The Jake Thomas Trilogy: Book 02 - Sword of Light (27 page)

Jake could see that she was not going to bend on this.  Shaking his head, he said.  “You are flipping crazy to do this, but alright.”  As she started towards the animal, he stopped her.  “But, if the cat even looks like it is going to do something stupid, I will cut its head off and you will have wasted your time.”

Nodding, Hailyn approached the lion slowly, coming around to its back.  The cat did not move, its breath slowing and body quivering.  Kneeling down, she laid her hands on it, her fingers gently gripping its fur while Jake moved up to stand by its head, his sword raised and ready to strike.  Her body began to shine and her power flowed into the lion.

As Jake watched, he saw the runes on the bracelet suddenly come to life and pulse, sending specks of white into the lion.  The cat’s wounds healed, closing and fading and it began to move.  Once Hailyn lifted her hands, Jake reached down and pulled her up, dragging her behind him, his sword aimed towards the lion.

The lion licked at the blood near where its wounds were, and then pushed itself to its feet.  Jake saw that it was shaky, its body unsteady.  The cat turned towards them, its large yellow eyes regarding them.  Unexpectedly, it crouched down and began to purr, sounding like a large chain saw.

Jake was staring at it, not sure of what to think, when he realized that the horses had gone quiet.  He looked over towards them and saw them standing still, looking over at the lion.  Shaking his head, dumbfounded, he turned back to see Hailyn moving towards the lion.  He started to reach for her, but she pushed his hand away.

She cautiously approached the lion, which was watching her with, at least to Jake, a curious look in its eyes.  He shifted, sword ready, as she knelt down and slowly put her hand on the lion’s head.  The cat flinched slightly, but then began to rub its head against her hand, its purr growing louder.  It stood suddenly, causing Jake to raise his sword and move forward, but it simply began to rub its head and body against Hailyn, like an overgrown housecat.

Jake watched for a few moments, not really believing what he was seeing.  Finally, he sheathed his sword and stood there observing.  The lion left Hailyn and came over to Jake, causing him to tense up.  The lion licked his hand, its rough tongue like sandpaper against his skin.  Cautiously, he reached out and scratched its head.  The cat began purring again, moving close to Jake and rubbing against him.

“I guess we have a new friend.”  Jake said, looking over at Hailyn, who was smiling at them.

…

With the lion following them, they continued on their journey.  Jake could still not believe what had happened, glancing back again and again at the lion.  However, he was the only one still somewhat bothered.  Hailyn seemed content with how things turned out and the horses were no longer troubled by the lion’s presence.

At camp that night, the lion stayed near Jake and Hailyn, curling up nearby when they laid out their blankets.  Praying that they or the horses did not end up as breakfast, Jake watched the cat for a while, finally drifting off.  He was a bit startled when he awoke to find the lion curled up at their feet.

As they traveled the next day, the weather turned colder and the terrain became rougher, the hills steeper and paths for the horses few.  They struggled through the hills, each hill they traversed followed by what seemed its twin.  The constant and seemingly endless challenge of the hills began to grate on Jake; he really wanted some flat land for a change.  As if the fates responded to his request, in the late afternoon, they made it to the crest of a large hill.  They stopped when they saw that the hill suddenly ended at the top of a large cliff.  A cold wind blew up the cliff, causing their clothes to whip around as they stared ahead.

Spread out in front of them was a large open valley.  The valley was almost barren, made up mostly of dull gray stones and wind-swept dirt.  Across the valley, barely visible on the horizon, was a line of tall, snow-covered mountains, their peaks covered by the gray clouds.  Despite the white snow, Jake sensed something dark and forbidding about the mountains.

Hailyn pointed towards them.  “That is where we have to go.”

Jake nodded, resigned.  “Let’s find a place to camp.  In the morning, we will find a way down.”

…

As the waves crashed against the rocks behind him, the froth seeming to glow in the moonlight, Martis climbed out of the small boat that had brought him here.  He was in a small cave that opened to the ocean, facing a rough-hewn set of stairs that went deeper into the cliff.  Despite feeling venerable without Ranech, who was still aboard the main ship, he slowly began to ascend the stairs.

His mysterious benefactor had been true to his word.  Late that evening, his cell had been unlocked and he and Ranech were led away.  They were taken through some tunnels, following their guide, and found themselves near the docks.  They were hustled aboard a medium-sized transport ship and hidden below decks.  When the morning came, the ship had sailed from the harbor and made its way north.  They had stopped at sea for several days, waiting until two more transport ships joined them.  Once they were together, they resumed their travel.

He was here to deliver his benefactor’s message in person, he had been told.  Due to his past associations, he was the perfect person to deliver it.  He was not sure what that meant, but he would do almost anything to avoid the headsman’s ax.  His freedom and money would be waiting for him when he completed this mission he had been assured.

When he reached the top of the stairs, nearby torches burning brightly, there stood a tall man, an Aletonian, dressed in armor and a sword.  The man looked him up and down with contempt, a sneer on his dark face.  Having been around them for years, Martis knew instantly that this was a half-man.

“Come along, old man.”  The man said, roughly grabbing Martis’ arm.  “The Master will want to see you directly.”

While he tried to affect an outwardly calm, Martis shivered.  After all that happened to him, the last thing he wanted to face was another demon.  Knowing he was committed and had no choice, he hoped that he could deliver the message quickly and leave.

Martis was taken down a long hall and pushed through an opening at the end.  He was in a small room, dark and cold, the stone wall unadorned with only a few torches lit.  The man escorting him kicked him behind the knees, forcing him to the ground, and then knelt next to him.  “The messenger is here, Master.”  The man said.

Martis felt that familiar chill as the demon, an Imp, stepped out of the shadows on the far side of the room and approached him.  Trying to keep his teeth from chattering, Martis clenched his jaw shut and focused his gaze at the floor.

“What is the message, worm?”  The demon asked, its voice frightening.

“I was told to say that the time has come for the cock to crow, Master.”  Martis said quickly.  He had no idea what it meant and he did not care.

“Anything else?”  The demon asked.

“Nothing, Master.”  Martis replied.

“Excellent, worm.”  The demon said.  “Rise and follow me.”

Martis was dragged to his feet by the half-man and shoved after the demon.  He caught up and stayed behind the demon as it led him through a long tunnel.  At the end of the tunnel, a wide cavern stood.  When they reached a landing that jutted out into the cavern, Martis saw other demons and at least two hundred followers moving about the cavern.

“Here is what I have been able to gather.”  The demon said, smiling.  “With surprise, we will have success, bringing about the change that my Master had requested.”  It looked over at Martis, those black eyes reflecting the torchlight.  “You should consider yourself lucky to be a witness to it.”

Martis swallowed nervously.  “Forgive me, Master, but I am only a messenger.”

“Not anymore.”  The demon said, those sharp teeth gleaming as it smiled.  “You will accompany us on this mission.”  The smile fell.  “I insist.”

“Of course, Master.”  Martis said quickly, bowing, though he wanted to run and keep running.

Chapter Twenty-Three

With the light cooling mist from the spray of the bow reflecting the bright sun, Dominic observed the city of Danelias as
Wavemistress
approached the breakwater and the harbor entrance.  He was standing alone, leaning against the rail at the bow of the ship and enjoying the fresh sea air.  While the day was hot, especially in the direct sun, it was blessedly cooler than the brutal heat of Parshalthia and the desert surrounding it.

They had escaped the ruins, making their way stealthily down the deserted street back to the horses.  They rode away, stopping only to recover the water wagon, and continued on.  Even though night had fallen, they made their way back to the fortified hilltop before stopping.  Despite the loss of Kalisia and the soldier, they were in good shape overall, so they started back to Far Southern the next morning.  They kept a close guard, expecting to be attacked at any moment, but other than the unrelenting heat, they encountered no threats.

Brelis was true to his word; the
Wavemistress
was moored at the dock and ready to sail when they returned.  Dominic made the decision to leave immediately, loading the horses as quickly as possible while they still had light.  As night was falling, the ship slipped out of Far Southern’s port and turned north.

They encountered some headwinds and a small squall as they traveled north, slowing their progress.  Today was the sixth day out of Far Southern and Dominic was ready to be back on land.  While sea travel did not bother him, he preferred horses and solid ground.

He shifted his gaze from the city, looking along the coast.  There were several ships heading for the harbor, a couple of smaller fishing vessels near the breakwater and three transport ships in the distance.  He noticed a couple of trading ships passing by the two towers that guarded the harbor, sailing out to the sea.

Brelis maneuvered his ship towards the harbor mouth, a little closer to the breakwater than Dominic would have expected, then swung to port, staying close to the rocks near the southern tower.  At first, Dominic was not sure if Brelis was not just showing off his skill, but then saw a small boat carrying an official, likely a harbor master, come out from behind the breakwater and pull alongside.  Brelis’ sailors threw down a rope ladder and the man climbed aboard.  Dominic watched as the man went up to the wheel deck and spoke with Brelis.  After the man finished, Brelis shouted out orders to his sailors.  The main sail came down, leaving only the smaller one in the front, slowing the ship.  Brelis steered the ship as the man pointed and gestured.

Soon, they were approaching one of the stone docks.  Dominic could see Commander Farrious, his war hammer on his shoulder, standing amongst a group of Queen’s Guard on horses, waiting for them to dock.  As the ship slowly approached the dock, a sailor ran past Dominic to throw the bowline to a waiting worker while another sailor did the same from the stern.  The workers on the dock pulled the ship close, then tied off the lines, securing the vessel.  Brelis had the gangway lowered, then descended to the main deck as Farrious came aboard.

Farrious looked around and saw Dominic.  He
approached, stopping a few feet away and setting the head of his war hammer on the deck, and gave him a bow.

“Greetings, Lord Dominic.”  Farrious said, his deep voice rumbling.  “I hope that you had success.”

“Thank you, Commander Farrious.”  Dominic replied with a nod of his head.  “What we are seeking was not in Parshalthia.  I’m sorry to report that three of your soldiers were lost in the effort.”

“That is tragic, my lord, but my men understand the risks of soldiering.”  Farrious said stoically.  “I will have Sergeant Stonebuilder brief me and we will make sure that their families are cared for.”

“Stonebuilder and your men acquitted themselves admirably in difficult circumstances.”  Dominic said.  “They have an excellent commander.”

“You are kind, my lord.”  Farrious said, nodding his head.  “To have such a compliment from the Demonhunter is a high honor.”

“What now, Farrious?”  Dominic asked.  “I’m sure you did not just happen to be on the docks taking in the salt air.”

“Indeed not, my lord.”  Farrious replied with a smile.  “When you and your party are ready, we will proceed back to the palace.  The queen wishes to hear from you on all that happened.”

“Of course, Commander.”  Dominic said.  “Once we have the horses off-loaded, we can proceed.”

Brelis had his men start bringing the horses up from the hold while Dominic went below to retrieve his equipment.  When he returned to the deck, Shadow was already on the dock.  He went down and checked on the horse, then saddled him, trying to ignore the slight rocking sensation that he still felt.  He slung his saddlebags and pulled himself into the saddle.

After all of the soldiers and clerics were off the ship, Farrious ordered the soldiers, except for Stonebuilder, back to their barracks.  As they passed by Dominic, they lifted their spears in salute.  He drew his sword and held it aloft in return.

Moshanna joined Dominic, his face grim.  He had been quiet for most of the return journey, keeping to himself.  Dominic knew he was preparing for whatever punishment the queen ordered.

When the clerics were on their horses, Farrious gave the order for the soldiers with him to form up around the party.  Once he was satisfied, he mounted a large warhorse and they started towards the palace, Stonebuilder riding next to him.

As they rode, Dominic watched as Stonebuilder spoke quietly with Farrious, looking back over his shoulder at Moshanna from time to time.  Farrious nodded and looked back once himself, but his face betrayed nothing.

After they entered the palace grounds, Farrious had them dismount.  “My soldiers will take the horses to the stables and your bags will be brought to the palace.”  He looked over at Dominic.  “Your horse will be well-cared for, my lord; I give you my word.”

“I have no doubts, Commander.”  He said as he handed the reins to one of the soldiers.  He patted Shadow as the soldier led the horse away.

“The queen awaits.”  Farrious said as he turned and strode toward the palace doors.

As they entered the throne room, Dominic noticed Darrius standing with a group of nobles, his arms crossed and a self-satisfied look on his face as he watched them approach the throne.  Behind him was a tall woman with long, wavy dark hair, her cocoa skin smooth, her large brown eyes striking on her beautiful face.  Out of the corner of his eye, Dominic saw Moshanna pause slightly when he saw her, then continue on, face fixed forward.

They reached the throne, with the Aletonians kneeling while Dominic made a courtly bow.  The queen gestured for them to rise, then addressed Dominic.

“My lord Dominic, we rejoice in seeing you return safely.”  The queen said.  “Before we discuss your mission, I must tell you that we have received some tragic news from your country.  My informants sent a message informing me that a noble name Lord Marcelas attempted an overthrow of the king, with fighting taking place in the palace itself.  The plotters were overcome and killed, but the king died in the fighting.  The young princess is now Queen of Sanduas.”  The queen shook her head.  “I still remember her as a precious little child.  It is hard to picture her on the throne.”

“Also, the message mentioned that the Chief Cleric, whom I know to be your friend, was gravely injured in the battle, but survived.”  The queen continued.  “You have my sympathies, my lord.  I know that you had your differences with him, but Kristin was a levelheaded and fair ruler whom I respected.  When you return to Sanduas, would you take a letter from me to the young queen?”

“It would be my honor, Your Majesty.”  Dominic said urbanely, though he was troubled by the news.

“Thank you, my lord.”  The queen said.  “Now to the subject at hand.  How did your mission go?”

“What we sought was not in the ruins, Your Majesty.”  Dominic replied.  “On the way to and while in the ruins, we confronted and destroyed several demons and their followers.  I am saddened to report that three of your soldiers and a young Wild girl were killed in these encounters.”

“We will honor their memories, my lord.”  The queen said.  “How did a Wild girl become part of your party?  Perhaps you can start from the beginning.”

Nodding, Dominic told her the story of their journey, including Kalisia’s sacrifice.  Knowing what was to come, he pointedly mentioned Moshanna’s contributions and skills, saying that it was critical to the mission.  After he had finished, the queen was silent for a few moments.  When she spoke, her voice was kind.

“I know that losing the girl was difficult for you, my lord, but I am grateful that she was there.”  The queen said gently.  “We will honor her memory as well.”

The queen turned to Anatan, who was standing near the throne.  “Sister Anatan, I wish for you to meet with Commander Farrious and develop a plan to send an army of soldiers and clerics to the south and clear those ruins.  I will not have a nest of demons living openly in my land.”

“As you command, Your Majesty.”  The cleric replied with a bow.

“Please step back, my lord.”  The queen told Dominic softly.  When he had rejoined Farrious, she called to Moshanna.  “Let the traitor Moshanna Deepwood approach the throne and hear judgment regarding his offenses.”

Moshanna, his face calm, squared his shoulders and approached the throne.  He stopped and knelt, looking up at the queen.

“Moshanna Deepwood, you brought shame upon yourself and your family by your actions years ago.”  The queen said, her face firm.  “I am within my rights to have your head for your crimes.”

“That is indeed your right, Your Majesty.”  Moshanna said directly.

“However, you have proven yourself to Lord Dominic, a man of great honor.  He has told us that you fought bravely and skillfully, helping rid the realm of some demons and their ill followers.”  She paused for a moment.  “But Lord Dominic is of Sanduas, not Aletonia.  While no disrespect of his honor is intended, I need to hear such a tale from a loyal subject of Aletonia.”

“Sergeant Stonebuilder was a member of their mission, Your Majesty.”  Commander Farrious said, gesturing towards the man.  “I know and attest that he is a loyal servant and a man of honor.”

“Please tell us your impressions, Sergeant.”  The queen said as she gestured towards him.

Stonebuilder looked over at Moshanna for a moment, and then stepped forward and addressed the queen.  “Your Majesty, I was not happy when Lord Dominic placed the traitor as his second.  I knew of his crime against you.”  He paused, then took a breath and continued.  “However, I am forced to agree with Lord Dominic’s assessment.  Moshanna Deepwood acquitted himself with honor and courage during our mission, facing the demons and their followers in direct combat.  Were he not an attainted traitor, I would follow him into battle again.”

Dominic let out the breath he was holding as a low buzz surged throughout the room, as the gathered nobles began speaking at once.  The queen made gesture to Farrious, who banged his war hammer on the stone floor, the sound echoing off the walls.

“Quiet!”  He shouted.  The noise died down and the nobles returned their focus to the queen.

“Sergeant Stonebuilder, we appreciate the truth of your words.”  The queen said regally.  “You are a man of honor and you have the thanks of your queen.  You may step back.”

“It is my privilege to serve you, Your Majesty.”  Stonebuilder replied with a bow, and then retreated back to where he had been standing.

“So, I now must weigh what I have heard, considering it versus the offence you committed against me.”  The queen said as she stared down at Moshanna.

“You cannot forgive him, Your Majesty.”  Darrius stated harshly, stepping forward.  “His crime was against me as well.”

The queen looked over at Darrius, disapproval on her face.  “I have warned you about making demands to me, Lord Darrius.”  She said firmly.  “I will not warn you again.”

“Forgive me, Your Majesty.”  Darrius said with a bow.  “My honor is at stake here.  I beg you not to allow this traitor to evade his crime.”

“Very well, Lord Darrius, I will honor your wishes.”  The queen said.  Darrius stepped back, a smug smile on his face.

The queen stood, her face like stone.  She held out a hand.  “Hear my judgment, Moshanna Deepwood.  For your courage and efforts on behalf of this realm, I forgive you of any offence against me and declare that the label of traitor is withdrawn.”

There were gasps around the room and Darrius’ face became a mask of anger when the queen said this.  Lifting his hammer, Farrious looked around the room, disapproval on his face and the noise quieted.  Once silence descended, the queen continued.

“As Lord Darrius has stated, his honor is precious to him and I cannot forgive you of that offence.”  She said, gesturing at Darrius.  “So, on the morrow, you and Lord Darrius will meet in the arena and settle this by combat, as you should have done years ago.  That way he can preserve his honor and you have a chance to redeem yourself.”  With a slight smile on her lips, she sat down.

“To finish, all that remains is for each of you to choose a second.”  The queen stated.

“I choose Lord Bacus, Your Majesty.”  Darrius said, voice hard and angry, pointing at a large man near him.

“I accept your second, Lord Darrius.”  The queen said, then looked at Moshanna.  “Who will be your second?”