Читать книгу Advent Of Darkness - Gary Caplan - Страница 8

Mindon was a very large city, and the majority of the populace was elven, although there were sections that were inhabited by various other races. Ragan began telling Gideon about the city of Mindon in a narrative style. The different cultures or races tended to live in sections of the city where they continued their own cultures. Mindon was considered a great trade city. Goods from the far corners of the continent were brought to the city by both seagoing vessels and skycraft. It was an ancient city with gilded spires and tall towers that held, according to the last population census, over 3,950,000 people. It was not the largest of the elven cities, but it was considered an equal among the greatest cities of their people. There was no gate or wall on the outskirts as the city had expanded beyond the first series of walls over time.

Ragan, Gideon, and Cordlyer moved along what became an intricately tiled road, the pieces of which had been fitted together with master skill. As the group rounded a large hill of earth and trees that blocked a direct view, they saw towering before them, like pinnacles holding up the sky, the tall jeweled towers of the city. The towers were beautiful and multicolored, composed of many rock types, although white marble seemed to be somewhat predominant. Stretching many stories in height, most were quite breathtaking.

Most of the city intertwined with nature in some way, including the smaller dwellings in the hills and down the valley to the river. In one part of the city, Gideon felt that some of the architecture was vaguely reminiscent of the classical Greek designs in their greatest, most pure form. Additionally, Gideon began to realize that these elven architects had conception of more modern building techniques than he had initially thought. He noticed metal or wooden poles with large crystal heads spaced down most of the streets; they appeared to be streetlights of some type.

The elves did not live in poorly designed houses but elegant cottages and beehive-like condominium-type structures composed apparently from solid stone and various woods.

Ragan pointed out that most of the more elegant buildings were administrative, educational, and recreational in nature. The humbler ones located around the former were the living residences. As they traveled along the road into the city, they were joined by some riders of the Order of the Horn, among whom was Laurelin Leaflock. Laurelin drew her mount, a unicorn, between Gideon's horse and Cordlyer's craynath on the other side. She smiled at Gideon, looked over at Cordlyer, and nodded at him. She said something to Cordlyer that Gideon could not quite hear as they rode toward the city. Her companions smiled and waved to her as they trotted past.

Had Gideon been looking at Tauri Ragan instead of the very pretty Laurelin, he might have noticed his vacant, faraway look as a glaze come over his eyes. Ragan was looking at Gideon and Laurelin with the sight, attempting to foretell the future and how it might affect the council's plans.

With the sight, Ragan saw the growth of this budding relationship, developing from Gideon's strong interest in the elves. The visions he saw surrounding Laurelin were hazy and unclear. He saw something that could influence the uncertainty of Gideon's ultimate destiny. He would watch and wait to see the outcome of this nascent romance.

Cordlyer cleared his throat to get Ragan's attention, and the wizard's eyes regained their focus and strength as they turned their gaze upon the young elven knight.

"Welcome back, Tauri Ragan." Then to Gideon, he smiled and said, "Lady Laurelin has agreed to accompany you for the day, my friend. Well, I must be off. I have some business to attend to. But I hope I shall see you both later at the Green Griffon Inn. Laurelin, you will be joining us?"

Laurelin nodded.

With a wave good-bye, Cordlyer mounted his lizardlike craynath and trotted off to disappear into the city outskirts among the many people bustling on the crowded street.

Ragan seemed to take a deep breath and then reached into his crimson cloak and withdrew from it a large silken purse, apparently laden with coins, and passed it to Gideon.

"I too must leave you for a while, young Gideon. I have Tauri and lodge business that I must attend to. Here, take this coin purse and use what is inside to purchase whatever you feel you will need. Buy some weapons and clothing. There should be enough to purchase a few sorcerous items, should you choose." Then he added, rather offhandedly, "I would be curious to see how you look when we meet again this evening at Palrents."

"Yes," said Gideon, eyeing the pouch in his hand and hefting it. It was heavy. "So would I."

Then Ragan was gone, leaving Gideon and Laurelin alone together.

He smiled at her briefly, and she returned the smile.

"Shall we go?" he asked casually.

Laurelin nodded and smiled warmly, saying, "Yes. Let's go shopping."

They traveled a short distance to a somewhat more tree-filled area and stopped.

"Well," said Gideon with a quick breath, "where shall we go first?"

"Come," responded Laurelin, waving him down from his saddle. "We shall first visit the tailor and get you into clothes fit for a warrior. They shall be fine and fair, but first, tether your horse, for you will not need it for a while. It will be safe in the public stalls."

She whispered in her unicorn's ear and then released the white-gray equine to the small grove of trees. The unicorn walked farther into the grove.

Gideon agreed and dismounted the horse. Laurelin led the horse to a nearby stall and paid the overseer. The overseer stamped a small piece of paper and handed it to her.

Laurelin in turn gave the paper to Gideon.

"This is your receipt in order to collect the horse later," she said. Then, side by side, they began to walk slowly down the promenade of one of the main streets.

One street was apparently a merchant's row, and Laurelin seemed to know where she was going, so Gideon followed her like a stray puppy. As they passed a particularly nice shop, a tan doublet and shirt in a window caught his eye, and he asked if they could go inside. Laurelin approved, and they entered. The shop was quite large and full of racks holding many assorted shirts and trousers of various colors. There were several races browsing the shop. One was a tall reptile-man trying out a multicolored vest that appeared, at least to Gideon, somewhat tasteless. By the counter, there was a small group of what he thought were children at first look. But upon a closer inspection, he saw they were actually a race of small people—similar to gnomes, he guessed. They were standing on their tiptoes and looking over the glass counter at the various types of clothes on display.

In the far corner, an elven tailor was measuring a customer, an elderly man, for a cloak. Well, actually, the measuring tape measured the customer—by itself! It moved across the man's chest without being touched as the tailor read the measurements.

Another nearby tailor was arranging a display of fine violet-hued capes and matching caps.

A well-dressed elf stepped out from behind a mirror and asked, "May I be of assistance, sir?"

"Yes," said Gideon. "I need some new clothes."

The elf smiled and said, "Ah, well now, you've come to the right place then. Hmmm? I think I've got just the thing for you. Come with me." With that, he walked over to the counter.

The group of little folk was still there, clamoring at the glass and its contents. The tailor shooed them off, saying something in a scolding tone. The little ones seemed to ignore this but moved to another section of the shop anyway.

The tailor then returned and remarked in a mildly angered tone, "Those little Bandar are constantly poking and prying into things. It's a wonder they didn't break the glass. All they do is window-shop, you know?"

"Really?" replied Gideon politely even though he had no idea what a Bandar was.

By this time, the tailor had removed an exquisite white shirt. The shirt had two rows of small gold buttons down the front.

"Here we are, sir, the latest in fashion from Trell Brex," stated the tailor with a great deal of zest.

"Looks nice," said Gideon. "How much is it?"

"A mere five silver sovereigns," said the tailor. "A real bargain, I might add, considering the shipping and fabric used."

Gideon realized he was carrying a heavy coin purse, more of a bag really. He glanced at Laurelin to determine if the price was fair. She nodded subtly.

"Okay. I'll buy it," said Gideon. "Also, I'd like that tan doublet and shirt in the window display and two of those trousers over there." Gideon pointed out what he liked.

"Fine, I'll need to get your measurements. Would you follow me please?"

Laurelin waited patiently.

The tailor led Gideon into a small alcove where he measured Gideon for the appropriate lengths and widths. The first measurement was done manually by the tailor; then the mobile measuring tape seemed to continue by itself. The tailor motioned with his hand and hummed a word, and a wood board with paper materialized, on which the elven tailor wrote down Gideon's measurements. When he was finished, he told Gideon to come back in about an hour, to which he agreed.

Laurelin said, "I'm still looking at some clothes myself. We should be ready to leave in a few moments. I have made most of my selections."

Gideon began looking through the coin purse; it seemed to be capable of holding more than it should. He saw what appeared to be silver, gold, and some other type of metal coins. Each had engraved or stamped numbers and symbols. Some had small portraits of what appeared to be elven and other people's nobles.

"Laurelin," said Gideon reluctantly, "I'm not that sure about the money in these lands. Um, how much is five silver sovereigns?"

Laurelin seemed slightly disturbed by this. Gently taking his money purse, she withdrew five silver coins.

"Here, this is all you'll need for the shirt. The doublet and trousers will be a bit more. You need to be prepared to spend two or three gold sovereigns."

Then she withdrew three golden coins with small portraits on them. One even had Gilthondral Garenthal's image etched on it along with some rune marks.

"I'm sorry, Laurelin," said Gideon. "Did I do something to upset you? Are you angry with me?"

"No, I am not angry, Finelen. I'm only confused."

Gideon looked at her and waited for more.

"You are sometimes difficult to understand," she continued in a hushed voice. "You say you are from Calendor, yet you know nothing of the latest fashions. You say that you are from a nearby province, yet this money confuses you. Even your name, John Gideon, is strange. It does not seem to be from Calendor. You appear to be intelligent, yet you seem to know nothing of our world. You are different, John Gideon Finelen. Where do you come from? Where did Ragan find you?"

"Ragan first picked me up, I guess," said Gideon as softly and honestly as he could. "I'm not from here. I am from another world. A world called Earth."

"Earth?" repeated the elf. "Hmm, I have studied the concept of other worlds as discussed in the classes I attended at the university. I have even met other people from the world of Saltheryn, as well as a few other key worlds with whom my people and the Eldren have traded. However, it is difficult to believe that Ragan the Red would have chosen you as a companion. I believe you, but I wish you had told me this earlier. I like you, but I was beginning to think something was wrong with you."

"Listen, Laurelin. Ragan requested that I keep my arrival here a secret, and my people are not planning an invasion. You must pledge never to reveal my secret to anyone. Ragan believed that I should keep a low profile."

"Hmm. Well, the Tauri are more than great teachers. They are said to keep their numbers around a thousand and travel across the world teaching. They have impressive powers and, in truth, are from Errada. For one such as Ragan to keep you as his companion or ward is notable. Your secret is safe with me, Finelen. I am a knight of the Order of the Horn," said Laurelin proudly. "You have my oath of honor on it."

Laurelin went over to one of the tailors and spoke privately to him. Within moments, she came back to Gideon, who was attempting to count his other coins.

"It will take the rest of the afternoon to complete my clothing tailoring, so I will pick them up later today," said Laurelin. "Come; we can leave now."

As Gideon walked out of the shop, he noticed a shadow on the ground. He looked up and saw a flying ship in the shape of a swan coming in low, getting ready for a landing nearby. "Is there a port here for those flying ships?"

"Yes," said Laurelin. "There is a landing zone about ten blocks away. There are sky docks for the larger ships, and some have personal craft moorings at their homes. I believe you are still having some problems with our money." Then she motioned Gideon toward a footwear shop and stopped just before a display window.

"Now, let's count the money in this holding pouch," she said.

Gideon gave the pouch to her, and she began to look through it, drawing out a handful of different-colored coins. She then drew a few out looking at each type in turn.

"Was Ragan holding this money for you? The pouch has Tauri symbols on it and is enchanted for greater holding capacity."

"Ragan gave it to me earlier," replied Gideon.

Laurelin nodded in understanding.

"This is a branil sovereign," said Laurelin.

Gideon looked down at the circular-shaped coin that reminded him of the larger coins on Earth, but this metal was a grayish color.

"This is currently worth five hundred gold sovereigns. It is marked with the likeness of King Eladain of Lindorien. See, there are other types of metal coinage, each with its own value in gold or other metal."

As he listened, Gideon noticed upon closer inspection that there were letters on the coins, probably to tell their value, and all looked finely minted.

"This is a gold sovereign; this is currently valued at ten silver sovereigns. This one bares the likeness of Talmor, the Corthondral of Andrim. Here is a silver sovereign; this is currently valued at forty copper sovereigns. This one bears the likeness of Nog Guthor of the Malloren Forest. Finally, we have the copper sovereign that is the most common of coinage, and every year, a new mintage is pressed. This issue bears the likeness of Mialbane of Vesperwood Forest."

Then from the purse came a dull gray bar. Gideon recognized it as platinum.

"This has a weight of metal, which is currently worth five gold sovereigns at the present value. It shares a somewhat similar color with branil, but of course, its value is far less. There are also platinum sovereigns that come in the form of circular coins, worth two gold sovereigns. This smaller branil bar is valued at four branil sovereigns or two thousand gold sovereigns.

"Branil," continued Laurelin, "is a metal used in the manufacturing of many of the most powerfully enchanted weapons and armors used by the elves."

Gideon asked, "How much do I have in the coin purse now?"

"This is a special container, Finelen. It is much deeper than it appears. It is imbued and enchanted to be larger on the inside than on the outside. You have," she said, rummaging through the purse and counting the types of coins, "a small fortune here!"

"Wow! Ragan was really generous," said Gideon.

"Ragan is indeed very wealthy in many ways, and with this, you can make a good start on this world," responded Laurelin. "Come, let's go inside and get you some boots!"

They entered a shop that was smaller than the tailor shop but had quite a large variety of footwear. There were tall boots and short boots, slippers and sandals. All sizes and colors were assembled. In short, Gideon felt that most of the shoe stores on Earth could not hold a candle to this for quality.

Then a sign caught Gideon's eye.

You may design here.

"Now that's something you don't see every day where I come from," he said to Laurelin.

"Is that right?" replied Laurelin. "I had a pair done that way. It is really quite nice. You can be original."

"Well, I surely have enough money to get a fairly nice set of boots, so I think I'll try to have something made to my specifications," said Gideon as he approached the shoemaker who was just finishing with a customer.

"Excuse me, good sir. I would like to design my boots."

"Certainly, sir, I will get you the pattern book and a list of colors so that you can make a proper selection," said the elf. This shoemaker, who was shorter than most of the elves that Gideon had met so far, stood at slightly under six feet. He returned with a book of drawings of shoe types and the colors available. Gideon flipped slowly through the book for a few minutes while the shoemaker set about making shoes for another customer. After about ten minutes, Gideon made his final decision, and he told the shoemaker what he wanted.

"I would like the padded wyvern-hide boots, and I want them done in this particular pattern," he said, showing the pattern to the shoemaker. The shoemaker nodded in affirmation, and then he said, "An excellent choice, sir. Now I will need to measure your foot. Please have a seat, and I'll be with you in a moment." Then he went into the other room.

"A pretty good choice, don't you think, Laurelin?" said Gideon, proud of his choice. He smiled; he was beginning to like this world. Laurelin agreed by nodding that it was a good choice.

"I've got one question though," he continued. "What is a wyvern?"

Laurelin raised her eyes heavenward as if asking for strength, and she began to tell him as the shoemaker came back.

"A wyvern is dragon-kin," she said. "It is smaller, and the wild ones dwell in mountain regions. There is even a militant Order of the Wyvern."

"Well, well, are you ready?" asked the master shoemaker with his salesperson-type grin. Gideon nodded. "Very good. Now if you will kindly remove your boots, we can begin." Gideon began to remove the boots he had been given by the Valora family near Taros, and the shoemaker proceeded to measure the length, width, and other parameters of his feet.

The master shoemaker stood up and said, "I will be able to have your boots ready by tomorrow afternoon at the latest. If you would pay half now, I would be appreciative."

"How much is it?" asked Gideon.

The shoemaker calculated. "It comes to fourteen golden sovereigns. A minimum of seven payable now, if you please."

Gideon did not bother to quibble to obtain a slightly lower price. He merely paid the fourteen sovereigns; then he and Laurelin left the shop.

"Where to now, Finelen?" asked Laurelin as they stepped back out into the street.

Then, a smile lit his face as he asked, "Is there any place on this world where the ocean surf is particularly decent?"

"Ocean surf?" asked the elf maiden, perplexed.

"Yeah. Ocean surf."

"Well," she said after a moment's thought, "most of the coast off Lindorian Province has particularly lovely waves especially off the shores of the Calenfalas and Malloren forests region."

"Far out! Laurelin, I want you to take me to the nearest and best elven carpenter."

"Far out?" asked Laurelin, even more perplexed.

"Yeah," replied Gideon. "Where I come from, that means really cool."

"But you said far out. I thought you meant a long distance away, not cold to the touch. You are not making any sense, Finelen."

"No," replied Gideon. "Far out means 'cool.' Excellent. I'm gonna see about having a surfboard made. If you elves are such great craftsmen, then an elven-made board would be the max!"

Laurelin shook her head and repeated to herself softly that far out meant "cool."

By now, Laurelin appeared word-shocked. Her eyes had a faraway look.

"Wh-what?" was all she could say.

"Sorry, Laurelin," he replied, seeing her trying to make sense of his jargon. "I slipped for a moment just then. I started thinking about the surfboard, and my mind went back to Malibu when I was a kid. Ridin' the wild surf."

"Malibu? I thought you said you were from a place called Earth?" said Laurelin, recovering and speaking more softly.

"Uh," replied Gideon, realizing his recent, more excited outburst may have been overheard and he had committed a breach of secrecy. Quickly, he spoke more softly and directly to Laurelin. "Malibu…is, uh, just a beach area off the coastline of one of the states."

"Oh," said Laurelin slowly. "Okay…sure." Then she added, "Finelen?"

"Yeah?"

"You speak very strangely in Malibu."

A little while later, Gideon and Laurelin reached the carpentry shop located on the aptly named Woodcarver's Lane. Soon after entering the shop, the two were greeted by a tall, mature-looking elf with pale, silver-white hair. He introduced himself as Elendil, the master carpenter.

"Elendil, huh?" asked Gideon in honest surprise. "You're kidding. Really?"

"Yes, sir," replied the elf. "That is my name. You have heard of me? I am well-known in these lands."

"Yeah, I've heard of you," said Gideon, masterfully holding back the urge to laugh. The coincidence was almost too much to bear. A few years back, he'd read the Lord of the Rings and recognized the name as a relative of the half-elven lord of Rivendell. Meeting a real elf who went by the name of a fictional character created by a man on Earth was almost too much to take. "A fellow named Tolkien mentioned you. Said you were a pretty good mariner. Is that true?"

"Well, yes. I've had some sailing experience in years past, and I'm an excellent shipwright." The master carpenter looked strangely at Gideon, a half smile on his face. Gideon nearly burst into laughter right there and then but somehow maintained control of himself and got down to business. Such a coincidence of names he found very amusing.

"Well, that's good to know. You may be just the craftsman I'm looking for. I'm looking for someone to design a new type of sailing rig. It's small, about seven feet nine inches tall; light, made from one of the softer hardwoods you have; and smoothed to ride the ocean surf. I call it a surfboard."

"A surfboard, eh?" replied Elendil enthusiastically, and then he added skeptically, "A board to ride on the ocean surf? Why would anyone want to do such a thing?"

"Sport," answered Gideon with an exuberant smile. "One of the most exhilarating sports ever."

The elf looked strangely at Gideon in way of reply.

Gideon saw this reaction, and his smile faded a few notches.

"Here," he continued, "let me show you what I want, and you decide if you can make it, okay? Got some drawing charcoal and some parchment?"

The elf named Elendil found some paper and drawing utensils, and Gideon got to work, scratching out his dream surfboard.

Elendil looked on in wonder at the possibility.

"Can you do it?"

"It will take some time, but yes…I can do it. I seem to recall a somewhat similar water skimmer being used by younglings several years back off the coast of Calenfalas region."

"How much?"

The elf worked the numbers, considering equipment and labor, and finally replied, "Perhaps twenty gold sovereigns as it is custom work." Gideon nodded in agreement.

After leaving Elendil, the master carpenter, and Woodcarver's Lane, Gideon asked Laurelin if there was a place nearby where he could wash up. "You could reserve a private room at an inn and take a bath there," replied Laurelin, "or perhaps you would not mind a walk to one of the recreation facilities. They have excellent public baths there. Come to think of it, I could do with a good bath to wash myself."

Then Gideon remembered that he should look into purchasing some undergarments. He asked Laurelin where he might find some. She suggested a store that sold such things for the guildsmen. However, she added that she did not see the point in wearing such things. She believed that if one bathed or maintained cleanliness regularly, it did not matter. Nevertheless, Gideon went to the shop and purchased a few loincloths and collarless, sleeveless torso covers.

The pair then proceeded down toward the east side of the city. Along the way, Gideon was again awestruck by its beauty. They passed several small parks on the way to their destination. Some of the houses and inns had large gardens that gave the entire city a rural feel. No trash littered the streets; Mindon was a clean city. There were flowers everywhere, some in decorative planted areas and others in natural flowerbeds. Gideon noticed some more of the skyships coming in to land a few blocks away. The road they walked on was the gray stone type of road that he had ridden across earlier in the day.

Meanwhile, as Gideon completed his purchases, Ragan trotted along another road toward the central plaza. That plaza was the major place where the adepts of the arcane arts and the natural sciences had academies, held classes, or kept shops. Ragan stopped his horse in front of a large grandiose building. It was the main guild building of the Alchemists' Guild of Mindon. He got down from his horse and tethered it to a nearby crystal glow lamp pole, and then he proceeded into the building where he was met by a senior apprentice. "I am Archmaster Ragan of the Red Lodge. I seek Balminewe, the master alchemist. Is he here?" asked Ragan.

"No, Archmaster, he is at his home in the south quarter and probably will not return until tomorrow for the lecture," said the apprentice. Evidently, Balminewe was actively teaching at this university guild building since he held lectures and probably laboratory demonstrations.

"And just where is his home?" asked Ragan, for he was in a hurry.

"It is on Linth Street by the west corner, Archmaster Ragan," replied the apprentice, bowing respectfully.

"Thank you," said Ragan, and he left the guild building and proceeded to Linth Street. After about twenty minutes, he approached the abode of Master Balminewe. The house was quite elegant, two stories tall with a veranda, double doors, and a trimmed garden area. Carved in runes above the door was the owner's name. The entire structure was composed mostly of white marble and wood. Ragan tethered his horse on the banister and asked it to remain quiet. Then he went to the door and knocked.

An elven female answered.

"May I help you?" she asked.

"I am Archmaster Ragan of the Red Lodge, and I would like to speak with Master Balminewe, please."

"Come in," said the elf woman. She smiled, apparently recognizing his name. She then led him to an elegant room designed in the old style, with many interior plants and a few tapestries.

"I will find my husband. Please make yourself comfortable. We were working on a project," she said and then left the room.

Ragan sat in a padded wooden chair and waited. Shortly after, a male elf of moderate height and healthy build entered the room. He had green eyes and a white central wave in his dark-brown hair. Ragan rose as he entered. "I am Balminewe, senior master of the Alchemists' Guild. How may I help you, Lord Tauri Ragan?" asked the elf.

"You were recommended to me by Gilthondral Garenthal Caylendril as one of few in Mindon who could discreetly prepare the elixir called amnoxillin," said Ragan.

"You personally do not need the elixir, so I must assume that it is for a being from outside our world. Is he a traveler from the Caverns of Tarthos perhaps?'"

"If you must know, it is for someone from another world of this omniverse. You will probably have to examine him."

"Yes, very interesting. I will require a blood sample and an intestinal fluid sample in order to prepare the most efficient elixir for him," said Balminewe. "I will also require adequate time to gather the necessary components and ingredients."

"I understand, however, with all I must accomplish, time is of the essence, or I would undertake the task myself," stated Ragan. "Will it be ready in at least two days?"

"All that I can tell you is that I will try to prepare the elixir in that time," stated Balminewe calmly. "I will gather the necessary ingredients this evening and tomorrow. If you could bring him here some time tomorrow afternoon, I can examine him and take the proper samples."

Ragan gave Balminewe a bar of branil worth five hundred gold sovereigns and said, "This should cover the costs."

"Fine," said Balminewe respectfully. "I will begin preparations now."

Ragan and Balminewe bowed to each other respectfully as masters often did, and then Balminewe walked Ragan to the door. Ragan's task was almost completed, and he felt relieved. He then decided to pay a visit to the wizards of the Blue Lodge and his own lodge before he left the city. He would visit the Blue Lodge today, leaving his own for tomorrow. Besides, he had a few informants and friends in this city, and perhaps, if they were there and not too busy, he could covertly gather some additional information on the movements of the Dark One's forces.

While on his way to the Blue Lodge chapter house in Mindon, Ragan thought back to when Vasha had intercepted him. Being under orders of restriction from Lord Nimmeral, grand master of the White Lodge as well as the most senior among the Tauri, Ragan was instructed not reveal his true power to Gideon, lest he frighten him or give him reason to think getting back to Kara, his foster world, would be more easily accomplished. In time, Grand Master Nimmeral indicated that he could respond with his usual power and ability commensurate with his status as an Erradan. Vasha had always been a threat, but Ragan knew he could restore himself from her actions if necessary.

If not under such restrictions, Ragan knew that in the battle with Vasha, it would not have seemed to an observer that he was having problems spellcasting against a Valharri and dealing with Charachau. However; thought Ragan, one realizes that by restricting my abilities, I saw that John Gideon was able to draw forth an inner spirit and challenge a deadly foe even if my own pride was strained somewhat. With this in mind, he started his horse off toward the central plaza. He would arrange to have his horse fed as he sensed her growing interest in food. He thought to himself as he rode down the street from Balminewe's house that he would have to create a transfer portal to teleport to one of his informants rather than pass below the city streets using the underground passages, as that would be too time-consuming right now.

Gideon and Laurelin walked up the stairs to the main gate of one of the large recreational buildings. Advertisements in various languages peppered the display window board. Gideon read one that stated:

Water Skelt Championship

NERIADS vs. SIRENS

This afternoon: 1500

Be There and Get Soaked!

Several others displayed tournament announcements between other civic groups and regional recreational facilities. Gideon saw many people in this huge facility; it seemed the citizens of Mindon were quite physically active. Before they arrived at this particular recreational facility, Gideon and Laurelin passed two public library facilities with a lot of foot traffic across the entrances.

The pair then passed through the doors to the one of the inner lobbies of the huge recreation facility. "What's water skelt?" asked Gideon.

"It is a game played by many races," said Laurelin, and she smiled. "It involves swimming in a pool of water and trying to place a small spherical object into your opponents' holding net. It is a team sport and can be tiring, but it is exhilarating. I should know. I've been on a champion-level team from Eamondir for the past fifty years."

"Wow," replied Gideon. "Wait…did you say fifty years? Just how old are you?"

"Old enough to know that a gentleman should not ask that question," answered Laurelin with a warm smile, "nor a lady answer it."

She then showed Gideon the proper passage that would lead him to the male changing and washing areas. She went down another passage toward the females' area. In the washing area, Gideon showered and paid for a shave in a barber’s alcove. He prepared his clean, new undergarments. Just prior to showering, he decided to arrange to have his other clothes washed for a small fee. Just over an hour later, Gideon reemerged from the washing area, clean and refreshed with clean clothes.

Laurelin was waiting for him in the lobby and reading some printed pamphlet when he came out.

"Now, Finelen, you look much better clean and shaven," she said. "Come along, our clothes should be almost ready to be picked up at the tailor's."

While they were in the shop, Gideon decided to purchase another set of trousers and an elven-style shirt, as well as a silver-colored cap with a feather in it. The additional cost was twenty gold sovereigns. He wanted another set of clothes. Gideon came out of the tailor shop wearing his new shirt, trousers, and doublet. He looked admiringly at Laurelin, who had put on knee-length shorts that showed her lower legs quite nicely. Laurelin placed her additional new clothes in a small satchel, which she carried under her cloak.

Laurelin and Gideon then went down the street toward the smith's quarter where Laurelin knew they could find decent weapons and armor for a fair price. Along the way, Laurelin stopped in a bakery and bought some pastries. Gideon, who was getting thirsty, asked her where they could get a drink, especially after eating several of the delicious and fruity delicacies.

Laurelin knew a good place nearby called the White Dragon Inn. So they postponed their armory visit for a while as they went for a quick drink. As they crossed the street to head into the White Dragon Inn, a fellow in a dark-green hooded cloak followed them into the tavern and watched their movements closely.

The inn was a well-kept establishment and had a relaxed feeling. A few others were eating some cheeses or having a drink. Laurelin said to the barman, "Two mugs of old vroth." He placed two large stone cups before them and poured a brownish liquid from a bottle. Gideon was not familiar with the ingredients, but it looked good and tasted even better, like rum with some crushed fruit in it. After several minutes and another two rounds, Gideon was starting to feel the intoxicating effect of the drinks. It was affecting Laurelin but not as much. Gideon thought she evidently had a great constitution because he was light-headed, while she seemed relaxed but as quick of wit as usual. They were laughing over a joke that Gideon had just told when the green-cloaked man, who had been watching the pair the whole time, walked toward Laurelin.

"Aaye, Glade Gilding! Mae govannen!" [Hail, Glade Gilding! Well met!], Laurelin said to the fellow in a dialect that was somewhat different from the elven Gideon had been granted.

Thanks to Garenthal, Gideon realized that he knew the language was a dialect of Manya called Wood Elven or Tarin. Gideon realized the gift contained only basic information about this dialect. Gideon thought, If I was granted it all, then what would I need to learn? He wondered what other leftover thoughts had been placed and felt a little unsettled, but he had consented. The fellow then lifted his cowl and hood, and his face came clearly into view. His hair was a golden yellow, braided on each side; his ears curved gracefully to terminate in a slender tip; he was definitely an elf—or Alor, as they called themselves—by Gideon's reckoning.

His eyes shone a pale blue; a hint of hardness marked by experience was evident, though mostly hidden behind a mixture of merriment and knowing. He wore a white shirt, which was frilled at the neck, covered by a forest green vest. His trousers were tightly hugging brown leather that seemed to fit like a second skin. But his boots stood out like nothing Gideon had ever seen before. They were bone white, coming up just past his knees and ending in a bright-yellow jagged band, and apparently, they made little noise when he walked.

"Vedui'nae saian luume' Glade [Greetings, Glade. It has been too long]," replied Laurelin, smiling as he approached the table. Gideon was still getting used to the language. It seemed that Laurelin knew this stranger. Then she turned and said in Arabethic to Gideon, "This is an old friend of mine, Finelen. His name is Glade Gilding."

"Hello," said Gideon nodding his head as the fellow came to stand next to them.

"Good day to you," responded Glade. "And who might you be?"

"I am John Gideon," he replied in Arabethic, using the proper way he had learned from Pyne. "But I've recently accepted an Alor name, Finelen." Then, remembering Ragan's advice on keeping his arrival and origins a secret, he added, "I am presently traveling and from Taros region."

"Taros, you say?" said Glade, turning to the counter. "I passed through there a little over four months ago. A beautiful land." Then he called to the barkeeper, "Evren! A glass of your best wine, if you please."

"That'll be Old Vineyards then," said Evren.

"Oh yes! Yes! Old Vineyards! Definitely!" replied Glade enthusiastically. "Mmmmmm. Yes, that will do nicely."

"An excellent choice, sir," agreed Evren as he went to get the bottle of wine.

Laurelin then said, "So what brings you to Mindon, Glade? I haven't seen you in years."

When his order came, Glade drank long and deep, as if it were water. "Now, that's what I call good wine," he said in a satiated tone. "Anyway, I am here in Mindon to recuperate for a few days. I just finished a long trip from the Greenway in Arador, scouting for Urshkaar troops. Well, I found the green skinned goblins all right, out by the Crystalpeak Mountains, moving along one of the safe passes. There were at least three divisions of Urshkaar, as well as a division of Charachau. I tell you, something terrible is going to happen relatively soon. I can feel it in my bones."

"The Urshkaar were near the Crystalpeak Mountains?" asked Laurelin in disbelief. "Then that means that most of the lands between the northern section of Urzan and parts of Kingswood Forest are blocked by the enemy but not completely held. No road will be safe from either side for a hundred miles."

"I am afraid so," agreed Glade. "I have already informed the Order of the Platinum Griffon in Calendor, as well as some of the liaison officers to our Dwarro, Norgtor, and Edrix allies. I still have to give a final report to Mindon's minister of city defense so that he and Gilthanal Falandral can confer. If the Urshkaar are reinforced by other regiments and brigades, they may move south into the Greenway region of Arador Province."

"Who is leading them?" asked Laurelin.

"From what I could tell, I believe one of the leaders is an Urshkaar marshal named Agrak. I also uncovered reports of another senior Urshkaar leader, one you know, Laurelin. Evidently Lord Marshal Balgan is moving forces to attempt to take the area between Koman and Kingswood closest to Morthaurnan supposedly to stop a huge incursion of chaotic spirits manifesting mainly as wood wight warriors composed of deadwood as well as other undead or forms of the Unlife. Additionally, the Dark Elves and the Valharri are involved. While scouting, I saw Ammaroth's and Valestran's standards and banners, two of the powerful Valharri high lords. Their forces were splitting—one going into Koman, the other into the Kingswood Province. Yes, something is definitely going on!" Laurelin looked somewhat disturbed by the news.

"Excuse me," interrupted Gideon. "I am not too informed about the local war situation. Who is in charge of leading the defense of this city?" Glade smiled as he looked briefly at Laurelin. She knew he liked to talk when he had the time.

Glade Gilding smiled and began to explain. "This city, like most other cities in the greater region, is run by a chancellor appointed by the Assembly of Lords. The chancellor and the local senior lord, who in the region of Mindon is the Gilthanal Falandral, operate together with the lesser local lords to administer the region's defenses, including the city's defense. Gilthanal Falandral's duties, however, concern the citadel and his outlying lands in addition. Chancellor Kyrdain is mostly responsible for Mindon and the eight surrounding smaller cities. Chancellor Kyrdain will also have to coordinate with other minor lords who have lands near the surrounding cities and towns. Happily, those enemy forces are a long distance away in the more northern provinces. As for the military situation, I believe some of the Dark One's forces have recently made expeditionary advances to learn of Arador's and Kingswood Province's military strengths."

"Thank you. I have not done much traveling in Alor lands, and this is my first time in Mindon," stated Gideon. "I have studied other things, and was merely curious as to your people and your forms of government."

"I see," said Glade, taking the opportunity to continue the conversation. "Then I hope I can enlighten you somewhat. There are five major Alorian peoples. We were historically differentiated mainly by language and habitat. There are the wood elves, the high elves, the gray elves, the Dark Elves, and the sea elves. Laurelin is a wood elf, as am I. Our people traditionally tend to dwell in great tree cities, deep in the woods. The great city of Lindorien, within Lindorien Province, being a notable example of a woodland domain."

"As you probably know, there are few remaining Alor kings, and there is a reason for this," he continued. Gideon noticed that Glade really seemed to be enjoying this minilecture on his people's history.

"In the year 3951313 SEC, during the Third War of Dominion," continued Glade, "the elves had elected one king to be a high king. He was named Arêl Lith-Gilad. The high king was the one specifically elected to defend the people and lands against the Dark One's forces, and he was given military and other support from virtually all the other nobles. However, the high king was not placed in charge of the Grand Assembly of Lords."

"The other nobles governed their own lands then?" asked Gideon.

"Yes, the other nobles still governed their own lands or regions," interjected Laurelin. Gideon nodded in understanding.

"Arêl Lith-Gilad's palace was in what is now Arador Province," continued Glade, "in the great city of Kir Kiriath, which was the main city for the region known as Kir at the time. Lith-Gilad formally ruled over that ancient region and the city of Kir Barad as well. Today, these ancient regions would encompass a good portion of the present Calendor and Arador Provinces, part of some of the nearby provinces as well, and even a small northwestern area of Silmir Province. High King Lith-Gilad was killed defeating Dormas at the end of that war, and unbeknownst to him, his family members were targeted for assassination by a political coup arranged by Amalkites, the royal advisor."

Gideon seemed to remember hearing the names of the high king and his advisor somewhere before. They seemed familiar, like he had a sudden case of déjà vu. But he quickly dismissed them, realizing that he must be mistaken. There was no way he could have heard those names before.

"The plot was thwarted by those guards loyal to the high king, and the assassins were killed, but not before the majority of the royal family was dead," added Laurelin.

"You wanted to know about governance in this region?" continued Glade. "The assembly is a regional group of nobles who rule a province. For example, the Assembly of Silmir governs Silmir Province. Silmir is one of the largest of Alor provinces and has several high-level nobles who govern along with the guilds that have representation. Put simply, each region that we Alor inhabit hold smaller regional assemblies that send their nobles each year to the Grand Assembly. As in other places, some of those nobles acquire titles of land by birth, and others earn their noble titles through great deeds or service."

Gideon nodded. He was interested in the culture in which he had become immersed. "Do your people have any other elected officials or rulers?" asked Gideon.

"Other administrators are appointed, and several are elected as officials in villages, towns, or small cities as mayors," replied Glade. "There are other provinces that do have a king such as King Eladain of Lindorien Province, and in these, the king and the few other highest lords, such as a gilthondral, may preside over their regional assemblies."

"There are additionally smaller committees and councils that have specific responsibilities," stated Laurelin. "For example, the Council of Education, which has a local and provincial administrative section. The council is responsible for quality education for our citizens."

"Now Calendor Province," continued Glade, "is inhabited by more than elves. There are humans, like you, as well as the birdlike Urakeen, the reptilian Ikhsar, the lionine Bashan, and giant insect race of the Edrix, all which seem to have acquired portions of the province in the past few millennia. We Alor have the Grand Assembly, usually held in one of our ancient major cities, such as Lindorien's Great Tree City, Calenfas, Benrilthar, Pendrax, Mindon, Andrim, or one of several other cities, for two months once each year for all our nobles and high-ranking officials, as well as the provincial and regional guild masters. This is so the nobles and other ranking officials can coordinate trade and commerce, as well as defense against the Dark One's forces."

Laurelin glanced at her timepiece, which, Gideon noted, was a small cylindrical disk similar to the old pocket watch his uncle had used on Earth. "Oh my, it's getting late," she said. "Glade, we'll have to continue this conversation later," she said and smiled.

"Ah, very well," said Glade, gulping down the remainder of his drink. "I have to get going also. I have a few meetings, including with the Blue Lodge leadership, tonight, and they begin within the hour."

"Hey, I've got an idea," chimed Gideon. "Why don't you come to Green Griffon Inn after your meetings? Laurelin will be there, as will Cordlyer Caylendril and Tauri Ragan. We will all be at Palrents."

At the mentioning of Ragan's name, Glade's expression changed into a look of curiosity and concern, but as to his reasons for his reaction, he kept silent. "Perhaps I will join you," replied Glade.

After a few moments, Gideon's new friends made their farewells and left the White Dragon Inn, going their separate ways.

Ragan walked to the door of Mindon's Blue Lodge. Like all the lodge buildings, this one was composed of stone, metal, and some wood. It had three visible stories, but Ragan knew space was distorted and more room existed than was visible.

Mystical energies surrounded the inner entrance, and Ragan could see intricate Essence weaves and patterns.

Wards and alarms, he thought. An unfortunate necessity in this day and age.

Ragan was taking precautions himself and was sure that none of his adversaries or rivals was nearby to interrupt his visit.

The door opened, and an elven wizard approached and greeted Ragan in the customary fashion—one hand held out fully extended and the other over his heart.

"Greetings, Archmage Ragan of the Red Lodge, you have been expected," he said. "I am Eramar, high adept of my order and a council member of the Inner Circle. There are few who know of your mission. I am one. Follow me, Tauri, and be welcome." Ragan noticed that a local vocal silencing zone surrounded Eramar for about a few feet so they could converse without being overheard. The two then proceeded through a hallway, passing some students, and then down several levels along a circular stairway.

At the bottom of the stairwell was a corridor. At the end of the corridor was a large metal door. There were other side doors made of wood. Ragan sensed that a few emanated with various types of energy, but Eramar led Ragan to the metal one that had several runes along its outer frame. Eramar then made the gesture of opening, and the door opened. Ragan and Eramar passed through to what seemed like a travel corridor to an extra-dimensional area.

"We like to keep a tight security system," Eramar informed him. "You never know when enemy spies or shape-shifters might try to infiltrate an abode of knowledge like this. We also do this to keep the journeyman adepts and senior students alert by placing certain protections on doors and in the hallways. Only those who study thoroughly will be able to pass them with relative ease."

"Yes," said Ragan. "I can see the necessity in such measures."

"I'm glad you approve. Shall we go in?" asked Eramar. Ragan nodded. Eramar then pushed the door open the rest of the way, and in they went. Inside was a large chamber conservatively furnished, except for a great circular table where sat five distinguished elves, two reptilian Ikhsar, two Dwarro, two mantis-like Edrix, two Norgtor, a twelve-foot-tall earth giant, and a human of Arnor lineage. These were the archmages of the Inner Circle of the Blue Lodge of Mindon.

All rose when Ragan entered.

"Greetings," said one of the elves at the far end of the table. "I am called Curugar, the archaeus achandar of this circle of archmasters." Ragan nodded his head respectfully to this individual for his educational achievement as a grand master of the arts. "My brothers in Andrim send their greetings," continued Curugar. "You also have a message from the Corthondral, Talmor, which you should view after this conclave." He briefly introduced some of the others Ragan did not already know.

"Greetings to you all," said Ragan. He looked about the room at the other sorcerers, all having achieved mastery in at least four different fields of arcane lore as denoted by formal robes, cloaks, and multicolor sashes of arcane rank. In Mindon, the lodges were eclectic and had panels of senior members from most of the major races. Ragan sensed the subtle energies in the room and a few mystical devices of protection. This room was specially constructed and protected to block the eyes and ears of the Dark One's minions.

Swizzlick, the gnome archmage, then said, "Please sit, Archmaster Ragan, and we will tell you of the current events of this region." Ragan sat himself down in a plush high-backed chair. The other sorcerers followed his lead and sat down in similar chairs.

"I felt a force draw me to this place in response to my sorcerous sending. I believe that you have something to tell me," stated Ragan.

"There is much trouble, Tauri, and it is your order's sworn obligation to aid us in time of need," said Quiddel, the other gnome archmage.

"Our agents," said Eramar, "have reported to us that a strike force led by Valharri has attacked a region of Reslar Woods and the Gilthanalate of Pyron. We have dispatched adepts and masters to aid in the defense."

Another archmaster, a human, said, "I, Abryn, have been north to my homelands in Numeria, and I discovered that some of the Dark Elves are moving military forces into Numeria Province's border areas. Furthermore, I found that the Valharri are involved, and I barely escaped long-range retribution when the Valharri Zerrith, whom I attempted to spy on, sent a force of chaotic elementals and other spirits to attack my group. In addition, I found out a few human and Urshkaar sorcerers are supporting this incursion into Numeria Province in order to deal with some of the undead and other forms of the Unlife that have arisen. I believe, in addition, that these few wizards and sorcerers wished power for themselves. So they mounted an attack against a portion of my home city, Hyneria."

"We realize that the Dark One has not yet returned to Illúmaril," said Curugar. "This is evident because the most powerful servants and other allies he used long ago are not active. Our information from scouts about Morthaurnan indicates that the main armies of Dormas have not gathered, as yet, and his presence has not been felt."

"This is all academic," said Ragan. "For when evil does raise its head, the Tauri will be there, and we will be aided by many of the several hundred militant orders like the Order of the Horn, the Order of the Shield, or the Order of the Platinum Griffon."

"There is one further matter to inform you about, Tauri Ragan," continued Grand Master Curugar. "Recently, we have been receiving reports from some of our members in Amir about a powerful sorcerer from Khanuur named Mordru. It appears that this unusually strong senior master has been admitted into the senior membership of the Black Lodge. He is not only delving into the necromantic arts but also devising new methods to create, conjure, and control the undead and probably other forces of the Unlife."

"I thank you for the information," said Ragan. "I will discuss it with the members of my order as soon as I can. I must be leaving now, for I do have other things to attend to, as I am sure you do. Now, will you show me to your crystal chamber and the message please?"

Ragan was led by Eramar to another specially constructed room, and then he left, saying that he had to return to the conclave. Now alone, Ragan located an elongated crystal shaft with the runes of his name inscribed on parchment around the crystal. The arcane device that Ragan was about to use was ancient but extremely durable. At the control station, there were crystal tubes and other crystalline projections that had various uses. This was a multipurpose device used not only for communication and education, but also as a spell engine for storage of sorcerous energies.

Ragan placed the message crystal in the holder and then went to one of the three viewing stations along the far wall. Each station with clear, elongated oval crystals was about the height of a man. Ragan performed a short verbal invocation that activated the device, and the familiar face of Talmor of Andrim appeared in the crystal oval.

The image said, "Ragan, I have left this message in the care of the Blue Lodge, as I am a member and I was not sure of the exact time that you would arrive in Mindon. It is unfortunate that we could not communicate directly this time, as we are both extremely busy now. Additionally, I am aware of increased multiple modality monitoring of my communications, as well as scrying to try to locate you and intercept mystical communications.

"If you require any aid, I believe the ranger and former knight Gil Gallow and that jack-of-all-trades Glade Gilding are somewhere near to Mindon or can be found on your way to Tetherin. Glade is likely already in the city. Gil is still near the border of Calendor assisting the Dwarro. I sensed you traveling beyond our world, and if I am not mistaken, you brought someone back to Illúmaril with you. I hope that this time, the Tauri intend to guide him more fully while he is in our world or at least have some distant relative help. Ragan, I think that there are times you take on too much responsibility at one moment, especially with all the projects you have in progress.

"Perhaps you can let him reside with a more similar culture for a while so that he can become accustomed to our world. It was almost a catastrophe when Vasha intercepted you. Luckily, Garenthal was in the region and sensed her presence. I hope that you can obtain some amnoxillin or similar imbuement for your new ward in Mindon, or he might succumb to our planoi, which could delay his transition.

"One more item of interest, my friend, as I know you like to monitor some of the Tauri and other wizard members in that lodge. I have sensed increased activity in those members of the Black Lodge loyal to Dormas; however, they are more secretive than usual. According to my informants, that Khanuurian I mentioned, Mordru, has built a fortress near one of the many ancient buried Eldren fortresses. Mordru may have found one of the ancient Eldren artifacts that has been buried since ancient times. Such a device may augment his already considerable ability to control the undead. Ragan, Mordru has increased his position in a relatively short time within the leadership of the Black Lodge. Additionally, he holds a degree of high mastery in necromancy. There are rumors he may be in the process of developing a new cult for one of the so-called Ancient Ones—one of those same Lords of Chaos and Entropy we and the Erradan lords banished long ago." Talmor paused as if reflecting on some issues. "It is sad when several lodge members in a few of the chapter houses end up doing evil deeds. It sullies the lodge's reputation." Ragan nodded to this, realizing that such members did cause problems for other more responsible lodge members.

"There are some indications that Mordru is gathering an army, including mercenaries," continued Talmor. "He appears to have been visited at least once by the Valharri, that envoy included Vasha. It is rumored that he somehow plans to expand his own territory. The Valharri, by using Mordru, may be able to circumvent sections of the treaty they made with the Grand Assembly and the other major governors and kings. I fear this possibly may allow them to annex additional territory.

"On other issues, Ragan, one of the local guardians of the quellien clusters scattered within Illúmaril has discovered that some quellien crystals or a cluster may have been taken. It is not known if a Valharri or some other agency or entity has actually taken the quellien. It is the White Council's belief that if the Valharri obtained this quellien crystal, it could be used to gather enough power to break through the dimensional barriers and the interdiction that prevents Dormas from completely reentering Illúmaril. They are not exactly sure at this juncture how many of the quellien crystals were removed. The area was remolded, and the removal discreetly done. I am informed one of the Erradan lords is looking into this question.

"I understand that you are on Red Lodge business. I request that you also keep me informed of your progress as well.

"At the moment, I am traveling off world; however, I should be in Andrim three weeks hence, so I shall expect to hear from you then. Until we meet again. Good travels to you, my friend." With that stated, the image of Lord Talmor faded.

Ragan erased the message from the crystal so no other could view it. Then he left the chamber and headed toward the front door. As he approached it, an apprentice saw him, signed, and bowed respect. Ragan returned the greeting and left for his next meeting. He would make a brief stop to deal with some other Tauri business and then go to join Master Gideon at the Green Griffon Inn.

Gideon and Laurelin had gone to visit a few of the shops on Redil Street, near the outskirts of the city. After a few moments of searching, they finally entered one of the more reputable armories, at least according to Laurelin—a forge, craft hall, and armory run by some Dwarro called the Oakenbrand Ironfoot Forge and Craft Hall.

The inside of the display shop section was somewhat cramped, filled with weapons and armor of all types. Behind the counter was one of the Dwarro people, wearing some type of protective glasses, standing behind a metal grinding wheel, sharpening a sword. To Gideon, he appeared to be a dwarf. He was probably just over three feet in height and broad of shoulders.

Gideon browsed the building for a few moments and, eventually, found a sword that he liked. It was a longsword with a long grip and a jeweled pommel.

"So you like the longsword, do you?" asked the dwarf from behind the wheel in a curious but gruff voice. "I'm one of the owners of this forge and craft hall. My name is Tain Ironfoot. I am master artificer and enchanter of the House of Angrod. If there is anything in the shop that interests you, just let me know."

"Yes, there is," said Gideon pleasantly. "How much is this sword?"

The dwarf frowned at him from behind the wire rim of the protective glasses he used for grinding. Obviously, the price was going to be quite stiff.

"I'll sell it to you for seven thousand gold sovereigns," he said and then added with a grunt, "That includes the scabbard. Anything else you might be interested in?"

"One moment, Master Tain," interrupted Laurelin. "What does it do?"

"What does it do?" The dwarf chuckled. "What does it do? I will tell you what it does. First, it shines when evil is about—faintly when far away, brightly when near. It's an excellent early warning device."

"For that kind of coin, this sword should jump and dance and do his taxes," pressed Laurelin sarcastically.

"Well, let me see," said the dwarf, coming out from behind his grinder and walking over to them. He adjusted his glasses and looked the sword over more closely. "Ahh, it has an ensorcelled blade that gives it extra sharpness. I should say this blade's enchantments could allow it to slice through rock."

"It can slice through rock?" asked Gideon in amazement.

"Well, maybe not a large rock, but a moderate-sized one," amended the dwarf. Then he added, "But it could probably slice through a tree bough as easy as a hot knife through butter."

Laurelin still wasn't impressed. "That's still not worth seven thousand sovereigns."

Tain, the artificer of Angrod, adjusted his grimy glasses with his pudgy fingers, pulling them up over his brows, and gave the sword another long look. After a moment, he looked up from the blade and said more to Laurelin than to Gideon, "This is an old sword, elf. I forged it a few centuries back, so you'll forgive me if my memory of its construction is a little vague. There is one other enchantment I see I put on it, the power to aid in protecting the user from being hit and wounded. It's not very strong, but enough to make a difference in battle." With that, he handed the sword to Laurelin and said gruffly, "There! It may not be the best, but it is what you get for seven thousand gold. If you want something better, look around. I have several more weapons in stock."

Gideon looked at all the bladed weapons in the racks behind the counter and then into his coin bag.

"No," he said, "this one will do. Also, I want to buy some more things."

"Fine," said the dwarf. "I'll get its scabbard."

Gideon was satisfied. It was an excellent weapon and a magic one at that. He then purchased a small throwing dagger that was perfectly balanced and enchanted for improved cutting and aim. This he bought for just fewer than three thousand silver sovereigns.

Gideon gave the master artificer two branil bars worth five thousand each, and the dwarf artificer reluctantly gave him his change back.

Laurelin then asked to see something in the line of arrows. Her provisions in that department had gone down to the critical point, and she needed a refill. She bought twenty enchanted arrows in all—ten that were ensorcelled with frost or fire spells.

Gideon turned to Tain and, in afterthought, said, "Master Ironfoot, I was wondering…could you craft a special blade for me if I gave you detailed instructions on what I'm looking for?"

The dwarf thought for a moment and then said, "Well, either myself or my associate, Sim Oakenbrand, could. We would need detailed plans and to know the specific alloy you wish it to be made from."

Gideon began to smile in delight at this prospect.

"Unfortunately, your project will have to wait for a while, my young friend," continued the dwarf.

Gideon's smile began to fade slowly.

"Sim and I must go back to Urzan, amongst other places, on business in just a few days," said Tain. "So unless it's a short project…" he trailed off apprehensively.

Gideon waved his hand in a casual, dismissive gesture, though he was obviously disappointed. "Ah, well, forget it. This blade will do for now. Thank you anyway."

The dwarf grunted as he gathered up some papers on the counter. "I do apologize for the inconvenience. But as they say, 'Business is business.'"

Just then, Laurelin said, "How are you traveling, Master Ironfoot? Land carriage? Zedrul?"

"No, no," said the dwarf, shaking his head. "Skyship. We should travel by ground, but it would be faster by air. My cousin, Sim, would like to arrive earlier than we originally planned. Now, I still believe in the old saying that if the Erradans had wanted us to fly, they would have given us wings."

Laurelin laughed. Gideon noticed her laughter was bright and musical.

"Surely you do not mean that, Master Ironfoot. To fly in the sky is wonderful. You can see all of the Great Ones' creations from up there."

"Bah, the skies are for birds," retorted Tain. "Not creatures of the earth like we dwarves. And if you think that I am averse to flying, you should meet my cousin, Grimbold. I think I shall be coddling him throughout the entire journey. He's prone to airsickness. Lord Sim, on the other hand, can handle just about anything."

With their business complete, Laurelin and Gideon left the store and headed as fast as they could to the Green Griffon Inn and the marvelous eatery of Palrents.