Samson brained his opponent with the flat of Libra's blade. The sword whined in protest. He saw Keeneye behead his assailant from behind as the brigand lunged at Norwind, then turned to see Ultrecht inspecting the recent cave-in. He left Keeneye and Norwind to go over the bodies and joined Ultrecht.
"I find it somewhat too coincidental that the roof waited until we were separated to collapse and then did so directly between us," Ultrecht said sarcastically.
"Don't you think we should dig them out?" Samson asked.
"No, Keeneye said that the tunnels went to similar destinations. They know that and it would invite disaster to remain here where we can be attacked at leisure. I suggest we move on. The others will meet us at the junction when we find it or if not they know our next destination. They will be waiting for us in Allentown when we get there."
"Hey," Norwind called. "These guys were some kind of soldiers." He pointed to the crested shields and armor. The crest was that of a snake's head holding a planet in its fanged mouth.
"Here are some coins," Keeneye announced as he rifled through a pouch he had taken from one body.
"Leave it to you to find the money," Ultrecht laughed.
"Very funny," Keeneye sneered. "Hey, these coins have the same crest on them plus the word: Aspberg."
"Who or what is an Aspberg?" Samson asked.
"That is the name of one of the cities on Avery's map," Ultrecht answered. "Well, at least we know where our enemy is from."
"Well, let's not wait for an engraved invitation," Norwind reminded them. "We still have a long way to go."
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Chapter 4 Part 17
The rest period had lasted for about three quarters of an hour. There was some quiet talking while food and drink had been taken from one pack. Others, not knowing when the chance may present itself again, had elected to take the time to snooze.
Keeneye was taking inventory of the remains of his quiver, when a noise from a dark tunnel ahead and to the right distracted him. He nudged Samson with the toe of his boot. "We have company," he said softly.
Samson alerted Ultrecht and Norwind who in turn passed the warning back. Then on signal, Samson shoved his light crystal under his tunic for a full three seconds and then pulled it back out. In that brief moment of twilight with the only light source to his back, Keeneye used his elven vision to count two man-sized warm bodies. He then turned to the others. "Two heat sources," he said. "Four and four, Norwind takes the light."
Everyone understood his meaning. There were two warm-blooded enemies ahead in the dark. Keeneye had seen them with his elven vision. Since they were warm-blooded, they could not be undead. The 'four and four' phrase meant for four of them to attack and the other four to set a defensive fortification in case it was a trap.
Like a well rehearsed play, Samson tossed the light crystal to Norwind and drew his sword. As Libra slid free of the scabbard, it emitted a bloodthirsty buzz sounding like a swarm of bees. Keeneye likewise drew a slim rapier and charged into the darkness with Samson at his side. Immediately behind them, Norwind paused long enough to catch the light crystal and then sprint after the warriors. Ultrecht delayed momentarily to grab his spell pouch and then cautiously followed in case there was a magic battle to be fought.
Armegon drew his saber and stood in front of the others protectively. He saw the light receding to an uncomfortable distance and began to get worried. They were too neatly divided.
About fifty meters away, a battle was engaged. Armegon was certain of its favorable outcome, but never saw it. For just as the battle was commencing, the roof began to cave in, cutting off the battle from his sight.
"We are cut off," he yelled over his shoulder. As if in response, pebbles dropped from the ceiling above his head. "Hurry! The left passage is still open!" Sheathing his saber with the grace of a weapon's master, he grabbed his pack in one hand and helped Marlena to her feet with the other. They ran quickly to the left.
Avery grabbed the other four packs and dove into the clear passage just as the roof gave way. He landed on his stomach, bruising an elbow in the process. The passage closed behind him.
"Where is Tyson?" Marlena asked as she looked around.
"He must have been cut off as well," Avery said, "or he got caught in the cave-in."
Armegon cursed. "Well, let's start digging. The others can take care of themselves, but it won't do to leave Tyson alone with no one to talk to except Seymore."
"Especially with his big mouth," added Avery as he began to dig.
Keeneye was taking inventory of the remains of his quiver, when a noise from a dark tunnel ahead and to the right distracted him. He nudged Samson with the toe of his boot. "We have company," he said softly.
Samson alerted Ultrecht and Norwind who in turn passed the warning back. Then on signal, Samson shoved his light crystal under his tunic for a full three seconds and then pulled it back out. In that brief moment of twilight with the only light source to his back, Keeneye used his elven vision to count two man-sized warm bodies. He then turned to the others. "Two heat sources," he said. "Four and four, Norwind takes the light."
Everyone understood his meaning. There were two warm-blooded enemies ahead in the dark. Keeneye had seen them with his elven vision. Since they were warm-blooded, they could not be undead. The 'four and four' phrase meant for four of them to attack and the other four to set a defensive fortification in case it was a trap.
Like a well rehearsed play, Samson tossed the light crystal to Norwind and drew his sword. As Libra slid free of the scabbard, it emitted a bloodthirsty buzz sounding like a swarm of bees. Keeneye likewise drew a slim rapier and charged into the darkness with Samson at his side. Immediately behind them, Norwind paused long enough to catch the light crystal and then sprint after the warriors. Ultrecht delayed momentarily to grab his spell pouch and then cautiously followed in case there was a magic battle to be fought.
Armegon drew his saber and stood in front of the others protectively. He saw the light receding to an uncomfortable distance and began to get worried. They were too neatly divided.
About fifty meters away, a battle was engaged. Armegon was certain of its favorable outcome, but never saw it. For just as the battle was commencing, the roof began to cave in, cutting off the battle from his sight.
"We are cut off," he yelled over his shoulder. As if in response, pebbles dropped from the ceiling above his head. "Hurry! The left passage is still open!" Sheathing his saber with the grace of a weapon's master, he grabbed his pack in one hand and helped Marlena to her feet with the other. They ran quickly to the left.
Avery grabbed the other four packs and dove into the clear passage just as the roof gave way. He landed on his stomach, bruising an elbow in the process. The passage closed behind him.
"Where is Tyson?" Marlena asked as she looked around.
"He must have been cut off as well," Avery said, "or he got caught in the cave-in."
Armegon cursed. "Well, let's start digging. The others can take care of themselves, but it won't do to leave Tyson alone with no one to talk to except Seymore."
"Especially with his big mouth," added Avery as he began to dig.
Chapter 4 Part 16
Morteous pulled up short as he rounded a corner in the mine. There, no more than one hundred meters ahead, were his enemies. He could see them quite clearly thanks to their light crystals. He could see nine of them present, including one which was in some sort of stasis and, of course, his new ally, Tyson.
Assuming that the one in stasis was out of commission, there were only seven to deal with. To his right, Morteous could hear the soft hissing of the wights he had placed in the cavern. His plan had been to kill his enemies in the pass. He had populated several regiments of undead slaves in the catacombs within the mountains to insure that the enemy would remain in the pass.
The decision to travel through the mountains instead of using the pass was unexpected, but he could adjust his strategy to the scenario. He and his men needed no light in the mines because the wights were able to see in the dark and were completely under his control. This had allowed him to approach his prey undetected. Now he had to decide how best to attack them.
Assuming that the one in stasis was out of commission, there were only seven to deal with. To his right, Morteous could hear the soft hissing of the wights he had placed in the cavern. His plan had been to kill his enemies in the pass. He had populated several regiments of undead slaves in the catacombs within the mountains to insure that the enemy would remain in the pass.
The decision to travel through the mountains instead of using the pass was unexpected, but he could adjust his strategy to the scenario. He and his men needed no light in the mines because the wights were able to see in the dark and were completely under his control. This had allowed him to approach his prey undetected. Now he had to decide how best to attack them.
Chapter 4 Part 15
The Ice Kingdom's capital city of Spirgan was very beautiful when encased in snow and ice. It had been constructed to be that way. But in spite of it all, Miguel Blackheart was glad to be leaving it. His visit to the queen had been satisfying both politically and physically. The Queen had some very interesting tastes. Besides, if anything resulted from his visit to her chambers, it would only serve to strengthen the ties between her kingdom and House Blackheart.
His uncle, unfortunately, was not the only bastard in the family, just the only living one. He himself had sown many wild seeds. None save one had produced an offspring worthy of his attention. A daughter to a court noble woman in Kesron had shown signs of tremendous potential.
Soon, in spite of the traditional bloody fate of the Blackheart daughters who often ended their lives on the sacrificial altar, he would present his daughter to his father. That would be a proud day. She truly had the makings of a great sorceress as well as possessing the image of his mother.
Now, as Miguel rode the queen's private ice boat toward the southern waters, where a sailing ship awaited to return him to Aspberg by way of Freon, Miguel wondered how his Uncle Morteous was making out with the enemy.
His uncle, unfortunately, was not the only bastard in the family, just the only living one. He himself had sown many wild seeds. None save one had produced an offspring worthy of his attention. A daughter to a court noble woman in Kesron had shown signs of tremendous potential.
Soon, in spite of the traditional bloody fate of the Blackheart daughters who often ended their lives on the sacrificial altar, he would present his daughter to his father. That would be a proud day. She truly had the makings of a great sorceress as well as possessing the image of his mother.
Now, as Miguel rode the queen's private ice boat toward the southern waters, where a sailing ship awaited to return him to Aspberg by way of Freon, Miguel wondered how his Uncle Morteous was making out with the enemy.
Chapter 4 Part 14
Tyson was very pleased with himself. He had managed to have his cake and eat it too. He had disposed of Seymore. If his friends returned home, his homeworld's healers would be able to restore his one time friend. Even Seymore would not know what had happened in the darkness.
Now, however, he walked quickly down the mine pushing the statue-like form of Seymore in front of him. The corps floated in mid air because within the blue glow, Ultrecht had explained, time stood still. Therefore, gravity could not effect Seymore and his body was weightless.
As they walked further into the very bowels of the mountains, Tyson's mind worked quietly on how to arrange another death. Keeneye was leading the way with Samson who was holding a light torch. The flames showed Norwind and Ultrecht the direction of the breeze they followed. After them came Armegon who was helping Marlena, while Avery and Tyson brought up the rear.
Tyson knew that his best shot at staging another death would be during a battle in the dark. But, since Avery was also carrying a light crystal, the chance of both light sources going out at the same time were small.
Tyson was also disturbed with the sudden change of marching order. Normally, the ranger would lead the group and the archer would bring up the rear. But for some reason they had decided to switch places. He would have to be careful. They may suspect him of treachery.
Keeneye led the group quietly. At each intersection, Samson would hold out the torch and Keeneye would determine which direction the breeze came from. This was the direction they would take.
The only other sound than their footsteps was the sound of Norwind's voice. He was counting the number of steps they were making between intersections, while Ultrecht made a graphical record of side tunnels, their direction and the number of steps Norwind had counted between them. Ultrecht was also using a piece of chalk to mark their passage at regular intervals. They all knew that this would make it easy for them to be tracked, but they had agreed it was more important not to get lost.
The mine itself was littered with debris and old pieces of wood. Occasionally, they would arrive upon a pick handle or cart. Once they passed a skeleton of some unknown miner ages ago, long dead. Armegon had said that it appeared to be the skeleton of a dwarf. That particular only reminded them that they had already lost two of their number and renewed the determination of the whole company.
After about six hours of walking, some members of the group were beginning to show signs of fatigue. Keeneye had used up four torches and the sound of growling stomachs was readily heard. Keeneye immediately called a rest stop at a fork in the tunnel. "The breeze comes equally strong from both tunnels," he announced.
"They probably merge together farther ahead," Samson said looking down one.
"Samson is probably right," Ultrecht said after glancing at his map. "Our general direction has been southward with minor deviations. If Norwind's scale and count are accurate, we have covered over five miles underground. These mines should turn westward soon."
"Not right now," Marlena gasped. "I have got to rest." It was obvious to all that the quick march had taken a heavy toll on Marlena. Even though she had been leaning heavily on Armegon for the last few thousand paces.
"Okay, we rest," announced Keeneye. "Armegon, you pull out your light crystal, and Samson you put out the torch. We only have a few left."
Tyson sat down to rest and pushed Seymore's body to the ground to keep it out of the air currents. He did not want it to blow away. Others did likewise by unlatching their packs.
"Do you think we are being followed?" Norwind asked.
"Oh, most assuredly," Armegon answered. "The question is how far ahead of our enemies are we?"
Now, however, he walked quickly down the mine pushing the statue-like form of Seymore in front of him. The corps floated in mid air because within the blue glow, Ultrecht had explained, time stood still. Therefore, gravity could not effect Seymore and his body was weightless.
As they walked further into the very bowels of the mountains, Tyson's mind worked quietly on how to arrange another death. Keeneye was leading the way with Samson who was holding a light torch. The flames showed Norwind and Ultrecht the direction of the breeze they followed. After them came Armegon who was helping Marlena, while Avery and Tyson brought up the rear.
Tyson knew that his best shot at staging another death would be during a battle in the dark. But, since Avery was also carrying a light crystal, the chance of both light sources going out at the same time were small.
Tyson was also disturbed with the sudden change of marching order. Normally, the ranger would lead the group and the archer would bring up the rear. But for some reason they had decided to switch places. He would have to be careful. They may suspect him of treachery.
Keeneye led the group quietly. At each intersection, Samson would hold out the torch and Keeneye would determine which direction the breeze came from. This was the direction they would take.
The only other sound than their footsteps was the sound of Norwind's voice. He was counting the number of steps they were making between intersections, while Ultrecht made a graphical record of side tunnels, their direction and the number of steps Norwind had counted between them. Ultrecht was also using a piece of chalk to mark their passage at regular intervals. They all knew that this would make it easy for them to be tracked, but they had agreed it was more important not to get lost.
The mine itself was littered with debris and old pieces of wood. Occasionally, they would arrive upon a pick handle or cart. Once they passed a skeleton of some unknown miner ages ago, long dead. Armegon had said that it appeared to be the skeleton of a dwarf. That particular only reminded them that they had already lost two of their number and renewed the determination of the whole company.
After about six hours of walking, some members of the group were beginning to show signs of fatigue. Keeneye had used up four torches and the sound of growling stomachs was readily heard. Keeneye immediately called a rest stop at a fork in the tunnel. "The breeze comes equally strong from both tunnels," he announced.
"They probably merge together farther ahead," Samson said looking down one.
"Samson is probably right," Ultrecht said after glancing at his map. "Our general direction has been southward with minor deviations. If Norwind's scale and count are accurate, we have covered over five miles underground. These mines should turn westward soon."
"Not right now," Marlena gasped. "I have got to rest." It was obvious to all that the quick march had taken a heavy toll on Marlena. Even though she had been leaning heavily on Armegon for the last few thousand paces.
"Okay, we rest," announced Keeneye. "Armegon, you pull out your light crystal, and Samson you put out the torch. We only have a few left."
Tyson sat down to rest and pushed Seymore's body to the ground to keep it out of the air currents. He did not want it to blow away. Others did likewise by unlatching their packs.
"Do you think we are being followed?" Norwind asked.
"Oh, most assuredly," Armegon answered. "The question is how far ahead of our enemies are we?"
Chapter 4 Part 13
Morteous leaned against his mount for support. He had been sitting on an outcropping of rock watching the trail below. He was sure that as soon as the flood and storm subsided that his opponents would resume their voyage.
He had felt the minor light spells they had cast. Knowing fully well what creatures inhabited the mines, he had been somewhat surprised as to how long it had taken for the light to be needed. He had not been prepared, however, for the sudden surge of power that had so unexpectedly roared through his mind like a cyclone. Though it had lasted less than a minute, he had no doubt that at least one of the people they had abducted from another world was becoming dangerously powerful even to himself. The surge had knocked him to the ground and stunned him as well.
He knew where they were now and he quickly sent a mental message to his brother. Within minutes, a score of troops materialized nearby. He gave directions to the leader and told him the last location of the enemy.
The lieutenant in charge left five men behind with Morteous and led the other fifteen to the cavern entrance. The horses were there, but they were unbridled and roaming about free with no packs of gear. His tracker, an assassin of some skill, indicated that their enemies had moved downward into the mountain.
Sending one man back to inform the warlock of his intentions, the lieutenant had three men light torches as they descended down into the dark tunnel.
He had felt the minor light spells they had cast. Knowing fully well what creatures inhabited the mines, he had been somewhat surprised as to how long it had taken for the light to be needed. He had not been prepared, however, for the sudden surge of power that had so unexpectedly roared through his mind like a cyclone. Though it had lasted less than a minute, he had no doubt that at least one of the people they had abducted from another world was becoming dangerously powerful even to himself. The surge had knocked him to the ground and stunned him as well.
He knew where they were now and he quickly sent a mental message to his brother. Within minutes, a score of troops materialized nearby. He gave directions to the leader and told him the last location of the enemy.
The lieutenant in charge left five men behind with Morteous and led the other fifteen to the cavern entrance. The horses were there, but they were unbridled and roaming about free with no packs of gear. His tracker, an assassin of some skill, indicated that their enemies had moved downward into the mountain.
Sending one man back to inform the warlock of his intentions, the lieutenant had three men light torches as they descended down into the dark tunnel.
Chapter 4 Part 12
"So the goblin says to the prostitute, 'I wouldn't take you if you were the last female in the world.' And the prostitute replied, 'Not only am I the last female in the world, but the price just doubled.'" Tyson laughed at his own story.
Seymore laughed as well. He was actually feeling better than he had for many days. Norwind always said that laughter cured more readily than a healer's hand.
Tyson and Seymore had been walking for about half an hour. They had passed several side passages, but fought the urge to venture off track to settle their own curiosity. Finally, their efforts were rewarded when they came upon the first few pieces of wood. Two huge beams were lying on the floor next to an old rotten bucket.
"This should do quite nicely," Tyson observed. "Just one of these things should burn for hours. If we need more, we can always return."
"The way that rain was coming down, the storm will wear itself out relatively soon," Seymore said as Tyson handed him the light crystal.
Tyson hefted the beam and steadied it across his shoulder. He wobbled with it a bit, and Seymore made an effort to steady him. But as he grabbed the beam and Tyson, he accidentally dropped the crystal. It fell to the floor and shattered with a brilliant flash of light followed by darkness.
"Good job, Butterfingers," Tyson teased.
"Sorry," Seymore replied apologetically. "I don't suppose you have another one, do you?"
"No. We are just going to have to make our way in the dark, or cast a light spell."
"We are not supposed to use magic if we can help it," Seymore reminded him. "I'm not afraid of..." Seymore went silent.
"Of what?" Tyson asked, "the dark?"
"Shhh," Seymore hissed.
"What is it?"
"Something is moving other than us in here."
"That's not funny!" Tyson's voice sounded worried.
"Magic or not, we need light and we need it now!"
Tyson responded with a quick stream of syllables that produced a low-powered light flash from his upturned palm. What it revealed was a nightmare become reality. Three creatures were coming up from the lower parts of the mine. They were man-sized, clawed, and their flesh showed signs of gangrenous decay. Their eyes had an eerie red glow, and their teeth were pointed and hooked to a carnivorous purpose.
"Wights!!" Tyson heaved the wooden beam at them and turned back towards the entrance to the mine.
Seymore had not waited to say a thing. He had immediately run on ahead. Tyson could hear Seymore a few steps ahead of him and the wights a few steps behind him. He had bought himself and Seymore a little time with the light flash, he knew. Wights did not like light. The light crystal was probably what had kept them at bay to begin with. Yet, neither he nor Seymore had been looking for signs of anyone other than themselves.
Seymore and Tyson stumbled through the dark at top speed. Seymore gave a yell for help which echoed throughout the mine. He knew his friends would come running and would more than likely be ready to deal with the undead creatures on his heels.
Tyson heard Seymore's yell and knew likewise that help would soon arrive. But whereas he and Seymore were stumbling through the dark, the wights could see in it and were rapidly gaining on him.
Tyson was almost running beside Seymore now. He could hear the man's labored breath. The fighter was not only weak still, but was not built for dodging and fleeing. With hardly a second thought, Tyson seized the opportunity. With a quick hand chop to the back of Seymore's head, he stunned the man enough to cause him to stumble and fall. A few seconds later, an inhuman scream was followed by one that was all too human.
Tyson heard the sounds fall behind him. He was no longer being pursued. As if on cue, he saw light round a bend in the mine far ahead of him. He quickly felt on the floor and gathered several stones in the dim light. When the rescuers arrived, they found Tyson lobbing stones into the darkness, while calling Seymore's name.
"What happened?" Armegon demanded holding a light crystal of his own.
"Wights," Tyson informed him. "They came up on us when the light crystal shattered."
Armegon drew a long dagger, which emitted a dim glow. Keeneye drew an arrow with a silver head and handed it to Avery who notched his longbow. Keeneye then drew another and notched his own bow. When all was ready, they moved forward at a considerable trot.
"Where are the others?" Tyson asked.
"Guarding the animals," Keeneye informed him. "Where is Seymore?"
"I don't know," Tyson lied. "He was ahead of me when the wights appeared, and I know he was ahead of me when he yelled for help, but we were running in the dark. I must have passed him somehow. When he screamed he was behind me."
It was not long before they found Seymore. He was being dragged downward towards the lower caverns by the three wights when the rays of Armegon's light crystal illuminated them.
The wights immediately released their cargo and jumped for the comforting darkness. Unfortunately, only two made it. The third fell with a thump having two arrows protruding from its back. It jerked pitifully on the floor before it stilled forever.
The other two suffered worse. Armegon in anger cast two moderate spells in quick succession. Instantly, the two wights glowed like a pair of bright lanterns illuminating everything around them, including each other. Howling, the two wights ran down the tunnel clawing at each other and themselves, each trying to extinguish the light shining from its own body and that of its companion as well.
Keeneye watched the two creatures run until they passed out of view. "How long will that light last?" he asked Armegon.
"That was the same spell we used to create the light crystals," Armegon replied scowling. "It's permanent."
Back at camp everyone was crowded around Avery and Armegon. "We've talked it over," Armegon informed them. "Seymore is no longer among the living, but he is not dead either. The curse of the undead is upon him. By tonight, he will convert into a wight or worse. If we don't want an enemy in out midst we need to take action now."
"What are our choices?" Marlena asked.
"As we see it," Avery said, "there are only two choices. When a person is killed by a wight, that person becomes an undead entity. To spare Seymore the agony and shame of that, we can draw and quarter him now rendering his undead body inert and allow his uncorrupted soul to pass on or we can place him in suspended animation. He is not alive, but he is not dead either. If we get him home, he can be revived."
"The choice is obvious," Samson said as he jumped to his feet. "How can we consider killing him?"
"We are not considering it, Samson," Armegon said. "Avery was just pointing out the alternatives. The suspended animation spell will place Seymore in a cocoon of temporal stasis. It is a very powerful spell. As soon as it is cast, there will be no doubt in the minds of those who are trying to kill us who we are or where we are located. I am willing to take that chance on Seymore's behalf, are you?"
"Of course," Samson pleaded.
"Does anyone disagree?" Avery asked. No one did.
"Listen carefully," Armegon warned. "Up until now, we have traveled secretively. We have avoided several fights and have moved about quietly. After this, we will have to travel hard and fast. There will be enemies in front of us all the way. We will most assuredly have to fight major battles to reach our objective and we do not even know how far we may have to go. In addition, Marlena's condition will become critical soon."
At this remark, Marlena glared at him but he continued: "I'm sorry Marlena but we can't afford to be coy about this. The stress of what we are bringing upon ourselves could drive you to a premature labor and cost you your life as well as your baby's."
"As you can see, Samson," Avery said quietly. "It is not just you and the other guys we're worried about." Samson looked at Marlena and was about to speak when she cut him off.
"It is my risk versus Seymore's life. And, I choose to take that risk."
"It is not logical and perhaps not wise, but it is compassionate and a great display of friendship," Avery observed. "You have my deepest respect."
"Then it is decided," Armegon said finally. "When Ultrecht is ready to cast the spell to place Seymore in suspended animation, we will begin this last run. There will be no sense in hiding our presence any longer so there is no ban on magic. But don't just sling it about like we did in the old days. There is no reason in telling our enemies exactly what our capabilities are. Later if we think we have again eluded our pursuer, we can resume our policy against the use of magic, but for a while there will be no need for restraint."
Ultrecht was rummaging through his pack and referring to a textbook he had opened. "You know this would work better at night," he said to Armegon.
"We can't wait until then," Armegon reminded him.
"Well, we will just have to do it in the mine where it is dark," the elementalist decided. "Give Samson and Norwind a couple of light crystals and send them down the tunnel a distance. I must have enough shadow to drive the spell. The spell is a Time element based spell, and that is part of the Second House of Magic, which is driven by the power of Shadow. If we can't wait until tonight, we must improvise by doing it in the dark."
"Sounds kinky," Keeneye said from a horse he was feeding. "Oh dry up," Ultrecht shot over his shoulder.
"I wish I could," Keeneye said looking up at the sky. The rain had slackened and promised to cease completely. The flooded trail had dwindled to a small stream and was shrinking by the minute. Still, Armegon suspected and Marlena agreed that it would be no problem to restart the storm if someone with enough power should decide to do so.
With Armegon's assistance, Ultrecht made the necessary preparations for his spell. He could see the figures of Samson and Norwind further down the tunnel silhouetted by the light crystals they were using to keep the wights from attacking during the spell casting. Ultrecht drew a large hourglass shape inscribed within an inverted triangle on the mine floor. In the center, he placed the motionless warrior.
While the spell was being prepared, Keeneye was speaking to Avery by the mine entrance. "It is sheer suicide to travel in that pass. Between floods and falling rocks we could all be killed by no more than a handful of rogues."
"We have few alternatives. If you have any suggestions, let's hear them," Avery said looking into the gray sky.
"We can follow the mine," Keeneye said at last.
"We don't know where it leads!"
"Yes, we do," Keeneye hissed angrily. "Think man. Feel the breeze," he indicated the gentle wind coming up from the dark cavern. He inhaled deeply. "That is not stale air, it is fresh. The other end of this mine opens out either in an area of high pressure or on the western side of these mountains."
"Perhaps," Avery said stroking his chin. He had not shaved in some time, and a light gray beard had begun to appear.
"Perhaps?" Keeneye looked worried. "What is wrong with you? You know damn good and well that we can't ride through that canyon. Unless you think Marlena's strong enough to summon some kind of airborne mounts, the tunnel is our only chance. It is the only thing they won't expect us to do."
"What won't they expect us to do?" Tyson asked as he walked up behind Keeneye. "Our ranger here noted that the fresh breeze coming up from the depths of the mine indicate it has an opening at the other end with a high atmospheric pressure. Since the general wind directions seem to be from the west, he suggested that it probably leads where we want to go and we might throw our enemies off by traveling through the mine." Keeneye looked at Avery. "Isn't that right?"
Avery looked back at Keeneye. He wondered why the elf had lied about who had come up with the idea. "Correct," Avery agreed.
"What about the wights?" Tyson asked. "We know they are there now and we know they fear light. Besides, if they get uppity, I'm sure we can take care of them," Keeneye said confidently.
"All right," Tyson resigned as he turned to leave, "you are the trail bosses."
As soon as Tyson was out of earshot, Avery turned to Keeneye. "Why did you tell him this was my idea?"
"To keep the group's confidence in your abilities intact," Keeneye shot back. "Now suppose you tell me what your problem is. Twice now, I have had to point out things that should have..."
Keeneye noticed that Avery was not listening to him, but was watching Marlena leaning against a pack of supplies and eating some dried fruit. "Ah! I see," he said knowingly. So that was why the ranger had been so distracted. "Don't worry so much," he advised. "Women have been having babies long before you came along. She will be okay."
Keeneye turned the worried healer back to face him. "You keep your mind on the immediate business."
"Words of wisdom from the thief?" Avery asked with a smile. Keeneye looked shocked.
"Why, you know I've given that lifestyle up."
"Right." Avery agreed while walking over to speak to Marlena.
Keeneye watched Avery go, then he went to inform the others of the change in traveling plans. It was really the best option, and though no one was anxious to travel in the dark with wights lurking around the corners, it was far better than getting caught in another flash flood. The others agreed to the plan with some reluctance, but it was Avery and Keeneye's job to keep them alive in the wilderness, and their trust in the archer and ranger's abilities was complete.
When the word had been passed, Keeneye leaned against a wall to watch Ultrecht ply his art. When all was ready, Ultrecht stepped into the triangle he had drawn and raised his arm. With a soft voice, he spoke the preamble of his spell. As his words echoed through the mine, black flames leapt out of the lines drawn on the floor.
"That was the easy part," Armegon said absently to Keeneye who was standing beside him. "Summoning power is no mean feat, but commanding it will require a lot of effort." Ultrecht was oblivious to the goings on around him. With total commitment, he focused his will on the black flames. It was easy to see them in spite of the darkness of the mine.
As Ultrecht directed them, the flames crept inward towards Seymore's inert body. They passed harmlessly beneath Ultrecht's feet and conformed along the lines of the hourglass shape. When the hourglass was consumed by the black flames, a blinding flash erupted. As if in response, black flames merged into a white fire which covered Seymore's body. Slowly, the flames receded until there was nothing left but a faint glow surrounding Seymore's body.
"That is it," announced Armegon as he walked over and inspected the body. Ultrecht did likewise.
"Excellent," Ultrecht said as he mopped the sweat from his brow. "He is in perfect suspension."
Seymore laughed as well. He was actually feeling better than he had for many days. Norwind always said that laughter cured more readily than a healer's hand.
Tyson and Seymore had been walking for about half an hour. They had passed several side passages, but fought the urge to venture off track to settle their own curiosity. Finally, their efforts were rewarded when they came upon the first few pieces of wood. Two huge beams were lying on the floor next to an old rotten bucket.
"This should do quite nicely," Tyson observed. "Just one of these things should burn for hours. If we need more, we can always return."
"The way that rain was coming down, the storm will wear itself out relatively soon," Seymore said as Tyson handed him the light crystal.
Tyson hefted the beam and steadied it across his shoulder. He wobbled with it a bit, and Seymore made an effort to steady him. But as he grabbed the beam and Tyson, he accidentally dropped the crystal. It fell to the floor and shattered with a brilliant flash of light followed by darkness.
"Good job, Butterfingers," Tyson teased.
"Sorry," Seymore replied apologetically. "I don't suppose you have another one, do you?"
"No. We are just going to have to make our way in the dark, or cast a light spell."
"We are not supposed to use magic if we can help it," Seymore reminded him. "I'm not afraid of..." Seymore went silent.
"Of what?" Tyson asked, "the dark?"
"Shhh," Seymore hissed.
"What is it?"
"Something is moving other than us in here."
"That's not funny!" Tyson's voice sounded worried.
"Magic or not, we need light and we need it now!"
Tyson responded with a quick stream of syllables that produced a low-powered light flash from his upturned palm. What it revealed was a nightmare become reality. Three creatures were coming up from the lower parts of the mine. They were man-sized, clawed, and their flesh showed signs of gangrenous decay. Their eyes had an eerie red glow, and their teeth were pointed and hooked to a carnivorous purpose.
"Wights!!" Tyson heaved the wooden beam at them and turned back towards the entrance to the mine.
Seymore had not waited to say a thing. He had immediately run on ahead. Tyson could hear Seymore a few steps ahead of him and the wights a few steps behind him. He had bought himself and Seymore a little time with the light flash, he knew. Wights did not like light. The light crystal was probably what had kept them at bay to begin with. Yet, neither he nor Seymore had been looking for signs of anyone other than themselves.
Seymore and Tyson stumbled through the dark at top speed. Seymore gave a yell for help which echoed throughout the mine. He knew his friends would come running and would more than likely be ready to deal with the undead creatures on his heels.
Tyson heard Seymore's yell and knew likewise that help would soon arrive. But whereas he and Seymore were stumbling through the dark, the wights could see in it and were rapidly gaining on him.
Tyson was almost running beside Seymore now. He could hear the man's labored breath. The fighter was not only weak still, but was not built for dodging and fleeing. With hardly a second thought, Tyson seized the opportunity. With a quick hand chop to the back of Seymore's head, he stunned the man enough to cause him to stumble and fall. A few seconds later, an inhuman scream was followed by one that was all too human.
Tyson heard the sounds fall behind him. He was no longer being pursued. As if on cue, he saw light round a bend in the mine far ahead of him. He quickly felt on the floor and gathered several stones in the dim light. When the rescuers arrived, they found Tyson lobbing stones into the darkness, while calling Seymore's name.
"What happened?" Armegon demanded holding a light crystal of his own.
"Wights," Tyson informed him. "They came up on us when the light crystal shattered."
Armegon drew a long dagger, which emitted a dim glow. Keeneye drew an arrow with a silver head and handed it to Avery who notched his longbow. Keeneye then drew another and notched his own bow. When all was ready, they moved forward at a considerable trot.
"Where are the others?" Tyson asked.
"Guarding the animals," Keeneye informed him. "Where is Seymore?"
"I don't know," Tyson lied. "He was ahead of me when the wights appeared, and I know he was ahead of me when he yelled for help, but we were running in the dark. I must have passed him somehow. When he screamed he was behind me."
It was not long before they found Seymore. He was being dragged downward towards the lower caverns by the three wights when the rays of Armegon's light crystal illuminated them.
The wights immediately released their cargo and jumped for the comforting darkness. Unfortunately, only two made it. The third fell with a thump having two arrows protruding from its back. It jerked pitifully on the floor before it stilled forever.
The other two suffered worse. Armegon in anger cast two moderate spells in quick succession. Instantly, the two wights glowed like a pair of bright lanterns illuminating everything around them, including each other. Howling, the two wights ran down the tunnel clawing at each other and themselves, each trying to extinguish the light shining from its own body and that of its companion as well.
Keeneye watched the two creatures run until they passed out of view. "How long will that light last?" he asked Armegon.
"That was the same spell we used to create the light crystals," Armegon replied scowling. "It's permanent."
Back at camp everyone was crowded around Avery and Armegon. "We've talked it over," Armegon informed them. "Seymore is no longer among the living, but he is not dead either. The curse of the undead is upon him. By tonight, he will convert into a wight or worse. If we don't want an enemy in out midst we need to take action now."
"What are our choices?" Marlena asked.
"As we see it," Avery said, "there are only two choices. When a person is killed by a wight, that person becomes an undead entity. To spare Seymore the agony and shame of that, we can draw and quarter him now rendering his undead body inert and allow his uncorrupted soul to pass on or we can place him in suspended animation. He is not alive, but he is not dead either. If we get him home, he can be revived."
"The choice is obvious," Samson said as he jumped to his feet. "How can we consider killing him?"
"We are not considering it, Samson," Armegon said. "Avery was just pointing out the alternatives. The suspended animation spell will place Seymore in a cocoon of temporal stasis. It is a very powerful spell. As soon as it is cast, there will be no doubt in the minds of those who are trying to kill us who we are or where we are located. I am willing to take that chance on Seymore's behalf, are you?"
"Of course," Samson pleaded.
"Does anyone disagree?" Avery asked. No one did.
"Listen carefully," Armegon warned. "Up until now, we have traveled secretively. We have avoided several fights and have moved about quietly. After this, we will have to travel hard and fast. There will be enemies in front of us all the way. We will most assuredly have to fight major battles to reach our objective and we do not even know how far we may have to go. In addition, Marlena's condition will become critical soon."
At this remark, Marlena glared at him but he continued: "I'm sorry Marlena but we can't afford to be coy about this. The stress of what we are bringing upon ourselves could drive you to a premature labor and cost you your life as well as your baby's."
"As you can see, Samson," Avery said quietly. "It is not just you and the other guys we're worried about." Samson looked at Marlena and was about to speak when she cut him off.
"It is my risk versus Seymore's life. And, I choose to take that risk."
"It is not logical and perhaps not wise, but it is compassionate and a great display of friendship," Avery observed. "You have my deepest respect."
"Then it is decided," Armegon said finally. "When Ultrecht is ready to cast the spell to place Seymore in suspended animation, we will begin this last run. There will be no sense in hiding our presence any longer so there is no ban on magic. But don't just sling it about like we did in the old days. There is no reason in telling our enemies exactly what our capabilities are. Later if we think we have again eluded our pursuer, we can resume our policy against the use of magic, but for a while there will be no need for restraint."
Ultrecht was rummaging through his pack and referring to a textbook he had opened. "You know this would work better at night," he said to Armegon.
"We can't wait until then," Armegon reminded him.
"Well, we will just have to do it in the mine where it is dark," the elementalist decided. "Give Samson and Norwind a couple of light crystals and send them down the tunnel a distance. I must have enough shadow to drive the spell. The spell is a Time element based spell, and that is part of the Second House of Magic, which is driven by the power of Shadow. If we can't wait until tonight, we must improvise by doing it in the dark."
"Sounds kinky," Keeneye said from a horse he was feeding. "Oh dry up," Ultrecht shot over his shoulder.
"I wish I could," Keeneye said looking up at the sky. The rain had slackened and promised to cease completely. The flooded trail had dwindled to a small stream and was shrinking by the minute. Still, Armegon suspected and Marlena agreed that it would be no problem to restart the storm if someone with enough power should decide to do so.
With Armegon's assistance, Ultrecht made the necessary preparations for his spell. He could see the figures of Samson and Norwind further down the tunnel silhouetted by the light crystals they were using to keep the wights from attacking during the spell casting. Ultrecht drew a large hourglass shape inscribed within an inverted triangle on the mine floor. In the center, he placed the motionless warrior.
While the spell was being prepared, Keeneye was speaking to Avery by the mine entrance. "It is sheer suicide to travel in that pass. Between floods and falling rocks we could all be killed by no more than a handful of rogues."
"We have few alternatives. If you have any suggestions, let's hear them," Avery said looking into the gray sky.
"We can follow the mine," Keeneye said at last.
"We don't know where it leads!"
"Yes, we do," Keeneye hissed angrily. "Think man. Feel the breeze," he indicated the gentle wind coming up from the dark cavern. He inhaled deeply. "That is not stale air, it is fresh. The other end of this mine opens out either in an area of high pressure or on the western side of these mountains."
"Perhaps," Avery said stroking his chin. He had not shaved in some time, and a light gray beard had begun to appear.
"Perhaps?" Keeneye looked worried. "What is wrong with you? You know damn good and well that we can't ride through that canyon. Unless you think Marlena's strong enough to summon some kind of airborne mounts, the tunnel is our only chance. It is the only thing they won't expect us to do."
"What won't they expect us to do?" Tyson asked as he walked up behind Keeneye. "Our ranger here noted that the fresh breeze coming up from the depths of the mine indicate it has an opening at the other end with a high atmospheric pressure. Since the general wind directions seem to be from the west, he suggested that it probably leads where we want to go and we might throw our enemies off by traveling through the mine." Keeneye looked at Avery. "Isn't that right?"
Avery looked back at Keeneye. He wondered why the elf had lied about who had come up with the idea. "Correct," Avery agreed.
"What about the wights?" Tyson asked. "We know they are there now and we know they fear light. Besides, if they get uppity, I'm sure we can take care of them," Keeneye said confidently.
"All right," Tyson resigned as he turned to leave, "you are the trail bosses."
As soon as Tyson was out of earshot, Avery turned to Keeneye. "Why did you tell him this was my idea?"
"To keep the group's confidence in your abilities intact," Keeneye shot back. "Now suppose you tell me what your problem is. Twice now, I have had to point out things that should have..."
Keeneye noticed that Avery was not listening to him, but was watching Marlena leaning against a pack of supplies and eating some dried fruit. "Ah! I see," he said knowingly. So that was why the ranger had been so distracted. "Don't worry so much," he advised. "Women have been having babies long before you came along. She will be okay."
Keeneye turned the worried healer back to face him. "You keep your mind on the immediate business."
"Words of wisdom from the thief?" Avery asked with a smile. Keeneye looked shocked.
"Why, you know I've given that lifestyle up."
"Right." Avery agreed while walking over to speak to Marlena.
Keeneye watched Avery go, then he went to inform the others of the change in traveling plans. It was really the best option, and though no one was anxious to travel in the dark with wights lurking around the corners, it was far better than getting caught in another flash flood. The others agreed to the plan with some reluctance, but it was Avery and Keeneye's job to keep them alive in the wilderness, and their trust in the archer and ranger's abilities was complete.
When the word had been passed, Keeneye leaned against a wall to watch Ultrecht ply his art. When all was ready, Ultrecht stepped into the triangle he had drawn and raised his arm. With a soft voice, he spoke the preamble of his spell. As his words echoed through the mine, black flames leapt out of the lines drawn on the floor.
"That was the easy part," Armegon said absently to Keeneye who was standing beside him. "Summoning power is no mean feat, but commanding it will require a lot of effort." Ultrecht was oblivious to the goings on around him. With total commitment, he focused his will on the black flames. It was easy to see them in spite of the darkness of the mine.
As Ultrecht directed them, the flames crept inward towards Seymore's inert body. They passed harmlessly beneath Ultrecht's feet and conformed along the lines of the hourglass shape. When the hourglass was consumed by the black flames, a blinding flash erupted. As if in response, black flames merged into a white fire which covered Seymore's body. Slowly, the flames receded until there was nothing left but a faint glow surrounding Seymore's body.
"That is it," announced Armegon as he walked over and inspected the body. Ultrecht did likewise.
"Excellent," Ultrecht said as he mopped the sweat from his brow. "He is in perfect suspension."
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