Brian Anderson - Shadow of the Gods

Lee nodded. “Indeed, it was.” He tore off a piece of bread that had been laid out for him. “There is a small town, Farice, a day’s ride from here. We should reach it before sundown tomorrow. The wounded should be left behind there. They will not heal if they continue.”

“I'm familiar with Farice,” said Darius. “I'll see the men are paid and, looked after.” He looked Lee in the eye. “I've never seen anyone fight like you. You could have taken the entire raiding party alone, I suspect.” His eyes drifted to Jacob. “And I see you have the same spirit in you as well.”

Lee shrugged. “I was well-trained. And Jasper is a natural.”

“Well-trained, you say,” said Darius. His eyes bore suspicion. He stretched out on his bedroll, his hands folded, cradling his head. “You know, I have traveled this road six times since the Reborn King came to power. I've seen many soldiers, mercenaries, thugs, bandits, you name it. I've seen many fights, duels, and even one pitched battle, when I was young. But I have never seen a man slay so many with such ease.”

Lee was silent.

Darius chuckled. “Don't worry. Whatever secrets you keep are yours. You and Jasper have saved my life twice. Not to mention keeping my fortune out of the hands of brigands. I'm not so wealthy that I can afford to lose an entire shipment. In any case, I am in your debt.” He rolled over to face Lee. “I have a feeling that you will not be in my employ long. You are a man that acts with purpose, and I think that purpose lays in Angraal.”

Lee met Darius' gaze. “What are you trying to say?”

Darius smiled. “Nothing. I just want you to know, that when the time comes, I will help you as best I can.” He rolled back over and closed his eyes. “I owe you that much.”

Lee looked at his son, then back at Darius. “When the time comes, your help will be welcome.”

Gewey cracked open his eyes. Kaylia was still asleep beside him, her arm draped across his chest, a tiny smile on her lips. The scent of porridge and bread blew in from outside the tent, causing his stomach to growl.

“They've left a meal for us,” said Kaylia, awake though her eyes were still closed.

Gewey reluctantly sat up and reached for his clothes. He dressed and went to the tent entrance. Just as Kaylia had said, two bowls of porridge and a loaf of bread, along with a cup of sweet wine, had been placed just outside. Kaylia got dressed and they enjoyed their meal in silence. Their bond was all the conversation they needed.

They had only just taken the last bite, when a voice called from outside. “Hello?” It was Linis.

“Come inside,” called Kaylia.

Linis entered, his face grave.

“What's happened?” asked Gewey.

“We received word that Valshara has fallen,” Linis replied.

Gewey and Kaylia sprang to their feet.

“When?” asked Gewey. He reached down and grabbed his sword.

“Not long after we departed,” replied Linis. “The High Lady escaped, along with a few others. They have taken refuge in Althetas for now.” Linis pushed open the tent flap. “I am truly sorry, but you are needed. Theopolou and the others have gathered to decide what to do.”

Gewey took a deep breath and led Kaylia by the hand from the tent. The morning air was cool and moist, and dew still glistened on the grass-covered field. They joined the others not far from where he and Kaylia had completed their bond the night before. Theopolou and the elders were in deep conversation with Aaliyah and her comrades. Only Aaliyah noticed Gewey, Kaylia, and Linis approach. She nodded a greeting at Gewey.

“What's going on?” asked Gewey.

Theopolou held a small piece of parchment in his hand. “Valshara is destroyed. Very few escaped. The High Lady is in Althetas, and plans to petition the king to come to their aid.” He looked directly at Aaliyah. “I believe Gewey should delay the journey until we can decide on a course of action, but Aaliyah disagrees.”

“Any delay puts you in greater danger,” said Aaliyah. “The presence of Shivis Mol will not help you. Besides, your course is clear. Gather as many as you can, and strike back before your enemies can establish a foothold. Unless they have an army, you should be able to mount an attack, and retake what you have lost. My people will give you all the help they can. They will expect only swords and arrows…we can bring much more to bear.” She turned to Gewey. “But we must not delay our departure.”

Gewey wanted desperately to stay. Every minute more he could have with Kaylia was precious.

“Aaliyah is right,” said Kaylia. Feeling Gewey's doubt, she squeezed his hand. “If what she says is true, we need what is hidden in the desert. And Gewey needs to learn to use his power.”

“It is not probable they will look to hold Valshara,” said Bellisia. “Not so far from reinforcements. More likely they are striking at Amon Dahl. And if they try to hold it, we can take it back.” She spoke to Theopolou. “You know Valshara better than most. The battle plan shall be yours.”

“And if we find we are mistaken?” Theopolou furled his brow. “What then? Valshara can be well defended by only a few. If they brought enough force, they could hold it indefinitely.”

“You think in battle terms without taking all of your weapons into account,” said Nehrutu. He held out his palm. The air above it swirled and twisted, then burst into a small flame. Light and heat grew until it forced the gathering back. “We have abilities beyond your understanding.” The ball of flame shot skyward, then exploded with an ear-shattering blast. “They will not expect you to possess such weapons.”

This brought stares of awe and mummers of approval.

“Please, Shivis Mol,” said Aaliyah. We must depart. There is nothing for you to do here.”

Gewey looked at Kaylia. She nodded slowly, then kissed his cheek. Gewey nearly lost himself as the love flowed freely between their bond. He sighed heavily and forced himself to look away. “We leave as soon as you're ready.” He turned to Theopolou. “I'll return as soon as I can.”

Aaliyah had already prepared to depart and told Gewey she would await him at the edge of the encampment. Gewey gathered his pack, Kaylia at his side.

“I'll miss you,” said Gewey. Tears welled in his eyes.

Kaylia pulled him close and kissed him deeply. “Just be careful and return to me safe.” She embraced him, choking back her own tears. Reluctantly, she released him and took his hand. “It's time.” They made their way to Aaliyah.

Theopolou and Linis were also there. Linis smiled as they approached. He held a small silver flask.

“I made this last night,” said Linis. He handed it to Gewey. “If you are to go to the desert, it may be useful. A single sip will keep you strong should you be unable to find water.”

“Thank you, my friend.” Gewey put the flask in his pack and gave Linis a fond embrace.

Theopolou bowed. “Farewell, Gewey Stedding. My hopes go with you.” He looked at Kaylia. “You are now a part of my house and my family. Return to us soon.”

Gewey bowed in return. “I will.” He kissed Kaylia one last time, as tears streamed down both of their faces. He wiped his tears and turned to Aaliyah. “I'm ready.”

Aaliyah nodded and led Gewey to the trail. Gewey dared not look back for fear his heart would break.

“Are we going alone?” asked Gewey.

“We need no escort,” Aaliyah replied. “There is nothing so dangerous as to trouble us.”

“How long until we get there?”

“Two days. But if we press our pace and take no respite, we can reach the shore by morning,” she said. “My ship awaits us.” She slowed as to walk beside Gewey. “I know it is hard to leave her. But it is for the best. And you may find you are glad you did.”