg hung useless.  Frightened men take heart; swords and arrow continued to find their mark. They were aware of Raven’s voice raised in entreaty, the language unknown to them, but the anguish obvious.  He cursed, stabbed through tough hide and behind bony ridges protecting its eyes. An eye was pierced.  It tried to claw the arrow out.  Ten men chopped at its hindquarters. It could not strike them and the howling barbarian hacking away at its side, nor did the thing on its head stab the other eye.  The ichors supporting its existence began to boil.  It gagged, could not inhale and scrabbled desperately to continue the fight. Bile and foam erupted from its jaws.  Raven leaped down and grabbed Ullric.

“Everybody run. Run, curse you. It dies, it dies!”

“My lord, my lord run the assassin says run.”

“Go, go go.  Curse you get away!”

Raven continued to scream at the men to retreat. They dragged their lord away, swearing and howling. Chi was once more earthbound, jaws burrowed into putrefying meat.  He pulled and tugged against the writhing creature, his strange staccato growl raising the hair on more than one neck. Finally he backed away, staggering on bruised trembling legs. The unspeakable creature writhed in agony and fell to the ground.  A shudder passed over every man when Chi screamed in defiance and victory.  

This other is no more. Once again I have conquered.  The one who sent you to destroy will meet destruction.

The lord ignored his shaky limbs and wildly beating heart to issue orders for the care of the fallen and clearing of debris. Raven had noted Jiriar’s absence. He finally found him inside the barracks another soldier winding a bandage around his bleeding head. A quick examination assured him, the captain had not been hit hard enough to dent his skull and was already coming around. More men were hurrying in carrying wounded.  He left to see to Chi, hoping the wounds were not too severe.

“Hold, a moment Aja. Your coming was an omen of good fortune.  If not for you we would be dead and this creature rampaging through my city. Anything you ask of me I will give. As long as Guerdon stands you and your companion may find sanctuary here.  Never have I seen such strength and agility.”

“You honor me with your attention my lord. We must speak.  I will come as soon as I see to Chi’s injuries.  This is not over.”

“As you will warrior.  I would know more about this creature you call a horse.  Go tend him. The rest will wait.”

Raven hurried away, men passed him clearing away the evidence of battle.

Chi stood on shaky legs, the adrenaline from the fight drained away. The warrior crooned to the animal and carefully examined the torn flesh.  The wounds were deep and bled freely. Warning the animal beforehand, he pressed against the injuries to force more blood to flow.  There may not be water to rinse the injuries and he worried about infection.  

“What may I do Thanatu? If the beast will allow me near him.”

“My pack, the one marked with not horse.  It has the healing potions I need.”

“I will go.  One of these men can guide me.”

Without another word Ullric stalked away snaring a young man from the rubble. It took a moment, but he finally made himself understood. The soldier asked permission from his lord and the two left swiftly.

Jaap Guerdon sat down on his steps amazed at the events of the day.

Surely this would be more proof to the people that he was cursed above all men on the blasted plain. He scrubbed shaky hands through sweat soaked black waves.  A breeze stirred in the compound and he shivered.  Servants finally ventured out, but he would not go in.  Someone settled a coat around his shoulders and a tankard of hot wine was held to his lips. He drank and leaned against the pillar with a sigh.  He had gone to Jatara’s room, hoping against sense she would awaken. For the first time his third wife moaned and thrashed about, sweat matting her golden tresses. The healer hurried in and they were attempting to bath her fevered body. She shrieked like they were slaughtering her and changed, changed right before their terrified eyes into something horrid.  Struck dumb with terror, he knew he was a dead man when the thing tore through the wall. When he could force his legs to move, his personal guard attempted to keep him from the courtyard. He could hear unearthly screams.  Servants ran passed, wailing about the creature killing everyone.

He made it outside to find his captain of the guard covered in blood and a blond giant bellowing a battle cry as he hacked at the creature. How could he not fight?  How could he have anyone say he hid in the manor while his men were slaughtered? He barely registered the Aja hanging from the creature’s head stabbing and slashing to blind it. When the horse regained his feet and screamed, Jaap thought surely it was infected by the magic.  What was it that such bone melting sounds could issue forth?  He began to tremble violently, once again shaking off his servants. He burrowed deeper into the coat, his thoughts despairing even in this victory. He gave permission for a guardsman to accompany the blonde on some errand and sat in the courtyard battling despair.

The livestock caretaker approached Raven, but scuttled quickly back when Chi hissed. Fear crawled up the old man’s back as the neck snaked out and bared gleaming fangs.

“Hold, evil one. The enemy is dead and he wishes to help you.”

Raven admonished his angry mount, but Chi did not spare anyone from his baleful gaze and drooling fangs.  The hair-raising moan increased if anyone passed to closely.

“Yes, yes only to help.  I have medicines...”

“Water, if you may spare it and rags. I must cleanse the wounds and mix the powders to close them.”

“Yes, this I may do.  A moment...”

The old man hurried away to return with two large buckets of precious water.  He sat them down well away from the thing that could not be a horse.  They were Thanatu, had saved many lives today.  Surely the lord would reward them and any kindness to them would reflect well upon him. The Thanatu acknowledged his return with grim smile and carried the buckets away.  The creature buried his nose in one drinking noisily.  The Aja washed the worst of the torn flesh, not horse quivering and snorting during the process.

“The other animals are stabled master.  Frightened, but only minor cuts and bruising from the fallen stones.”

“That is good to know.  Ullric would try to kill it again if he lost his horse. There are few strong enough to bare his weight and nowhere on the blasted plain to find another.”

“Indeed master.  He is a very levelheaded beast, I must say. He calmed right down when I approached him. I was worried because he is so big.”

“He is very docile.  That is a good thing for his rider is of different ilk.”

“Yes he is very fierce. I have never seen any man fight like him. And you throw yourself again and again against impossible odds. My bowels watered when I heard that scream.  I could not raise a hand to help my lord.  It is my shame.”

“Nonsense.  You are obviously not trained to fight.  What could you have done but find your death in this forsaken place? You serve your lord as you were trained to do.  No more is expected.”

“As you say.  Is this the end of the horrors that have plagued my lord?”

“I cannot speak of this to you old man. I think it is time you returned to the stables.”

Startled by the sudden change in demeanor, the man hurried away. He certainly did not wish ill will to replace the warrior’s previous regard.

It was some time before Ullric returned, Jin and Jivita on his heels and two of their servants loaded down with packs and boxes. They raced to their lord and bowed before him. The silent conversation went on for some time then the wives departed to the barracks.

Jaap pushed himself up once more brushing aside his insistent servants. He sent messages of assurance to his wives and mother, sequestered and heavily guarded in the manor. Across the yard the blonde one carefully laid a pack on the ground then backed carefully away from the slavering beast.  The Aja sat down in the dust and opened the bag. He spent some time weighing and stirring various powders in small bowls. Eventually he turned to the animal and filled the wounds with the pastes all the while crooning in the Aja tongue.  Jaap had no idea if it was a spell for healing or to keep the creature from killing them all. The Aja completed his task and walked across the yard to stand at the foot of the steps.

“I ask a favor lord of Guerdon.  My mount needs meat, fresh kill to regain his strength. I would need a horse to bring it back from the market place.”

“You need not burden yourself with this task, warrior.”

So saying Jaap hailed two of his soldiers and instructed them to bring a bullock from the animal pens.  The men hurried away through another smaller gate between the blacksmith and cook shed.  It wasn’t long before they returned dragging an agitated ox into the yard.  It bawled at the smell of rotting carrion and gore tossing its head violently. Chi’s head came up and the snap of fangs echoed in the yard.

“Take it to the stables away from the other animals.  It would not do for anyone to witness Chi feeding.”  

Jaap nodded and the men dragged the ox off to the barn.  In a few minutes they were back, the agitated handler scurrying behind them. Raven walked along side as Chi made the slow painful journey to the barn. The Thanatu left him at the door and returned to the lord’s side.  It was not long before a bawl of terror was heard. It continued until fear once again gripped every man, then ceased.  Much later, the men in the barracks would sleep uneasily, the sounds of bones snapping adding to their list of frightening dreams.

“How, where should we dispose of this creature Aja?  We burned the thing it birthed, but the stench of this...”

“Drag it onto the waste from your nearest gate. If you can clear the streets no one may see it go.  That is, if you have horses enough for the dragging. Leave it as a warning to others who think to take what this day you have fought to hold. If you burn it many of your people will be ill from the smoke.”

“Even now my men are stricken beneath its stench.”

“Chi’s venom is dangerous as well, the combination could be lethal.”

The order was given and the young man invited Aja and his companion to enter his home.

“I have but poor accommodations to offer Aja, but your company may partake of all I have.”

“I for one could use a tankard of ale.  Killing beast is thirsty work.”

Ullric smacked his lips in anticipation of a good meal and perhaps willing company. The lord gave orders and servants took the blonde giant in hand.  He allowed them to lead him away.  

“And you Aja?”

“I would speak with you of the events of the day.”

“As you wish. Come this way.  Jola, food, water and wine in my sanctuary.”

The man hurried away and Jaap lead Raven through the many hallways and up the stairs. The room took up most of the second floor with an open balcony above a rock garden. Statues of the deities the plain dwellers worshiped stood on engraved stone amid colored sand presenting an intricate flower like pattern. Scrolls of many materials were shelved in slots on one entire wall of the room.  At the back windows a large table sat with scrolls, carved paint boxes and drawing sticks scattered across its surface.  A stone chair faced it, padded with black-spiced pillows. There were only two other chairs in the room.  One directly opposite the desk and one before a great stone fireplace, precious wood kindling stacked next to it.  Raven noticed scroll work only around doorways, scripted in beaten gold. The remaining walls were stark white In contrast to the murals and filigree that marked Jirair’s home.

Raven set before the desk and Jaap took the other.  He quickly cleared the scattered items, slightly embarrassed at the mess. Servants came and washed them of the worse.  Jaap promised Raven a real bath after their talk. They sat in silence until the servants completed serving then consumed two goblets of hot wine. It rushed through Raven’s system and he switched to water after a few mouthfuls of bread and meat. More at ease than he expected Jaap served Aja marveling at the sheer size of him. And to think the blonde one was even bigger. The power behind his blows was a shocking thing to see.  No wonder they plied the mercenary trade, one man holding such warriors could conquer a world. He shook himself free of such thoughts, after all, he was Guerdon and destiny demanded he rule and die here.  

Raven was very aware of the lord’s attention.  Some of the thoughts showed clearly on his youthful face. Like most people in the city, he was tall and slim, though not weak. He was muscled from long hours of practice with sword and wrestling. Lines of care marked him now, dimming the blue, almost gray eyes. His silk garments were torn and dirty, damp with sweat and blood. Wide gold bracelets encircled his slim wrists.  Although, he did not appear to be arrogant as many landholders were, the Thanatu was wary.

He would not become the kept pet of any man who ruled over others, no matter how benevolent.  His thoughts turned unwillingly to Jerred and he hoped the young one fared well. It would please him to find Mabe mate to the young man if he ever returned to the North Country.  But to the business at hand.  He sat back in the chair, relaxed and a little sleepy.

“Jaap Guerdon the creature we killed this day was a beast I did not believe existed. The women of Thanatu tell of many such things and I have seen etchings.  If Chi was not with us today we would not have prevailed. His venom prevented it from healing and finally killed it.  Know who ever conjured such a beast is here within the city and close to you.”

“Close to me? You cannot mean in my household?  My servants are loyal and the guards are the most elite of the city troop.”

“I only know this is true. The guards are not under suspicion I think. Whoever it is must be close enough to pull nightmares from your mind to do this thing.”

“You cannot be saying I dream of such abomination and make it live.”

“Jaap hear me.  To end this you must trust, or live ever under the spell of this evil until all are dead.  One terror in the night, even as a child, would remain in your mind for this sorcerer to choose.”

The lord laughed, he fell back in his chair and laughed harder.  Raven sat patiently as the laughter continued until Jaap fell to weeping, finally collapsing onto the desktop.  It was some time before the tears ended.  Servants hovered in the doorway, fear and concern on their faces. Finally he raised his head, snaring one of the lap clothes to wipe his face. He gripped the goblet with both hands and Raven poured wine into it. Jaap dragged it to his lips with shaking hands, choking before he was able to swallow the lukewarm brew. When he drained the cup, he sat a moment more in silence.

“What must I do Aja? How may I atone for this disaster?”

“You atone for nothing lord. You carry no guilt in this.  Someone covets all you have. What you must do is be prepared to sacrifice the one who is the creator of your pain, regardless the identity of the evil one.”

“You are saying that I must kill someone I trust, maybe love to end my torment?  

“Know that once you set the cure in motion, even I cannot call it back.  Chi is kin to things unknown and some say demonic and I cannot stop him if the prey exists here. Once set loose, retribution will not be stopped.  Any between him and the sorcerer will fall as well.”

Jaap sat back and stared at the warrior before him.  That the creature he rode was not as it seemed was obvious with its gleaming fangs and forked tongue. Could he watch someone he loved die based on a strangers notions?  What to do?  He thought of Jatara and her babe taken then replaced with the thing he had cared for.  How long had she been dead? What horrors had she suffered?  Who could do such a thing to an innocent loving woman and her babe? His heart ached with the memory of three other precious babes lost in a year’s time. All of them born healthy, only to die within days. It was abomination to harm a child. By the gods what must he do? He buried his head in his hands as tears threatened once more.

Raven waited patiently. He was bruised and exhausted, craving a flat surface to sleep.  Chi was sore and enraged at being set upon. His desire for vengeance permeated Raven’s mind, a relentless haranguing beating in time with his pulse.

“What must I do Aja?  I wish my family safe as any man.  From what you say the only thing saving us the first time was the thing giving birth prematurely.  But how can I condemn one close to me to death on a strangers words?”

Raven did not respond to the query.  He sat back in the chair to stare at the man faced with a monumental decision.  The answer was within.  Raven could not help.

There was a sudden disturbance at the entrance to the room and Jola rushed in bowing to his lord. With a quick suspicious glance at the Aja, the agitated servant signed some urgent message and waited for his lord’s response.

“The captain and his wives seek audience with me Aja.  Jola says they have gathered up your giant friend and insist on the sight of you.  Bring them Jola, I am curious.”

Jirair stalked into his lords’ presence, his head was thickly bandaged, but he moved with his natural grace. He was stripped to black armor and weapons strapped down tightly for battle. His wives clothes were wrinkled and stained with blood and filth from treating the wounded.  They went to their knees before the lord and Jirair bowed low. Ullric gave everyone a glare of distaste over bowing and scraping to a mere man born to what he did not earn with sword or axe.

“My lord.  Rumors have spread within the city about the creature attacking the manor. Many fear to remain and exhort all to flee. The guard has quelled one riot. I have closed the taverns and commanded everyone to their homes.  Five men are dead and at least twenty seriously wounded or gravely ill. Jivin says it must be removed quickly or more men will die.”

“I ordered it dragged away before I came in Jirair.  Speak to Joost, the east gate is not very wide but fewer people live there to see this thing. Use as many horses as necessary.  If I must pay a few more coins to the water dealers, it is of no consequence. See that a messenger is sent to them that I will pay extra for an increase in delivery for the next moon.”

“It will be as you say my lord.  I would send Jin home to the children with your permission.”

“Of course, do so immediately. Have Joost send two of my own to attend her safely.”

“Jivin will remain here until the carcass is removed and the men are recovering on their own.”

“Jarair, once again your devotion is displayed for all men to see. My heart is joyful and secure knowing you protect my city.”

Jaap removed a wide gold band from his arm and Jirair stepped back in shock.

”My lord I cannot...”

“I command you Jarair. This very day my life was saved by one you brought to my attention. Today the curse will be lifted from my house and peace will reign in Guerdon once more, because of you captain. No one serves me so well as your household. Take this useless bauble and wear it beneath your sleeve.  Oh yes, I know that you are envied because my father favored your marriages into noble houses.  But know this, any that raise hand against you from this day will face my wrath.  Go now attend my will.  Jin go to your house with my thanks for your service this day.”

He opened his arms wide and Jin and Javin stepped forward for his kiss to their foreheads.  Bowing low they retreated to Raven’s side and kissed his cheek relieved that he was only bruised. He returned their kisses and they left with Jola guiding them from the room. Jirair bowed to his lord and left to carry out his assignments.  He did not acknowledge Raven because it would seem an insult to his lord. Ullric arose from the seat he had taken by the fireplace his eyes on the Thanatu.

“So what happens now?  Do you know who we must find to end this?”

“I do not know who as yet, only that they must reside within this place.”

“It is a hard thing to think one of my own would seek to destroy me.”

The blonde giant growled.

“I tell you man, if there is rot in your dwelling wait not for it to spread or everything will be lost to you.  I know.”

Ullric’s face clouded.

“Jaap has yet to decide what will be done.  It is his city and if he desires it we will leave things as they are and go on our way.”

“No Aja. The signs are too obvious for me to ignore.  I hear the truth in your words.  If I do nothing my family is in grave danger. More babes will die. I would know. I would know if it tears out my heart.”

“Be prepared lord of this cursed place. If the Thanatu ferrets out your poison it will cost you dearly, but better the cleansing than more death and fear.”

Ullric poured the remaining wine from the pitcher to Raven’s cup and drank it down.

“So what do we do Aja?”

“If you are sure Jaap.”

The lord took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He rubbed his bloodshot eyes and sighed.

“I wished my life free of this taint and my city secure.  In this I am yours to command.”

“I will need a room bare of furnishing. All of your household without exception must come before me.  When the root of evil appears Chi will strike. Think not to raise hand against me for the life I take Jaap. There will be no question of guilt. The stench of this creature will linger on its creator.”

“I swear on my father’s heart that I will honor my decision Aja. I would sleep in peace and watch my children grow if the gods will grant me more.”

“It is done.”

With that remark Raven and Jaap rose from the chairs.

“Be ready Ullric. I would have you at my side.  If we are attacked between Chi and you any creature should be vanquished.”

“So be it Thanatu. I do not understand how Chi will do this. Do you plan for the accused to face you in the barn?”

The remark forced a grim chuckle from Raven.

“No, you will see soon enough. Jaap if you would prepare the room?  The strongest of your guard must stand ready at the door.  When each person enters they must bar it from the outside. Ullric will knock three times if it is safe to open and release them.”

“It will be done.”  

Jaap hurried away, his stomach cramping at the horrible possibilities awaiting his house.

“Ullric, listen well. You know that Chi and I have a bond of great strength. Today I will take myself to the deepest part of him and remain. Chi will be at your side to find the sorcerer.”

All the fine hair on Ullric body waved as a cold shiver raced up his back and left him with fear flesh.  Unconsciously, he rubbed his arms to remove the chill.

“Do not speak to him. Do not touch my body.  He is as unpredictable as you are in battle rage. Follow his commands without hesitation.  If need be help him kill the sorcerer or the one he works through.  Can you do this?”

“No man can name me coward, Thanatu.  Do what you must, but know that your body or not, I will not let that cursed beast kill me without a fight.”

“Chi will not kill you.”

“And you are so sure of this, why?

“I asked him not to.”

“Ha!  I have seen how quick he is to obey you.”

Ullric snorted and followed Raven from the room.

Jaap met them in the hallway the ever-present Jola on his heels.

“It has been done as you wish Aja.”

“I will need a candle mark to prepare Jaap.  Then bring me all the members of you household, one by one, without exception. Understand no one is exempt. Start with those closest to you and tell them nothing.”

Jaap stared at Raven a moment longer.

“A candle mark. As you say.  Come...come this way.”

So not yet done.  More time...more time to worry.  More time for fear.  Jaap did not know if he could survive more of this without losing his mind.  My wives and mother first. That can only mean the Aja suspects them.  It cannot be.  I cannot think of what that would mean.

The room was on the ground floor level but at the rear of the house down a long hallway. There were many rooms along each side.  Jaap explained they were stores for the household and furniture his ancestors used.  Two of the household guards were standing in front of a door.  One held an iron bar nearly six feet long in his hand.  The ornate handles of the door were just curved enough the bar would slide between them. It should be sufficient to prevent anyone from leaving. The hallway was narrow and Raven could foresee another problem.

“This will take some time. You will need to bring them one at a time and remain until they are done. Be sure to deliver them to separate quarters when the meeting is concluded so they do not speak to the others.”

“I will see to it Aja. You men, hear me well. This is the Aja obey him without questions. Whatever you hear do not open these doors until he or the blonde one speaks.  To do so may unleash another such as we fought today.”

The men shifted nervously. They were still shaken by the morning’s events and would have preferred latrine duty than to guard this door.  

“As you command, my lord.”

They spoke as one, though sweat had already began to appear above their lips. Raven entered the room without another word, Ullric at his back. The barbarian pulled the door shut and laughed when he heard the bar scrap across the handles of the door.

“It will take me some time to complete this Ullric.  You should sit for now and stand before the door when the household members enter.”

“It will be as you say Thanatu. Just remind that evil nag not to make any sudden moves.”

“Chi will not harm you big fool. There is much greater danger for all of us than Chi.”

“I took an axe to one great danger today boy, another will not vex me.”

Raven gave up the argument. Ullric was as stubborn as an ox and more worried about Chi than any creature four stories tall. He supposed the man had some good explanation for the appearance of the creature they fought today, but now was not the time for it. He went to his knees to begin his breathing exercises.

Soon he was aware of nothing.

It was just short of the hour when Raven inhaled deeply and raised his head. Ullric stood cautiously and backed against the door.  The eyes were not the Thanatu’s, oh no. They were dark as night with no whites around them. The barbarian licked his lips and tried to calm his sudden racing pulse. The face smiled, but it was all teeth and menace.

“Cold--man.  Small times speak mine.”

The voice was Raven’s but hesitant, like the whispers of the dead in the night. Fear flesh covered Ullric from scalp to toes. It stunned him to realize that he believed he was actually listening to the creature in the barn.  Somehow he knew, though how he could not say, that Raven was truly gone.

“Fear…good cold man.  Fear me...good.”

Ullric wanted to curse it, kill it.  His terror, and he had to finally acknowledge it with that in the room, choked him. Raven said not to speak and he must not. But oh, to shout his denial and kill it.

“Dark light, one.”The hissing whisper seemed to be inside his head so fear sweat beaded across Ullric’s back.

Not Raven’s head cocked to one side as if expecting an answer. Do I understand? Ullric believed he did and nodded.

“Pain pain pain Chi not kill--brave mine.”

Ullric nodded again. Raven had the scars to prove what a terrible trial he endured to have this, whatever Chi was at his side.”

“Men fear. You dare fear. Why this?”

Ullric did not know what to do. Raven said not to speak but this was a direct question.  If he did not answer would Chi take offense? Silence for a long moment, then...

“Fear me you.  Stay why?”

“I...I have nothing to go back to. Jerred’s place confines me. If I do not fall on my sword I must learn to live in this world.  Raven said I would not trouble him and could learn to trade my axe for gold.”

“Why this?”

The cold voice was deeper and Ullric stirred uneasily.  What could he say?

“The boy is my equal in battle. He is fearless and I have never seen the like of you before.”

He blinked and not Raven was before him swaying slightly. The level of danger increased tenfold. He could not bear to look into the eyes and turned away, the truth was forced from his lips.   

My pe--my people do--did--not sit alone at the fire by choice.”

“Thanatu take, Thanatu keep, Thanatu mine not.”

“But you are with him. What do you mean not Thanatu?”

“Pain mine. Thanatu clan keeps not. Pain mine...clan not.”

Ullric mulled that over for a moment.  It was hard to think with Raven’s body so near and that feral grin on its face.

“You mean he is Thanatu.”

The body shifted.

“But he could not stay with them. He is not like them.”

“Pain, pain, pain live. Mine Thanatu. Mine not Thanatu.”

“Cursed beast, what are you saying? Pain before he was Thanatu, pain after. Raven could not stay because even with you the pain did not stop. What pain, what do you mean?”

There was another long silence while the unwavering gaze held him trapped in darkness.

“Fire pain--one.”

The questions were threatening to choke him. He wanted to understand. Maybe in order to live with this thing in some peace he had to ask.

“Raven’s like me, no one the same. He would not sit alone at the fire.”

“Mine, all time mine. Cursed to join light--”

Frustration marked not Raven’s face, heavy shoulders rolled back and muscle seemed to flow like snakes beneath the shirt. The sudden movement startled Ullric, but he stood his ground.

“So you stay with Raven forever?”

“Mine fall, go I.  Mine not, stay.”

The grin got wider, unnaturally so. For a moment Ullric thought his response was wrong.  Had not Raven’s teeth grown sharper?

“Cold man sit, mine sit.  Pain not—all.”

Oh, Ullric thought he understood.

“He has stood between me and Tor’s halls many times since I met him. I will share the fire as long as he wishes it.”

“Mine cold man...re...mem...ber mine, all time.  Mine pain...pain you.”

The low staccato growl that always raised Ullric’s hair arrested the protest he thought to make.

“Prey comes.”

In a blink not Raven knelt once more on the floor and the guards pulled the door wide.

“Jaap I really do not understand why I must meet these...”

The woman voice trailed away as she beheld the kneeling man.  

“What is the meaning of this? Jaap, what are you doing?”

The woman turned back to the heavy doors in surprise, her white, gold trimmed skirt lifting to expose golden sandals on her feet.

“Open this door!”

“Jaap not. You stay. Answer.”

“Stay, answer?  Open the door this instant!”

Jeran was first wife of the previous lord and mother to Jaap. Although she despaired of his judgment many times, she was always treated with utmost respect. Angry she turned back to the kneeling man glancing warily at the barbarian in the corner. Her hands shook, but did not disturb the gold bracelets, which covered her arms from wrists to elbows. The perfumed oil in her dark graying hair permeated the room.  Jeweled baubles glittered in the curls and around her neck.

“Who are you?” She demanded of not Raven.   

“Answer.  Smell you.  Blood you,” he whispered.

“Smell, smell?”, Jeran squeaked, “What madness is this?”

Blood rushed to her cheeks in embarrassment. She had never been so--so insulted in her life.

“You will not speak to me in such a manner. Jaap, open this door!”

She beat at the door with her fist, fear finally obliterating her anger. All the air left her lungs in a rush as adrenaline stole the strength form her limbs.

She turned back to her jailers as a hair raising growl rose up from the man thing on the floor.”

“What, what is it you want?”

Then he looked up and she saw the black pits where his eyes should be and a mouth wide with sharp white—

In the corridor Jaap fell to his knees and the guards turned to face the door with swords drawn. The scream went on and on.

Ullric held his axe before him a hair’s breadth from cutting down the terrorized woman. Chi stood over her shrieking form until she lay whimpering at his feet.  

“Why babes, wives--son die?”

Ullric shuddered under the influence of Chi’s wheedling hiss.

“I advised. I fought for it all.  His father was weak and he is no better. The metal we need to survive is now but a trickle. He pays the rabble to work instead of keeping them in chains.  Outsiders come take our gold to make the tunnels safe. He takes wives from the lesser houses and the other cities, for love he says. The alliances of a thousand years are tossed aside.”

“Name them.”

He shook her.

“Name them.”

Jeran refused to look directly at Chi.

She smiled through the tears and mucus on her face.

“I will tell you nothing.  I--no, no by the gods no!”

She screamed again has Chi lifted her closer to his grinning mouth.  She kicked and wailed, the names of her co-conspirators spilling in an incoherent babble.

“Spell--spell weaver.”

“I do not know.  By the gods I do not know.”

“False wretch!”

The depthless eyes stared into hers.  She moaned, tore at her hair and shrieked.  Her neck snapped so loudly Ullric leaped to Chi’s side before he realized what the sound really meant.

“Spell weaver here not.  We go.”

Ullric pounded on the door calling Jaap until he heard the bar slide away.

Chi knocked the guards aside and raced down the hall.

The NorBlad followed the swiftly moving form to the third level. Chi put his shoulder to a door and crashed through. Shrill laughter greeted his entrance. The NorBlad gagged on the foul smoke pouring from the room.

“To late, barbarians.  Everyone will die.”

Jola made no move to avoid the warrior’s attack. He knew they would be overcome very quickly.  He was not prepared for the metal door to bang shut leaving the dark haired one surrounded by the noxious black fumes filling the air. A deaths head rictus stretched the mouth unnaturally wide exposing stilettos of gleaming white.  The servant was stunned and backed away from the apparition.  Chi growled.

“Spell weaver, life giver no more,” not Raven hissed.

“No this is not possible.  What are you?”

“What seek you?  For you I.”

The man was confused by the last response and frowned. He did not realize he was moving around the stone pedestal where the glass tube emitting the dark spell rested. The Aja crushed the tube under his fist and grinned wider at the traitorous servant.  His fangs glittered like sun on snow within the clouds of smoke.

Jola only knew he was on the floor when the death grip on his throat eased up enough to let in just a bit of the poisoned air. The Aja swayed, hissing interspersed with guttural words. The spell reversed before his eyes. Dark clouds rolled back to spin and spin until he shut his eyes against the sickening motion. The barbarian’s gibbering rose to a piercing wail before his hard thick thumb pressed into Jola’s cheek and forced his mouth open. Then he noticed the funnel spinning tighter and tighter, rushing toward him. Jola struggled ineffectively against the strength in the big hands even after the vapor covered his face and disappeared.

Chi held the man close, forcing the nose and mouth shut. Blisters appeared on the surface of his skin and it reddened. The servant kicked wildly, snapping his own bones against the pain as his body swelled and cracked. His blood and internal organs slowly dissolved.  When the body ceased to jerk and tremble not Raven left it. He never made it to the door.

Ullric thought he heard someone call his name.  It was dark.  Something foul twisted and lurched in his belly.  He gritted his teeth against the cramps and cursed Tor for allowing him to die with a bellyache.  Suddenly his body expelled the invader leaving the barbarian unconscious against the wall. Again and again his name was heard until the irritation roused him from the stupor the black smoke caused. The door!  Lurching to his feet he blindly shook off the hands that attempted to assist him. He put his shoulder to the metal but it did not yield.  Angered, Ullric swung his axe piercing the thin sheet of metal until he finally sheared the joints from the wall. The door rocked but did not fall so it was hurled aside with a snarl.

The Thanatu’s body lay face down. Ullric staggered forward, snatched the heavy body from the floor and passed out.

Water sellers tripled their deliveries to accommodate the enormous amounts used by Jaap’s ravaged household.  He took the bodies of his mother and servant beyond the city boundary and left them to rot.  He spoke a curse to follow where the spore from the demon servant originated.  Then turned his men back to Guerdon where acolytes of the gods traveled though out the city waving braziers of incense to bless and reassure the people. The men who risked their lives for his city were very sick.  It was feared Aja would die. Jaap offered sacrifice to the gods and asked his people to pray for Aja’s recovery.  It was all they could do.

Raven’s eyes snapped open.  Hands were laid upon him as he jerked upright to vomit in excruciating spasms until exhaustion dragged him down once more.  

In a coma for days, his now fitful consciousness was plagued with fevered delirium and violent spasms. He called out in several languages, cursed and wept.  He tried to fight, but the enemy tied him and Chi did not come.

Ullric held the sweat slicked arms as Raven heaved and screamed beneath him. Several of the guard assisted as Jin and Jivin tried to force-feed him another herbal mixture.  Raven slipped into a coma once again.

“You must rest Ullric. It will take time to regain your strength.”  Jin signed, pressing her slim hands against the broad chest drenched in sweat and still fevered from his own brush with death.

“I will rest after we take him to the stables.”

“Stables?  Why would you want to do this?”

“He is dying Jin.  I think your potions have little effect.  Perhaps the beast’s venom will spare him or end his suffering.”

Jin wanted to protest, but Jivin’s desperate efforts had proved of little use against the foul vapor. She stepped aside and Jivin rose from the bedside. His slim figure trembled with fatigue. His clothes were damp and wrinkled.

Jivin signed.

“He is correct my love.  I can do no more.”

The healer’s eyes filled with tears.  He could not save the Aja, friend of his husband and savior of their lord.

“Forgive me Ullric.  I…”

The barbarian stroked his heavy hand across the damp curls on the healer’s head.  Jin held Jivin close as he wept, shamed by his failure.

“You are not to at fault healer. The twice-cursed servant is to blame. Help me. If I drop his heavy carcass Chi will take my life.”

Guards, stripped down to tunic and breeches hurried to the barbarian’s side to help him lift the inert body onto his shoulders. Ullric staggered still weakened from his own ordeal. The men took Raven’s weight until the giant regained his balance and shuffled slowly out of the room.  They held close to his back, down the hall and the narrow stairways to the first floor.  The main floor of the manor was dark, its master in seclusion with his remaining wives.  The servants slept, free at last from washing walls and floors with herbal concoctions to eliminate the stench of dark magic. The guard pulled the doors wide, startling the four men on watch from the porch and inner yard.

“Hold, all is well. We take the Aja to his magical beast.  Perhaps it will cure him.”

The men stood aside, one shaking his head in doubt that anything could save the assassin after so many died from tainted blood and wounds.  

Javas ran ahead to open the stable doors then continued in his fellow’s footsteps, tracking the barbarian to the center of the gated stalls.

“No further, the beast will take exception.”

They watched as the big man called out, speaking as if the beast could understand.

“He is dying. Will you save him or take your freedom.”

Ullric dropped Raven’s body before the stall leaping aside quickly as fangs snapped shut inches from his chest.

“Let him die Chi and leave this place.”  Ullric taunted moving along the far wall. The barbarian and guards slipped quickly from the stable.  

Just as Ullric’s patience was hard pressed to wait a moment longer, Raven’s hoarse cries of pain could be heard through the door.  So the beast did strike. Maybe his venom would not kill the Thanatu as it cleansed the other poisons from his body.  Morning would be soon enough to know. He was tired and still sick to his stomach. Having done what he could the barbarian made his way to bed, the guards occasionally righting his drifting shuffle into the manor.

Raven shivered and howled throughout the night.  The sun was well into its morning climb when the last of the combined poisons were purged. He passed into a coma like sleep assured his connection to Chi remained.

Days later the warriors were returned to Jirair’s home.  The lord’s manor was inundated with petitioners, ambassadors, servants and extended members of his wives families. The atmosphere was almost hysterically jubilant. It was no place for irritable, sick to the stomach warriors to recover.

Jaap was hollow eyed with shock at his mother’s betrayal, but turned his grief to revenge stoked punishment for the city’s betrayers. The conspirators from the old families were executed in the public squares, angry citizens clamoring for their deaths for the heinous crime of killing children. Their families were stripped of wealth and condemned to the mines without pay to serve Guerdon for life. The children were fostered into homes of those loyal to Jaap. He began an obsessive hunt for protective spells to prevent any further encroachment on members of his household and his city.

Raven reclined in pillowed splendor on the front porch.  He knew that a few more weeks must pass before they were ready to move on. Jirair’s men patrolled the streets insuring the continued privacy of his quests.  Laughter erupted somewhere in the depths of the house.  Raven relaxed into his dark companion’s mind and dozed.

They would depart with gold and supplies to keep them for a great length of days.  He would miss Jirair and his family. These affectionate people were the closest he would ever come to a clan of his own.  For all the pain Ullric suffered, Raven envied him the past.

The End

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