Taking the sword

The icy wind blew, pass the Twin Pillars, across the Great Desert, and beyond the Dark Ridge. Everywhere it went, the climate turned colder. With the first drop of snow, winter had arrived.

It had been a long, hard year. There were ongoing wars, between great kingdoms, and within. Kingdoms were torn apart by civil wars, or were devoured by greater power-thirsty kingdoms. Crops failed due to the strange dry weather, and famine raged the lands. Peace seemed like a dream of the past, a bedtime stories of which mothers told their children. Yet, as winter approached, all signs of trouble began to dwindle, until they had seemingly died out. But all knew, this was but a temporary rest for the kingdoms, as they each prepared to embark upon new conquests, or resolve themselves of their internal conflicts. However, still, peace had, at last, returned to the land, if only for a short time...

The horses came cantering into Cavon deep into the night, a small town lying on the border of Elona, a small kingdom by the Great Desert. The riders worn thick fur cloaks, a protection against the falling snow in which they had ridden through on this important mission placed upon them. Despite of the sudden fall of snow, they were in every way determined to complete the mission. As it should be the attitude they must have for all missions.

The riders rode leisurely towards the central square, taking care not to push the horses over their limit. Any unexpected injury to the horses would only slow their search down, and speed was indeed crucial in this particular mission. Reaching the central square, the leading rider, apparently the leader of the group, held up his hand, signaling them to a halt. He glanced around the square, searching for the local inn or tavern. His search ended as he spotted a dirty two-story building, which was still lighted and rowdy. There was a sign hanging from its doorway, embossed upon it the symbol of a single red leaf. Somehow convinced that it was the local inn, he dismounted from his black war stallion, followed shortly by two of his companions. Together, they made their way to the Red Leaf.

The room dropped into dead silence as the door was pushed open, revealing the three heavily cloaked strangers. Everyone had stopped what he or she had been doing, and turned to look at the strangers, for having strangers appearing in this out-of-the-way little town was indeed strange. Nothing ever happened in Cavon, nothing before in the last twenty years and more, and nothing would happen in the next twenty years and more to come. It was a quiet peaceful town that had obediently paid all its taxes and obeyed all laws passed by the High King of Elona. Further more, it was out of place, lying upon the border of Elona, and the only things they had and produced were rocks and slates. There's nothing valuable here to attract the interest of anyone, nor were there any unlawful activities operating here.

The strangers stopped at the door, brushing off the remnants of the snow on their bodies. Low whispers began to build up throughout the room, as the locals speculated who the strangers were, where they were from, and what they wanted from this small peaceful town.

The foremost stranger, apparently the leader, glanced around the room, searching for the innkeeper. His eyes stopped on a short, stout man behind the bar counter, who was eyeing the strangers wearily. The stranger's instincts told him that the man was the one he sought, for now at least, and moved towards him. Stopping before the innkeeper, the stranger spoke in his clear hush voice, loud enough for everyone in the room, "I seek a man. "

The innkeeper frowned. "A man?" He waved his hands around the room. "As you may have noticed, we have no lack of men here." The room burst into laughter, though it seemed strained. The tension in the air was in no way broken. Smiling, the innkeeper went on, "I myself am the father of three men. Just who, is this man you seek?"

The stranger looked at the innkeeper, displeased at being made a mockery. He bent forth, and held the innkeeper up by the collar with only his left hand. Many in the room would have considered it an amazing feat in another time - not many could lift a man of the innkeeper's girth - but right now, the person who lifted the innkeeper apparently harbored no good intention. Men stood from their chairs, and there were shouts and demands that the innkeeper be released. Some bold villagers even took a step towards the stranger, holding bottles and chairs in their hands. Blades flashed, and a scream came from the door. The two other strangers had promptly dispatched one of the hostile locals. Everyone froze.

The stranger, with his hand still holding fast to the collar of the innkeeper, pulled his cloak off his body, revealing a black shiny armor, its beauty enough to stun everyone in the room speechless. Yet, what was even more shocking was the crest engraved upon the armor. The Royal Eagle of Elona. If the innkeeper had paled at the sight of the crest, he almost fainted at the symbol of a crow above the crest, which clearly shown that the strangers were part of a 'secret' organization, which operated apart from the Elona army, answering only to the High King of Elona. The organization had no name, though most called them the Flirty Crows. They sought out all whom oppose the kingdom, and placed the death mark immediately on them. No trials would be given, and no mercy allowed. There was only one simple end to those they sought. Death. Sending such an organization after this mere man, and from the sounds of the horses outside, a full squad had been dispatched would only mean that the person was indeed very dangerous to the kingdom.

Trembling, the pale-faced innkeeper, in a submissive tone, replied, "Who... whom is that you seek... sir?"

Satisfied at the tone, the stranger, most likely the captain of the squad, said aloud, making sure everyone in the room could hear him, "Calvin, EX-captain of the royal guards."

There was a slight movement of the innkeeper's eyebrows, so slight that no one could have noticed. Yet the captain saw it.

"Calvin? Can't say I have ever seen the man. Nope, never pass by here. Why would he want to? Cavon is so out of place! There's nothing here but the rock quarry." The innkeeper had said all that in a breath. He was now breathing irregularly, and his shirt soaked with perspiration.

The captain looked hard and long at the innkeeper, and nodded to the other two companions. They nodded in reply, and lifted their blades. Two more men now lied dead on the floor. He looked around the room. "Anyone who do not wish to suffer the same fate should cooperate with us. Or should I say, we demand your cooperation, or else... "

A serving maid near the innkeeper could hold her composure no longer, and burst into tears. The captain glared at her, and began to unsheathe his own blade. Yet, before he finished, the innkeeper blurted, "No, don't harm my daughter!" That immediately caught the attention of the captain. He looked hard again at the innkeeper. "So I assume you will tell me the whereabouts of Calvin, will you not?"

The innkeeper swallowed, and sighed "The captain came through here a few days ago, and left for the West. He did not stay long, speaking of enemies after him. He bought supplies, and left immediately. That was about four days ago." The innkeeper paled further when the leader of the Flirty Crows glared harder at him when he spoke the word 'captain'.

The captain, though not satisfied with the answer, released the innkeeper. He looked at his two companions at the door. "Pass the word. West". They nodded, and left the room. The captain looked around the room one last time, and left the room too, leaving a group of frightened and fearful locals behind.

Outside, the captain mounted his black war stallion, and gestured for three companions to come closer. "Burn the inn. Leave no one alive." The three men dismounted immediately, none questioning the order. To the rest, the captain shouted, not loud enough to wake the locals, "We ride! To the west!"

The hammer dropped, landing upon the white hot metal. And again. And again, slowly beating the metal piece into the shape of a plow. Time and time Master Herman, the village smith stopped the hammering and held his work up, examining it for any flaw. Time and time he frowned, before starting to pound the metal piece with his hammer again, striving hard to create the perfect plow for the village farmer. This went on for a while, until he smiled at his creation with a sense of satisfaction. He placed the white hot metal into a bucket of cold water to cool it, before starting to file it carefully. Not long after, he placed the finished masterpiece carefully in a corner, awaiting its future master to claim it.

All this Ofred watched with interest glimmering in his eyes. Ofred, son of James, a renowned trader in the eastern coastal areas of the WestLands, and Ryana, householder of the family, had stolen the day off to visit Master Humer. He came to squat in a corner of the smithy, watching the master smith work his wonders, transforming worthless pieces of metals into useful items everyone would need one way or another. From a tender age, Ofred had been fascinated by smithing, and had often came secretly to the smithy, hiding in a corner, watching Master Herman as he labored. His parents reprimanded him when he was discovered. Later though, Ofred's parents realized they couldn't keep Ofred away from the smithy, and relented, though they firmly requested Master Herman to send him away if he was hindering his work. Master Herman, a man in his late thirties and still single, loved children, and Ofred was good company.

Wiping his hands clean of soot, Master Herman removed his leather apron, and turned to Ofred "I'm going to change into something clean and comfortable, and then I'm heading down to Muro's Inn for lunch. Are you joining me?"

Ofred's stomach growled loudly. Ofred wanted very much to join the master smith for lunch. He had so much about smithing that he wanted to ask the master smith. However, he let out a sigh "Sorry, but I promised mother that I would be back for lunch. We're having cherry pies. " His mouth almost watered at the mention of cherry pies. His mother made the best cherry pies in the village, and they were absolutely delicious. His stomach, too, yearned for the delicacy, by growling more loudly this time. With a deep bow, Ofred thanked the master smith for letting him spend the morning in the smithy, and ran home, leaving an amused smith standing in the smithy.

Ofred munched the cherry pies delightfully, taking care not to drop any crumbs nor the cherry sauce onto the floor. His mother sat opposite the table, eating her cherry pie. Though in her mid-thirties, Ryana was a slim but beautiful lady. Her face was in no way disturbed by the movement of time, and she had long blond hair that was braided into a pony tail. She finished her cherry pie, and absently mentioned, "Your father's coming back tomorrow."

"Really?" Ofred mumbled enthusiastically between mouths, "I wonder what he will get me this time! And he will have more stories for me! Wonder what kind of adventures he had this time!"

"Ofred, your father is a trader. He don't run off and slay dragons, save nations, or rescue some princess. He's off to earn a living, so you and I can have these cherry pies. "

"Well, but still, it's an adventure to be away from this boring village. Nothing ever happens here! And besides, he doesn't have to rescue some princess. He got you!" Ofred grinned with his mouth full of red cherry sauce.

Ryana blushed, and got up from her chair, "Don't talk with your mouth full. It's very unbecoming." She then went into the kitchen, and reappeared with a basket of cherry pies. "Once you're finished, be a good boy and run on down to Muro's Inn. Pass Muro these cherry pies." Ofred groaned, before Ryana added, "I expect Krystal would be there helping her dad, wouldn't she?" And she grinned at Ofred. This time it was his turn to blush. But it was true. Ofred tried to bury his face into the cherry pie he was still eating, hoping the red cherry sauce would hide his blushes.

The door creaked open as the red-haired boy pushed, letting in a cold breeze into the room.

Muro looked up from his counter. "Close the door boy! You're letting all the heat out of the room!"

Smiling at Muro the innkeeper, the boy pushed the door back into place, shivering when a breeze blew upon him before he fully closed the door. Certain that the door was secured, he turned and waved the basket at Muro. "Uncle Muro! My mother asked me to bring you some of her cherry pies!"

"Yes I know. I can smell them a mile away. " Muro went to the door, and retrieved the basket from Ofred. Bringing it near his nose, he inhaled deeply. "Ahhhh, nothing beats Ryana's home-made cherry pies. Kinda cold though, but we can still heat it up. Thank your mother for me, boy. Oh, why don't you go keep Master Herman company. He's sitting in the corner right over there. " He pointed to the corner where Master Herman was sitting alone at. Not that Master Herman disliked the crowd. There were not many people in the room. It was after all, winter. Those that were here were mostly bachelors who did not have someone to cook them lunch. Others were just friends who had came by to have a mug of ale or so. "Krystal! Come fetch a mug of redberry for our young Ofred here!" The innkeeper winked at Ofred, who blushed.

"I guess I better go join Master Herman. "

"Sure. And I will warm a cherry pie for both of you. Of course, Krystal will bring it to you, along with the extra large mug of redberry for you. She knows it's your favorite. "

Ofred blushed even more, and murmured a thanks to the innkeeper, before moving towards the village smith. He almost tripped along the way, but he still made it to the table. It was a mere ten meters, yet it seemed distant.

"Yeah boy, I heard everything. Now why is your face as red as a crab? There's nothing to be embarrassed of. Anyone who uses his brain knows that you like Krystal. " That had hit the nail right on the head. All Ofred wanted now was to dig a hole deep enough and hide in there forever. "Besides, Krystal doesn't seem to disapprove of you in anyway. Better still, she seems to have taken a fancy to you, boy. " The smith gave Ofred a friendly pat on his shoulder.

Ofred swallowed. Did Krystal really show interest in him? Ofred shook his head. That could not be possible. Half the times Krystal was there, smiling and looking at him with that almost loving, caring eyes. Yet the other half, she ignored the boy, at times giving him a look of hatred and disgust with that same pair of eyes.

"You have much to learn boy. " That Ofred had to agree. He was so absorbed in his thoughts that he never noticed a tumbler being placed before him. He noticed that someone was beside him only when that sweet and almost musical voice startled him.

"Here's your redberry, Ofred. "

"Oh, Krsytal. Gee thanks. "

"So... Sprida's almost here. Isn't it? "

Sprida? "Winter just arrived. Spring won't be here in another two months. "

"Yeah I know. So... are you having any partners to dance with during the Sprida festival? "

"Nope. I haven't thought about it." But if there were anyone I would want to dance with, it would be you.

"Really? So... do you have anything to ask me? "

Anything? "Hmmm, ooh yes. Muro mentioned that he's warming a cherry pie for good Master Herman here. Could you please... ?"

A look of remorse was clearly shown on Kyrstal's face. In an angry tone, she almost screeched, "Cherry pie? Ok I will go check up on YOUR CHERRY PIE! " And she stormed out of the room, leaving the patrons and the serving maids in the room surprised and amused by what had just happened. Some even openly laughed, while others just grinned at Ofred.

"Now what did I do? "

"Nothing. Nothing at all. Like I said. You have much to learn, boy. Now, I hope she don't take it out on my cherry pie. Or I might just skin you alive. I don't get that much chance to eat your mother's cherry pie. Krystal isn't my daughter. "

Shaking his head, Ofred tried to figure out what he just did or spoke that was wrong. Shaking his head further, he concluded that he would never understand girls.

The trader whistled to the tune of the joyous melody "Home coming", a fitting melody for this journey. He had been away from his little village of Grath for almost two months, and he missed his wife and son dearly. He had traveled to the Kingdom of Suyon in the Far West, to acquire several exquisite novelties desired by the nobles of the Hamor nation. It was an uneventful trip, yet that was for the better. A trader like himself required no adventures.

The horses moved slowly, dragging the half-empty wagon forward through the snow piled upon the Hamor Highway. It had been a colder winter than before, but still tolerable for travel. For perhaps the first time in twenty years, WestLands had seen snow again, which would occur in a cycle of approximately twenty to twenty-five years. The scholars at Hamor University were still striving to make sense of such a cycle, but till this day they failed to put forth a sound theory. But that did not matter to the trader. As long as it was still tolerable for trade and traveling, they could snow for twenty years for all he care.

The wagon suffered a bump suddenly, giving the trader a shock. He muttered a few curses, and pulled the reins of his horses, stopping the wagon. Turning around, he examined the things in his wagon, ensuring that they were still in tip-top condition. He smiled when he carefully replaced a bundle of clothes in a corner. Luckily the wine bottle near by had not spill onto these clothes. He had a very well known tailor in Suyon tailor-made these clothes for his wife and son. If they were in any way damaged, he would destroy the whole Hamor Highway for that little bump he got, even if it would take forever by hand.

Certain that all the things were still fine, he got down from the wagon to check what the bump had been about. He would have to lodge a complaint to the Highway maintenance officer. Such a bump would be dangerous for all who traveled the Highway, and especially costly to traders who used it. He saw a shiny metallic object half-buried in the snow where the bump had occurred. Curious, he went forth to dig it out of the snow, revealing an exquisitely made long sword, sheathed in a jeweled scabbard. He wondered how such a precious weapon would be left in the snow, and who would the owner be? Examining the sword further, the trader found it vaguely familiar. Glancing around, he could find no trace of anyone using the road except himself. Of course, even if there were, the falling snow last night would be more then enough to hide the tracks. Seeing no reason how his questions could be answered, the trader got up and started to head back to the wagon. Before he moved a step, he was startled by the cracking of a branch that came from the bushes at the side of the road.

The trader unsheathed the sword from the scabbard, and proceeded to the bushes with caution. As he was near the bushes, he could hear the sound of heavy breathing. With his sword, he opened up the bushes, revealing a wounded man lying upon the ground, his faces full of scars and scratches. The trader thought he knew the man, but couldn't place a name to him. Nevertheless, he went over, and examined the wounded. He brushed the snow that had piled upon the man, and saw the man's full face. He knew the man.

Careful not to hurt the man, he bent to carry him up.

Ryana will know how to heal him. Besides, he won't be in the condition to travel at all. He needs rest. Lots of it.

Suddenly homecoming did not seem as joyous an event as before. Not when such a thing would happen to such a man. At such a time. Then the trader paused, and set the man down on the ground again. He should have driven the wagon back here, instead of carrying the man all the way there.

The man blinked, his eyes unaccustomed to the brightness of the room. Slowly, his vision returned, and he tried to shake off the dizziness in his head. That failed terribly, but he ignored the effects, and examined his surroundings. A room, with the bed he was on, a wardrobe in a corner, and a table with a lamp by the side of the bed. His platemail armor was by the side of the bed, polished, along with his sword leaning against the wall. Puzzled at how he got here, he tried to get up, hoping to find someone who could provide him with some answers, only to fall back onto the bed. His body was aching terribly, and he had a splitting headache. Resigned to the fact that he might have to stay in the bed, he looked around again, strangely aware of a familiarity of the room. He had been here before, yet he could not remember when or why.

"What have you gotten into this time? " The man was completely startled by the voice. He turned to the speaker, and found that she was a slim, familiar lady standing by the door, with her blond hair braided into a tail.

"Ryana? "

"Yes, that's me. The same old Ryana. Just older. So, what have you gotten into this time Calvin? Last I remembered, you joined the Royal Guards of Elona as a captain, along with the rest of the Desert Dogs. "

"Yes... It's been what? Six years?" He shook his head, trying to clear his dizziness. He only succeeded in making his headache worse.

"Seven actually. "

"Seven.... " He took another look at his ex- comrade of the Desert Dogs. "You've aged. But you seemed happier than before. Married life agrees with you. But you seemed to be out of shape - in terms of fitness of course, you still have that stunning figure. " And he leered at Ryana. "Last I remembered, you could take on five of those Uravian bastards by yourself. "

"I still can. Just that it will take longer, and more tiring that is. We all must grow old, Calvin. " There was silence in the room, as they brood upon the past. "So, where's the rest of our gang? "

Calvin, ex-captain of the Desert Dogs, the most feared mercenary band in the Central Plains and the ex-captain of the Royal Guards of Elona, was silent. It was a long wait before he finally spoke again. "They're dead, Ryana. Ernie, Philip, Gary. All of them. Most of them gutted in their sleep. I'm the only one who's still alive. Almost couldn't make it myself. Those crows were pressing hard on my back. " Speaking of the crows, Calvin almost spitted at the floor, but held back when he remembered this was Ryana's place.

There was shock registered upon Ryana's face, and she seemed on the verge of crying. But there were no tears. "We all must die someday. But this was no honorable death. This was butchery. What did you do, Calvin, that caused the Desert Dogs to suffer such a fate? " Her voice was hoarse as she spoke, her mind thinking about the past. Ernie, who had always been like a big brother to her, and took care of her. Gary, her first love, and his musical voice. No one would believe a mercenary could sing so well. He had always wanted to be a singer, but he had to earn a living. A singer did not earn as much as he did then. And Joana, the only other female mercenary in the company. They were like dear sisters, and had their backs to each other in countless fights and battles. She almost wanted to howl, to cry out loud for the deaths of her comrades. Yet tears could not bring the dead back. Not ever. There would be no way at all to hear the jokes and leers of her dear friends. Friends whom she had spent four years fighting on the Uravian borders. Friends who would always teased her about how mannish she was. Friends who would praise her on her skills with the blade. Friends... Ryana's eyes slowly turned reddish. "What Calvin, WHAT! " She demanded.

Calvin was silent for a moment again. "Yiner, the new Chancellor to the High King of Elona. He's a dark elf. "

Ryana held her breath. A dark elf? Advising the High King and running the kingdom? "Dark Elves in the courts of Elona? But how? "

"He took the shape of a man. A year ago, a merchant by the name of Fartur brought him to meet the High King. They met in his private study, and immediately, he was appointed assistant Chancellor. A day later, Quin, then the Chancellor, fell from his horse and broke his neck, and he was appointed the Chancellor. A day later, the High King of Elona had taken ill, and Yiner had been appointed regent until he recovered. But the High King never did. All seemed too much of a coincidence, almost as if he made them so. Since then, he had increased taxes and levies, and passed unreasonable policies. The people of Elona suffered dearly under his rule. They did not have enough to eat, but yet they still must pay their taxes. Those who didn't. Well, they were placed on this work gang, building a road, connecting major cities of Elona. Thousands died building this 'death road'. Then he kept on picking fights with border kingdoms. Conscription became a must for all able bodied men, and at times even woman. It was worse than hell in Elona. " He paused to look at Ryana. "You looked surprised. You mean you heard nothing of what happened in Elona? "

"Nope. " Ryana felt ashamed. So many died. So much suffering. And she had no knowledge of it at all. "You know the wars that had broken out almost everywhere, except in the WestLands that is. Trade had been stagnant between WestLands and the Central Plains. So has information. "

Calvin nodded, indicating he understood. "The Royal Guards, of course, were not involved in any of the battles. We're just in charge of the security of the palace, and protecting the High King. One night, during a routine patrol, Joana and Gary stumbled upon a ritual that bastard elf was working on. He was in his original form. Joana was burnt on the spot, as she strove to buy time for Gary to report the matter to me. " Ryana choked back a sob. Joana feared fire most. And she had died by the fire. "We - Gary, Ernie and myself - went to rouse the rest of the Royal Guards from their sleep in their quarters, but when we got there, no one was alive. Some were torn brutally apart. Others were mangled piles of flesh. We then proceeded to the High King's sleeping room, hoping to warn him, only to find himself in the same fate. Before we knew it, there were guards everywhere, accusing us of treason. We barely fled the city, and Marshal Law is declared in Elona. The High King's eldest prince was one of the victim of the slaughter, and Yunir will be acting as regent to the new High King, a child barely two years old. "

"We were at a loss, unsure about what to do. Finally we decided to warn the world about this - dark elves involved in the politics of Elona, possibly even most of the other nations in the Central Plains. But who would believe us? So we decided to ride westwards, to the Twin Pillars, and inform the Great Sages of this matter. Hopefully they would believe us and warn the rest of the world. We traveled westwards, with those crows hot on our feet. Ernie and Gary didn't make it. Ernie got hit in the head by one of their arrows, while Gary died in a fight we had with three of them. I was tracking alone out of Elona, and towards the border of Hamor, when three of them ambushed me. " Looking at the bandages around his body, he reflected, "I barely survived the fight. Since then I felt slightly hazy, but felt compelled to press on. I can't remember when or how I passed out. " He looked around the room again. "So how did I get here? "

Ryana was lost in her own thoughts, at the deaths of dear friends. Realizing a question was asked, she was brought back to reality. "James found you on the road towards the city of Hamor. "

"The city of Hamor? That meant I was on the wrong track. Never mind, I best be on my way. Thanks for the healing. " Calvin tried to get out of bed, only to be stopped by the aching in his muscles, and the pain felt at scoreless number of areas around his body.

"You're in no condition to travel. At least not yet for another week. "

"Another week and we all might die. Who knows what that elven bastard will be planing. Besides, the crows will be here anytime. "

"They won't. No one saw you being brought in. James hid you in his wagon. He was in quite a fit when your blood stained upon some clothes he had, though. " Ryana smiled briefly. "I think he meant those as a gift to Ofred and me. "

"Oh, I'm sorry. " He had to smile. Just before, he was worried about the fate of the world, and now he was feeling sorry for the bloodstains on some clothes. But it had been his blood. He shifted his body, and almost screamed at the pain in doing so. Ryana saw his facial expression, and moved forth towards him.

"When I say you are in no condition to travel, I really mean so. Don't you trust my judgement? " Ryana eased Calvin into bed. "You lost quite a bit of blood, and had broken ribs and bones. I try to set them back in place myself, and let your body do the healing. There's no healing priest around here, I'm sorry. "

"There's nothing to be sorry about. I still remember how good your healing skills are. " Calvin grinned at Ryana, hoping to bring a lighter mood to her. Dead was dead. There's no way to bring them back to life. Their lives must go on. He paused, and started to say more, when his stomach rumbled. He changed what he wanted to say. "Now, if you want me to heal, could you please get something to eat, and drink? I'm thirsty from the talk. And I missed your cherry pies. "

"Oh, ok. I will go see about dinner. You just wait here, and don't go anywhere. I'll tell James you're awake. He's very worried about you. And he will have lots to talk about with you. It's been so long since you two just met. And I'll fetch a mug of milk for you. Don't you argue with me. Milk's good for healing, and you want to heal faster don't you? And a bowl of porridge. They're easier to digest than cherry pies. You just stay here, on the bed, and rest. " With that she closed the door, and her footsteps fading away as she walked down the corridor.

Calvin just sat there, stun at what she just said. Who ever heard of a soldier drinking milk and eating porridge? He shook his head, and winced at his throbbing headache.

"Uncle Calvin! " Ofred greeted over the dining table, as he spotted Calvin limping into the kitchen with a clutch. He almost sprang up from his seat, and went over to Calvin, helping him to his seat at the table.

"My my, Ofred. You have really grown. The last time I saw you, you were just this tall. " He pointed at his waist level with his free hand. "Or should I say, short? " And grinned at Ofred.

Ofred grinned back, and protested in that jokingly manner. "That was seven years ago! Besides, I wasn't that short. I was taller! " And he pointed at about ten centimeters above Calvin's waist level. Calvin, and James, who had been watching the exchange, burst out in laughter.

"Ofred, come sit down. Dinner's starting. " James gestured to his son. "It's good to see you again after all these years, Calvin, though I hope we had met under different circumstances. Still, I think we should eat while we talk. " He patted his belly, not that it was big, but merely to make a point. "My stomach's not that forgiving a friend, and I don't want to annoy him. "

"Words of wisdom. I totally agree. But I would say my stomach is already annoyed with me. " He glanced at Ryana, who was preparing dinner by the stove. "It's complaining about the stuff it's getting. Milk and porridge. Not fitting for a soldier's friend. Don't you think so, James? "

"Milk helps the bones to heal faster. And porridge's easy to digest. And this is fish porridge. It's good for your health. " Ryana spoke, and she turned around, carrying a pot to the table. "As for us, we're having lamb stew. " She gave Calvin a smirk.

Calvin groaned aloud as he smelled the lamb stew. "Must you mock me so, Ryana? You people having that fabulous lamb stew, while I'm stuck with this fish porridge. At least, please, keep the lamb stew away from me. Or I might just turned crazy over it. "

"As you wish, Calvin. As you wish. " Ryana shifted the pot of lamb stew to the end of the table furthest from Calvin, and went back to the stove to prepare Calvin's dinner.

Ofred had his eyes upon the basket of freshly baked bread all these while, Making sure his mother or father was not looking, Ofred stretched forth his right hand to try and grab a piece, only to be greeted by a slap on his hand.

"Remember your manners, boy. Our guest has yet to receive his meal, and you want to begin yours? " James lectured his son.

"It's ok James. The kid's just hungry. Here, have one first. " He reached forth to the basket of bread, ignoring the pain he felt while stretching his body. From the basket he grabbed a piece of nice warm bread, and grinned as he carefully threw it to Ofred. Ofred was caught rather unexpected by the sudden throw, barely catching the bread as it flew towards his face.

"Thanks Uncle Calvin! " And he munched happily at the bread, ignoring the crumbs that fell upon the table and himself.

"Kids.... All they care are fun, and good food. " James sighed uncontrollably.

"We were that young before too, ain't we? I remembered the times when we would just played in the woods, or in the fields. And at the end of the day, we would run back home, have our dinner, and snuggle into our bed. And the next day we would do so again. We never had worries then. " Calvin stared into emptiness, as he recalled the past.

"Yes... but you. You had dreams then. A great swordsman. To be known and respected. A daydream then. But now you got it all. "

"Perhaps. " Calvin said with a look of regret on his face. "Perhaps. But still, somehow I wished I had stayed in the village. Tend the sheeps. Plough the farmlands. Meet a nice girl, get married, and have kids like you. "

Ryana scooped a bowl of porridge from the pot. "Well, what's done stays done. No point regretting and deal with the what if's stuff. " She turned from the stove, walked over to Calvin, and passed him his dinner. "So why don't you like, stop whining, and have your fish porridge. " Ryana undid her apron, and hang them by the stove.

Calvin sighed, resigned to his fate. "I thought you were joking about the fish porridge. " Drinking his mug of milk, he looked surprised at the taste. "Hmmm, I never tasted such good milk before. Perhaps your fish porridge might be just as good. "

"Better. Ok, Ofred, you can tuck in now. " Ryana took Ofred's plate and scooped some lamb stew onto it.

"Thanks mother. " Ofred mumbled with his mouth full of chewed bread. He almost choked speaking, and quickly gulp down half a mug of his redberry. Ryana handed Ofred his plate, and served James, and finally herself.

"Boy, didn't I tell you not to talk when you eat? " James looked at his son with that almost worried look, and lectured. "And you don't have to eat so fast. There's enough here for everyone. " Looking at Calvin, who had finished his bowl of porridge - a rather large bowl - he went on, "I hope. " And gave Calvin a grin.

"James! You travel far and wide, and trade shrewdly and smart. Surely you have earned enough to accommodate a heavy eater! " Calvin protested in jest.

"That I do, Calvin. That I do. But you are no ordinary heavy eater. " James smiled broadly.

"Another helping? "

"Yes, thanks Ryana. Your fish porridge is good. Really good. If I had known you were so good in cooking, I would have gone after you last time. " He handed Ryana his bowl, and looked at James with a mock hatred. "And now James get to eat all your cooking. While I had to eat those inhuman food that palace chef prepared for us soldiers. Sometimes I wonder how he became the chef. I guess his definition of food would be something edible. He don't care if you die after you eat his food. As long as it's edible, it's food. " He gave a long, loud sigh.

"Speaking of trade, I have to make another run down to Suyon next month. Some of the local nobles entrusted me to acquire some more crystal commodities. They are willing to pay good prices for them. Oh, Ofred, could you hand me another helping of the lamb stew? " Ofred took the plate from his father, and scooped a big helping, knowing he would finish it all within minutes. Then he helped himself with another round of the lamb stew, and started eating merrily away.

"Again? " Ryana asked as she passed Calvin another bowl of her fish porridge, who immediately took it and started eating.

James shrugged. "They pay better than the rest. "

Ryana bit her lips.

"It won't take long. I will be back in a couple of weeks. "

"It's not the time. I'm worried. As I just told you what Calvin had told me... " She took a glance at Calvin, before she turned back to James. "Times are getting bad. I just want you to be with us when that happens. "

"I know. But still, we don't know when. And we still have to eat, don't we? "

"I understand. But that doesn't mean I have to like it. "

The room was silent, except for the sound of Ofred and Calvin eating their meal. It was not long before Calvin spoke. "Could I have another helping? "

The riders stood on top of the hill, gazing down at the village as they waited in silence.

Not long later, the sounds of horses could be heard trotting towards them. Their scout had returned.

"Captain, I found three of our men dead by the side of the Hamor Highway, five miles into the border of Hamor. "

The captain was in no way pleased at the news. But the news was to be expected. The man they were after was no easy meat. He was, after all, the captain of the Desert Dogs. That had meant he must be good with the blades, or the Desert Dogs would not have followed him. Yet, what one expected did not mean one had to be pleased when it happened.

"Any trace of where he could be? " As he spoke, his breath formed a white cloud. He almost cursed at the Chancellor, who had set them upon this almost suicidal mission. He agreed wholeheartedly that the man was dangerous to the kingdom - treason must be punished dearly. But still, he wondered if a squad of the crows had been enough for the hunt. So far, seven had perished. Three he killed single-handedly. But a squad was all the Chancellor would spare for the man who murdered the High King and the heir in their sleep. For such treason, the whole army should be dispatched for the hunting too.

"We could discover no trail nor track. The snow had covered them completely. We barely could discover the bodies of our squad, save it was perhaps a lucky search. We speculated he could be on his way to the capital city of Hamor, perhaps to do the same evil deed. "

"Could you determined how long they had been dead? "

"I would say not more than two days, though it's now in the winter, and I would be off by a day or so. "

"Two days.... " The captain paused to consider, before turning to the rest of the squad. "We hunt. "

The red-haired boy yawned.

"Tired, boy? " Master Herman asked without looking up, as he carefully poured the molten metal into the mould, taking care not to spill any.

"Yeah... " Ofred replied in between yawns. "I slept rather late last night. "

"Oh. What were you doing? Mooning over Krystal? " Master Herman grinned as he continued his work.

Ofred blushed. It seemed to be a skill he had lots of chances to practice lately. "None of that! Father's back. We just had a long chat. "

"I see. " Master Herman finally stopped pouring, and set the container on the ground. Now all he needed was to wait for it to cool. Until then, there was nothing he could do. Decided to take a break, he walked over to the table, and poured two glasses of water from the kettle, offering Ofred the other glass. Ofred almost choked on the water when Master Herman spoke again, on a rather surprising topic. "So, have you figure out why Krystal was mad at you the other day. "

Putting the glass down on the table, he scratched his head, with that blank look on his face. "Nope. I guess I will never understand her. " Ofred shook his head.

"Ask any man, and he will say he will never understand women. " He emptied his glass with one last swallow, before pouring himself another glass. Placing the glass on the table, he eased himself upon the bench, beside Ofred. "You see. No one truly understands woman. All you need is understand enough to keep yourself out of trouble. " He took another mouth of the water from his glass. "Krystal was upset the other day because you did not ask her to be your dance partner for Sprida. "

"Ask her? But she knew I would love to dance with her! Since a couple of Sprida festival back I never danced with anyone besides her. "

"But still, she would like you to ask. Women don't think the way men do. Men take things for granted. Like you now. You took her for granted, knowing she will be dancing with you for this coming Sprida festival, and for others to come. She would, most probably. But still, she liked to hear you say you would like to dance with her. " Master Herman took another swallow of his water.

"Hmmm. " Ofred considered what the master smith had just said. "How would you know so? "

"I was young once, and had the same problems as you are having now. " With that, Master Herman was silent, as he stared blankly across the room, looking at nothing in particular.

"Master Herman? " Ofred asked softly, "Why ain't you married? "

"She died. " That was all the reply Master Herman said, and it effectively ended the conversation.

They both sat there, not saying anything, as one brood upon the past, and another about the present.

Calvin concentrated on the chessboard, looking for any maneuvers that would prove advantageous. His eyes paused on a Bishop, and moved it two squares to the top right.

James frowned, but said nothing. Instead, he moved his Pawn forward to counteract the attack, as if the move had been long anticipated.

Calvin let out a brief smile, and moved his Knight forth, trapping the Queen.

Knowing that the queen was lost, he ignored the move. He moved his Bishop to the bottom right, beginning his long planned move to victory.

Calvin looked puzzled at the lack of attempt to defend his Queen. He looked around the board for any traps, and seemed to catch a hint of trickery. "Oh... " And he forewent taking the Queen, instead concentrating on his defense, lest he lose the game. And the game went on as it had been for the day.

"You two still at the game? It's been almost a day. " Ryana spoke as she came from the backyard, her hands carrying a fresh bed linen.

Calvin sat back, and stretched his hands. "Well, it's been a long while since we brothers had such a good game. Besides, what can you expect a wounded man like me do? I can't go out, for fear of discovery, and I can't practice my blade skills. " He replied as Ryana went into his room to change his bed linen, speaking loud enough so that Ryana could hear him.

"Pay attention Calvin. Brother or not, I'm gonna get you this time. "

"Ok, ok. Hmmm" Calvin went back to study the board. "Is it your turn or mine? "

"Mine. "

"And you asked me to pay attention when it's your turn? James, you're impossible. "

"I rather not have you charming my wife too much. "

Calvin sighed. "If you say so, James. If you say so. "

"I said so. " And he moved his Bishop back behind his line of pawns, preparing it for another attack elsewhere.

This time it was Calvin's turn to frown. He moved his Castle forth, joining in the attack. After all, James's Queen was trapped

Anticipating the move, James moved his Knight back, protecting the King. "So when are you leaving? "

"Me? " Calvin sought another path to attack, besides the one he had in mind now. The one James had effectively blocked out. "I'm not sure. My body tells me I have not fully recovered yet. "

"Blah! It will take a year or so to be fully recovered, if I am correct. "

"That you are, James. That you are. So I would leave the moment my body says I can survive the travel. " He almost wanted to hit his head hard. The opening was so clear. He placed his Bishop two squares forward to the top left.

James looked at the board in dismay. "Looks like I lost the game. " He sighed long and loud. "So when will that be? "

Calvin smiled. "Why? Are you that anxious to get rid of me? I guess I could start on the day after tomorrow. Of course, before that I need to gather some provision, and purchase a mount. "

"It isn't that. Just that... I'm worried. After all, I'm as much an Elonian as you are. I can't just sit here and do nothing while the kingdom suffers. If it wasn't for Ryana and Ofred, I would pack up, and set forth to the Twin Pillars now myself. " He looked to the room Ryana was in.

"I understand. I never asked you to. So, another game? "

James smiled. "Sure. And this time, I will get you for sure. "

"You've been saying that ever since you started playing chess with me when we were small. "

Ryana carried the chest carefully down from the top of the cupboard. Setting the box down on the ground, she brushed aside the layer of dust that had collected upon the chest. She bent forth to undo the lock on the chest, but paused as she touched the lock. She questioned herself the wisdom of opening the chest again after all these years.

She looked at the door - not that she could see anything beyond it. She could hear nothing either. But she knew that her husband was there, playing chess with his brother. She could almost see the frown on his face, as he sought to gain his first victory over his brother in chess. She could not help but smile.

"I'm home. " That was her son. She could picture him running through the door, back from another day in the smithy. He would be dirty and sweaty - working in the smithy was bad, and watching was not much less. And of course most of all, he would be hungry. Shaking her head, she remembered she had yet to prepare lunch. Perhaps she should bake some cherry pies again. There were still some ingredients left from the last baking. Besides, Calvin said he missed her cherry pies. More importantly, if she opened the chest, it would be a long, long while before she could have a chance to bake some again.

Standing up, she went to the door. She had to discuss the matter with James at the very least.

"You're coming with me? " Calvin shook his head at the idiocy of the decision.

"Not just me. James coming too. He's worried about me. " Ryana gave a faint smile. "It's nice to know he is willing to give up that run up to Suyon for me. "

"No I didn't. I just pushed it slightly earlier. But since we are traveling through the Northern Ridge, the time balances up. "

Calvin shook his head again. "It's dangerous. Besides, who will take care of Ofred when you two are gone? "

"We figured he could come along. "

"And risk his life? Surely you have better sense than that, Ryana. And James, you too. You are always the more logical and smarter among us two. " He grinned at James, "Though you can never beat me in chess. "

James shrugged. "Well, leaving him here wasn't such a good idea either. Either we survive this trip, or we don't. I know it's dangerous for him. But we figured it wouldn't be nice or fair for him to wait for us when we couldn't come back. "

Calvin slumped back upon his bed, his back leaning against the wall. "This is a big mistake, you know. "

"Sometimes, in life, mistakes are the only option we can have. " James looked at Ryana, who nodded in agreement. "So I guess it's all settled then. I'll go purchase another two mounts for Ryana and you. Ryana will prepare the provisions we need for travel. We will leave the moment you are able. "

"What about Ofred? "

"I will tell him. He will be glad to be away from this boring town anyway. An adventure is always what he wanted. Though I hope nothing will happen at all. " James stood up from the bench. "I guess I better go talk to Werner. Perhaps he has some spare mounts we can purchase at a cheap price. "

"I guess I better go too. We have a lot to prepare. " Ryana stood too. In haste they left the room, leaving Calvin alone, still doubting the wisdom of such a decision.

"Wow, an adventure! Finally! "

James shook his head. "No, not an adventure. We're just gonna make a trade run up to Suyon, but through the Northern Ridges this time. "

"But still, anything is better than staying in this boring village! " Ofred replied excitedly as he kicked the snow up with his feet. Then he paused, and bent down to the ground, rolling a small snowball. Straightening himself, he looked around, and threw the ball at a lady who was sweeping the snow off the front of her door.

"Ouch! " The lady yelled. She turned around, seeking the culprit. She saw Ofred, and glared at him, who quickly took cover behind his father.

"Ofred... " James frowned. "I'm sorry Lyette! I will take him into hand! "

"You make sure you do James. You make sure you do. He's becoming quite a terror, and if you or Ryana don't do anything about it... " Lyette left the sentence unfinished.

"Rest assure I will. " And they made haste away from the scene of crime.

"Ofred? "

"Yes father. I won't do it again. "

James sighed, knowing it would just be another empty promise. "No, not that. " James grinned at his son. "Next time, when you do that kind of stuff, make sure you won't get caught red-handed. " Ofred could not help but grinned back.

They continued moving, dragging their feet through the snow, until they came to a house with a big stable. James knocked upon the door.

"Who is it? " A deep, hoarse voice came from within the house.

"It's James. I would like to purchase two mounts from you. "

There was a sound of someone getting off his chair, and footsteps walking towards them. The door creaked open, revealing a tall, huge man with an unshaven face. Before James could say more, the man gave him a big bear hug.

"It's really good to see you again, James. Now, when did you come back? " He asked while still engaged in that killer hug.

James replied in between loud grasps of breaths, "Yesterday... Now... could you... like, let go... of me? I'm... suffocating... "

The man flushed, and disengaged from James. "Oh.. Sorry about that. "

"It's ok, Werner. I think. At least I'm still alive. Now, about those horses... " James asked, his face still red from the lack of air earlier.

Werner smiled. Then he noticed Ofred hiding behind his father. "Oh, you're here too, boy? "

Ofred nodded behind his father. He had always been rather afraid and awe of the giant, Werner. He still could not grasp the idea that a giant would be so gentle and caring in heart, even though Werner had moved to the village of Grath for two years now.

Werner gave the boy a broad, reassuring smile, baring his big, bright teeth. That only frightened the boy further.

James looked amused at Ofred's reaction. "Ofred? Why don't you run on down to the Inn and have your lunch? Mother's gonna be busy, and wouldn't have time to fix us lunch, so we had to eat out. " He took three coppers out of his pocket. "Here are three coppers for you. Wait for me at the Inn, will you? " And he gave Ofred a playful slap on his backside. "Now go! "

Ofred took the coppers, and ran towards the Inn. Not that he was anxious to see Krystal again. He just wanted to be away from the scary giant.

Watching his son leave, James turned back to Werner. "Ok, now, we talk business. " He licked his lips, and began the long, intriguing process of haggling for the mounts.

"Krystal! Get our young Ofred here a plate of fish stew and a mug of redberry! You just wait here, Ofred. Krystal will be here shortly with your food. "

"That really isn't necessary, Master Muro. Anyone will do. " Ofred shifted his weights on the chair, feeling terribly uneasy about meeting Krystal since the last incident.

"Nonsense. No one else will do. You just wait here. Krystal! "

"Master Muro... " Ofred almost pleaded as Muro the Innkeeper left to find her daughter. He looked around and fidgeted a lot, as he braced himself at the notion of meeting Krystal again so soon. There were a great deal more people in the room besides him. Some were openly amused at him, but gave him a reassuring smile. He tried to smile back, but failed to do so. He figured his face must be as pale as the snow outside, and he felt he could faint almost anytime.

He just sat there, not moving, unsure of what to do.

His heart almost stopped when he saw Krystal coming out of the kitchen. Her face clearly showed that she was not exactly pleased with serving Ofred. Ofred shook his head sadly. What had he done to deserve this? Yet he knew what he did, or did not do. He just did not understand why.

"Here's your stew! " Krystal literally threw the plate upon his table, and turned away, leaving.

"Krystal... " Ofred pleaded for her not to leave, hoping to clear up the mess he had created unknowingly.

"What else do you need, Ofred? Cherry pies? "She turned back, and glared at Ofred, daring him to say yes.

"About Sprida... I'm leaving the village tomorrow with father. He's taking mother and me on a trade run up to Suyon. " He licked his lips. "I'm not sure if I will be back by Sprida. "

"Oh? " Krystal sounded disappointed. That was a good start, at least.

"So... I didn't ask you to be my dance partner for Sprida. " That was true in a sense. He did not ask Krystal, yes, but he did not say he did not ask because he did not know he has to. He never said that he did not ask because he would be leaving for Suyon. The sentence would be open to interpretations. He almost grinned to himself, marveled at how smart he was.

Krystal looked at Ofred fondly, and guiltily. "Oh Ofred. I didn't know. " She paused, her big round eyes seemed to be asking Ofred to stay. "I'm sorry for being angry with you. " Krystal flashed a smile.

"It's ok. " Ofred felt uneasy at lying to Krystal, except, it was not exactly lying. He just twisted the truth enough to please Krystal, and made life easier for himself.

Krystal just stood there, waiting for Ofred to say more.

"I'm sorry too. " Ofred paused, before adding, "So... why don't you ask Welfrad to dance with you during Sprida? He's a great dancer, and he always wanted to dance with you. " He wondered if he was right in suggesting Welfrad. Who knows? Maybe by the time Ofred was back, Krystal would have liked Welfrad more than she liked Ofred now. At least Ofred thought Krystal liked him.

Krystal just smiled. "I'll wait for you. " She left for the kitchen, off to get Ofred his redberry. Ofred let out a long sigh, feeling relief at least. His knees still wobbled, even though he was sitting all these while. Wiping the perspiration off his forehead, he started digging in his fish stew. Who would have known dealing with women was so stressful? Thinking of the Master smith, he corrected himself. Perhaps all men knew.

"So... you told Krystal we're leaving? "

Ofred almost choked on the bread he was eating. Not that it was a big piece anyway. He took a sip from his water skin. "Yes. I told her we're leaving for Suyon, and we might not be back by Sprida. "

Ryana nodded, while James and Calvin grinned. They were already a half-day gone from Grath, taking a small forest trail towards the Twin Pillars, just big enough for the wagon to go through. At noon, they had stopped by a spring at the side of the trail, and now Ofred was having his first lunch outside his village.

Calvin was still rather uneasy on his newly purchased mount. But rather than blame his injuries, he blamed the mount, always comparing it with Swift, the horse he had while escaping the crows. He kept quiet only when James had rather bluntly pointed out he could either walk all the way to the Twin Pillars, which is a good three hundred miles from where they were, or let the horse do all the walking.

Ryana had took the other extra mount, and Ofred was surprised she could ride so well. Ofred had never knew his mother was an accomplished rider, as she never flaunted her riding skills. Ofred had always thought his mother was just a simple but good housewife, who made great cherry pies. What even surprised Ofred further was the sword that hung by his mother's waist. He never knew his mother had a sword. Ryana never told Ofred anything about her past, and he felt... cheated. At not knowing the whole truth, whatever it was. Somehow, he got a sense of feeling that this trip was more than a trade run up to Suyon.

"And how did she take it? " James asked as he tore up a piece of bread from the basket into two, and started biting the smaller piece.

"Huh? " Ofred had no idea what his father meant.

"Krystal. Did she ask you to stay? " James mumbled in between mouths.

"Oh... " Ofred blushed. "No, she didn't. "

"Leave the boy alone, James. He sounds disappointed. " Calvin gulped down what had remained in his water skin. Ryana only nodded. "Hmmm... got to refill this. " He tried to get up from where he sat, only to be restrained by Ryana.

"No, you just sit down. I'll fill it up for you. I don't want you drowning in this spring. " With that, she took the water skin from Calvin, who just shrugged.

"Thanks. "

"You're Welcome. "

Seeing Ryana away, Ofred went over to sit beside his father. "Where did mother's sword come from? "

"It's with her ever since I known her. "

Ofred was even more puzzled by the answer. "Why did she have it? "

James just looked at Ryana who was by the spring filling Calvin's water skin, and back to Ofred. "Times were bad. She had to protect herself, and those around her. " He added almost as an afterthought.

Ofred was not at all satisfied at the answer. He knew his father was not telling the whole truth. But his father's lips would be as sealed as his mother's, if such was the reply Ofred got. He decided not to press the issue. Instead, he ate the bread he still had in his hands. The journey had just started, yet already he missed Krystal. Suddenly the bread did not taste as good as it was.

"One of the local villagers said that a stranger was spotted in the village. He fits the description of the traitor, Calvin. " The scout spitted at the name. "And he was heavily wounded, or that was what the local said. "

The captain couldn't help but smile. The hunt was finally coming to an end. "And his whereabouts? "

"They left with a local family, towards Suyon. The local villager mentioned that they are traveling the route through the Twin Pillars, instead of the Hamor Highway. "

Twin Pillars? That mattered not. They had caught his scent, and they would soon be upon their prey. "When did they leave? "

"Two days ago. Two were in a wagon, and him and another lady were mounted. "

A slow-moving wagon, no doubt. "We press hard. I want to be upon them by tomorrow. "

Ofred yawned loudly.

They had spent the last two days traveling, stopping only for meals. Nothing interesting had happened during the time, and worse, Ofred had been made to wash the dishes they used for the meals. Hardly the kind one would think of as an adventure. He sighed. How he wished he was now back in the village, where Krystal was. Two days, and he missed her sorely.

Calvin rode near the wagon, still uncomfortable in a saddle. "What's wrong, boy? You don't seem to be happy. "

"Uncle Calvin, are all adventure like this one? It's even more boring than in the village. "

James and Ryana tried to suppress a chuckle, but Calvin just laughed out loud. "Adventures are always overrated. Especially when they are told as stories. "

"If I had known this was the case, I would have stayed at the village. "

Calvin smiled sadly. "If we could know what we know now earlier, life would be a whole lot better. "

James looked at Calvin, and placed a hand upon his shoulder, comforting him. "It wasn't your fault. You never knew what would happen then. "

"I couldn't help but feel I brought it upon them. "

Ryana rode closer to Calvin and snapped. "Oh, haven't you got over the phrase of 'Oh, it's my fault. If I didn't do this, do that, it wouldn't have happen' thing? What's done stays done. No point regretting and going through the what if's stuff. " Ryana's eyes couldn't help but moisturized. Somehow she hoped Calvin had chose a different course for the Desert Dogs back then.

The exchange was totally lost upon Ofred. And he could not help but yawned again. Why were there no bandits around here? Or some bad guys after a princess or treasure. A hermit mage? Something got to happen!

They rode in silence for a while afterwards.

Calvin, as usual, was always the one who broke the silence. "I guess I should go scout behind for the crows. " Ofred was puzzled by the suggestion. Crows? Why would anyone want to find out about crows? Calvin was really a weird uncle! "I got this feeling that they are close behind. "

Before he fell back, Ryana stopped him. "I'll go. If they were close behind, you would not be in the condition to stop them, nor come back to warn us. " She started to leave.

"Ryana! " James shouted from his seat, and threw a bow and a quiver of arrows to Ryana. "Use these if you meet them. And be careful. "

Ryana forced a weak smile. "Thanks, James. I will. "And she disappeared into the woods by the trail.

Ofred could not help but feel a sense of excitement. Something got to be happening!

Ryana hid behind the trees, soothing her horse to be quiet. Slowly, she moved forth, traveling more and more back the route they took. It was slow, but her hunch told her she should be as silent as possible.

Her efforts were rewarded as she heard the sound of a horse galloping forth the route they took. Ryana frowned. Who would travel this route during the winter? The rider would most likely be hostile. Perhaps a robber, or the advance scout of the crows. She took an arrow from the quiver hanging from her horse, and loaded her bow. She pulled hard, preparing to release the string the moment she could determine who the rider was.

Sweat dripped down her forehead as she sustained the pull, and she frowned. She had grown old indeed.

The rider could be seen coming over the horizon. He wore a thick fur cloak, and a black helm. From the way he moved, Ryana could determine he was an accomplished rider, riding a strong and fast horse. His head turned about as he rode, his searching eyes looking around. A crow, no doubt. Ryana waited for the rider to come closer. It had been a long time since she last used a bow, and she had no illusion at all that she would be as good as she was before. Ryana would rather have a second chance to be able to correct that mistake should she fail.

Ryana waited.

The rider rode another hundred meters, and Ryana judged he should be near enough. She released the shaft, which did not perform as well as she hoped. It hit his abdomen, and he nearly fell off the horse, but he held fast to the reins.

"Shit. " Ryana swore. She placed the bow back by the side of her horse, and spurred her horse. They charged forth, and Ryana slid her sword out of the scabbard.

The rider was taken by surprise at the attack, but regained his composure quickly. He unsheathed his own sword, but instead of riding forth to meet the attack, he turned around, and fled. He must return and report to the captain that the prey was not much further.

He did not ride far before Ryana caught up with him. Clutching his abdomen, he swung his sword at Ryana, who parried it with ease. For a while the crow was in the attack, but Ryana just parried each and every ferocious attack, seeking an opening. She spotted one, and thrust her blade, catching the crow at his arm.

The crow stumbled back with his horse, and Ryana used the chance. She raised her blade, and let it fall. The rider fell to the ground, his eyes staring wide at the sky.

Ryana panted, and paused to catch her breath. She was really getting old. Then she turned around, looking back at the trail. From the distance she could see dust and smoke rising from the horizon. The crows were hot on their heels.

She shook her head in dismay, and galloped back to her husband and ex-Captain.

"I hear something. " Calvin paused, and he strained his ears. James did the same, and frowned.

"Sounds like a horse running our way. "

Calvin slid his sword out of his jeweled scabbard. "I don't like the notion of a horse running our way. " He braced himself for the approaching rider, and ready himself for attack in case the rider was hostile.

"Neither do I. " James uncovered the cloth that was by the driver's seat, revealing two short daggers. Picking them up, he spun them each with his hands, trying to familiarize himself with his 'friends' again after all these years. Stopping, he threw the cloth at Ofred. "Cover yourself with this. Don't come out or make a noise. "

"But... " Ofred protested. A fight, perhaps, and he was going to miss it by hiding? No way!

"Don't you but with me now, young man. " James said in that tone from which he expected absolute obedience. Ofred had only heard that tone from James once, and that was also the only time he disobeyed. And he still remembered how he was punished. Ofred shuddered. He carefully covered himself with the cloth. Still, no one said he could not peek out from the cloth.

From a distance, they could see the rider galloping forth. "Ryana! " James exclaimed gladly.

"What happened to you? You looked like shit. " Calvin did not like what he saw.

"You were right. The crows are behind us. An hour or so later, and they would be on us. " Ryana shook her head. "I killed their advance scout, but they would only serve to alert them I guess. From the dust that rose from the ground, I would gather that perhaps a squad's after us. " She took her water skin out from her pack and swallowed the contents eagerly. "Now where's Ofred? "

"I asked him to hide himself under a piece of big cloth. That's perhaps the safest solution for him right now. It's barely enough. I have forgotten how big our boy has grown into. " James smiled ruefully.

"Blah! I told you he had grown. " Calvin looked beyond the horizon. "Could we outrun them? "

Ryana shook her head again. "Either we stand our ground here and repel them, or we die. "

"Hmm, not much of a choice we have, don't we? Very well. " Calvin swung his sword. "I don't think they have forgotten how good the ex-Captain of the Desert Dogs was. After all, I took out at least five of them. "

"Ok then. I will drive the wagon to the side of the road, hoping the trees would hide them well enough. " James drew the reins and directed the horses to pull the wagon to the side.

"Calvin... "

"Yes? "

"If we couldn't make it, please take care of Ofred for us. "

Calvin looked at Ryana, and then held her hand in a reassuring manner. "We will. " Then he rode to the side of the road, surveying the surrounding. Perhaps they could ambush the crows.

The riders looked down upon the deceased. The captain dismounted, and bent forth to check the dead. He touched the body. It was still warm. He judged the crow could not be dead for more twenty minutes. Perhaps ten. That meant their prey was not far away. He climbed back on his black war stallion.

"The prey is near, no more than an hour ride. " The captain unsheathed his sword. "Be prepare to engage in combat. "

Calvin fingered the bow he had just acquired from James. He was never as good with the bow as Ryana, but still, he could best most of the Desert Dogs back with ease then. He sighed loudly as he thought about the Desert Dogs. If only... He shook his head. Ryana was right. He had to stop blaming himself. What's done stayed done.

He took the quiver of arrows from the side of his mount, and counted the arrows. One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten. Ten sharp arrows.

Suddenly he heard sounds, and looked up. From the horizon he could see the dust and smoke rising from the ground. The crows were coming.

Calvin loaded his bow, and almost winced at the strains on the muscles at pulling the bow. He held fast to the string, trying not to faint. Across him, Ryana, carefully concealed behind a tree, loaded her bow too, ready to let fly the shaft.

Click cluck, click cluck.

The riders drew nearer. Calvin narrowed his gaze at the incoming enemies, and judged the distance. Mentally, he calculated the number of arrows he could shoot before he would have to engage in close combat. At most four. Calvin shook his head. If he could take down four, and Ryana four as well, they would still leave seven of them. Calvin shook his head further. Terrible odds against them.

Click cluck, click cluck.

Calvin snorted. They took no care in concealing themselves. All the better, for them of course.

Click cluck, click cluck.

The riders drew closer.

Click cluck, click cluck.

Closer, closer.

Click cluck, click cluck.

Calvin let go of his hold, and the shaft flew, hitting a crow right at his head. The crow staggered back, taking the rider behind him down as well. Ryana did the same, and took another right at his eyes. Calvin took another shaft from his quiver, and let flew another, and another. Three more went down. Then he threw his bow down, and charged forth, sliding his sword out of his jeweled scabbard. The crows were too fast.

From the other end, Ryana did the same, arriving at the same conclusion as Calvin. Calvin swung his sword, promptly dispatching one. No time for fancy moves. From behind the crows, he noticed a dagger flashed, and another of the crows fell. Calvin smiled. James was still as good as before. That left ten of the crows, one of them on foot. Wiping the perspiration from his forehead, Calvin charged forth. He aimed, and swung his blade, killing another. Shifting his body weight, he almost fell off his mount as he avoided a thrust. His whole body ached, but he held on to the pain and parried the attacks. Swinging his body back, he thrust forth, hitting the crow in the chest. Another down. He glanced around. Seven left.

Two more came, and Calvin fought hard to defend himself from the attacks.

"I will have you for now! " The crow lifted his blade, and let it fall. Calvin brought his sword up, and metal met. Sensing an opportunity, the other crow slashed at Calvin, cutting him by the side. Calvin fell back, clutching his injured side.

"The penalty for treason is death. " The same crow hissed, and thrust his sword forth. Calvin pulled his reins, and yanked his horse back, escaping the thrust.

"I did no treason! " Calvin shouted his innocence, and drew a dagger from his boots, throwing it right at the head of the other crow. The crow paused as the dagger hit his head, and fell from his mount. Another down. "The High King was dead the moment I got there! " He parried another attack, feeling colors draining from his face as his wounds, both old and new, started to bleed. "And I never even saw the prince! It was the Chancellor. " He almost missed that attack. "He was a dark elf! He killed them with his magic! "

"Don't deny what you did, traitor! " The crow spitted at Calvin. He lurched forth and attacked again, and again. Finally, he lifted his sword high, his anxiety to finish the mission overtook his sense of caution, and that left an opening. That was all Calvin needed to end the fight. The crow fell off his great black war stallion.

"I did not kill them. " Calvin whispered. Then he looked around. Ryana was still engaged with two another crows, and James was surrounded by three, but stood his ground. Calvin spurred his horse, charging forth to help James.

James slashed at the throat of a crow, who fell from his mount, to the side of the trail. The fall revealed the concealed wagon, with Ofred looking out of the wagon, his eyes wide opened at the slaughter. One of the crows attacking James noticed the boy, and seeking to use him to gain an upper hand, went after the boy.

"No! " James shouted, and reined his horse after the pursuing crow. The other crow took no time to hesitate, and slashed James deeply at his back. A yell was all that last came from James, before he slumped to the ground, bringing his horse down along.

"James! " Calvin threw his sword at the crow who was all too close to Ofred, and struck him through his chest.

"James! " Ryana echoed her concern, and with a move, dispatched the two crows she was facing, and galloped over. The remaining crow, deciding he was outnumbered, turned back, and fled down the trail.

Calvin reached James first, and dismounted swiftly. Bending over his brother, he checked for signs of life. None. His eyes were still wide opened, and his face locked in shock and concern. Calvin hugged his the lifeless body of his brother, and cried for the first time in his life.

"No... " Ryana's voice was dry, her heart unable to accept what had happened. She glanced at the escaping enemy with hatred in her eyes.

"No Ryana! " But Ryana did not take his heed. She charged forth, going after the remaining crow on her horse. Suddenly the horse lurched forward, and collapsed onto the ground. The horse had stumbled upon a hole on the ground, and lost its footing. Ryana fell from her mount, and rolled upon the ground.

"Ryana! " Calvin rushed forth. Ryana made no noise, and Calvin rolled her over. She, too, had entered the Hall of Tukama, the Death God.

"Not you too... " Calvin's voice was hoarse. "Damn the crows. Damn Yiner. " Then he looked at Ryana, tears overflowing his eyes. "Damn the Goddess of Luck. " He carried the lifeless body of Ryana up, back to the wagon.

Ofred was still in the wagon, wrapped up in thick blankets, his body shivering from fear. "Uncle Calvin? " He asked when he saw a pair of legs came near. He dared not look up, even though the fight had been long over. The flashing blade had been frightening. He shuddered as he recalled the falling blade the stranger had held. Before he fell all too sudden, with a sword through his chest. He almost fainted as blood gushed out from the stranger's body and his mouth as he fell onto the ground. And he could still remember seeing his father on the ground, not moving. His eyes wide opened, staring at the sky. And his mother, who had broken her neck from the fall.

"I'm here. " Calvin's voice was soft, hoarse from the crying. He sat down near the wagon, and fed more woods to the fire, trying to keep themselves warm from the cold night.

"Why? " Ofred was not sure of what he was asking. Perhaps why such an unfortunate incident would happen. Why the strangers were after them. Why the Goddess of Luck had abandoned his mother. Thousands of why.

Calvin considered the answer. He cleared his throat. "I'm sorry. If I had insisted James and Ryana to stay in the village, this wouldn't have happened. "

"Being sorry wouldn't bring them back. " Ofred rather bluntly pointed that out. He was angry. Angry at the killers. Angry at Calvin. Angry at the world.

"Neither will questioning life. " It was silent around the fire. It crackled, and seemed to diminish. Calvin fed more woods to it, building up the fire.

"Who were they? "

"Elona's Flirty Crows. I found out an evil conspiracy brewing in Elona, and the Chancellor sent them after me, after he killed the High King and the heir. "

Ofred fingered the scabbard in his hands, and slid the sword slightly out. It had been his mother's, and Ofred would never knew who his mother really was. A simple housewife who made great cherry pies, and an accomplished swords-woman and horse-woman. And he looked at the daggers upon the ground of the wagon. It had been his father's, and like his mother, James had his share of the mysteries. Yet he could never get the answers from his parents now. Not ever. "One got away. "

Calvin was taken back at the question, but affirmed. "One. "

"The one who killed my father? "

Calvin found it hard to reply, somehow feeling that a denial at his brother's death would bring him back to life. Yet it would not be possible, unless with black magic. His brother now laid within the ground, together with Ryana, in an endless sleep. "Yes. "

Ofred sheathed his sword. His mother's sword, Ofred corrected. Somehow, somehow he had to find his father killer, and slain him with his mother's sword. Somehow. But first...

"Will you teach me how to use this? " Ofred lifted his mother's blade. Which was now his.

Calvin looked at Ofred with sadness in his eyes. Barely a boy, but learning the blade. Still, he saw the need. "Sleep early tonight. We still have to get to the Twin Pillars. " He paused, before adding, "From tomorrow onwards, you learn the blade. "