Work Text:
The Single Step
Journey 1
When they entered Ilmater’s Hope, Soren frowned, disturbed. The town was quiet, as gray as the sky above. The mood in the air was brittle like ill forged metal. The people, the ones he recognized looked like shadows of themselves and It saddened him; the fact that after all they had done, they couldn’t save the children. Most of them had been dead, tortured mercilessly or sacrificed without care before they ever caught up to them.
The quiet was unnerving. There were some, not many but more than a few people around. The difference in the people seemed to fall into two distinct categories. The undoubtedly townspeople tended to walk in silence, faces hard and worn. They walked as if each step was painful, heavy and necessary. They gave off the impression that they would not even be up and about if they didn’t have to. A people whose soul was broken. And it was. By now, Iaus, Sindri and Rowena had to have brought the children back. Three out of fourteen. Three and one who’s damaged face only fueled the dark thoughts of what had likely happened to their children, a reminder that not only would they never get their children back but perhaps never see them in the afterlife if those children’s souls had been consumed by Sil’yal and his master.
There were a few who Soren recognized or who seemed to recognize him, looking at him with anger and hatred. Their weariness melting away to anger and rage. Eyes hard and fists clenched before they lost their willpower and turned away in grief. Soren knew what he looked like, a walking corpse. Grayer than before and if the others had made it back, then perhaps they would have spoken about his sacrifice. Which would mean that they would recognize that he had come back to life unlike their children. Soren sighed with sympathy; he didn’t know how they were feeling because he never had children. Or at least he doesn’t think he ever had them. Before their group had left to find the children, Soren could see the cracks in the faces of the townsfolk. Their children were the lifeblood of the town. Their chance at having the town survive from one generation to the next. And now it was dead, burned to ashes, sacrificed to the never ending that was beyond the darkness from which they may never return. Consumed or enslaved to that which not be named. In the town’s grief, even their names will likely be forgotten. No, Ilmater’s hope was dying. The town of the Crying God’ hope was fading. Their anger was like to the god’s, but no mortal could sustain that and once again fell into despair
The other type of people on the street were the complete opposite. Laughing harder, smiling, talking. They weren’t loud but compared to the silent ones… Now, those people, Soren didn’t recognize any of them. They didn’t even look like the inhabitants of Ilmater’s hope. They were too well fed, armed, confident. Many of them wore similar clothing, not quite a uniform but close to it. They weren’t… broken. Perhaps they didn’t want to be here but they didn’t show hatred, they strutted about the town, and some treated the townspeople politely, as if they were fragile but others gave the appearance of simply putting up with them. Soren didn’t know if they were here to help the town or not. If time really had dilated, if they really spent less time in there while the world kept going, then it was likely that someone had called for help. Probably Brighthope, the mayor. Soren knew that he was a former military man and would know people to help protect the town.
Soren stopped. “I do not like the look of the town. People are angry.”
Gaelle moved forward, “You did rescue the children, didn’t you?”
“Yes, in a manner of speaking. Out of the fourteen taken from this town, we managed to save three.”
Glom turned to him. “From this town. How many towns lost their children?”
“They weren’t lost. They were taken by those who serve evil. When we saw the altar, there were at least twice as many bodies as the children who had been killed from this town. However, we could only save three. The battle to save them… so many hurt, taken from their own minds, and dead. Some of them attacked us, possessed or their will overridden. To draw arms on them… and Aud was badly hurt…” Soren’s voice fell off.
The bodies piled carelessly by the blood soaked alter, the smell of flesh crisping and so tender, as all children’s fle—
Soren shook himself from remembering and took a deep breath.
Ildrex watched him before he nodded. “Considering what you told us of the journey you and your fellows undertook, it is not surprising if the people are angry. It is a harsh thing to lose the next generation.”
Balmur nodded. “It did not help that the winter was not good. I mean, last winter. The crops did not quite fail but it was like the earth was poisoned. Now, I know it was. The very presence of that evil poisons everything.”
Gaelle nodded, turning towards Glom, “We did receive quite a bit of working hunting monsters up north from here, didn’t we?”
“Yeah, and to the west too. Last winter and spring. Their sick touch befouled everything.”
“I see. In that case, I think we should move on as quickly as we can. I do not think we will be welcome here.”
“I agree. First though, we should get some information about what is going on. Which group of mercenaries are here? Because those guys are most definitely mercenaries.” She pointed out.
“Yeah, they are but I haven’t been able to get a good look at their badges, so I can’t tell you.”
“Then we need information. Perhaps we should split up. Soren it may be that you shouldn’t be on the street. Is there an inn or pub that you can go to?”
“Yes, perhaps Ia—"
“Soren?”
Soren turned around at the sound of his name. He focused on the speaker. Red eyes filled his vision. “Iaus.”
Iaus approached slowly. “I thought… Yeah. Rowena said that you died.”
“I got better.” Soren turned to the others. “Let’s meet later. Iaus will know more than anyone.” He waited for them to walk off before turning back to Iaus. He reached out to him again.
“I was close to dead. Close but not completely dead.” Soren grasped Iaus’s extended hand in both of his and squeezed gently. He smiled at Barrin who had his father’s tail wrapped around his wrist. The boy looked resigned to the tail leash and simply patted the tail as he smiled back at Soren.
“Yeah. I wasn’t expecting that. I...”
Soren held up a hand. “You had three kids to take care of. You went to find your son and we agreed that, out of all of us, you couldn’t be the one to seal the gate. I have no cause to be angry with you. How angry were the people at the number of children rescued?”
“Apparently, it took us ten months, not a couple of weeks. When winter came and it was a hard one. Some people gave up, just laid down and died; others killed themselves. Aud’s parents are gone. They didn’t make it through the winter. Lots of people didn’t. Devin was one. And the deaths didn’t make anybody feel better. Losing all of them on top of the kids.
Iaus nodded and started walking, bringing his son to his side and between him and Sorn. Barrin sighed and just kept pace with his father. Iaus looked at Soren for a moment before tugging Soren ‘s hood a bit lower. “No offense but it’s dangerous here. There are problems. Sindri and Rowena swear that you came home with us. They were acting confused by your not being around. They were also acting all jumpy. Enough that I really didn’t want to leave Aud with them but… “
Iaus shrugged, “Not much choice. She is exhausted and I gotta make arrangements to leave. I don’t trust the people around here. And especially not the Mercs. Townsfolk are angry and hungry. Not hungry like they want food but hungry for Barrin. They look at him and I’m pretty sure that some of them think they can take me. As if.
“Sindri is suddenly claiming to be a priest of Pelor. Rowena is jittering and fidgeting with a dagger.” He paused. “Resembles yours but I really hope it’s not yours. As I said, I didn’t want to leave Aud with them, but she was still asleep. That was a couple days ago. Those two disappeared, left town and of course, I haven’t told her about her parents yet. She wasn’t upset at their leaving but because she’s still exhausted, I have to leave her with that damned Neddard. One good thing, Gunther was claimed by a cousin.” The tip of his tail twitched erratically.
“Ah… Brighthope. I’m sorry?”
Iaus shook his head as he pushed open the door to the only pub in the town. “Wasn’t serious.”
“Now, I found they’ve given my inn and shop away to some gods be damned Hu…mercenary.” He looked down at Barrin. “I’m not going to let them take our home.”
Soren looked at Barrin for a moment. “Perhaps you should. I doubt that he or Aud would want to stay in this place of trauma. Not to mention how they might be treated. While they are proof that we saved some children, they are also a reminder that we could not save most of them. Aud… her injuries might get better treatment in a city. If her family is gone, what will they do to her if they are so angry?”
“How am I going to take care of them without my shop?”
“We negotiate. You tell them you won’t fight them. If, and only if, they pay you a fair price for your inn and let you take some beginning stock from the shop. Then get them to let you remove half your stock. You do make more money from the shop, right?”
“Yeah, starting over won’t be so bad, done it before. I’ve started over from worse. So that’s me sorted. What are you going to do about Sindri and Rowena? Should have killed her before.”
“Would that have anything to do with you being held by the Kordalum?” Soren lowered his voice.
Iaus tensed. He pulled his son close to him, pressing Barrin’s head into his side and one hand covering the exposed ear.
Soren leaned forward, staring into Iaus’ eyes as he kept his voice low “It’s the way you respond to them. Only one who was harmed by them would hate them as much as you do, even though you adopted a child from Strathmann’s Hold. He has the looks of them.”
“Yeah, but don’t spread it around, don’t even mention it. I like you but no one puts my son in danger. Not even you, friend.”
“I know that; I’ve seen that. You are a good father. So, now that we solved your problem, tell me more about Sindri and Rowena’s.”
Iaus led them to a small table in the corner of the pub, placing Barrin between him and wall. Soren sat to the side, neither of them willing to sit with their back to the door. Food was ordered and they stayed silent.
“Barrin, eat and don’t listen.”
“Do I ever?”
“Smart kid.” Iaus’ tail twitched at his son’s neck.
The eyes on them were envious at the sight of Barrin, angry at the sight of Iaus or curious to know who was sitting there under the hood. Only one was those three were innocent and nonjudgmental although the answer to all three questions would cause the anger in the townsfolk to crest. A washed-out woman in a gray dress with a faded apron approached the table, her eyes focused on Barrin as she put the plates down.
“Two portions of roast pork and cheese. And a cheese sandwich with a cup of milk for the little one.” Her voice softened as she spoke of Barrin.
“Thank, Peg.” Iaus nodded, pushing the plate towards Barrin.
Soren started to realize who this was. She was… had been a rather charming woman with a four-year-old girl.
She knelt down as to speak to Barrin., facing him “Iaus, you’re leaving, right?”
“That’s the plan.”
“Good. There… some people speaking. That you let them take the kiddies. But you were always good to Allie. She would go over and ask you all sorts of things and you never got angry at them, like some did. I know that if you could have… I know. And I miss her every day but there are some here, some who are so angry.”
She reached out to slowly caressed Barrin’s cheek., bring his attention to her. “Get him and Aud out of here. I’m getting out too. Since my Allie ain’t coming back, I can’t stay. Lots of people gonna leave. They had their hope ground out when there were only three but there are others who say because you… well because you’re a Tiefling that you brought them child snatchers here and that’s the only reason you got him back. That because the other two are dwarves, they saved the dwarf girl.”
Barrin spoke up, his voice soft but carrying. “They wanted her for something. Said that she was a perfect sacrifice. The ones who took us. They kept killing us. Every night. But it wasn’t just us, there were other groups. They would use the bodies to speak with someone. Then they looked at Aud and me. Said that I wasn’t as perfect as her but I was half souled but Aud was half body and soul. I don’t know what they meant by that.”
Iaus shuddered. “She’s a half breed. Half human, half dwarf. She was raised by a human and a dwarf; she is part of both cultures. Also, she’s female. Females can give birth; they can also be warriors. At the same time. So, she can carry life as she carries a sword. She could be used as a bridge to bring something awful into this world. That’s the kind of stuff I never wanted to see again, damn them.”
Barrin leaned in close, his sandwich forgotten. “They said that they would kill her last and that I would be perfect to help her.”
“Yeah, and Gunter?”
“He was to be her warrior. He’s the biggest of all of us.”
Peg and several of the others stared in shock. Her brown eyes watered. “Oh. Oh.”
“I’m sorry about Allie. I told them not to fight. They killed the ones who fought first. I knew Dad was coming but they laughed. Said he wouldn’t ever make it in time. But it’s not winter yet.”
Iaus shook his head. “No, it’s been almost a year.”
Barrin stared at him. “It was only a couple weeks!”
Soren laid a hand on Barrin’s head.
“You said that before.” A man’s voice shouted out.
“Yes, I did! It was not even a month for us. Something about time gates. Time moves slower on the other side than this one. So, it was weeks for us. Months for you.”
Peg stood up. “Just let them eat. Just…” She teared up and walked away, crying silently
“This town has changed in more than one way, it seems.” Soren leaned close. “So, you say that Sindri and Rowena are not just acting strange, but they claim that I came back with them. What else are they doing?”
“Yeah, the dagger, tell me it isn’t yours.”
“Ah. I can’t. At first, I was willing to die but she healed me. She later used the dagger on me. So perhaps it’s not so much as she betrayed me than as she had no choice in the matter. The dagger is dangerous in more than one way. As a bard, she may have been very susceptible to the pull of the dagger. Not to mention that Rowena looked at the altar, which could have opened up her empathic sense more. If she looked long enough, her mind would have shattered. However, she merely glanced for a few seconds or so I remember. Even that was enough for her to claw at her eyes. Considering what we saw, can you imagine what a bard saw?”
“Yeah.: Iaus pushed the sandwich closer to Barrin, looking down, he ran his clawed hand through Barrin’s hair. “Eat.”
The boy nodded and picked up the sandwich as he burrowed closer to his father. Iaus allowed his tail to wrap even more firmly about his son.
“Never wanted him to see something like that. Horrible but… I’ve seen something pretty much the same.” Iaus’s tail reached up to wrap around his son’s waist. Barrin, eating slowly, patted it in response. “But I can see that. Some of the people that I grew up with, they got lost in such things. It can be dangerous and unfortunately, Sindri saw more than most. Perhaps enough to dim the flame of his god. No matter what name it is.”
“Yes, a harvest of souls vs that of grain. Both harvest life but the reasoning behind them are different. But to see a Reaping… that might be significant enough to crack his armor. Reaping do not just reap those who they kill but they are also a Sowing, of fear and impurity. Designed to get into the cracks of the soul and prey on it until the person falls to madness or gives in to it. Which do you think is most likely?”
Iaus’ nails drummed on the table. “Rowena is a greater danger than Sindri. She has the power of Inspiration, so she can cause Madness and Mania.”
“Yes. You know that I can’t let them go. That dagger is dangerous. If she should be disarmed, who knows who it will attach to then? I could barely handle it and…” Soren frowned. “And…”
Blazing white with heat and essence, the Carver of Dreams moved to place his newly crafted dagger in the cavity created for it. Before him lay the form of an elf. She had all four limbs stretched to the upmost and tied down. He nodded to the blood soaked man next to him as he lifted a flap of skin in the center of her chest. Soren laid the dagger in her as he held out his hand of the needle. It needed a moon’s turn to cure. The Carver of Dreams reached out to pet the str---
Sharp points cut into his wrist. “Memories?
“I hope not.” Soren shook his head. “I rather they be visions than memories.”
“Maybe. Maybe not.
“I see… I do wonder where you grew up.” Soren shook his head. “Back to what happened. Things fell apart at the gate. Sindri was acting off before, muttering about killing one of the children. Something I would never though he would have been willing to do. Rowena healed me after I chose to take my own life to seal the gate. She spoke to me for a bit then before killing me with the same dagger and stealing it. What happened to the lantern?”
“Shit, you don’t have it?! I’m really not alright with it somewhere I don’t know.” Iaus touched his son’s head of a moment
“Nor I. Although the lifting of the burden feels nice.” Soren said in a voice of relief
“It always does. So now what are you going to do?”
“Well, get them back I suppose. They are both dangerous. As for how I got here? Despite being left to die, I met some people. A wood elf named Balmur who healed me, a Scaleskin wanderer called Ildrex, and a brother and sister pair of humans called Glom and Gaelle who claim to be monster hunters.”
“Charming, I’m sure.”
“Oh yes, you can meet them yourself. They just walked in.” Soren said with a guesture to the doorway. Four people walked in, the pub fell silent, staring at the group before suspicious harsh and angered whispers broke out.
Ildrex looked around the room, eyes showing a great deal of compassion. He bowed lowly to those gathered. “Good people, my name is Ildrex Mystan. I greet you and hope one day that you will be healed. If any of you wish to speak to me, I’ll be here for a day or so. I understand that this town is named for the God of Suffering who suffers so that you will not. I can not promise that, but I can promise to listen to you. To hear you and hopefully help heal you.”
He bowed again before looking for Soren and Iaus. Nodding to the others, he headed for the table followed by the rest. Except for Glom who whispered something to his sister and headed for the bar. As he passed the guardsman, he took a quick calculating look at him and nodded to Gaelle. She sighed and turned to the group as they approached the table. “Be nice all. Something is up. That guardsman has a bit too much gear to be a simple guard. I suggest, we all sit down and talk nicely until he joins us. Glom went to get us something to eat.”
“Very well. This fine gentleman is Iaus, and this is his son Barrin. Later, we will likely see his soon to be daughter, Aud.”
“So sure are you?” Iaus asked brow raising.
Barrin smiled. “She’s alone, of course she’s coming with us.”
Soren nodded. “Indeed. When there is a child in need, Iaus does his best. Better than most. Still, we could not save them all. He did not want to wait or sleep. A sign of a good man.”
“No, a determined one. They had my son.”
Ildrex smiled. “Very well then, the sign of a good father.”
Barrin nodded. “The best.”
Soren smiled a bit as he remembered Iaus telling him, exhaustedly, ‘I am many things... I’ve done many things... But I won’t allow myself to fail to bring someone’s kid home...’,
“Yes, the best.”
Glom appeared by the table holding a large board of food. Placing it down, he grabbed a seat from another table and wedged himself between his sister and Ildrex. “There’s not much here. No meat, apparently the only abundant meat is rabbit, but these rabbits are apparently affected by some sort of witchery as they are smart enough to avoid traps and help others escape. So only bread, cheese, and boiled leeks.”
Soren smiled softly, “Flygia.”
Iaus nodded and chuckled. “Of course.”
Ildrex nodded. “That is fine. I have been told about how hard last winter was. This town is still recovering from that and the tragedy before. I am thankful for anything they can spare.”
Barrin flinched and Iaus pulled him further back while Soren moved closer to block the sight of Barrin a bit. Balmur turned towards the person and smiled.
“Hello, name’s Balmur, wood elf not like those scary elves and I have healing magicks, from the gods. Very good and healthy and not evil.” Balmur leaned out, waving a long-fingered hand in an exuberant wave.
The man stared at him before nodding. He wore what was obviously a uniform. It was of better quality than that of the others. He had three red stripes circling his sleeve at the forearm. He had three vertical scars on his cheek, right before the ear. His tanned skin and dark eyes tried to convey friendliness but based on what the group had seen with how the townsfolk acted around the mercenaries, they weren’t about to taken in. Of course, the town also looked at them with hatred, so that had to be taken with a grain of salt. He looked around for a seat before shrugging.
“Iaus, Barrin,” his eyes softened as he looked at the boy. “Sorry to intrude but I am wondering if you are Soren Arkwright?”
Heads turned, once weary and grey, they stared with eyes full of ice at the hooded man.
“Perhaps, why do you want to know?”
“Because I need to know if you are alive or dead.”
“Well, I’m here.” Soren said.
“Name’s Grantham and just because you are here doesn’t mean you’re alive.”
“That’s true but I’m alive as I ever have been.”
Several people were listening in, desperate for any more information while their fellows stared at the man who failed to rescue their children. They hated and derided Iaus for his failure but reluctantly understood his desire to rescue his son and in some way, twisted by resentment, appreciated him rescuing the other two. He had always been known as a favorite of the children and to favor the children.
Iaus shrugged. “He’s fine, a little grayer but fine. That happens if you die a couple times in a few days. He’ll get better.”
Everyone at the table looked at him. His tail tightened around his son’s waist, who squeezed it.
“Too tight, dad.” Barrin said, not looking at Grantham
“Eh, sorry about that.” Iaus loosened his tail softly and stared at the rest, daring them to say anything.
Soren smiled softly. “One day, we’ll have to talk about where you grew up. I think that it will be a fascinating story.”
“Not really.”
Grantham closed his eyes for a couple seconds before turning to face Soren. “Well, I’m guessing you are Soren Arkwright, Monster Hunter of Brightvale?”
Yes. As for whether I am living, I assume I am as my healer hasn’t said anything different.”
“And who is your healer?”
“Ah yes, me, Balmur. I found, not exactly found, but was kidnapped and we stumbled over his body. I was ordered to heal him as he wasn’t quite dead.”
Grantham sighed. “Good to hear that. Never want to fight a lich again. If you wouldn’t mind giving us a statement about the mission. We have statements from Iaus, Granitepike and Westpike. Unfortunately, they don’t agree. While I tend to believe Iaus has a more realistic view, I need confirmation. We have opted not to ask the children. It’s bad enough that they experienced it. Also Balmur, would you give a statement about how you found and healed him?”
Balmur nodded. “Yes, of course.”
“And you three?”
Gaelle sat there, in her chair as if it was not in a small rundown pub. “I am Gaelle Vogelberg. This is my brother Glom. We were formerly part of company of Sir Percy Fife of House Ozmark and our companion is Ildrex Mystan.”
Glom stared at Grantham.
Ildrex inclined his head. “Well met, Commander Grantham.”
“Well met, all of you. If you please, can you come to our headquarters. There will be others, to take your statement and to ask questions. Is that alright?”
“Oh yes, that would be fine. It’s a wonderful and horrible tale of evil gods, elves, shapeshifters, fighting evil and even a bit of madness. And perhaps we can ”
They all looked at him and stood up to follow. Several eyes followed them and as they left, whispers started.
==||==
Soren sat, his eyes focused on the wall behind Iaus. “Well, it started one morning as great cries were heard through the village. This place isn’t that big, maybe thirty to forty houses and of those only eleven families had children under thirteen. It was apparently those children which were taken. The town held a council; Iaus, Sindri Westpike, Sister Tsavorite Cavernsfall and Rowena Granitepike choose to follow the children. The belief was that they didn’t want to leave the town undefended but most of the townsfolk did not hunt, track, or have skill with weapons. Those who did, most of them lost children which rendered them in a state where they were frozen with terror. Of the families, only Iaus seemed to be angry instead of shocked. He insisted on going. Sister Cavernsfall came to ask me to join them and I did so. For a fee, not money but that is between me and the Sister.
===||===
“My son is missing. So is yours. If you think for one minute that I’m going to sit here while you screw around, then you don’t know me. I’m going to hunt them and get my son back!” Iaus headed for the door.
“Wait, Master Innskeep. I am sure that everyone here wants their children back but how are we to find them? Can you track?” A dwarven cleric asked.
Iaus frowned, his voice became flat and cold. “I can track and I can do more than track. I will get my son back. And any others if I can.”
“Then I will go with you. I am Sister Tsavorite Cavernsfall. I am a cleric of Ilmater. I came here to this town because of its name and meaning. I have been building a temple to Ilmater but considering what has happened, I must join you. To relieve the suffering of these good people. But there needs to be more than two of us. I do know of another dwarven cleric, Father Sindri Westpike. He is a cleric of the sun god. And I have an idea of someone else who can help. Please. Give me a couple hours to see if I can convince them.”
“Fine. Two hours. It’ll take me half that long to decide what I need and get food together.”
“Thank you, Master Innskeep.” She turned to the people. “Is there anyone else who can help us?”
The silence was thick. Sister Cavernsfall tried not to look at them in despair as Iaus turned to leave. He stared at several people who looked away in shame.
“Welp, guess I’ll go then.” A cheery voice came from the back of the room. “Can’t let people think they can steal children from my village. Besides, there might be ‘other’ magick that you priests can’t handle.”
A gray skinned grinning Tiefling walked forward. Some of the townspeople showed their teeth in what in no way resembled a grin.
“Oh please, like I would take them. I have nothing to do with this, but you won’t believe that unless I help get them back. I would rather help than have you burn down my place.”
Sister Cavernsfall smiled. “You are welcome, Flygia. I’m glad that you are willing to come along. Now, I just need to go get one more person.” She paused for a moment. “Do any of you know where Master Arkwright has is staying?”
===||===
Grantham led them into a room where four people sat. They were not dressed as the other mercenaries in town. A quick glance show that they were royal army. They wore uniforms but theirs fit well and provided a cohesive presentation. One was a fairly young man dressed in the basic tan and black uniform but his had an image of a bowl of smoking incense on the badge. Another wore wizards’ robes in the same black and brown, except for the trim of his collar and shirt which were black and gold slanted stripes. The third… it was hard to tell if they were male or female but wore the same uniform as their fellow but banded like the wizard, except his were in blue and green stripes. The last was a woman, her blond hair pulled back in a braid that fell just past her shoulders. Her uniform was nothing like the army officers. Her uniform blue and brown. She sat at the table with several papers, ink and pens before her.
“Before we start, left to right. We have Priest Guros Mosher, Mage Anderl Farrowforge, Healer Naos Erebus and finally Legis Berangaria. The Legis is here on behalf of his Majesty but not part of the Royal Army. Gentleman, this is Iaus Innskeep and his son, Barrin. The man in the hood is Soren Arkwright, known monster hunter. The two humans are Lady Gaelle Vogelberg and her brother Glom. This is Ildrex Mystan, a wanderer seeking knowledge and the wood elf is named Balmur who has some magicks and abilities as healer. While only Soren and Iaus were on the rescue mission, the other four helped rescue Soren from the aftermath of mission.” Grantham waved them towards some chairs at the table. Iaus looked around the room before he grabbed a chair and placed it somewhat behind Soren and Ildrex but where he could see Barrin and move quickly.
“Sit here.”
Barrin sighed and pulled out his book again. “Yes, dad.”
Iaus raised one eyebrow. “Cheeky.”
Barrin nodded. “Always. I’ll sit here and read, not listen.”
“Good.” Iaus waited until Barrin sat down before seating himself next to Soren.
Several people traded looks while the wizard and healer frowned sadly. The position would allow Ildrex and Soren to box in Barrin while Iaus could get behind them but in from of his son. The defensiveness of the position struck them in ways that a mere story couldn’t. Grantham winced. Iaus handed Barrin a book that he pulled out of his pack. They waited as he whispered to his son.
Barrin sighed and shook his head. “I’m fine, dad. I already read this one before.”
“Just read the book. Then you tell Aud all about it, k?”
Farrowforge cleared his throat. “Thank you all. Now before we start, do you have any questions for us?”
Soren nodded, his eyes flickering to Barrin. “Just a couple. First, the children. While Gunter is taken care of Aud is not. Of course, I expect Iaus will be first to ask to take her and he should. She trusts him. However, you have taken his home, his inn, and his store. How is her to provide for two children if you have taken all his property and land?”
Gaelle nodded. “Yes, and perhaps the Legis can clarify this but in most countries and realms that I have been to, one needs to be gone at least one full year before their property and goods can be considered abandoned; to be auctioned off, sold, or confiscated. Unless proper procedures have been filed for an extended period away. While to them it was only a few weeks, out here it was ten months. Not a year.”
Berangaria nodded. “Indeed. We hold to the system of one year and a day. However, it was deemed necessary to embed Neddard into the community and a closed inn only worsened the problem.
“Understood, that still doesn’t mean he shouldn’t be compensated, especially if you wish them to leave. After all, if the crown seizes any property that is not in forfeit of a crime, the person from who it is forfeited is to be given fair compensation. Otherwise, it is merely royal theft and I have not known this realm to participate in that.” Gaelle replied.
Glom looked at his sister. He had known she read more political books than he but he didn’t realize how much law she read. This wasn’t the first time she had surprised him and it made sense why she kept telling him to send messages back home. Turning back to the table, he looked at the four people on the other side. The wizard might be a problem but the rest…
The Legis nodded. “Agreed. Master Innskeep will receive compensation. There was an inventory provided at the time of seizure and we will compensate him from that.” She held up a hand. “Let us settle it all. Masters Arkwright and Innskeep failed in retrieving all the children but it was not expected once we heard of the kidnappings that they would be able to do so. To bring back the knowledge of their fates is considered sufficient. Better yet, he was able to provide information about the reasons behind the kidnapping, the eventual fate of the kidnapped children. This wasn’t the only town to suffer such. There were twelve other towns. The total, including the fourteen children from Ilmater’s Hope is one hundred and sixty-nine.”
The Legis paused. “This… conspiracy, this action, has affected more than this town. I want you to understand this so you understand why we must ask you so many questions and why the Crown wants you far away from here. Staying here will only cause the wound in this town to deepen.
“The winter was harsh but not so much as the thirteen towns and about an area of fifteen miles around them. Isolated towns all of them. In those areas, crops failed and people died. Not from hunger but by their own hands. Despair reigned in all those towns. It was like a deep blanket muffled their thoughts, actions, and even their will. Yes, losing all their children can snuff out a person’s will to live but to the point that a quarter of each town either lets themselves die or kill themselves?
“Those towns are wounds on the land. They are contaminated pits and the few people who left them before the despair set in were fine. Anyone who left after, would infect people in the area that they moved to with the same despair. These people are infectious in their apathy.
“The recommendation is for none who come here to stay here lest they too be infected. The children may be particular vulnerable. You have seen the town. In ten months, there have been no births. Miscarriages, yes but no births. Not even a still birth. Almost nothing lives here, truly lives, except for the rabbits. But according to Mage Farrowforge, they have magick in themselves. Possibly from one of your fellows, a Mistress Flygia?”
Soren nodded. “Yes, she favored her bunnies. I don’t suggest trying to trap them.”
Healer Naos shook their head. “We won’t. But you see what the problem is. We can’t heal this town without knowledge, and we can’t take the risk for you to stay any longer. So, giving you a place to live here would be inadvisable. Now, while the trauma of picking up and moving away is great, I truly have doubts if staying here, even if the town wasn’t infected, would be a good thing. This is where they were taken from, how much do they remember? Also… Master Innskeep, I know that Mistress Granitepike tried to heal Aud’s eyes, but would you allow us to try? And perhaps give you all healing? The circumstances you underwent have left traces. Wounds on you, your mind. Looking at you, Master Arkwright and your son are like looking on rent flesh. I offer this healing no matter what else comes from this meeting. I have tried to approach you, but you can be elusive if you wish to be.
“Well, yeah. Don’t know if I can trust you, did I? Can you heal Aud?” Iaus pointed out.
Erebus shook their head. “Of the physical damage, not completely. Her eyes don’t exist anymore. There is nothing to rebuild. If Farrowforge can remove some of the magick, I might be able to use my abilities to release the rest and heal the area around to the point that it would heal better. I can also deaden some of the nerves so that she won’t feel pain from the area.”
Farrowforge nodded. “If we can do that, I might have a way to help her sense things around her. It’s not sight but it will help. We use it when we have to invade something in the dark or underground. It gives you a mental image. Not a true image, not something like seeing but almost like a map of colors or aura sight. It will take her a bit of time to become used to it, but it can help.”
“So, all I gotta do is tell you everything and you help the kids.”
Grantham shook his head. “No. That’s not part of the deal.” He held up one hand when Iaus looked like he going to go for a knife. “This is something the Crown is offering no matter what. If you walk out of here, right now. They’ll still get healing.
“Although, somehow, I’m not surprised that someone so canny as you are, didn’t tell us everything.
Farrowforge sighed. “You left something out?”
“Oh?” Soren turned to look at Iaus whose tail was twitching in short spasmatic bursts.
“What? They stole my shop.” Iaus repeated. “Alright, so I’ll tell you everything, even what I left out before.”
Legis Berangaria nodded. “Which is being rectified.”
Grantham nodded. “Of course, and in return, we’ll pay you for the inn, store and land but if you are planning to go back to running a shop, perhaps we can trade some of the coin for goods from the shop?”
“That’ll work. Say about fifty percent?”
Grantham shook his head. “Some of the stuff on the shelves is new stock.”
Iaus frowned. “Fine, twenty five percent of the stock on the shelves by value, any personal property we have left and the magic harmonica. Barrin likes it.”
“You can’t just expect me to let Iaus come in and take what he wants from Neddard.”
“You did from me. Tell you what?” Iaus reached into his shirt, three dice clicking together, “I’ll roll for it.”
The clerk spoke up for the first time, eyeing Iaus’ dice with a wry grin. “Grantham, that is very fair. I’ll draw up the contract after we finish, if you will take my word.
“I’d rather roll for it.” Iaus smirked.
Soren covered the dice with his hand and turned to the Legis. “Very well.”
“Besides this is the least the Crown owes you. You have brought back, even in the muddled mess of answers from your dwarven companions, a lot of information to fill in what is happening. The Silent One, we are researching whatever it is. We had no idea of the gate, the time dilation, the temple, nothing. It has been lying there for how long? These raids, how many times have they done this. Why the time gates, why now? Every bit of information you give us will only help. It will help save the children of this realm after all, one of its names is the Sorrower of Children. And we will do our best to not let it happen again.”
Ildrex leaned forward. “Pardon me but what exactly did you sell, Iaus?”
“This and that and whatever I found. Lots of people wanted to dump things before wandering further out, thinking too much gear would weigh them down. Some of it was probably looted during a fight, like the one you found Soren with. That stuff I could sell. Other stuff was useless but interesting. I got a harmonica that plays backward. Useless thing but Barrin loves it. Hope he hasn’t gotten rid of it.”
Gaelle smiled. “Ok, you want Iaus’ shop to allow Neddard a place in the community, but Iaus needs funds and goods to set up shop somewhere else with the children. So, you pay him fairly for the inn, let him take some of the stock and push the adoption through so they can start a new life cleanly, and we can consider this job finished.”
“Yes, but let’s sign the agreement now because my job was to rescue the children. Iaus went to save his son. The job is not done if the villagers pose harm to them, if they are not safe... I also agree with them leaving the town. What we experienced…
Sweet burning flesh. Moist wet breaths; hot, iron, rotting meat. Sizzling blood as it rolls like thick red tar down the walls. The high-pitched cries of the ecstasies of the devotees as they ripped the quivering flesh from their arms and legs. As they turned on each other with rooting grunts and a clawed hand hands him a curved knife. Raw flesh dangles from the tip as Soren looks to the wielder, who knelt beside him. The dark thick ram’s horns curling back over his head and he smi---
Most jumped as the meaty smack of Iaus’ tail rang through the room.
Balmur who had been silent until now, moved forward slowly. “Hey, hey… Soren, back with us? Huh?” He turned towards Iaus, “Does that often work?”
Iaus shrugged. “Sometimes, a person just needs a good shock to come back to themselves.”
“Well, yes, but do you really think it’s best to hit him in the head, I mean? Perhaps the arm or the back? Someplace less damaging but not the stomach. At least not now, I just got through fixing that. Please.”
Farrowforge shook his head and looked at the Healer Erebus who smiled.
“Technical Andy, a sharp shock can bring someone back from getting lost in the fog of memory. Of course, usually, I just use a loud sound.” Naos laughed, “From across the room, just in case of a bad reaction, of course.”
Farrowforge sighed. “Not. Helping.”
“Sorry about that. I keep having… vague memories, or nightmares, or visions. Thank you, my friend.”
A small hand slipped into Soren’s. “It’ll go away, right?”
Soren turned to look at Barrin. “No. Not ever. At least mine haven’t. It will fade a bit; you’ll forget some parts but what you saw… lingers. You have your father, you have Aud. They will help you when you have nightmares.”
Barrin nodded. “Who’s going to help you?”
“Well, depends on who’s around me. Don’t worry about me.”
Barrin just looked at him then his father before moving back to his seat.
Glom chuckled. “You have a good kid, Iaus.”
“The best!”
Within half an hour, Legis Berangaria had three copies of the agreement. Iaus was to receive 725 GP for the inn, store and land. He would be allowed to take anything personal, 85 gp of stock. Iaus smirked.
“85 gp of stock on the shelves?”
“Yes, do you have stock not on the shelves?”
Iaus considered for a moment. “Nope but want to be clear.” He signed each copy with Soren, Gaelle, Ildrex, Grantham and the three Royal representatives.
“Wonderful, so we’ll start when Sister Cavernsfall came to ask me to join…”
===||===
Erebus sighed, their long-fingered hands covering their eyes. “Okay. We can handle this. Iaus, you said you think something fell in the chasm. Do you know if it awoke what they were trying to wake?”
Iaus shook his head. His red brown eyes tight. “Nah. I didn’t see anything, doesn’t mean it didn’t. But it could have been a piece of the cavern. I was busy getting my son.”
“Understandable. We have discussed the law and based off this information, we can offer you a reward. While you were unable to save all the children, you did save some. And more importantly to the Crown, you have brought us warning and time to figure out what we should do about these gates. We will send some men towards the closest gate. Your map, Soren, is quite clear. We will be instructing those men to set up a watch post for now. And now that we know what we are looking for, we can go ahead and check for other gates by the other twelve villages. Blood to seal and blood to open.”
Legis Berangaria nodded. “Yes. For this, Iaus and Soren, will receive a reward of 600 gp, each. While a bit on the high side, your information will be helpful to prevent more towns being infected like this or being raided. 600 gp per is minuscule to that. Gaelle, Glom, Ildrex and Balmur; for your contributions to rescuing Master Arkwright, we are willing to give you each the nineteen gold and ten silver. If this is agreeable?”
Iaus looked over at Barrin and nodded. “Yeah. It’s good.”
Gaelle looked at Glom, then Ildrex and finally Balmur before nodding.
“Barrin, Aud and Gunter will all receive a onetime payment of 600 gp as well. This will go towards their apprenticeship, dowry or any other choice they make concerning their future. Healer Erebus has pointed out, like you did, that this is not a healthy place for the children. The ‘infection’ has not taken root in them or in you. It is in our and your best interests for you to leave. Erebus also pointed out that living in this place of trauma may only negatively affect the children. To that end, we are also willing to grant offer healing of the mind and body. Do you have an idea of where you are going?”
“No but I think you do.” Soren said inquisitively.
The Legis nodded. “Yes, I do. The city of Holsworthy in the county of Westray. The landholder is Lord Sward. A Royal and a good officer. His wife, the Lady Aness, has served her country in both the army and at home. Good people. They have worked with many races and hold no obvious or known bias. It has a large enough population that you will be unremarkable. Also, I will make my report that no further action will be taken in regard to you or Iaus. A weregild will be paid for Sister Cavernsfall. As for Father Westpike and Bard Granitepike, that is a bit more complicated. It seems that they may not be in full control of their actions.
Healer Erebus nodded. “I doubt it. That makes them a bit more dangerous than usual. The stress alone could drive someone to break and likely did so to them but what Master Arkwright said about the dagger of his. That dagger, it contains a curse, right?”
Soren nodded. “Yes. It… feeds on you. In return it will grant you strength and the ability to strike true. It sometimes…”
Erebus waited, looking at Grantham then Mosher.
Iaus’ tail lashed out, smacking Soren’s shoulder. “Eh, you just have to jump start them for a few days. He’s fine. I’ve seen worse.”
Soren turned towards him; voice tinged with slight humor. “Thank you for that.”
The healer sighed. “That’s definitely a symptom of a blood cursed dagger. I am pretty sure that when Rowena Granitepike removed the dagger from you, it captured her. Once you sacrificed yourself, it could no longer hang onto you. It feeds off unwilling sacrifice, unlike the runes on the ground. The blood curse can no longer control you. Although, it seems that you were fighting it rather well.” Anderl explained.
Iaus nodded. “Makes sense. It didn’t like him doing something good, so it made her do something evil.”
“Yes, I can’t be sure until I examine her.”
Erebus turned towards Guros Mosher, who leaned forward. The priest had remained quiet. He was a short man; his hair was a thick short cut silver pelt. He looked at them, his eyes almost the color of his hair and his broad tanned face blank. “I have listened to this all. Thinking about this. There is much to consider. I have listened to those who spoke of Father Sindri; they mentioned how much he cared for the children so to hear that he was one who called for their blood to seal the gate… is disturbing. I, too, worry that the trip has broken their minds. Yet, it seemed even in their madness, they did not take the lantern from you but did take the dagger. You spoke of how the Bard stabbed you with the dagger. I believe it was because the curse on the dagger calls to those who shed blood. And it was necessary to shed blood to close the door. Yet, you chose to shed your blood not another’s. This broke the hold that damned blade holds on you. It therefore attached itself to another. In this case, the Bard. Between the loss of the cursed cloak she bore, the looking at the altar and the stress of the entire operation, opened in her mind. Therefore, it is decided under the authority granted by the warrant I hold, that if any come across them, then they shall be bound and held over for healing. I do not believe that either willingly gave into the evil but have been instead subverted. I will send the message through every temple, small or large for information of them or to bind them. I have judged them based off evidence to be subsumed by magic and not in complete control of themselves. Thank you, Master Arkwright, Master Innskeep for your time.”
Soren nodded. “I’m glad to hear that. I rather believe that she had no choice. However, if I come across her, I will not let it stop me from prying the dagger aware from her.”
“Of course, you shouldn’t. I do not even know if the dagger can get a hold on you again. But if you should bring it to a larger temple, we can bind it down until we can study it well enough to destroy it. Yet… what bothers me even more than the missing dagger is the lantern. Can you tell me more about it? Our records state that it raised souls and those souls found it harmful to be raised?”
“So they said.” Soren pointed out. “Considering the types of people I used it on, I am unsure if they were acting or not. Though some say that the dead can not lie.”
“Hmm depends on how they’re raised. And you do not recall where you got it?”
“No, I awoke in the woods with my gear and clothes. I knew my name and little else. There was a rockfall about half a mile from me; there was dust and a wound on my head. There were traces of blood on the rocks. I thought perhaps the fall caused me not to remember…” Soren frowned, eyes losing focus for a moment, “That would make the most sense. Though sometimes I do get flashes…”
“Indeed. And there was no one who would take the lantern?”
“Father Westpike was always uncomfortable around it. Rowena shied from it. Iaus had the children, and he would never let it into their hands. Other than them… there was one around that time who could have had access. Balmur. He approached me to tend to my wounds. If it was still there at the time, he could have seen it. But I haven’t seen him with it, so I don’t think it was still there when he showed up. And as I said, it was not the slavers, as neither was found among their goods or bodies.”
“I have no idea what happened to it. Iaus?”
Iaus shook his head. “No clue. I remember that you set it on a rock as you went through your pack. But then I went off with the kids, Rowena and the Father showed up.” He turned to look at his son who seemed to be trying not listen but squirming a bit. “What do you know?
“Gunter took it. But he left it later.” Barrin sighed. “He didn’t like how it felt and neither did I or Aud. He didn’t even like the look of it but it … it asked him to take it. He first said that maybe Dad would want it, to sell or because it was Soren’s but then he said that it asked him to take it. That’s what he said. I pointed out that things talking to us is never a good thing! He nodded and left it on a rock.”
Iaus pulled his son closer, wrapping his tail around Barrin’s waist while, his arms pulled Barrin close to his side. “Yeah, don’t listen to those things. Do you remember where or what day he left it?”
“Not really but I saw it a couple days ago. A merchant passed through town. I saw him from the window. He had it attached to the back of his wagon. I didn’t want it to be the lantern, but it still feels… wrong.” Barrin pressed closer. “I’m sorry but I just don’t want it around anymore!”
Soren moved slowly to lay a hand on Barrin’s head. “I don’t blame you. I don’t want it back either. I am going to find it because it’s dangerous for those who don’t know how it works. But even if I do find it, you and Aud must never touch it. No matter what it says to you. It isn’t evil exactly; it can be and it does tempt people but it can’t be evil. It can’t choose. It does as it was designed to do.
“It feels wrong to you because you are very alive and it brings the dead back in pain. You would never do that, so it feels wrong to you. Listen to yourself when you feel like that. Tell your father or me, and we will take care of it. Your word?”
Soren’s brown eyes stared at Barrin who nodded, “Yes, Soren. I should have said something.”
“Thank you. We understand why you didn’t. I am glad that you have given us a lead about where to find it. Grantham, it’s a been a couple hours since we last ate, I would appreciate it, if you could find something for Barrin to eat.”
Healer Erebus nodded as they stood up. “You’re right. Why don’t we all adjourn to grab some food. We can go to the cafeteria. Our treat.”
===||===
Grantham sighed. He watched as the civilians ate at another table.
“So do you think they actually have a reason to worry?” Farrowforge asked quietly. “I haven’t spent much time out in the town. I’ve been researching more about these portals. The concept of that Eternal Vigil. I mean, it’s a great way to extend a life beyond what would normally live but at that cost? To an elf, is it worth it? The average life span is 750 years and Ianneiros was born there. She is not a child so maybe 250, but if they any of them survived to old age then died… She wanted to know about King Bitheer. I found him. He lived about 11 thousand years ago. He’s dead, his kingdom gone and what few of his people left who could trace back to his time are scattered. I have asked for some few of those to be tracked down. Maybe they have legends. Also, to see if we can help that we may release that poor soul from a never-ending vigil.
“Already, we have found something. Those slavers aren’t the traditional slavers. They are priests of a sort. They travel the area, sealing the portals, any portal with blood but the blood seal doesn’t last long. Mainly because they are sacrificing those that don’t want to be sacrificed. Still, they continue to do so in tradition. Most settlements of people beyond the Dread Pines fear them coming by, especially elves.”
Berangaria sighed. “I have gone out and I understand what Soren is talking about, what I observed. Some look at the children in a hungry way. A dangerous way. Others look like they want to steal them. But the worst thing is those who look at the children with hatred. That those children survived but theirs didn’t. However, most of the people here have little reaction to the children at all. I’m pretty sure that Iaus is seeing more there than there is. So too is Soren. I believe that the stress from the mission, the sight of the altar and other things they encounter could cause such.”
Mosher nodded, leaning forward to take a slow drink. “Yes, paranoia, hypervigilance, anxiety, insecurity; all of those are symptoms of exposure to such evil. That said, yes if they stay, they will be in danger. Not just because of the infection but yes from the townspeople as well. While it may not be as obvious or aggressive, over time it likely will become so.
“Master Innskeep only left his new daughter with Neddard because he believed that no one would attack Neddard. And truthfully, that was a wise choice. If Neddard let her come to harm, Iaus would kill him and how could we deny him? No, for us and for them, they need to leave. The sooner the better, lest the mere presence of the children fester in the minds of the people. Plus, as a priest, I understand the need for healing for all of them. Master Innskeep does not trust religion or priests as far as I have been able to discover, perhaps Naos will be better at getting him to accept help.”
Naos sighed. “Religious power would help but if we frame it as in helping the children… Grantham, ask Neddard to bring the girl here. Have her and Barrin treated here, and we’ll tell Soren and Iaus that to make sure that there is nothing hidden that could harm the children, we want to do a bit of healing. At least until we can get them to a larger temple or hospital. If Soren agrees to it, then I believe that Iaus will as well.”
Grantham stood up. “Very well. If one of you will get them accommodations for them, I will myself retrieve Aud.”
“Thank you.” Mosher stood up. “I have just one more thing to speak to them about.”
===||===
Iaus watched as Mosher approached the table, his tail flicking side to side. Touching Barrin, then Soren and back again. He said nothing as the priest pulled a chair from another table and sat down.
“Well, they didn‘t lie about you Master Innskeep. You have nothing but contempt for those of use who service a god. I would say that at times, we can be useful, and I ask that you allow me to be of use to your family. You, your son, your new daughter. If not for your sake, then for theirs. I know that you would not do anything to harm them. If you were that type of person then you never would have volunteered to rescue the children. And you obviously know about the kind of damage that can result from these things. I fear what may result from the damage; and not only to them. You have seen, we have seen the effects of Bard Granitepike and Father Westpike. You seem to be more resistant to it and you say that you have seen worse. I dread to think what you experienced in your life. Children too, are resilient and tend to recover more easily. However, we can still help. I offer you and yours healing for now. It will help… distance the memories. Sand off the edges so to speak. Because right now, I can see the wounds on your souls. They are pulsing with rage and hatred. To withstand that you are incredibly strong.”
Iaus stared at him, his eyes seeming to glow with the same shade as the light behind new blood. “I don’t need your healing.”
“No, you don’t want my healing, but you need it. If it keeps you from scaring or harming your children, is it too much of a price to pay. How soon before the flashbacks come? Before you react without thinking and lash out? Before you scare your children with rage or worse. Right now, your eyes are glowing. And not with anger but with fire. The color has changed. You are affected. And knowing how you treasure your children; I believe that you will and shall accept my help. It will hold for a month or more, by then you should be at a larger temple that has more healers. Some of which are not priests.
“I would have sent Erebus but he’s better with wounds of flesh than the soul. If fact, I was willing to let you go with just a recommendation until I noticed your eyes. That means the small healing I did while you were talking was not enough and I’m sorry for that. I’ll let you finish your food, then after I do your healing, I’ll do some for Barrin. Afterwards when we reach the shop, I’ll give some to Aud and that should do you for now. But I wish your word that you shall. For your children’s sake.”
Iaus nodded, his eyes cutting to Barrin, who was clutching his tail tightly, like he used to when he was younger and scared. “Yeah, for them. I give you my word.”
Mosher smiled and stood. “Have a good meal.”
Barrin moved toward Iaus’ back. His voice a whisper. “Will it help?”
“Yeah, it helped.”
===||===
Neddard moved over to check the girl. It bothered him, the missing eyes but if only a bit of what he had heard was true, then she was lucky to come back at all. The girl had a bit of the traditional dwarven wideness in her form, but her human half showed in her face which was less square but that hair was definitely dwarven, not the more common black, brown, or red. It wasn’t even the rare white for a youngster but rather a light gray, like dark granite. She would be a beauty when she grows up. Too bad, about her eyes. It didn’t make her ugly or anything, but they were a bit disturbing. Iaus said that he was going to take her in, and he didn’t seem to be bothered in the least by it. Of course, considering what he likely saw, this wouldn’t be the worst.
Sighing, he picked up the empty bowl on the table beside the bed and replaced it with another. It had several bread rolls stuffed with meat and cheese. He checked the pitcher; it was still almost full and the side was still cool. He covered it with a cloth and left. No matter what the others thought, he would never turn out a child.
He walked up to the main floor and put the bowl in the kitchen, he would wash everything up later. As he entered the main shop area, he stopped. Iaus was back and not alone. There were several others: three Humans, an Elf and a Scaleskin. Grantham and a Legis stood there. The look on Grantham’s face did not bode well for him. Sighing, he headed over to them.
“What’s the damage, Grantham?”
The Legis stepped forward. “We jumped the gun. According to the law, it must be a year and a day before the shop and land can be claimed.
Neddard nodded. “I get that. So, what now?”
We came to agreement. Money for the inn, shop and land and twenty five percent of stock on the shelves as well as any personal property.”
He sighed. “Twenty five?”
“By value, not items.”
He nodded. “Fine. Come on. By the way, I got something I know you’ll be interested in. I’m not a complete bastard, Innskeep.”
Iaus frowned. “Never said you were.”
“Said… but thought it. Loud enough for everyone to hear it. Come on.” Neddard led them towards the back and into a store room. It was packed with furniture.
“Yeah, so the town cleaned out the homes of those who died. Guess it reminded them too much.” He walked down an aisle. Before stopping at a stack. “I got the names of each family in case someone came to claim it. Aud’s family. Mom was a tanner and worker of leather. Father was a carpenter, yeah? Lived down Westfield? That’s all theirs. Hers now. Gunter’s family had claimed their stuff earlier, that’s how we knew who to contact for him. We didn’t keep the clothes. Too many people were cold. Food, shoes, clothes were given away. Furniture in bad condition or broken were used for fuel. Beds, chests, dowry chests and so forth, we left here. She got something of her parents.”
Iaus nodded. “Guess you aren’t a complete ass. Never said you were a bastard though.”
“Yeah, that’s better. Let’s pick out what you gonna take. Got a list of things here and fair prices. The boss and the Legis insisted on it.”
An hour letter Neddard was wincing as Iaus pulled things out of secret storage. On the shelves. Yeah, he should have expected it. Anyone who grew up in Regerie would know how to word things. The Legis sighed as the stack grew.
“And this isn’t stock?”
“It’s not the shelf and not stock yet. Have to check it for curses and stuff. Can’t sell cursed stuff, bad for my reputation.”
Neddard shook his head. “Don’t bother ‘Garia. But next time you deal with one from v, make sure you close the loopholes.”
Iaus turned slowly, his eyes hardening. “And what makes you think that I ever lived in that place?”
“You keep saying ‘I’ve seen worse.’ What can be worse that what you experienced lately. Served three months on the border. Also, you’re a Tiefling, not many outside of the Darklands. They aren’t usually welcomed in the borderlands. Most don’t make it out without being killed. That means you were smuggled out. Who and why? Don’t know and don’t care. You got out and that’s a blessing. You also have the look of Regerie. You haven’t removed your horns or docked your tail. Many do, to pass. So you aren’t ashamed of being a Tiefling, meaning you lived among them for much of your life. The largest location is Regerie.” Neddard smirked. “I’m not just an ugly face, Innskeep. There is a reason that I was put here.”
Grantham laughed. “He fools most people.”
Iaus laughed. “Yeah, he is good. And he should know that after discussing it, I can say that I haven’t seen worse.”
Neddard winced. His eyes flickered to Grantham who frowned for a second. “Ok, that’s worrisome. Hold up.” He ducked down behind the counter and came up with a box. He laided out some metal amulets on some wire. Eight of them. “Wear them next to your skin. They’ll protect you a bit from this place. As far as I know, you haven’t showed any obvious signs of being infected but it it was that bad, then it might be masked. Wear them for the next fortnight. And get out of this place as quick as possible. Most people here are pissed, but they aren’t likely to attack for a bit. It takes time to get that much energy here. Unless they get pissed enough. You can fight them, but the kids can’t. Get one of the mages to shrink as much as they can and get gone before nightfall. Not one more day. Grantham.”
Grantham nodded and looked at Mosher.
“Travin can do it. I’ll send him a message to bring a box and cart. Get the children ready.”
Neddard was already heading towards the stair with an amulet hanging from his fist.
Iaus exchanged glances with Soren and the rest before grabbing them, he tossed gfive to Soren before putting Barrin’s on. He tucked it into Barrin’s shirt. “Not even when you bathe, got it.”
“Yes, Dad.”
“If you lose it, tell me immediately.”
“Yes, Dad.”
Iaus pulled him closer, his hand gripping Barrin’s neck, “You two stay low in the cart until we get out.”
“But I want to be next to you.”
Soren nodded. “I understand, but if you are up there, you sit on the ground, not the seat. And duck.”
“Promise.”
Iaus sighed.
===||===
Three hours later, about an hour before dusk, the cart from the camp was full of boxes, and good. Most of the boxes held shrunken item but one thing Iaus refused to let them handle, he put it in his pocket. Soren was smiling at him, from the doorway. Iaus looked at him before the man led Aud over to him. Soren lifted her into the back of the cart, between boxes, making sure that she was secure. Soren called her name softly as he touched her face. “Hey, I was told that you were there when my friend Rowena stabbed me. I want you to know that I am okay, and she isn’t exactly evil. She was possessed, taken over by a cursed dagger. But I’m fine now. I’m going to be helping you and Barrin and Iaus for a while, if that’s okay with you.”
Aud reached out and touched his cheek. “I’m glad you’re alive.”
“So am I. Let’s get you in the cart.”
He lifted the girl and held his hands out for Barrin.
Barrin nodded and moved to sit next to Aud taking her hand.
Iaus came out with a frustrated Neddard behind him. Iaus tossed a dull metal rectangle to his son. Barrin caught it and turned towards his sister. “Hey Aud, ever hear of a harmonica that plays backward?”
Neddard hung his head.
Iaus climbed into the seat of the cart, checking that he had his three pairs of shoes on the floor next to him and with a wink at Neddard, started off. Glom sat facing the read of the cart, watching their back, while Gaelle and Ildrex each walked beside on the side and Balmust stnading next to Ildrex.Behind Neddard sat a rabbit, long ears sloped back, it sat up and waved a paw. Iaus thought how no one would sell Neddard a rabbit for stew. He knew that the real reason was that no one could catch them anymore. When they got back, everyone mentioned that the eyes of the rabbits seemed too knowing. He liked to think it was Flygia’s last gift to her beloved rabbits. Behind him his tail touched each of their cheeks with quick flicks. Glom was for some reason fascinated with them. Maybe because they survived evil. That would be something he’d be interested in. Ildrex walked next to them and Balmur was starting up a song.
As they left the town behind, Iaus turned to Soren beside him. “So, did you get them to collect your pay?”
“Oh, the guard. Oh yes, although it wasn’t the agreed payment that I made with Sister Cavernsfall.”
“Oh, so you got more?”
“Or less. They gave the gold. But my agreed payment was a dinner with the Sister.”
“Oh. Sorry.” Iaus said apologetically.
“It wasn’t your fault and if you really feel bad about it, you can cook me dinner once we get to the city and find you a home. I do love a home cooked meal.”
Iaus stared at him, tail twitching.
Balmur voice lifted in a jaunty song.
Soren smiled and closed his eyes.