Chapter Three : "The Duke of Breezae"
The smells of the ocean brought Prince Tristan around to wakefulness. With a great sigh he forced sore muscles to help him rise and opened the door to his balcony. As he stood there in the silence, that often accompanies the hour's before dawn, he reflected back on the events of the past few days. The joy of coming home to the land he had never known, the battles that had seemed almost a common occurrence. The exhilaration of each victory, the sorrow, and the regrets at some of their cost. He thought of the Great Dragon Elerrinar, that had spoken to him in his dreams and revelry since he was a small child. Then here in this land discover the Dragon from those countless dreams was real. Tristan's mind then went to a golden toned face with emerald eyes, eyes so deep and wise they seemed to pear into you very soul. He discovered that on some level he actually longed for it. Her raven hair shimmering in cascades down her back, and the sweet smell of lavender and honeysuckle that teased, and tugged at his heart. Things had been so much simpler in Nicholae. Everyone there seemed to think he was the second son of his Aunt and Uncle, Lord Andalae and Lady Renee. All had known, Sopaul was their crown Prince and assumed he was a younger brother when actually he was four years Sopauls's senior.
Then there was Elerrinar who so often frequented his dreams more and more teaching him words of magic and of power. He taught him the Draconian tongue. Then, as his day of graduation from the Academy had fast approached Elerrinar filled his sleep with those same words. Come home Prince Tristan, your people need you, It is time for you to come home! Just weeks ago Tristan learned of so many of his people, Ontillaen's, left marooned across the known world. All of them, felt lost and empty, so far from the home, that constantly called to them. Slowly, he began to realize his duty, not just to himself but to his people. He made his painstaking preparation and set sail in the company of his countrymen and women. Now he stood in the homeland he had never known and battled to bring it back from the edge, before it slipped into the silent and often times forgotten pages of history.
He looked up as the sun set the morning sky afire and whispered, "Elerrinar, please don't let me fail you and my people." He then listened as the birds awoke and the city came alive. A far off voiced whispered back to him in a deep tone "I am here Tristan, I am always with you. If we succeed or fail know Prince we will do so together. The chromatic, or dragons of color think the throne of elven unity is weak and no more. The gem dragons always indifferent and caught up in their own concerns take neither side. We metallic dragons, keep our honor and hold to the compact of old. Made, when the race of the dragons, and of the elves stood on the brink of extinction. You are not alone Tristan, and I have no intentions of letting you fail. Be at peace now for I am hungry and must hunt." the voice was gone, as swiftly as it had come, but a smell of saffron and incense was thick upon the air. Tristan quickly looked about but saw no sign of the great drake. Perhaps he had dreamed it, but regardless he felt better and assured that he was not alone.
Celestae's face came to him again as he stood soaking in the first light of day, causing him to smile. Tristan was able to recieve comfort in her beauty. With a great sigh he belted on his sword and went down to break fast with his friends. Closing the mahogany door and walking down the carpeted marble floor. He studied the details of the tapestries as he went noting they all seemed to have dragons and elves in them co-existing in harmony. He laughed from the landing as he saw Sheldon eating heartily and Kiannia swiping food from Sebastian's plate. He continued to the table and sat next to Celestae breathing in her sweet essence.
Sheldon was talking in between bites "I am going to help Sandy get the Enclave in order," He paused to take another bite of ham."She wants to replace the mast of those pirate merchantmen we captured. Hopefully in a few days they will be sea worthy again, so they can sail for Nicholae with news."
Tristan could not help but laugh lightly as he watched his good-hearted squire and longest friend. Sheldon was his first tutor with sword and bow and later lance. His friend had grown over the years to dwarf most elves and men. His dark hair hung long and often unbraided. Sheldon's golden eyes always had that twinkle of mischief dancing in them. A smile was always close, ready to jump to his face, and lighten any mood.
"Shardal, Sorast, Wren, Adonai and I are going to the market square and start building merchant booth's," Auburn haired Tyrana was telling Celestae. "We should be able to get most of them built today thanks to the plans Lorrayne and Flinton devised and our Valonia drew to life for us last evening. What are you into today Celestae?"she ask.
"I plan on taking Flinton and Lorrayne down to the Enclave today, we can inventory and sort all we have accumulated thus far. We can decide how best to use our resources." Celestae answered pausing to sip her tea. We also still have that hidden library to read over. Valonia can you help us as well that art skill of yours is quite handy?
"Of course Celestae, I am willing to help where I can." The raven haired elfess replied." How will you spend your day Lord Tristan?"
"My intentions are to take Ripley, Spring, Shea, Kiannia and Sebastian out into the country to scout around. We should be back by nightfall. It is important that we see what is out there."Tristan said cutting a generous slice of ham with his dagger. They made small talk for a while then they separated to go about their day.
Tristan led his small patrol out the south gate. They talked to a woodsmen who knew some of the country. "Yes, your lordship, I know of a few points of interest around these parts. The furthest one is the ole silver mine at the base of the far ridge. There are also a couple iron mines near those two smaller hillocks off to the sides. Just before the old silver mine is a huge iron mine that was once worked by the Dwarven folk." The elderly man told him with confidence.
Ripley stode forward and shook the woodsmans hand leaving to silver drake coins in it. "Thank you for the information my friend," she said in way of parting as she fell back into her patrol and the moved silently moved south into the hemlock and oak covered foot hills.
Once they got into the woods Tristan split them into pairs and sent them out agreeing to meet back at the Inn. "Safe travels, safe journey, and safe return. Don't take unnessasary chances explore the two satelite mines and Ripley and I will go on to the main mine. We can save the silver mine for another patrol." Tristan turned, winked at Ripley and they lped off in silence towards the main iron mine.
Tristan and Ripley moved southward through the trees and discovered a overgrown trail deeply rutted. The fragrance of the forest was soothing as the pair silently moved along, one to either side, and followed it up to a great cliff face. In spots Granite blocks peaked out from the gravel and ruts. After closer inspection they drew the conclusion that centuries of rainfall had covered the paved road in a shallow layer of gravel and debris that had washed down from the mountains above. Just ahead the forest seemed to thin out in to a clearing. Silently the pair creeped through the underbrush to the edges and discovered at the base were three arched openings they moved toward the western most opening using the cover of the thick laurel thicket.The pair silently moved closer using the shadows to hide them. Just as they were about to move closer a great two headed giant emerged from the opening.
Ettins had been rare in Nicholae, but not unheard-of. Rare or not they were very dangerous if they got close up on you and deadly if they got their arms around you. "Ripley do you think we can take it down by ourselves?" Tristan inquired of his companion. Readying his bow and removing the keeper from his sword.
"We should be a match for it my Prince. Shoot for the back of its knees when it turns away from us again, and we will cripple it then we can move in and finish the kill. It is best to severe the spine at both heads." Ripley quickly told him. She unwrapped her long warriors braid from her neck and flipped it over her back. She remembered instructions she had received during her Academy days. Quickly she readied her bow and released the keeper on her sword closing her eyes for only a second then inhaled deep and exhaled softly before opening them again and nodding her readiness.
The pair of Rangers, drew their bows, bringing their strings back to the corner of their mouths, then released, knocked another arrow and fired again. The Ettin howled from one head, then the other as it collapsed and rolled upon the ground in agony, arrows protruding from both knees. The concealed pair emerged swords drawn. They quickly covered the distance and sank their swords into the soft tissue between neck and shoulder reversed with overhead swings and silenced it forever. A loud noise came from within the arch, and they moved up against the cliff to either side. A second ettin emerged, looked at the carnage that lay before it and howled in fury. Tristan quickly hamstrung it and Ripley severed one head before it hit the ground and the other before it could rise.
Ripley and Tristan barely had time to recover before two more Ettins arrived.Their blood filled with the thrill of battle and exersion pounding in their veins. With practiced grace, the rangers maneuvered their opponents, until they were back-to-back. Tristan to the east, attacked the one in front of Ripley. Ripley, coming from the west, attacked the one before Tristan. This allowed the deadly pair to attack the back of the knee, less chance of their attack being deflected by the knee cap. Their opponents, not understanding their strategy, dodged the attacks of the Elf rushing towards them, opening themselves up and exposing the back of their companion. With graceful faints, the pair of Rangers moved between them. The Ettins roared out in pain, as the Elven blades sliced into their hamstrings, sending them crashing to the ground one atop the other. Like the graceful steps of an ancient dance the elves recovered and charged again severing heads as they went.
Yet another Ettin came stomping from the tunnel shaking the earth as he ran. He swung his tree trunk club at them sending airborne showers of stone chips in long arcs. Tristan ran between the massive tree trunk legs and cut the right hamstring. "Get the left! Get the left!" He yelled as he spun out of reach of the deadly club whistling towards him. Ripley took aim and sent three arrows into the left knee while it was concentrating on Tristan. The Ettin roared in pain, as it dropped to its knees. It hovered there, for a moment, as arrows appeared lodged in the eye sockets of one head and the throat of the other. The pair, not sure if they had killed it. Danced in and with overhand blows that severed the heads. They sucked in the cool air of the oaken forest and managed to regain their breath and slow the pounding of their hearts.
From the middle arch emerged a large Ettin, much larger than the others it came roaring at them swinging its massive iron banded club. Tristan ducked between its legs cutting one hamstring before moving away out of range of that great club. Ripley sank three arrows into the throat of the left head and drew her sword. She closed from one side as Tristan approached from the other. The left head hung limp as the massive beast hobbled to keep its balance. The ettin roared , "die elves" in broken elvish just as Ripley buried her sword upward into its groin before sliding it out and ducking beneath the club that whistled by her head close enough she felt the breeze from it woosh by. Tristan seeing his chance moved in cut the other ham string and severed the heads.
They withdrew as silently as they had come back into the laurel thicket of the forest to catch their breath and watch. " I thought you ask about one Ettin, my Prince," she huffed trying to control her breathing "That, was six, I would have advised against it, had I known." She said with a smile. "Perhaps, you need to go back to the academy and learn to count better. There may be one more inside but I think we killed the whole pack. Shall we investigate My Prince?" She asked drinking deeply from her flask of fire mead. The liquid flowed warmly down her throat and soon brought precious relief to her exerted muscles.
"If it will quite your comments, on my ability to count, then, yes he smiled helping her to her feet Quickly his eyes glanced over her searching for wounds. Once more the rangers emerged step over step with bows ready and arrows knocked. When they reached the arch they looked in, then moved into the cool darkness within.They paused for a few moments as their eyes adjusted, then proceeded towards the torch light further in. They emerged onto a small ledge that overlooked a huge working. The pair peared over the side and saw several orcs standing guard about the mine. Tristan and Ripley quickly made note of the five orcs using whips on their Dwarven prisoners as they dug ore from the face of the working. Each guard had a red dragon scale shield, a sword, and most had long whips they used repeatedly on the miners. One of the miners looked up to where they stood, Tristan put a finger to his lips. The dwarf, went back to mining but whispered to the dwarf helping him load a large chunk of ore into a cart. They returned to the work face and spoke to yet others.
Tristan and Ripley stuck about a dozen arrows in the ground point first in front of each them, then knocked another to their bow. They looked once into each others eyes before standing and releasing, firing arrow after arrow. The orc overseers were the first to die sprouting arrow shafts from their throats. When they had exhausted the arrows they had planted they drew their sword and moved down the ramp. Making sure to stab any orcs they past in the throat. By the time they reached the bottom, the miners had finished off those they had not laid low with their volleys from above. Sickening thunks could be heard as picks and shovels were sunk into the heads of their orc oppressors.
"I don't know who you Rangers are, but we owe you are lives. Did you kill them ettin overseer's?" The red bearded dwarf who had spotted them earlier ask. The miner's heavily muscled body heaved a bit but slowed as his breath began to return to him. His dirty face stared intently at the pair waiting their reply.
"We are Ranger's from Breezae sent out on patrol. If there were six Ettins, then yes, they are all dead Master Dwarf." Ripley replied giving her Prince a warning stare."I am called Ripley, and this is Tristan." She supplied. "Tell me Master Dwarf, how did we find you in this predicament?" Her eyes searched their surroundings for any and every hint of danger before returning her eyes to the dirty faced Dwarf before her.
" My name is Xorn, and you found us this way because, some forty years ago or, so we were set upon by this band and another much larger band of orcs that took orders from an adult red dragon. They stayed here for a couple years then went off to attack the lighthouses of Breezae. We never heard what happened. We were working this mine for the Duchy of Breezae, before we were over ran and enslaved. Does the city still exist Mistress Elf? A few of us had families there." He asked a small glimmer of hope in his eyes.
"It does, indeed master dwarf,"he replied holding forth his arm to greet him. "Soon as we get you all unchained, you can return there with us. Take the arms and shields from the orcs. How many of you are there? "Tristan inquired as he removed his water skin drank and passed it to Xorn.
Ripley after a quick search of the dead had found the rings of keys and was moving swiftly about the dirt covered dwarves. She unlocked the chains that bound them. Her heart lurched compassionately at the sight of the deep gashes in their wrist and ankles. She withdrew a ceramic jar of salve and began to treat them. Those that were the worst injured she placed her long gentle fingers over the wounds and spoke "Leigheas." A golden glow covered the wounds where the salve had been applied flared bright then was gone. The wounds were replaced with thin white scars.
"We only number twenty and five. We lost almost half our number, when we were attacked and a few more over the years. So of the company of sixty, only us twenty and five remain. All our officers are dead. I was a sergeant, so I guess I am the highest rank left. I, and a couple others who had families there will go back with you. Cpl. Burg and the rest, will remain here to guard the iron Ingots. We have been mining and smelting the last forty years. We probably have enough to fill the holds of fifty ships. We made some crude weapons from time to time for these orcs. But the rest is just sitting in a side passage. That ore belongs to the Duke's family and I will not be about abandoning it. But, he owes me and every man among us forty years wages. I mean to tell ya. Let me speak with Burg then I will get the others, and we can go." He turned and moved to talk to a dark haired dwarf, who clutched at his beard and nodded.
A few moments later five armed dwarves stood before them with red dragon scale shields. "Are you ready Xorn? We have much ground to cover before dark. Can you have Cpl Burg search the ettins outside and collect their belongings? They belong to the Prince now." Tristan told him. He watched Xorn reaction. The dwarf turned to speak to Burg. There was an excited exchange between the two."is something wrong?"
Burg queried in a loud voice "Is it true, that the Duke Edvon's son lives and has returned after all these many years? The House of Breezae always dealt fair with us, and we were treated just like every other citizen. It hurt us all to the man, when we learned Lord Edvons ship had gone missing. All of us just assumed Lady Dannah and their son was with him when it disappeared." He ask frail and fragile hope showing in his ebony bearded face.
Ripley stepped forward quickly, and began to speak to the silently awaiting miners. "It is true. Duke Edvons son has returned. He was in far off Nicholae, where his kinsmen Lord Andalae and Lady Renee raised him as their own. When he completed the Academy, less than two months ago, he made preparations and then sailed to Breezae with a small company. Less than a week, has he and his company been home. We slew the red dragon that enslaved you, at great cost to our company. But rest assured, The Prince will not rest till all his people are free. For he came not only for Breezae but all of Ontillae. We came for every Elf, Dwarf, Human, Halfling, Gnome and for every Dragon that honors the old compacts. I swear, before you now, The Prince said much these same words to me himself before we did sail from far off Nicholae. We are Rangers, of his company, set about completing that charge. Now, we must return, to rejoin the others of our Scout Patrol. " Winking at Tristan, she turned, and they filed out into the light of late noon. "We best move quickly, if we are to make it back before they close the gate." she commented, and led them off at a steady ground eating pace. As they emerged from the forest into the meadow the rest of their patrol fell in with them.
"We were beginning to worry," Spring chided. "We thought, we would make sure you made it back. I see that you made friends. I hope to hear the tale of it over dark ale and honeyed ham, some fresh baked bread with thick gravy. Maybe some potatoes with rich melted butter...." She continued on, till the small group trooped through the south gate and it slammed shut behind them. "One always runs faster when they think of food, or at least I do." She said with a warm friendly smile.
They made their way through the well lit streets then turned at the market through the courtyard and up the marble steps to the Prancing Pony. Tristan spoke briefly with Lady Astrid and returned with five keys. "Master Dwarves, you are to be the guest, of the Prince, this evening. Baths are being drawn as we speak, a page will bring you clean cloths. If, you have any other immediate needs, you can ask the page when he brings you your wardrobe. Dinner is in an hour." He took the tray from Lady Astrid and gave each of his patrol and the dwarves a tankard of firemead " To our new friends may their beards forever grow. "They all drank their mugs dry and retired to their rooms.
Tristan sat in the tub and let the warm waters soak away his aches and his pains. With some reluctance he climbed from the tub that now smelled of incense and saffron and dressed in leather britches. He belted on his sword and went down stairs. He saw that his company was all there as were the five dwarves they had rescued. Taking his seat by Celestae's side. He poured his tankard full of the firemead. "Master Xorn, are you and your fellows ready to meet the Prince?" He queried of them after drinking down half his tankard. Tristan studied the stern posture of these men that had served his family faithfully. What dedication they showed. The company of Dwarves had been more concerned about protecting what they felt belonged to their king and Duke. They would not even return with him till they had secured the stacks of ingots were for the Duke's family, his family. What brought such dedication, and how could he inspire that dedication in others he pondered.
"We are indeed eager to meet this Prince. He is a generous host, and we owe him our thanks for sending you out and rescuing us from our predicament, as Ranger Ripley so politely put it. Is the Prince here now?" he inquired. His face searching those at the table making a note all the chairs had now been filled.
"He is indeed, Master Dwarf." Tristan got up and made his way around the table to Xorn. "I, am Prince Tristan of House Breezae. Please accept my apology for our deception. It gave us a chance to learn your character, for these are as you know troubled times. I can assure you that restitution shall be made regarding owed wages. I regret the ill circumstance under which we met. You showed me your loyalty at the mine when you thought of your duty before returning to the civilized world. I would ask a boon of thee Master Xorn. You are of course under no obligation to grant it. I need a captain to oversee the function of that mine, Will you act in my stead? Tristan requested as the Dwarves looked at him with something between curiosity and awe. "The ore from that mine is and will be sorely needed in the days to come.
Xorn studied him contently for several minutes taking Tristans measure. "I will Prince Tristan, for long have I served house Breezae." The dwarf said rising and moving from the table with his fellows. they dropped to one knee and bowed their heads. "We renew our vow between my clan and your noble house, know all that remain at the mine are my kinsman even as, are these with me," Xorn said in a solemn tone.
"Then rise Master Dwarves all, let us dine and renew old friendships and talk of affairs. Lady Astrid would you join us as well? Please send a page for Captain Talon and ask him to dine with us this evening." Tristan returned to his chair, and they talked lightly while they ate Captain Talon soon joined them as well. They all laughed as Ripley told them of Tristan asking if they could take the first Ettin they had seen. And roared with laughter as she told of her scolding him about his counting ability. "It must have been the two heads that confused my count," Tristan said with a straight face. That brought on another wave of laughter. Ripley and Xorn told of the fight within the mine itself and of Xorn's comment about back pay. Which sent them all laughing for quite some time.
"I must ask Captain Talon and Lady Astrid what has happened here for Breezae to have declined as much as it did? Know, I do not ask to pass judgement. You were here, and I was not I want to know what happened so perhaps we can prevent it from ever happening again." Tristan ask with passion in his voice. " These, and all of you are my people and I want to know everything about you. Truly, if it is possible over time I would know the face and name of all in Duchy Breezae. This is my home and I would right all the wrongs I can but I need help." He then drank Deeply from his tankard waiting patiently for someone to speak.
"After word of your parents ship being lost reached us, I sent most of our navy out to scour the oceans for any signs of them. None was ever found, creatures that had lay hidden in the deep places of Ontillae began to emerge in larger and larger bands at first we could drive them back but each victory cost us. Soon we had less and less of our navy return. Then about fifty years ago, it all changed. The roving bands of creature began to be more organized. The city, and the light houses were attacked by two separate forces. The light houses fell the first day. Our upmost duty to protect the city and all within its walls. We cast an ancient enchantment that vanished the palace. It can not be brought back until such time as a Duke or Duchess of your line is crowned. It stands near the west wall on the bluff looking over the Enclave. This was done on Elerrinars command. We found that red dragons had organized the creatures here in Breezae. Four, besides the one you killed in the light house accompanied the besieging force. Tens of thousands of orcs and goblins had come down from the mountains, of our five thousand knights we have only a thousand left. Of our proud ranger army of twenty-five thousand we have only about ten thousand that remain. Elerrinar had recruited other dragons to come to our aid and five answered his call of them only Elerrinar and one other survived. He was gravely injured and close to death. Astrid, my father, Kalix and I worked ancient magic and healed the worst of Elerrinars wounds.The war raged here for twenty years, and great was the cost. Our navy was lost by the time we finally broke the siege. We tried twice to retake the lighthouses, twice and failed. Kalix and Elerrinar told us to bide our time that you would come. So the last twenty years we have been gathering what remnants we could find of the peoples here. We planted crops near the city walls and the Rangers hunt to feed the masses. To put it straight my Prince the city of Breezae is a fortified refugee camp in some ways." The fierce looking, Captain of the guard studied Tristans reaction, before continuing on.
"When your company decided to assault the lighthouses I despaired. It seems we had depleted their numbers enough for you to succeed where we could not. The moral of our troops was nonexistent. When, they gave over to despair, so did the will of the people. By the time you reached us hope had all but died. Our story is much the same of the other Duchies of Ontillae. Even as we had been besieged so had they been. The capital cities of each duchy are islands of resistance in a sea of violence. I had sent patrols out to the iron mines on three occasions, but none ever returned, so I made the decision not to waste more lives. For that, Master Xorn, I owe you my apology for your years of forced labor. It had been all that we could do to keep everyone fed well, so they did not realize how bad things had truly become. Then just before you arrived Elerrinar and Kalix began laying waste to multitudes of orcs and goblins. They told us to take heart you had set sail and would soon arrive. True to their word you rode in through the gates four days ago counting today. I have been but a care taker here awaiting your family's return in accordance with the compact I had with your Father all those years ago." Lord Talon concluded. Fire seemed to dance in his golden eyes. "I have a special interest here, besides my daughter Astrid. That is for my Astrid to reveal, for it is not my place to explain such."
"Lord Talon, I and the people of Breezae owe you a debt I am not sure can be repaid. Know I am thankful to the gods you were here to act on behalf of my family. Had you not been here we may have had no home to return to." Tristan rose and walked to where Lord Talon stood by a hearth and grasp his arm and spoke. "Thank you, Lord Talon, You have bled for us, and we have and will bleed for you. We have far, far to go I fear before we can rest. I am honored to have you at my side." Tristan was somewhat shocked when the stony stern face fell away, and the Captain embraced him.
"I had feared you might never come Prince Tristan. Your standing here is all the thanks I will ever need. Since your arrival our people have dared to hope again, and they for the most part have no idea just who you really are. When that is revealed, they will love you all the more. You and these others have came, and led humbly by example. You have endeared your self to your people without them even knowing you. Thanks to me are not necessary, I have waited one hundred and five years for a Prince I knew nothing about. Now you are here and I could ask for none better. It is you who have my thanks. Now I shall regain my bearing, and let my daughter tell you of a few things you do not yet know but have the right too. You best sit Tristan this may take a bit of getting use to." Lord Talon then moved back to his chair and filled his cup as Tristan too retook his chair and filled his tankard.
The golden haired innkeeper stood and turned her lavender eyes to Celestae for just a moment before addressing Tristan. She seemed to be collecting her thoughts, Tristan considered. As he waited Celestae slid her hand under the table to take his for a moment he was blinded to all else but her and the warmth of her hand in his. He noticed for just a moment a look of uncertainty and vulnerability in those emerald eyes. He gently squeezed her hand as if saying i am here and I will protect you. When he looked back Astrid was patiently awaiting his attention with a smile.
" At the end of the thousand-year War," Lady Astrid began."and Sunbringer had made his peace with Shaelendar. He took an active roll as did Shaelendar in the arrangements of marriage between the Dragons and the Elven nobles. Certain of the noble houses had been careful bred together. My family, and your own my Prince, as well as many of your company were purposely arranged. The last arrangement was made by your father the day you were born. My father is a Duke in the south. He journeyed here at your fathers request. I have long served House Breezae and knew of your fathers intent. He and my father did agree to marry You to the youngest of Duke Talons daughters. Combining at long last the two great bloodlines of the gold dragons ours being Clan Talon and yours being Clan Sunbringer. It is unheard-of, for such a matching as Clan Sunbringer is a Patriarchal, and Clan Talon is Matriarchal. Both our fathers agreed that this match would seal the last of the dragon lines and in that sealing would you and your bride rule as equals over all of Ontillae. Your are betrothed, my Prince, to my youngest sister. Soon you will be crowned Duke of Breezae, and will be expected to take a mate for life, I mean a wife. So it was my duty to inform you of this arrangement and ask you if you intend to honor your fathers compact with mine?" Lady Astrid stared intently at him and her purple eyes seemed to bore into him as if they could search out his answer.
He looked once at Celestae before releasing her hand and standing to meet Astrids gaze. How can this be he screamed in the vastness of his mind. His heart already belonged to Celestae. "I must tell all here so it is known that my heart was lost long ago to the one sent to tutor me. Celestae has filled my dreams and my heart since first I met her. But, though it doth kill me, I am bound by the compacts of our father's. I must, so I will, uphold that compact though my heart shall shrivel and die with out my Celestae. I will be thy brother Lady Astrid of Clan Talon." He turned to face captain Talon. "And I will be thy son Lord Talon" he watched as Lord Talon rose from his chair and walked over to stand beside Lady Astrid.
In unison the two replied "I accept thee brother/son" Lord Talon moved a step closer and his eyes flashed again with fire, and he spoke." My daughter has traveled long and dangerous was her path to be here tonight. Turn and greet thy mate to be forever more Princess Celestae Talon, of Clan Talon, and House Celestae, my youngest daughter."
Tristan, spun and there stood the love of his life weeping tears of joy. She wept because, he did not just betray and deny his feelings for her. She wept because the secret was at last released. Most importantly she wept because she loved him too. Tristan wrapped her up in his arms and kissed her releasing all those decades of pent up, and restrained love and emotion he had for her. Long was that kiss. From high above the Inn, Elerrinar's voice boomed into the night sky "Hail Lady and Lord of Breezae," then he was gone. Any other discussions planned for that night were forgotten. Astrid kissed him and then Celestae. Lord Talon hugged them both and the others were still drinking toast to them when Tristan picked her up and carried her to his room. He gently lay her on his bed then lay down beside her. Then he kissed her and whispered "now your mine forever, as I have forever been yours". They lay there late into the night in each other's embrace kissing and caressing each other as they stared uninterrupted into each others eyes. They stood for a time beneath the moon neither feeling the need to say a word. Celestae leaned back into Tristan as he drew his arm protectively about her. "I have ever loved only thee my Tristan" She kissed him long and lingeringly and went to her room.
The company met again to break their fast together and report on yesterdays events. Lady Astrid and Captain Talon were becoming a regular part of the little morning and evening meetings. They ate with light hearts as Sheldon reported. "With the help of the cranes and lifts at the Enclave we were able to replace the mast on the merchant men. It will take a couple days to re-rig them. Most of the sails we were able to patch. The cargo's were moved into the storehouse. The same one we put the spoils from the light houses' in. Our wagon has been taken down there as well and unloaded." he finished stuffing a sausage in his mouth.
"We have managed to clean out most of the buildings and replaced some of the thick copper tiles where a few of the roof's had leaked I put out word that I was looking for sailors and marines for the three merchant men. I also spread the word the Ontillaen navy was recruiting sailors, captain's, marines and dock workers. I have the Captains hired so far, and they brought their own officers with them. The two ships that remain at the docks belong to you as well my Prince, but they need to be dry docked and repairs made. Best estimate they will be in dry dock a minimum of a month while they are tared and the barnacles scraped from their hulls. We got the the Osprey's crew mounting catapults and ballista. We are slowly gaining momentum as more and more people join. We should have sailors to man the three merchant ships in a day or so. Then it is only the matter of getting a twenty man squad of marines to man the defenses. If we find a cargo, we can send out all three of them together to sail to Nicholae and give them word of the state of things here. They should be able to make the trip there, and back in a couple weeks from when they sail. I am hoping on their return trip they will have the escort of the three Osprey that were being built when we left. Maybe your uncle can convince some of his merchants that Breezae is ripe for trade. They will have a warship escort that should help their resolve." Sandy reported. Without a thought she reached over wiping jam from Sheldon's chin.
Wren laughed, tossing back her raven hair as joy twinkled in her green eyes when Sheldon blushed. A thought occured to her, Sheldon has no idea Capt. Sandy had began her campaighn to snare him. After another moment dwelling speculatively on it she laughed again before returning to her food.
Wren rose to give her report to the others. "We have completed the stalls in the market and the canvas we dyed yesterday should have dried overnight on one side we have ten large stalls set aside for us and fifteen large stalls that can be rented. We checked with Captain Talon here and found that the price use to be a gold half drake per week We posted a sign offering them for a silver drake. We have twenty medium stalls and forty small stalls the medium at a silver half drake and the small for a copper drake. We just need tenants now my Prince. We made the stalls a wide variety of colors so it would help brighten up the market. We also completed the lights so the market is well lit even at night." Wren pulled her wealth of ebony curls back, and secured it with a leather cord before continuing.
"We found a few folks we can use as our agents in the market. Once we decide what we will offer. The wagoner Terrance, we gave one of our large stalls too for 3 months free and he has been hauling in fire wood, from the clean up efforts. It has been priced low, and he is is willing to barter with his customers. Alvin has a medium stall next to it and he plans to have a variety which can be bought or bartered for. I think he had soap, brooms, and a few barrels of fruits and vegetables He and Terrance came up with somewhere. Tyrana and Shardal have been collecting seeds from all sorts of things. Everything from vegetables growing wild, to flowers, and shrubs. An elderly hafling lady, or Meadowfolk, as they are called around here and her children are going to sell them in one of the small stalls. She has her young ones out collecting discard bottles, and crockery. They are filling them with the herbs and spices they find growing wild here in town. She seems to be a gifted healer and herbalist." Wren reported as her green eyes studied Tristan's face.
"Adonai and Sorast are still working on street lighting. Soon the whole town will be lit." She smiled taking a drink from her tankard. "Many of the towns folk have joined in our efforts and buildings are being white washed. Streets are being cleaned and the wilderness of gardens and lawns are being tamed. Some from the carpenter's guild are making benches and setting them near street corners and in front of shops. We are making an effort to reach all parts of the city at least a little and the people come first out of curiosity but then to genuinely help. I actually heard folks laughing yesterday and several have come up with very good idea's.
" Captain Talon can my patrol borrow some thirty knights today? We also need about fifteen wagons. I plan on loading them with Ale and provisions for the detachment at the mines I will be sending Master Xorn back and forth the next few days they can take any new miners out and bring ore ingots back. I will send their back wages as well. I want to have woodsman and any that can man a shovel start clearing the roads back down to the granite blocks. and ditches cut along them. The woods should be cut back one hundred paces from the road on either side Leaving an occasional stately tree for shading travelers. Have the wood brought in as long as they can handle. It can be deposited in the Enclave. I will pay a Brass drake per set of hands per day, and a copper half drake per wagon. Those not wishing to work outside the wall can work for me making white wash and painting the city walls. Inside first. I have a large amount of brass and copper coins from the dragon hoard. This will help me get money back into the hands of the people without giving charity. Let us plan on employing everyone we can in some way for a short time anyway." Tristan revealed the scope of his short term plan. The Prince watched as his small company made notes.
"The knights and wagons will be ready. I will have the knights leave vouchers for what they get from the merchants and perhaps between Astrid and Celestae they can handle making good on them. I will turn out the army in one hundred man crews to work on the roads, I can rotate them around so one day on the walls, one day on patrol outside the walls, one day on the roads, one white washing the battlements, and finally one day giving training to the citizens in archery and swordsmanship. We must be ready, if, and when attacks come again it may be the common citizens that sway the tide of battle. The work crews outside on the roads will be armed as well. I will have knights patrol the roads that are being worked for added security. I can also have them start breaking ground around the city walls and crops can be sown. If that meets your approval my Prince?" Captain Talon asked, thinking fast now. "We have the salt beds on the east side of the water front. We can barrel up salt and send it as cargo on one of the ships, Iron ingots on one and wood on the third for trade in Nicholae."
"The better logs I can have made into mast and ribs and planking. We can begin to build ships here as well at the Enclave. I can send Lorrayne and Flinton to the Dwarven, and gnome districts. We can get as many smiths as possible working on arms, armor, and tools and implements for the populace. If we can get as many of the people as possible involved we can scour the beach's and meadows near the wall. We can forage quite a lot including grains, herbs for medicine and food. I can craft about ten small fishing boats as soon as logs start coming in. I have seen lots of beached and damaged craft along the beaches by the water front. It may be easier to repair these and outfit them for fishing." Sandy informed them her golden eyes alight as she wrapped one of her copper curls around her finger as she thought." I think, if we mobilize everyone, we can accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Citizens have seen us, and will see the military working beside them. They will take heart and work all the harder out of patriotism I think."
Celestae stood and opened a scroll and began to read off their assets. It was agreed that the two hundred and fifty bolts of cloth and fabric could be sold in the market and the five hundred bolts of sailcloth should be held for the enclave. They decided to go ahead and sell the smaller uncut gemstones in one of their market stalls and hire a jeweler to work it. The jeweler could cut the stones for the customers. They also decided to hire a hand full of scribes to begin coping some of the scrolls, maps, and charts, as well as a selection of manuals on herbs, healing, and many of the crafting manuals and histories they had found. To include metallurgy, tanning, dye and paints and even a few text on animal husbandry, geology, cartography, navigation, and woodworking. She revealed the count of the hoards coins in estimated full drake break down. There was two hundred and fifty thousand brass drakes, one hundred and twenty thousand copper drakes, seventy-five thousand silver drakes, forty-two thousand gold drakes, and twelve thousand platinum drakes. Roughly five hundred gold ingots valued at one thousand gold drakes per ingot, and seven hundred silver ingots valued at one thousand silver drakes per ingot. Fifty mithril ingots no value assigned. Some two thousand small uncut gems, four hundred and eleven medium gems cut and one hundred and seven large cut and uncut gems.
"As far as arms we have six hundred long swords, three hundred short swords, five hundred daggers and one hundred bows with five barrels of arrows. In armor, we have two hundred miscellaneous helms, one hundred shields, two hundred chain shirts, one hundred leather armor, and forty plate breast plates." She read from her inventory book. "We still have fourteen crates of items of statuette's, fine jewelry, master crafted weapons and armor as well as ten crates of ancient tomes, scrolls, and spell books that bear further examination when time allows. Least we forget three serviceable merchant vessels and the Osprey." She drank from her tankard and closed her book. "The pair of merchantmen in dry dock appear in better shape tha expected and will be ready in half the estimated time."
"Lorrayne and I have been reading that tome, that Elerrinar gave us. I think we can craft armor and shield from the scales we have collected. We have began tanning the red dragon's hide. We were forced to quarter it into manageable size. The cask of blood when mixed with other ingredients can be used to fireproof things like the osprey and other easily combustible items. Most importantly weapons can be crafted from the spikes, ridge spines, and horns." Flinton informed them. Scratching at his cheek. "It will take some study and maybe a bit of trial and error but i think we can work the scales and hide at least. Perhaps make a few of the weapons as well. That is about it, isn't it Lorrayne?" He asked, turning to her.
"I found a separate tome from the secret library," She explained. "It says dragons blood gives some spells more power when used as ink, and it recommended, making the covers of magic tomes out of tanned dragon hide. I would like to explore this more as well" she added. "I belive we also stumbled upon a preserving spell in one of the spell tomes. With it, it may be possible to preserve and seal much of the dragon blood in small jars and bottles for later use. Perhaps even offer a few dozen for sale in one of our stalls?" she questioned. Lorrayne toyed with her long mahogany warrior braids.
"Sounds like you have your path laid out for you then." Tristan took a deep drink from his tankard before continuing on trying to seperate and go over his thoughts. "Does anyone have more to add for the moment? If not I will get ready for my patrol." Tristan ask standing. "Ok, then lets see what we can get accomplished. Thank you all."
Ripley and Tristan made their way south to the area of the mine they had freed from the Ettins and continued up along the ridge line coming to rest by a water fall and high mountain pool. "Tristan look at this!" she whispered.
She emerged from the edge of the pool with a large statuette of a salmon. Then returned to the water and brought back several more some trout and even a statuette of a large bass. "They are so life-like. It almost appears they were turned to stone where they swam," She added. Quietly she removed the keeper from her long sword and knocked an arrow to her bow. "Be alert, something is not right here.
Tristan followed Ripley's example and the pair moved slowly about the rim of the mountain pool. The Prince pointed out a stone squirrel then a rabbit. As the edged closer to the water fall they found several bird statuettes and even a deer. "These were not carved Ripley something turned them to stone where they stood. I can only think of one creature that has that ability, a Basilisk. We must be careful, or we may join this rock garden." He released her wrist, realizing now he had grabbed her to halt her progress towards the water fall.
Ripley's sea green eyes pierced into his as she studied him. Lightning seemed to move across the ocean blue of his iris's as he cautioned. She could see the concern in them. She nodded her agreement and moved more cautiously one foot over the other as the side stepped their way closer and closer to the falls and the cave behind they could now see. Bows at the ready they moved without a sound closer and closer. Finally, the pair reached the cave mouth and paused.
" When we get inside seek high ground and do NOT look into it's eyes, I could not bear to lose you my sister of the sword. When we find it i am still not sure how we can kill this thing. It is far to close to the main mine, can not chance it wondering in there," Tristan added.
"Let us go cautiously My Lord, for we can not bear to lose you either. Your loss would make this entire expedition worthless," Ripley replied. She flipped her long warriors braid from around her neck so it ran down her back. Slowly she inched her way forward until she disappeared inside.
Tristan followed her in. They paused for a moment to let their eyes adjust and moved around to the left and climbed up unto a ledge without a sound. The pair studied the floor of the chamber below watching for movement.
Astonishment reached their faces as they made not of the quantity of statues spread about the room. Some elves, dwarves, men, and meadowfolk. A small child stood petrified holding her puppy that must have wondered in. Then in a far corner a mound of stone began to move in the shadows. It made its way to the center of the chamber below revealing it's massive reptilian head as it tasted the air with a long forked tongue.
Ripley pointed with her arrow at the stalactite that hung high above on the ceiling. Patiently, they waited till it paused directly below it. She leaned towards Tristan's ear and whispered "Crith". She watched as he nodded his agreement and the pair began to draw up magic about them. Silently they drew their bows and released as one shouting "Crith". The twin arrows flew true to the base of the stalactite where it touched the ceiling. A great explosion sent dust swirling and the stalactite plummeted down pinning the now prone basilisk to the cavern floor. The pair squatted motionless as they wait on the dust to settle and the ringing in their ears to disperse.
"I think it is safe now" Tristan whispered. The pair stood and cautiously made their way down to the chamber floor. Tristan retrieved a small silver mirror from his pack and circled around to come up alongside the basilisk he extended the mirror in front of one of the eyes being sure to stare away and heard the creaking rumble as its flesh became stone. Finally, as silence once more filled the room he gazed at the now petrified reptile. "Great plan Ripley, that kept our danger to a minimum. Let us scout the rest of this cavern and see what we can turn up. Be cautious my sword sister," he added gripping her shoulder out of comaraderie.
"Always your Highness," she teased then gave him a warm smile before crossing her eyes at him. The last making them both laugh and lightened their hearts. The pair split up to search the chamber and surounding cavern. They counted close to thirty humanoid statues including a few orcs. In one corner, the pair discovered the statue of a unicorn frozen in stone as it reared up to defend its self. In the shadow corner they discovered the basilisk nest with a dozen large eggs in it. The egg shells appeared to be made of silver. Strewn about the entire chamber were small piles of silver disk that appeared to be excrement. Near the back wall they discover an old mining face where silver veins streaked the walls. Gems protruded from the stone walls in places and at the bottom of the central pool lay silver nuggets and various colored stones.
"Let us go out to the waterfall by the meadow and see if i can contact Elerinnar. Perhaps he knows a way we can return these people to their former self, reversing their petrifaction." Tristan led them out into the meadow by the pool of the waterfall. Once outside he turned toward the sun and looked skyward with arms out stretched he began to reach outward with his mind as he closed his eyes. "Elerrinnar, hear me, I have need of you council great one."
"What is it you need of me Tristan?" Came Elerrinnars rumbling but curious voice in his mind. "Keep reaching out to me i am coming Grandson."
Tristan's heart raced at Elerrinnars acknowledgment of him as his grandson. "My sword sister and i discovered a cavern behind a waterfall near the Iron mine. Inside we discovered a chamber of petrified people and creatures. We managed to pin then basilisk with a stalactite. I used a mirror to turn its own reflection back on itself turning it to stone." Tristan finished.
"I am descending to you. One moment my kindred." Elerrinnars massive form was engulfed in a shower of golden light that fell just before where Tristan and Ripley waited. When the shower dispersed a gold armored elf stood before him. "Show me what you speak of kindred that i might understand better," Ellerrinnar said as he studied the pair with his deep sea blue eyes. The smell of saffron and incense filled the meadow.
"This way great one," Ripley offered leading them back behind the waterfall to the chamber within. "Is there anything we can do for these?" she almost pleaded. Her compassion welling in her eyes.
"There maybe, Lady Ripley, there just may be. Your compassion for the strangers, tells me volumes about your character. I will aid thee my kindred. Yes, even as Tristan is my grandson, you my child, are a great-niece. Take comfort that i shall always come to your aid if requested and sometimes even if it is not." Elerrinnar smiled and gave the pair's cheek a gentle caress. Lightning danced in his eyes as he began to instruct them in a spell of Draconian magic. "It is pronounced, "Cloch go feoil". The morphed dragon continued to instruct them til he was pleased with their efforts and pronunciation. "Very good my kindred. Your minds are quick and agile, and you take instruction well. Be sure to rest between castings so as not to drain yourselves. I shall contact Lord Talon and have wagons sent here to you with blankets and food and drink that you might get them back to Breezae much easier. Be well my kin and know my heart soars with pride of thee." As the pair bowed in respect, he once more, became the shower of light, and was gone.
Tristan, to Ripley's surprise hugged her long and close whispering in her ear, "I am pleased to have you as my cousin." Almost reluctant he released her. A single tear trailed down his cheek.
Ripley moved by his emotion hugged him close laying her head against his chest for a moment. "We have found each other my cousin, here in our homeland. Now to work before the dam holding back my tears of joy burst." She pushed away trying to hide the tears that welled in her eyes.
The next several hours they spent carefully casting the spell Elerrinar had taught them turning the humanoid statues back into living breathing flesh and blood. Only the half dozen orc's and the unicorn remained when the wagons from the city arrived and Celestae come running in. Breezae Rangers, gave out blankets to the folks clustered together. Lady Astrid had come with the wagons and was seeing that each had a warm meal and some firemead to warm them. " Soon as they have eaten, I will load them into two of the wagons we brought and leave one for you along with a half dozen Rangers if it pleases you my Prince." She then turned and hugged him, before returning to those who just hours before had been statues.
Celestae came over to Ripley and Tristan taking their hands. "Can you teach me the spell Ellerrinnar taught you I can not leave so majestic a creature in such a state." She pointed toward the reared Unicorn. She quickly learned the correct pronunciation and the three moved over to the unicorn. Celestae drew in her power and began to focus it to her will. "Cloch go feoil" The Elfess said as she released her will. Slowly at first the mane and tail began to revert back to hair then with a shudder the reared unicorn was alive. It looked at each as if studying them before kneeling down and then rose and left the chamber. "That was something to behold!" Celestae commented excitedly. "Father told me before I left, that you have found a cousin. I am so happy for the two of you she pulled them both into an embrace. This has truly been a day of wonders. "Lets get rid of these evil beings," and a ball of flame shot from her hand fracturing the orc statues into small fragments.
The trio, along with the rangers collected silver nuggets, gemstones, and the almost pure silver droppings from the cavern and pool. Lastly they went to the Basilisk nest and pierced the eggs then halving them placed them in the wagon. They loaded as many of the fish, bird, and wildlife statues they could find into the wagon wrapping each in a blanket. It took their combined effort to load a petrified stag and doe into their wagon of plunder. Satisfied they had done as much as they could for one day they began the trip back to Breezae.
Captain Sandy, always an early rise stood in the center of the naval Enclave with Sheldon. The pair stood soaking up the morning sun. A great sigh came from Sandy as she turned to Sheldon and spoke. "Today our goal is to move all the small vessels here to the first wharf. Then, we shall lift each with the cranes and set them into cradles here. This should allow us to inspect and repair them much quicker."
Sheldon studied the comely sea captain. Her wealth of strawberry hair seemed to come to life in the morning sun. He gazed into her leaf-green eyes as she laid out her plan for the day. " Some smaller vessels we can use the boat transporter wagons to move into the enclave as well. I will get crews to work on it at once." Sheldon brought his fist to his heart in a salute of respect. Sandy's unblinking stare made him nervous. The Squire did not want to stand there drinking in the vision of her. Over the past week or so his eyes seemed to seek her out throughout the day. The pair of them did work well together, He admitted.
Sandy watched the Squire move to the barracks. Soon Squads of soldiers moved to the livery and hitched muscled oxen to the boat transporters. "You my Lord of Oakendale are quite the specimen of a strong ox your self," She whispered. Causing a blush to color her cheeks. "Ok, my sea dogs lets get all these small vessels staged by the first wharf. Prince Tristan want them all made sea worthy as soon as possible. We can't have folks saying the Prince's navy is not pulling their wait." She drew her sabre, pointing it like a baton. " I want cauldrons of tar boiling there," She pointed. " Stack bales of wool there beside it for making Oakum to calk the seams. Pile brushes nearby to coat the newly calked vessels submerged bottoms. On this side i want sails made to fit all ropes are to be replaced with new. Every block, tackle, and rudder will be inspected. Our goal is to make them good as new once more. Each plank and deck board will be checked if one is in question. The answer is simple replace it. We will not be embarrassed by failing at the duty the Prince have given us." She flashed her sailors a quick grin. "Now move my sea dogs, the sun is up and the day is marching on."
Vessels were lifted to the dry dock cradles where waiting crews scrambled over under and around like an army of ant over a food morsel. Sheldon's crews brought in smaller vessels on their transports and by midday The banks of the bay had been swept of beached craft. Including the larger vessels lifted up by the cranes the total topped fifty salvageable craft. The ranged from row boats to twin sail fishing vessels. When the sun began to set Sandy blew a long blast on the whistle about her neck. The sailors assembled on the parade yard.
Lord Sheldon stood beside Sandy as the crews assembled. His clothes covered in tar and pitch. "Good work to my crews. I know this day's venture was strenuous, I take pride in the efforts given this day. When our initual task of clearing the beaches was done you jumped right in to help the inspection and restoration crews. You have my thanks." Sheldon saluted those assembled. Then motioned to Captain Sandy.
Captain Sandy looked at the tar smeared squire and did he best to hide her smile of amusement. "I can not properly put into words my feelings of your actions this day. Must chest feels as if it might burst with pride. We collected fifty-four vessels in total we deemed salvageable. Of that fifty-four, thirty-two have been recalked, tared, painted, and now moored in the Marina. The remaining twenty should be completed in the next few days. Take pride in your efforts, take pride in Breezae. I have prepared a surprise in the messhall. Firemead and a feast await you. Well done my Sea Dogs, well done indeed. Dismissed." Captain Sandy watched as her weary crews found new life and energy. Cheers erupted amongst those assembled as they turned to return to the barracks for along needed bath and change of clothes.
Sandy and Sheldon made their way around the crews as they ate their fill and drank the warming firemead. "We have come so far Sheldon, I appreciate the aid you have given me in the past days," She said. Turning to look into the sea blue of Sheldon's eyes. Tentatively she grasped his large hand in hers before continuing. "I have become very fond of the Lord of Oakendale. Your strength is a comfort as it supports me. I have only this to give in way of reward." Lady Sandy of Lallae brought her arms up around his neck standing on her tiptoes she kissed him long and passionately. Reluctantly, pulling herself from the heat of that kiss. "Is that a suitable reward Sheldon?" She questioned.
"Close, but not quite enough," Sheldon replied. With amusement and passion in his eyes he drew her up. The flood gates opened, and he poured himself into his kiss. The pair seemed to melt together becoming one. When the couple pulled away once more, they held unto one another not trusting the sturdiness of their legs. "That should just about do it," Sheldon added with a smile.
The couple walked along the wharves of the enclave and the moonlight bathed them. Hand-in-hand he escorted Sandy to her Quarters before returning to his own.
The days, and their morning meetings seemed to pass by in a blur, Tristan wondered, as he stood on his balcony greeting the day. The merchantmen he and the rest of the crew of the Osprey had taken set sail for Nicholae with the morning tide yesterday.Their holds had been filled with iron ingots, casks and barrels of salt, fine timber logs and sponges that had been gathered and dried from the sea. Many of the booth's of the market now had tenants. The streets were nearly all clean and half the buildings and the inside of the city walls had fresh coats of white wash. The granite roads were uncovered all the way to the iron mine and a few leagues into the forest going east and west. Patrols had discovered two small groups of humans and meadow folk living underground back in the forest near the meadows edge. He let out an explosive breath. Today was the day he was to meet this mysterious Kalix, he had heard so much about.
Tristan had been to hundreds of formal state affairs, why was he so nervous. Calming himself he inhaled deeply and closed his eyes willing the image of Celestae's face to appear before him. Tristan looked into those emerald eyes and everything was ok again. He finished dressing in his green britches and Leather cuirass. His long brown hair was pulled back and tied with leather into the rangers braid. His soft leather half boots, hardly made a sound as he moved to the table and belted on his sword. Then he went down to meet this mysterious Kalix.
Prince Tristan entered, seeing his small company sitting at their table. Captain Talon, and Astrid were there as well. He walked toward his seat and on the way he passed a very old elf who sat sipping noisily at his tea. The old man's walking staff fell to floor at Tristan's feet. With out any hesitation he stooped picked up the staff and laid it gently across the old patrons lap. "There you go Elder Elf, may you have a most pleasant day." He then turned and went to take his seat by his betrothed. Tristan sat, asked the blessings of the gods on their meal, his company and his people. "Has Master Kalix yet arrived?" he enquired.
Celestrae smiled sweetly at him and nodded to her father who rose from his chair and walked over to the old elf sipping and slurping at his tea. "It is time Father" Lord Talon said as he helped the stooped old elf to his his feet. Lord Talon did his best to keep a smile from touching his face.
"So it would seem my son, so it would seem." He struck the floor with his staff and a shower of golden light enveloped him. When the shower fell away, a dark haired elf with lavender eyes stood in the old mans place. His emerald robe was trimmed in gold thread work. Kalix held a white staff with a large amethyst clutched in a dragons talon."It is indeed time. I am Kalix of clan Talon, royal mage to house Breezae and the throne of Ontillae. I am sorry for the delay in our meeting but I have been busy to the west." The Wizard said in a commanding tone. "I see here before me assembled many Lords and Ladies of ancient Ontillae.
"Lady Tyrana Starglow, Duchess to the duchy of house Starglow."
"Lord Sorast of Tides, Duke to the Duchy of Tides"
"Lord Sheldon Oakendale, Duke of Oakendale"
"Lady Sandy Lallae, Duchess of Lallae"
"Lady Spring Meadowbrook, Duchess of Meadowbrook"
"Lord Adonai Delphia, Duke of Delphia"
"Lady Ripley Erie, Duchess of Raven"
"Lord Shardal Sillicalm, Duke of Sillicalm"
"Lady Wren Willowdawn, Duchess of Willowdawn"
"Lady Kiannia Dunes, Duchess of Dunes"
"Lord Sebastian Kelpstone, Duke of Kelpstone beneath the sea"
"Lady Valonia Gullsea, Duchess of Gullsea."
"Lord Shea Lakefort, Duke of Lakefort"
"Lady Lorrayne Axefall, Duchess of Axefall"
"Lord Flinton Forgefire, Duke of Forgefire"
"Lord Townsend Talon, Duke of Celestrae, and my son"
"Lady Astrid Talon, Heir to the Duchy of Celestrae, beloved Granddaughter"
"Lady Celestrae Talon, Heir of House Celestae, Princess of Clan Talon, Betrothed to house Breezae, Queen in waiting of all Ontillae and beloved Granddaughter"
" This kind young man is a Prince, that would stoop to lift the fallen walking stick, of an old elf who slurps loudly at his tea. Long have I waited for thee Tristan. Lord Breezae of House Breezae, Clan Sunbringer, Duke of Breezae, King of all Ontillae, and over King of the Seven Jewels of the East"
The Elven mage looked at each with a penetrating gaze. "You, assembled Lords and Ladies are the hope of this realm and all Shaelendria though they know you not. Prince Tristan show them the birthmark of Clan Sunbringer so all will know you." He paused as Tristan stood and raised his shirt to reveal the dragon shape birthmark over his heart. "All bear witness this is your true King, even as each of you bear a birthmark of a star on your right shoulder blade. Celestae too bears the Dragon birthmark over her heart of Clan Talon. These are the signs that the Drelven have come. Beneath the skin of each of you flows the blood of both Noble Elven Houses and Noble Dragon Clans. You are the first of the Drelven, You are the fruit of the compact between Sunbringer and Shaelendar. I welcome you home to Ontillae. Long have we held our breath awaiting your coming. Already a city whose populace was broken with despair has new life. Great evil that has for decades held sway here, is being purged. The war birds that once plied the sea's sail stronger than before. Like the phoenix, shall Ontillae rise from these ashes once more. Follow me now to the Market Square." He then turned and made his way out into the green cobblestone courtyard and marched down the street to the Market Square.
The procession entered the crowded Market Square. Where the brightly colored booths flapped in the breeze from the sea. A large platform had been raised in the center. Kalix made his way to the top and waited there for them. It appeared most of the citizenry of Breezae was crowded in and around the market. They filled balconies and rooftops, they stood in anticipation as Tristan, Celestae, Lady Astrid, and Captain Talon joined him. The other Lords and Ladies took their places unrehearsed on the tier below.
" Know ye all good citizens, this is the day of prophecies and compacts forged in times eons ago. Long has the House of Breezae been gone from these hallowed shores, long has been your suffering and despair. Unkown, to you the house of Breezae returned and brought he with him the long missing Lords and Ladies of this land. Lord Talon stood over a century in the stead of House Breezae. You have endured much more than your share of injustice from the evil that is without these walls. These here upon this platform are but some of the Drelven." Kalix nodded to Tristan, who knelt down before him. He then placed his hand on Tristan's head. "This humble Lord that kneels here before me is in fact the son of your Beloved Lord Edvon and Lady Dannah. He is heir to this Duchy and to the throne of all Ontillae, He is the Over king of the Seven Jewels of the East. Tristan is Heir to all, and he is also a descendant of the Noble Dragon Clan Sunbringer making him Kinsmen to Elerrinar the Dragon Protector of House Breezae. Who has stood watch all these thousands of year's. Noble is his blood for Sunbringer the Dragon King was his sire. Elerrinar will you acknowledge this Lord that kneels before me?"
Overhead came a deafening roar and great tongues of flame filled the sky. The great golden drake plunged towards them and shimmered in a cascade of golden light. Then as the cascade reached the platform it fell away to reveal a large golden elf. "I will claim Prince Tristan as my kinsman and validate his claim He is the sole heir of House Breezae and beloved of Clan Sunbringer." A battle crown appeared in Elerrinar's hands. "Will You Prince Tristan, Heir to House Breezae, Heir to the throne of Ontillae, Heir to the Seven Jewels of the East, and Beloved of Clan Sunbringer, Swear to uphold justice and serve your people as their Duke and rightful Lord?"
"I do so swear my protector and kinsmen, with my last breath shall i fight for my people." Tristan said in a humble voice.
"Then rise Duke Tristan and receive thee, thine inheritance hidden all these long years. People of Breezae here is your Lord." Elerrinar placed the crown upon Tristan's head and shimmered as a golden shower upwards toward the west wall and breathed a vast plume of flame and the air shimmered and wavered then like a curtain being dropped the palace of Breezae and the great dragon chapel were revealed. No longer hidden. Great towers and High walls encased with white marble and copper tiled roof tops with the Breezae banners snapping in the wind emerged. On top of the Great Dragon Temple sat Elerrinar who roared, " Welcome Home Duke of Breezae and my kinsmen. Welcome home Tristan long have I awaited thee!!!!."
The Lords and Ladies yelled, "Welcome Home Duke Tristan, Welcome Home!!!!" and they dropped to one knee, then the people of Breezae roared "Welcome Home Duke Tristan Welcome Home!!!!
Elerrinnar looked down on the celebrations. The market square was filled with music,laughter and dancing. Kalix flew beside him. "It would appear old friend, that hope has sprang from every sector of the city. Their Lord has returned, moved among them. He and his small company has taught them to live once more." Kalix sent to Elerrinnar.
The pair of gold dragons circled high over the city, keeping their silent vigil. "They have so much that rest upon them. They have claimed Breezae, and must soon strive to claim the rest of Ontillae. Prince Tristan will not stop until the lands of his Lords, and Ladies are reclaimed." The dragons drifted upon the night wind to land upon the great dome of the dragon Temple. "Then Tristan, and his small company will have to move to reclaim the Seven Jewels of the Eastern sea. Only then, will they be ready to reforge the Shaelendrian Empire." Elerrinnar turned to Kalix, and the great wurms studied each other. "I have so much pride in our grand children and all the drelven." He shimmered in a mist of golden light then stood there as an elf holding two tankards of firemead. Kalix joined him and they toasted to their grandchildren.
Then there was Elerrinar who so often frequented his dreams more and more teaching him words of magic and of power. He taught him the Draconian tongue. Then, as his day of graduation from the Academy had fast approached Elerrinar filled his sleep with those same words. Come home Prince Tristan, your people need you, It is time for you to come home! Just weeks ago Tristan learned of so many of his people, Ontillaen's, left marooned across the known world. All of them, felt lost and empty, so far from the home, that constantly called to them. Slowly, he began to realize his duty, not just to himself but to his people. He made his painstaking preparation and set sail in the company of his countrymen and women. Now he stood in the homeland he had never known and battled to bring it back from the edge, before it slipped into the silent and often times forgotten pages of history.
He looked up as the sun set the morning sky afire and whispered, "Elerrinar, please don't let me fail you and my people." He then listened as the birds awoke and the city came alive. A far off voiced whispered back to him in a deep tone "I am here Tristan, I am always with you. If we succeed or fail know Prince we will do so together. The chromatic, or dragons of color think the throne of elven unity is weak and no more. The gem dragons always indifferent and caught up in their own concerns take neither side. We metallic dragons, keep our honor and hold to the compact of old. Made, when the race of the dragons, and of the elves stood on the brink of extinction. You are not alone Tristan, and I have no intentions of letting you fail. Be at peace now for I am hungry and must hunt." the voice was gone, as swiftly as it had come, but a smell of saffron and incense was thick upon the air. Tristan quickly looked about but saw no sign of the great drake. Perhaps he had dreamed it, but regardless he felt better and assured that he was not alone.
Celestae's face came to him again as he stood soaking in the first light of day, causing him to smile. Tristan was able to recieve comfort in her beauty. With a great sigh he belted on his sword and went down to break fast with his friends. Closing the mahogany door and walking down the carpeted marble floor. He studied the details of the tapestries as he went noting they all seemed to have dragons and elves in them co-existing in harmony. He laughed from the landing as he saw Sheldon eating heartily and Kiannia swiping food from Sebastian's plate. He continued to the table and sat next to Celestae breathing in her sweet essence.
Sheldon was talking in between bites "I am going to help Sandy get the Enclave in order," He paused to take another bite of ham."She wants to replace the mast of those pirate merchantmen we captured. Hopefully in a few days they will be sea worthy again, so they can sail for Nicholae with news."
Tristan could not help but laugh lightly as he watched his good-hearted squire and longest friend. Sheldon was his first tutor with sword and bow and later lance. His friend had grown over the years to dwarf most elves and men. His dark hair hung long and often unbraided. Sheldon's golden eyes always had that twinkle of mischief dancing in them. A smile was always close, ready to jump to his face, and lighten any mood.
"Shardal, Sorast, Wren, Adonai and I are going to the market square and start building merchant booth's," Auburn haired Tyrana was telling Celestae. "We should be able to get most of them built today thanks to the plans Lorrayne and Flinton devised and our Valonia drew to life for us last evening. What are you into today Celestae?"she ask.
"I plan on taking Flinton and Lorrayne down to the Enclave today, we can inventory and sort all we have accumulated thus far. We can decide how best to use our resources." Celestae answered pausing to sip her tea. We also still have that hidden library to read over. Valonia can you help us as well that art skill of yours is quite handy?
"Of course Celestae, I am willing to help where I can." The raven haired elfess replied." How will you spend your day Lord Tristan?"
"My intentions are to take Ripley, Spring, Shea, Kiannia and Sebastian out into the country to scout around. We should be back by nightfall. It is important that we see what is out there."Tristan said cutting a generous slice of ham with his dagger. They made small talk for a while then they separated to go about their day.
Tristan led his small patrol out the south gate. They talked to a woodsmen who knew some of the country. "Yes, your lordship, I know of a few points of interest around these parts. The furthest one is the ole silver mine at the base of the far ridge. There are also a couple iron mines near those two smaller hillocks off to the sides. Just before the old silver mine is a huge iron mine that was once worked by the Dwarven folk." The elderly man told him with confidence.
Ripley stode forward and shook the woodsmans hand leaving to silver drake coins in it. "Thank you for the information my friend," she said in way of parting as she fell back into her patrol and the moved silently moved south into the hemlock and oak covered foot hills.
Once they got into the woods Tristan split them into pairs and sent them out agreeing to meet back at the Inn. "Safe travels, safe journey, and safe return. Don't take unnessasary chances explore the two satelite mines and Ripley and I will go on to the main mine. We can save the silver mine for another patrol." Tristan turned, winked at Ripley and they lped off in silence towards the main iron mine.
Tristan and Ripley moved southward through the trees and discovered a overgrown trail deeply rutted. The fragrance of the forest was soothing as the pair silently moved along, one to either side, and followed it up to a great cliff face. In spots Granite blocks peaked out from the gravel and ruts. After closer inspection they drew the conclusion that centuries of rainfall had covered the paved road in a shallow layer of gravel and debris that had washed down from the mountains above. Just ahead the forest seemed to thin out in to a clearing. Silently the pair creeped through the underbrush to the edges and discovered at the base were three arched openings they moved toward the western most opening using the cover of the thick laurel thicket.The pair silently moved closer using the shadows to hide them. Just as they were about to move closer a great two headed giant emerged from the opening.
Ettins had been rare in Nicholae, but not unheard-of. Rare or not they were very dangerous if they got close up on you and deadly if they got their arms around you. "Ripley do you think we can take it down by ourselves?" Tristan inquired of his companion. Readying his bow and removing the keeper from his sword.
"We should be a match for it my Prince. Shoot for the back of its knees when it turns away from us again, and we will cripple it then we can move in and finish the kill. It is best to severe the spine at both heads." Ripley quickly told him. She unwrapped her long warriors braid from her neck and flipped it over her back. She remembered instructions she had received during her Academy days. Quickly she readied her bow and released the keeper on her sword closing her eyes for only a second then inhaled deep and exhaled softly before opening them again and nodding her readiness.
The pair of Rangers, drew their bows, bringing their strings back to the corner of their mouths, then released, knocked another arrow and fired again. The Ettin howled from one head, then the other as it collapsed and rolled upon the ground in agony, arrows protruding from both knees. The concealed pair emerged swords drawn. They quickly covered the distance and sank their swords into the soft tissue between neck and shoulder reversed with overhead swings and silenced it forever. A loud noise came from within the arch, and they moved up against the cliff to either side. A second ettin emerged, looked at the carnage that lay before it and howled in fury. Tristan quickly hamstrung it and Ripley severed one head before it hit the ground and the other before it could rise.
Ripley and Tristan barely had time to recover before two more Ettins arrived.Their blood filled with the thrill of battle and exersion pounding in their veins. With practiced grace, the rangers maneuvered their opponents, until they were back-to-back. Tristan to the east, attacked the one in front of Ripley. Ripley, coming from the west, attacked the one before Tristan. This allowed the deadly pair to attack the back of the knee, less chance of their attack being deflected by the knee cap. Their opponents, not understanding their strategy, dodged the attacks of the Elf rushing towards them, opening themselves up and exposing the back of their companion. With graceful faints, the pair of Rangers moved between them. The Ettins roared out in pain, as the Elven blades sliced into their hamstrings, sending them crashing to the ground one atop the other. Like the graceful steps of an ancient dance the elves recovered and charged again severing heads as they went.
Yet another Ettin came stomping from the tunnel shaking the earth as he ran. He swung his tree trunk club at them sending airborne showers of stone chips in long arcs. Tristan ran between the massive tree trunk legs and cut the right hamstring. "Get the left! Get the left!" He yelled as he spun out of reach of the deadly club whistling towards him. Ripley took aim and sent three arrows into the left knee while it was concentrating on Tristan. The Ettin roared in pain, as it dropped to its knees. It hovered there, for a moment, as arrows appeared lodged in the eye sockets of one head and the throat of the other. The pair, not sure if they had killed it. Danced in and with overhand blows that severed the heads. They sucked in the cool air of the oaken forest and managed to regain their breath and slow the pounding of their hearts.
From the middle arch emerged a large Ettin, much larger than the others it came roaring at them swinging its massive iron banded club. Tristan ducked between its legs cutting one hamstring before moving away out of range of that great club. Ripley sank three arrows into the throat of the left head and drew her sword. She closed from one side as Tristan approached from the other. The left head hung limp as the massive beast hobbled to keep its balance. The ettin roared , "die elves" in broken elvish just as Ripley buried her sword upward into its groin before sliding it out and ducking beneath the club that whistled by her head close enough she felt the breeze from it woosh by. Tristan seeing his chance moved in cut the other ham string and severed the heads.
They withdrew as silently as they had come back into the laurel thicket of the forest to catch their breath and watch. " I thought you ask about one Ettin, my Prince," she huffed trying to control her breathing "That, was six, I would have advised against it, had I known." She said with a smile. "Perhaps, you need to go back to the academy and learn to count better. There may be one more inside but I think we killed the whole pack. Shall we investigate My Prince?" She asked drinking deeply from her flask of fire mead. The liquid flowed warmly down her throat and soon brought precious relief to her exerted muscles.
"If it will quite your comments, on my ability to count, then, yes he smiled helping her to her feet Quickly his eyes glanced over her searching for wounds. Once more the rangers emerged step over step with bows ready and arrows knocked. When they reached the arch they looked in, then moved into the cool darkness within.They paused for a few moments as their eyes adjusted, then proceeded towards the torch light further in. They emerged onto a small ledge that overlooked a huge working. The pair peared over the side and saw several orcs standing guard about the mine. Tristan and Ripley quickly made note of the five orcs using whips on their Dwarven prisoners as they dug ore from the face of the working. Each guard had a red dragon scale shield, a sword, and most had long whips they used repeatedly on the miners. One of the miners looked up to where they stood, Tristan put a finger to his lips. The dwarf, went back to mining but whispered to the dwarf helping him load a large chunk of ore into a cart. They returned to the work face and spoke to yet others.
Tristan and Ripley stuck about a dozen arrows in the ground point first in front of each them, then knocked another to their bow. They looked once into each others eyes before standing and releasing, firing arrow after arrow. The orc overseers were the first to die sprouting arrow shafts from their throats. When they had exhausted the arrows they had planted they drew their sword and moved down the ramp. Making sure to stab any orcs they past in the throat. By the time they reached the bottom, the miners had finished off those they had not laid low with their volleys from above. Sickening thunks could be heard as picks and shovels were sunk into the heads of their orc oppressors.
"I don't know who you Rangers are, but we owe you are lives. Did you kill them ettin overseer's?" The red bearded dwarf who had spotted them earlier ask. The miner's heavily muscled body heaved a bit but slowed as his breath began to return to him. His dirty face stared intently at the pair waiting their reply.
"We are Ranger's from Breezae sent out on patrol. If there were six Ettins, then yes, they are all dead Master Dwarf." Ripley replied giving her Prince a warning stare."I am called Ripley, and this is Tristan." She supplied. "Tell me Master Dwarf, how did we find you in this predicament?" Her eyes searched their surroundings for any and every hint of danger before returning her eyes to the dirty faced Dwarf before her.
" My name is Xorn, and you found us this way because, some forty years ago or, so we were set upon by this band and another much larger band of orcs that took orders from an adult red dragon. They stayed here for a couple years then went off to attack the lighthouses of Breezae. We never heard what happened. We were working this mine for the Duchy of Breezae, before we were over ran and enslaved. Does the city still exist Mistress Elf? A few of us had families there." He asked a small glimmer of hope in his eyes.
"It does, indeed master dwarf,"he replied holding forth his arm to greet him. "Soon as we get you all unchained, you can return there with us. Take the arms and shields from the orcs. How many of you are there? "Tristan inquired as he removed his water skin drank and passed it to Xorn.
Ripley after a quick search of the dead had found the rings of keys and was moving swiftly about the dirt covered dwarves. She unlocked the chains that bound them. Her heart lurched compassionately at the sight of the deep gashes in their wrist and ankles. She withdrew a ceramic jar of salve and began to treat them. Those that were the worst injured she placed her long gentle fingers over the wounds and spoke "Leigheas." A golden glow covered the wounds where the salve had been applied flared bright then was gone. The wounds were replaced with thin white scars.
"We only number twenty and five. We lost almost half our number, when we were attacked and a few more over the years. So of the company of sixty, only us twenty and five remain. All our officers are dead. I was a sergeant, so I guess I am the highest rank left. I, and a couple others who had families there will go back with you. Cpl. Burg and the rest, will remain here to guard the iron Ingots. We have been mining and smelting the last forty years. We probably have enough to fill the holds of fifty ships. We made some crude weapons from time to time for these orcs. But the rest is just sitting in a side passage. That ore belongs to the Duke's family and I will not be about abandoning it. But, he owes me and every man among us forty years wages. I mean to tell ya. Let me speak with Burg then I will get the others, and we can go." He turned and moved to talk to a dark haired dwarf, who clutched at his beard and nodded.
A few moments later five armed dwarves stood before them with red dragon scale shields. "Are you ready Xorn? We have much ground to cover before dark. Can you have Cpl Burg search the ettins outside and collect their belongings? They belong to the Prince now." Tristan told him. He watched Xorn reaction. The dwarf turned to speak to Burg. There was an excited exchange between the two."is something wrong?"
Burg queried in a loud voice "Is it true, that the Duke Edvon's son lives and has returned after all these many years? The House of Breezae always dealt fair with us, and we were treated just like every other citizen. It hurt us all to the man, when we learned Lord Edvons ship had gone missing. All of us just assumed Lady Dannah and their son was with him when it disappeared." He ask frail and fragile hope showing in his ebony bearded face.
Ripley stepped forward quickly, and began to speak to the silently awaiting miners. "It is true. Duke Edvons son has returned. He was in far off Nicholae, where his kinsmen Lord Andalae and Lady Renee raised him as their own. When he completed the Academy, less than two months ago, he made preparations and then sailed to Breezae with a small company. Less than a week, has he and his company been home. We slew the red dragon that enslaved you, at great cost to our company. But rest assured, The Prince will not rest till all his people are free. For he came not only for Breezae but all of Ontillae. We came for every Elf, Dwarf, Human, Halfling, Gnome and for every Dragon that honors the old compacts. I swear, before you now, The Prince said much these same words to me himself before we did sail from far off Nicholae. We are Rangers, of his company, set about completing that charge. Now, we must return, to rejoin the others of our Scout Patrol. " Winking at Tristan, she turned, and they filed out into the light of late noon. "We best move quickly, if we are to make it back before they close the gate." she commented, and led them off at a steady ground eating pace. As they emerged from the forest into the meadow the rest of their patrol fell in with them.
"We were beginning to worry," Spring chided. "We thought, we would make sure you made it back. I see that you made friends. I hope to hear the tale of it over dark ale and honeyed ham, some fresh baked bread with thick gravy. Maybe some potatoes with rich melted butter...." She continued on, till the small group trooped through the south gate and it slammed shut behind them. "One always runs faster when they think of food, or at least I do." She said with a warm friendly smile.
They made their way through the well lit streets then turned at the market through the courtyard and up the marble steps to the Prancing Pony. Tristan spoke briefly with Lady Astrid and returned with five keys. "Master Dwarves, you are to be the guest, of the Prince, this evening. Baths are being drawn as we speak, a page will bring you clean cloths. If, you have any other immediate needs, you can ask the page when he brings you your wardrobe. Dinner is in an hour." He took the tray from Lady Astrid and gave each of his patrol and the dwarves a tankard of firemead " To our new friends may their beards forever grow. "They all drank their mugs dry and retired to their rooms.
Tristan sat in the tub and let the warm waters soak away his aches and his pains. With some reluctance he climbed from the tub that now smelled of incense and saffron and dressed in leather britches. He belted on his sword and went down stairs. He saw that his company was all there as were the five dwarves they had rescued. Taking his seat by Celestae's side. He poured his tankard full of the firemead. "Master Xorn, are you and your fellows ready to meet the Prince?" He queried of them after drinking down half his tankard. Tristan studied the stern posture of these men that had served his family faithfully. What dedication they showed. The company of Dwarves had been more concerned about protecting what they felt belonged to their king and Duke. They would not even return with him till they had secured the stacks of ingots were for the Duke's family, his family. What brought such dedication, and how could he inspire that dedication in others he pondered.
"We are indeed eager to meet this Prince. He is a generous host, and we owe him our thanks for sending you out and rescuing us from our predicament, as Ranger Ripley so politely put it. Is the Prince here now?" he inquired. His face searching those at the table making a note all the chairs had now been filled.
"He is indeed, Master Dwarf." Tristan got up and made his way around the table to Xorn. "I, am Prince Tristan of House Breezae. Please accept my apology for our deception. It gave us a chance to learn your character, for these are as you know troubled times. I can assure you that restitution shall be made regarding owed wages. I regret the ill circumstance under which we met. You showed me your loyalty at the mine when you thought of your duty before returning to the civilized world. I would ask a boon of thee Master Xorn. You are of course under no obligation to grant it. I need a captain to oversee the function of that mine, Will you act in my stead? Tristan requested as the Dwarves looked at him with something between curiosity and awe. "The ore from that mine is and will be sorely needed in the days to come.
Xorn studied him contently for several minutes taking Tristans measure. "I will Prince Tristan, for long have I served house Breezae." The dwarf said rising and moving from the table with his fellows. they dropped to one knee and bowed their heads. "We renew our vow between my clan and your noble house, know all that remain at the mine are my kinsman even as, are these with me," Xorn said in a solemn tone.
"Then rise Master Dwarves all, let us dine and renew old friendships and talk of affairs. Lady Astrid would you join us as well? Please send a page for Captain Talon and ask him to dine with us this evening." Tristan returned to his chair, and they talked lightly while they ate Captain Talon soon joined them as well. They all laughed as Ripley told them of Tristan asking if they could take the first Ettin they had seen. And roared with laughter as she told of her scolding him about his counting ability. "It must have been the two heads that confused my count," Tristan said with a straight face. That brought on another wave of laughter. Ripley and Xorn told of the fight within the mine itself and of Xorn's comment about back pay. Which sent them all laughing for quite some time.
"I must ask Captain Talon and Lady Astrid what has happened here for Breezae to have declined as much as it did? Know, I do not ask to pass judgement. You were here, and I was not I want to know what happened so perhaps we can prevent it from ever happening again." Tristan ask with passion in his voice. " These, and all of you are my people and I want to know everything about you. Truly, if it is possible over time I would know the face and name of all in Duchy Breezae. This is my home and I would right all the wrongs I can but I need help." He then drank Deeply from his tankard waiting patiently for someone to speak.
"After word of your parents ship being lost reached us, I sent most of our navy out to scour the oceans for any signs of them. None was ever found, creatures that had lay hidden in the deep places of Ontillae began to emerge in larger and larger bands at first we could drive them back but each victory cost us. Soon we had less and less of our navy return. Then about fifty years ago, it all changed. The roving bands of creature began to be more organized. The city, and the light houses were attacked by two separate forces. The light houses fell the first day. Our upmost duty to protect the city and all within its walls. We cast an ancient enchantment that vanished the palace. It can not be brought back until such time as a Duke or Duchess of your line is crowned. It stands near the west wall on the bluff looking over the Enclave. This was done on Elerrinars command. We found that red dragons had organized the creatures here in Breezae. Four, besides the one you killed in the light house accompanied the besieging force. Tens of thousands of orcs and goblins had come down from the mountains, of our five thousand knights we have only a thousand left. Of our proud ranger army of twenty-five thousand we have only about ten thousand that remain. Elerrinar had recruited other dragons to come to our aid and five answered his call of them only Elerrinar and one other survived. He was gravely injured and close to death. Astrid, my father, Kalix and I worked ancient magic and healed the worst of Elerrinars wounds.The war raged here for twenty years, and great was the cost. Our navy was lost by the time we finally broke the siege. We tried twice to retake the lighthouses, twice and failed. Kalix and Elerrinar told us to bide our time that you would come. So the last twenty years we have been gathering what remnants we could find of the peoples here. We planted crops near the city walls and the Rangers hunt to feed the masses. To put it straight my Prince the city of Breezae is a fortified refugee camp in some ways." The fierce looking, Captain of the guard studied Tristans reaction, before continuing on.
"When your company decided to assault the lighthouses I despaired. It seems we had depleted their numbers enough for you to succeed where we could not. The moral of our troops was nonexistent. When, they gave over to despair, so did the will of the people. By the time you reached us hope had all but died. Our story is much the same of the other Duchies of Ontillae. Even as we had been besieged so had they been. The capital cities of each duchy are islands of resistance in a sea of violence. I had sent patrols out to the iron mines on three occasions, but none ever returned, so I made the decision not to waste more lives. For that, Master Xorn, I owe you my apology for your years of forced labor. It had been all that we could do to keep everyone fed well, so they did not realize how bad things had truly become. Then just before you arrived Elerrinar and Kalix began laying waste to multitudes of orcs and goblins. They told us to take heart you had set sail and would soon arrive. True to their word you rode in through the gates four days ago counting today. I have been but a care taker here awaiting your family's return in accordance with the compact I had with your Father all those years ago." Lord Talon concluded. Fire seemed to dance in his golden eyes. "I have a special interest here, besides my daughter Astrid. That is for my Astrid to reveal, for it is not my place to explain such."
"Lord Talon, I and the people of Breezae owe you a debt I am not sure can be repaid. Know I am thankful to the gods you were here to act on behalf of my family. Had you not been here we may have had no home to return to." Tristan rose and walked to where Lord Talon stood by a hearth and grasp his arm and spoke. "Thank you, Lord Talon, You have bled for us, and we have and will bleed for you. We have far, far to go I fear before we can rest. I am honored to have you at my side." Tristan was somewhat shocked when the stony stern face fell away, and the Captain embraced him.
"I had feared you might never come Prince Tristan. Your standing here is all the thanks I will ever need. Since your arrival our people have dared to hope again, and they for the most part have no idea just who you really are. When that is revealed, they will love you all the more. You and these others have came, and led humbly by example. You have endeared your self to your people without them even knowing you. Thanks to me are not necessary, I have waited one hundred and five years for a Prince I knew nothing about. Now you are here and I could ask for none better. It is you who have my thanks. Now I shall regain my bearing, and let my daughter tell you of a few things you do not yet know but have the right too. You best sit Tristan this may take a bit of getting use to." Lord Talon then moved back to his chair and filled his cup as Tristan too retook his chair and filled his tankard.
The golden haired innkeeper stood and turned her lavender eyes to Celestae for just a moment before addressing Tristan. She seemed to be collecting her thoughts, Tristan considered. As he waited Celestae slid her hand under the table to take his for a moment he was blinded to all else but her and the warmth of her hand in his. He noticed for just a moment a look of uncertainty and vulnerability in those emerald eyes. He gently squeezed her hand as if saying i am here and I will protect you. When he looked back Astrid was patiently awaiting his attention with a smile.
" At the end of the thousand-year War," Lady Astrid began."and Sunbringer had made his peace with Shaelendar. He took an active roll as did Shaelendar in the arrangements of marriage between the Dragons and the Elven nobles. Certain of the noble houses had been careful bred together. My family, and your own my Prince, as well as many of your company were purposely arranged. The last arrangement was made by your father the day you were born. My father is a Duke in the south. He journeyed here at your fathers request. I have long served House Breezae and knew of your fathers intent. He and my father did agree to marry You to the youngest of Duke Talons daughters. Combining at long last the two great bloodlines of the gold dragons ours being Clan Talon and yours being Clan Sunbringer. It is unheard-of, for such a matching as Clan Sunbringer is a Patriarchal, and Clan Talon is Matriarchal. Both our fathers agreed that this match would seal the last of the dragon lines and in that sealing would you and your bride rule as equals over all of Ontillae. Your are betrothed, my Prince, to my youngest sister. Soon you will be crowned Duke of Breezae, and will be expected to take a mate for life, I mean a wife. So it was my duty to inform you of this arrangement and ask you if you intend to honor your fathers compact with mine?" Lady Astrid stared intently at him and her purple eyes seemed to bore into him as if they could search out his answer.
He looked once at Celestae before releasing her hand and standing to meet Astrids gaze. How can this be he screamed in the vastness of his mind. His heart already belonged to Celestae. "I must tell all here so it is known that my heart was lost long ago to the one sent to tutor me. Celestae has filled my dreams and my heart since first I met her. But, though it doth kill me, I am bound by the compacts of our father's. I must, so I will, uphold that compact though my heart shall shrivel and die with out my Celestae. I will be thy brother Lady Astrid of Clan Talon." He turned to face captain Talon. "And I will be thy son Lord Talon" he watched as Lord Talon rose from his chair and walked over to stand beside Lady Astrid.
In unison the two replied "I accept thee brother/son" Lord Talon moved a step closer and his eyes flashed again with fire, and he spoke." My daughter has traveled long and dangerous was her path to be here tonight. Turn and greet thy mate to be forever more Princess Celestae Talon, of Clan Talon, and House Celestae, my youngest daughter."
Tristan, spun and there stood the love of his life weeping tears of joy. She wept because, he did not just betray and deny his feelings for her. She wept because the secret was at last released. Most importantly she wept because she loved him too. Tristan wrapped her up in his arms and kissed her releasing all those decades of pent up, and restrained love and emotion he had for her. Long was that kiss. From high above the Inn, Elerrinar's voice boomed into the night sky "Hail Lady and Lord of Breezae," then he was gone. Any other discussions planned for that night were forgotten. Astrid kissed him and then Celestae. Lord Talon hugged them both and the others were still drinking toast to them when Tristan picked her up and carried her to his room. He gently lay her on his bed then lay down beside her. Then he kissed her and whispered "now your mine forever, as I have forever been yours". They lay there late into the night in each other's embrace kissing and caressing each other as they stared uninterrupted into each others eyes. They stood for a time beneath the moon neither feeling the need to say a word. Celestae leaned back into Tristan as he drew his arm protectively about her. "I have ever loved only thee my Tristan" She kissed him long and lingeringly and went to her room.
The company met again to break their fast together and report on yesterdays events. Lady Astrid and Captain Talon were becoming a regular part of the little morning and evening meetings. They ate with light hearts as Sheldon reported. "With the help of the cranes and lifts at the Enclave we were able to replace the mast on the merchant men. It will take a couple days to re-rig them. Most of the sails we were able to patch. The cargo's were moved into the storehouse. The same one we put the spoils from the light houses' in. Our wagon has been taken down there as well and unloaded." he finished stuffing a sausage in his mouth.
"We have managed to clean out most of the buildings and replaced some of the thick copper tiles where a few of the roof's had leaked I put out word that I was looking for sailors and marines for the three merchant men. I also spread the word the Ontillaen navy was recruiting sailors, captain's, marines and dock workers. I have the Captains hired so far, and they brought their own officers with them. The two ships that remain at the docks belong to you as well my Prince, but they need to be dry docked and repairs made. Best estimate they will be in dry dock a minimum of a month while they are tared and the barnacles scraped from their hulls. We got the the Osprey's crew mounting catapults and ballista. We are slowly gaining momentum as more and more people join. We should have sailors to man the three merchant ships in a day or so. Then it is only the matter of getting a twenty man squad of marines to man the defenses. If we find a cargo, we can send out all three of them together to sail to Nicholae and give them word of the state of things here. They should be able to make the trip there, and back in a couple weeks from when they sail. I am hoping on their return trip they will have the escort of the three Osprey that were being built when we left. Maybe your uncle can convince some of his merchants that Breezae is ripe for trade. They will have a warship escort that should help their resolve." Sandy reported. Without a thought she reached over wiping jam from Sheldon's chin.
Wren laughed, tossing back her raven hair as joy twinkled in her green eyes when Sheldon blushed. A thought occured to her, Sheldon has no idea Capt. Sandy had began her campaighn to snare him. After another moment dwelling speculatively on it she laughed again before returning to her food.
Wren rose to give her report to the others. "We have completed the stalls in the market and the canvas we dyed yesterday should have dried overnight on one side we have ten large stalls set aside for us and fifteen large stalls that can be rented. We checked with Captain Talon here and found that the price use to be a gold half drake per week We posted a sign offering them for a silver drake. We have twenty medium stalls and forty small stalls the medium at a silver half drake and the small for a copper drake. We just need tenants now my Prince. We made the stalls a wide variety of colors so it would help brighten up the market. We also completed the lights so the market is well lit even at night." Wren pulled her wealth of ebony curls back, and secured it with a leather cord before continuing.
"We found a few folks we can use as our agents in the market. Once we decide what we will offer. The wagoner Terrance, we gave one of our large stalls too for 3 months free and he has been hauling in fire wood, from the clean up efforts. It has been priced low, and he is is willing to barter with his customers. Alvin has a medium stall next to it and he plans to have a variety which can be bought or bartered for. I think he had soap, brooms, and a few barrels of fruits and vegetables He and Terrance came up with somewhere. Tyrana and Shardal have been collecting seeds from all sorts of things. Everything from vegetables growing wild, to flowers, and shrubs. An elderly hafling lady, or Meadowfolk, as they are called around here and her children are going to sell them in one of the small stalls. She has her young ones out collecting discard bottles, and crockery. They are filling them with the herbs and spices they find growing wild here in town. She seems to be a gifted healer and herbalist." Wren reported as her green eyes studied Tristan's face.
"Adonai and Sorast are still working on street lighting. Soon the whole town will be lit." She smiled taking a drink from her tankard. "Many of the towns folk have joined in our efforts and buildings are being white washed. Streets are being cleaned and the wilderness of gardens and lawns are being tamed. Some from the carpenter's guild are making benches and setting them near street corners and in front of shops. We are making an effort to reach all parts of the city at least a little and the people come first out of curiosity but then to genuinely help. I actually heard folks laughing yesterday and several have come up with very good idea's.
" Captain Talon can my patrol borrow some thirty knights today? We also need about fifteen wagons. I plan on loading them with Ale and provisions for the detachment at the mines I will be sending Master Xorn back and forth the next few days they can take any new miners out and bring ore ingots back. I will send their back wages as well. I want to have woodsman and any that can man a shovel start clearing the roads back down to the granite blocks. and ditches cut along them. The woods should be cut back one hundred paces from the road on either side Leaving an occasional stately tree for shading travelers. Have the wood brought in as long as they can handle. It can be deposited in the Enclave. I will pay a Brass drake per set of hands per day, and a copper half drake per wagon. Those not wishing to work outside the wall can work for me making white wash and painting the city walls. Inside first. I have a large amount of brass and copper coins from the dragon hoard. This will help me get money back into the hands of the people without giving charity. Let us plan on employing everyone we can in some way for a short time anyway." Tristan revealed the scope of his short term plan. The Prince watched as his small company made notes.
"The knights and wagons will be ready. I will have the knights leave vouchers for what they get from the merchants and perhaps between Astrid and Celestae they can handle making good on them. I will turn out the army in one hundred man crews to work on the roads, I can rotate them around so one day on the walls, one day on patrol outside the walls, one day on the roads, one white washing the battlements, and finally one day giving training to the citizens in archery and swordsmanship. We must be ready, if, and when attacks come again it may be the common citizens that sway the tide of battle. The work crews outside on the roads will be armed as well. I will have knights patrol the roads that are being worked for added security. I can also have them start breaking ground around the city walls and crops can be sown. If that meets your approval my Prince?" Captain Talon asked, thinking fast now. "We have the salt beds on the east side of the water front. We can barrel up salt and send it as cargo on one of the ships, Iron ingots on one and wood on the third for trade in Nicholae."
"The better logs I can have made into mast and ribs and planking. We can begin to build ships here as well at the Enclave. I can send Lorrayne and Flinton to the Dwarven, and gnome districts. We can get as many smiths as possible working on arms, armor, and tools and implements for the populace. If we can get as many of the people as possible involved we can scour the beach's and meadows near the wall. We can forage quite a lot including grains, herbs for medicine and food. I can craft about ten small fishing boats as soon as logs start coming in. I have seen lots of beached and damaged craft along the beaches by the water front. It may be easier to repair these and outfit them for fishing." Sandy informed them her golden eyes alight as she wrapped one of her copper curls around her finger as she thought." I think, if we mobilize everyone, we can accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Citizens have seen us, and will see the military working beside them. They will take heart and work all the harder out of patriotism I think."
Celestae stood and opened a scroll and began to read off their assets. It was agreed that the two hundred and fifty bolts of cloth and fabric could be sold in the market and the five hundred bolts of sailcloth should be held for the enclave. They decided to go ahead and sell the smaller uncut gemstones in one of their market stalls and hire a jeweler to work it. The jeweler could cut the stones for the customers. They also decided to hire a hand full of scribes to begin coping some of the scrolls, maps, and charts, as well as a selection of manuals on herbs, healing, and many of the crafting manuals and histories they had found. To include metallurgy, tanning, dye and paints and even a few text on animal husbandry, geology, cartography, navigation, and woodworking. She revealed the count of the hoards coins in estimated full drake break down. There was two hundred and fifty thousand brass drakes, one hundred and twenty thousand copper drakes, seventy-five thousand silver drakes, forty-two thousand gold drakes, and twelve thousand platinum drakes. Roughly five hundred gold ingots valued at one thousand gold drakes per ingot, and seven hundred silver ingots valued at one thousand silver drakes per ingot. Fifty mithril ingots no value assigned. Some two thousand small uncut gems, four hundred and eleven medium gems cut and one hundred and seven large cut and uncut gems.
"As far as arms we have six hundred long swords, three hundred short swords, five hundred daggers and one hundred bows with five barrels of arrows. In armor, we have two hundred miscellaneous helms, one hundred shields, two hundred chain shirts, one hundred leather armor, and forty plate breast plates." She read from her inventory book. "We still have fourteen crates of items of statuette's, fine jewelry, master crafted weapons and armor as well as ten crates of ancient tomes, scrolls, and spell books that bear further examination when time allows. Least we forget three serviceable merchant vessels and the Osprey." She drank from her tankard and closed her book. "The pair of merchantmen in dry dock appear in better shape tha expected and will be ready in half the estimated time."
"Lorrayne and I have been reading that tome, that Elerrinar gave us. I think we can craft armor and shield from the scales we have collected. We have began tanning the red dragon's hide. We were forced to quarter it into manageable size. The cask of blood when mixed with other ingredients can be used to fireproof things like the osprey and other easily combustible items. Most importantly weapons can be crafted from the spikes, ridge spines, and horns." Flinton informed them. Scratching at his cheek. "It will take some study and maybe a bit of trial and error but i think we can work the scales and hide at least. Perhaps make a few of the weapons as well. That is about it, isn't it Lorrayne?" He asked, turning to her.
"I found a separate tome from the secret library," She explained. "It says dragons blood gives some spells more power when used as ink, and it recommended, making the covers of magic tomes out of tanned dragon hide. I would like to explore this more as well" she added. "I belive we also stumbled upon a preserving spell in one of the spell tomes. With it, it may be possible to preserve and seal much of the dragon blood in small jars and bottles for later use. Perhaps even offer a few dozen for sale in one of our stalls?" she questioned. Lorrayne toyed with her long mahogany warrior braids.
"Sounds like you have your path laid out for you then." Tristan took a deep drink from his tankard before continuing on trying to seperate and go over his thoughts. "Does anyone have more to add for the moment? If not I will get ready for my patrol." Tristan ask standing. "Ok, then lets see what we can get accomplished. Thank you all."
Ripley and Tristan made their way south to the area of the mine they had freed from the Ettins and continued up along the ridge line coming to rest by a water fall and high mountain pool. "Tristan look at this!" she whispered.
She emerged from the edge of the pool with a large statuette of a salmon. Then returned to the water and brought back several more some trout and even a statuette of a large bass. "They are so life-like. It almost appears they were turned to stone where they swam," She added. Quietly she removed the keeper from her long sword and knocked an arrow to her bow. "Be alert, something is not right here.
Tristan followed Ripley's example and the pair moved slowly about the rim of the mountain pool. The Prince pointed out a stone squirrel then a rabbit. As the edged closer to the water fall they found several bird statuettes and even a deer. "These were not carved Ripley something turned them to stone where they stood. I can only think of one creature that has that ability, a Basilisk. We must be careful, or we may join this rock garden." He released her wrist, realizing now he had grabbed her to halt her progress towards the water fall.
Ripley's sea green eyes pierced into his as she studied him. Lightning seemed to move across the ocean blue of his iris's as he cautioned. She could see the concern in them. She nodded her agreement and moved more cautiously one foot over the other as the side stepped their way closer and closer to the falls and the cave behind they could now see. Bows at the ready they moved without a sound closer and closer. Finally, the pair reached the cave mouth and paused.
" When we get inside seek high ground and do NOT look into it's eyes, I could not bear to lose you my sister of the sword. When we find it i am still not sure how we can kill this thing. It is far to close to the main mine, can not chance it wondering in there," Tristan added.
"Let us go cautiously My Lord, for we can not bear to lose you either. Your loss would make this entire expedition worthless," Ripley replied. She flipped her long warriors braid from around her neck so it ran down her back. Slowly she inched her way forward until she disappeared inside.
Tristan followed her in. They paused for a moment to let their eyes adjust and moved around to the left and climbed up unto a ledge without a sound. The pair studied the floor of the chamber below watching for movement.
Astonishment reached their faces as they made not of the quantity of statues spread about the room. Some elves, dwarves, men, and meadowfolk. A small child stood petrified holding her puppy that must have wondered in. Then in a far corner a mound of stone began to move in the shadows. It made its way to the center of the chamber below revealing it's massive reptilian head as it tasted the air with a long forked tongue.
Ripley pointed with her arrow at the stalactite that hung high above on the ceiling. Patiently, they waited till it paused directly below it. She leaned towards Tristan's ear and whispered "Crith". She watched as he nodded his agreement and the pair began to draw up magic about them. Silently they drew their bows and released as one shouting "Crith". The twin arrows flew true to the base of the stalactite where it touched the ceiling. A great explosion sent dust swirling and the stalactite plummeted down pinning the now prone basilisk to the cavern floor. The pair squatted motionless as they wait on the dust to settle and the ringing in their ears to disperse.
"I think it is safe now" Tristan whispered. The pair stood and cautiously made their way down to the chamber floor. Tristan retrieved a small silver mirror from his pack and circled around to come up alongside the basilisk he extended the mirror in front of one of the eyes being sure to stare away and heard the creaking rumble as its flesh became stone. Finally, as silence once more filled the room he gazed at the now petrified reptile. "Great plan Ripley, that kept our danger to a minimum. Let us scout the rest of this cavern and see what we can turn up. Be cautious my sword sister," he added gripping her shoulder out of comaraderie.
"Always your Highness," she teased then gave him a warm smile before crossing her eyes at him. The last making them both laugh and lightened their hearts. The pair split up to search the chamber and surounding cavern. They counted close to thirty humanoid statues including a few orcs. In one corner, the pair discovered the statue of a unicorn frozen in stone as it reared up to defend its self. In the shadow corner they discovered the basilisk nest with a dozen large eggs in it. The egg shells appeared to be made of silver. Strewn about the entire chamber were small piles of silver disk that appeared to be excrement. Near the back wall they discover an old mining face where silver veins streaked the walls. Gems protruded from the stone walls in places and at the bottom of the central pool lay silver nuggets and various colored stones.
"Let us go out to the waterfall by the meadow and see if i can contact Elerinnar. Perhaps he knows a way we can return these people to their former self, reversing their petrifaction." Tristan led them out into the meadow by the pool of the waterfall. Once outside he turned toward the sun and looked skyward with arms out stretched he began to reach outward with his mind as he closed his eyes. "Elerrinnar, hear me, I have need of you council great one."
"What is it you need of me Tristan?" Came Elerrinnars rumbling but curious voice in his mind. "Keep reaching out to me i am coming Grandson."
Tristan's heart raced at Elerrinnars acknowledgment of him as his grandson. "My sword sister and i discovered a cavern behind a waterfall near the Iron mine. Inside we discovered a chamber of petrified people and creatures. We managed to pin then basilisk with a stalactite. I used a mirror to turn its own reflection back on itself turning it to stone." Tristan finished.
"I am descending to you. One moment my kindred." Elerrinnars massive form was engulfed in a shower of golden light that fell just before where Tristan and Ripley waited. When the shower dispersed a gold armored elf stood before him. "Show me what you speak of kindred that i might understand better," Ellerrinnar said as he studied the pair with his deep sea blue eyes. The smell of saffron and incense filled the meadow.
"This way great one," Ripley offered leading them back behind the waterfall to the chamber within. "Is there anything we can do for these?" she almost pleaded. Her compassion welling in her eyes.
"There maybe, Lady Ripley, there just may be. Your compassion for the strangers, tells me volumes about your character. I will aid thee my kindred. Yes, even as Tristan is my grandson, you my child, are a great-niece. Take comfort that i shall always come to your aid if requested and sometimes even if it is not." Elerrinnar smiled and gave the pair's cheek a gentle caress. Lightning danced in his eyes as he began to instruct them in a spell of Draconian magic. "It is pronounced, "Cloch go feoil". The morphed dragon continued to instruct them til he was pleased with their efforts and pronunciation. "Very good my kindred. Your minds are quick and agile, and you take instruction well. Be sure to rest between castings so as not to drain yourselves. I shall contact Lord Talon and have wagons sent here to you with blankets and food and drink that you might get them back to Breezae much easier. Be well my kin and know my heart soars with pride of thee." As the pair bowed in respect, he once more, became the shower of light, and was gone.
Tristan, to Ripley's surprise hugged her long and close whispering in her ear, "I am pleased to have you as my cousin." Almost reluctant he released her. A single tear trailed down his cheek.
Ripley moved by his emotion hugged him close laying her head against his chest for a moment. "We have found each other my cousin, here in our homeland. Now to work before the dam holding back my tears of joy burst." She pushed away trying to hide the tears that welled in her eyes.
The next several hours they spent carefully casting the spell Elerrinar had taught them turning the humanoid statues back into living breathing flesh and blood. Only the half dozen orc's and the unicorn remained when the wagons from the city arrived and Celestae come running in. Breezae Rangers, gave out blankets to the folks clustered together. Lady Astrid had come with the wagons and was seeing that each had a warm meal and some firemead to warm them. " Soon as they have eaten, I will load them into two of the wagons we brought and leave one for you along with a half dozen Rangers if it pleases you my Prince." She then turned and hugged him, before returning to those who just hours before had been statues.
Celestae came over to Ripley and Tristan taking their hands. "Can you teach me the spell Ellerrinnar taught you I can not leave so majestic a creature in such a state." She pointed toward the reared Unicorn. She quickly learned the correct pronunciation and the three moved over to the unicorn. Celestae drew in her power and began to focus it to her will. "Cloch go feoil" The Elfess said as she released her will. Slowly at first the mane and tail began to revert back to hair then with a shudder the reared unicorn was alive. It looked at each as if studying them before kneeling down and then rose and left the chamber. "That was something to behold!" Celestae commented excitedly. "Father told me before I left, that you have found a cousin. I am so happy for the two of you she pulled them both into an embrace. This has truly been a day of wonders. "Lets get rid of these evil beings," and a ball of flame shot from her hand fracturing the orc statues into small fragments.
The trio, along with the rangers collected silver nuggets, gemstones, and the almost pure silver droppings from the cavern and pool. Lastly they went to the Basilisk nest and pierced the eggs then halving them placed them in the wagon. They loaded as many of the fish, bird, and wildlife statues they could find into the wagon wrapping each in a blanket. It took their combined effort to load a petrified stag and doe into their wagon of plunder. Satisfied they had done as much as they could for one day they began the trip back to Breezae.
Captain Sandy, always an early rise stood in the center of the naval Enclave with Sheldon. The pair stood soaking up the morning sun. A great sigh came from Sandy as she turned to Sheldon and spoke. "Today our goal is to move all the small vessels here to the first wharf. Then, we shall lift each with the cranes and set them into cradles here. This should allow us to inspect and repair them much quicker."
Sheldon studied the comely sea captain. Her wealth of strawberry hair seemed to come to life in the morning sun. He gazed into her leaf-green eyes as she laid out her plan for the day. " Some smaller vessels we can use the boat transporter wagons to move into the enclave as well. I will get crews to work on it at once." Sheldon brought his fist to his heart in a salute of respect. Sandy's unblinking stare made him nervous. The Squire did not want to stand there drinking in the vision of her. Over the past week or so his eyes seemed to seek her out throughout the day. The pair of them did work well together, He admitted.
Sandy watched the Squire move to the barracks. Soon Squads of soldiers moved to the livery and hitched muscled oxen to the boat transporters. "You my Lord of Oakendale are quite the specimen of a strong ox your self," She whispered. Causing a blush to color her cheeks. "Ok, my sea dogs lets get all these small vessels staged by the first wharf. Prince Tristan want them all made sea worthy as soon as possible. We can't have folks saying the Prince's navy is not pulling their wait." She drew her sabre, pointing it like a baton. " I want cauldrons of tar boiling there," She pointed. " Stack bales of wool there beside it for making Oakum to calk the seams. Pile brushes nearby to coat the newly calked vessels submerged bottoms. On this side i want sails made to fit all ropes are to be replaced with new. Every block, tackle, and rudder will be inspected. Our goal is to make them good as new once more. Each plank and deck board will be checked if one is in question. The answer is simple replace it. We will not be embarrassed by failing at the duty the Prince have given us." She flashed her sailors a quick grin. "Now move my sea dogs, the sun is up and the day is marching on."
Vessels were lifted to the dry dock cradles where waiting crews scrambled over under and around like an army of ant over a food morsel. Sheldon's crews brought in smaller vessels on their transports and by midday The banks of the bay had been swept of beached craft. Including the larger vessels lifted up by the cranes the total topped fifty salvageable craft. The ranged from row boats to twin sail fishing vessels. When the sun began to set Sandy blew a long blast on the whistle about her neck. The sailors assembled on the parade yard.
Lord Sheldon stood beside Sandy as the crews assembled. His clothes covered in tar and pitch. "Good work to my crews. I know this day's venture was strenuous, I take pride in the efforts given this day. When our initual task of clearing the beaches was done you jumped right in to help the inspection and restoration crews. You have my thanks." Sheldon saluted those assembled. Then motioned to Captain Sandy.
Captain Sandy looked at the tar smeared squire and did he best to hide her smile of amusement. "I can not properly put into words my feelings of your actions this day. Must chest feels as if it might burst with pride. We collected fifty-four vessels in total we deemed salvageable. Of that fifty-four, thirty-two have been recalked, tared, painted, and now moored in the Marina. The remaining twenty should be completed in the next few days. Take pride in your efforts, take pride in Breezae. I have prepared a surprise in the messhall. Firemead and a feast await you. Well done my Sea Dogs, well done indeed. Dismissed." Captain Sandy watched as her weary crews found new life and energy. Cheers erupted amongst those assembled as they turned to return to the barracks for along needed bath and change of clothes.
Sandy and Sheldon made their way around the crews as they ate their fill and drank the warming firemead. "We have come so far Sheldon, I appreciate the aid you have given me in the past days," She said. Turning to look into the sea blue of Sheldon's eyes. Tentatively she grasped his large hand in hers before continuing. "I have become very fond of the Lord of Oakendale. Your strength is a comfort as it supports me. I have only this to give in way of reward." Lady Sandy of Lallae brought her arms up around his neck standing on her tiptoes she kissed him long and passionately. Reluctantly, pulling herself from the heat of that kiss. "Is that a suitable reward Sheldon?" She questioned.
"Close, but not quite enough," Sheldon replied. With amusement and passion in his eyes he drew her up. The flood gates opened, and he poured himself into his kiss. The pair seemed to melt together becoming one. When the couple pulled away once more, they held unto one another not trusting the sturdiness of their legs. "That should just about do it," Sheldon added with a smile.
The couple walked along the wharves of the enclave and the moonlight bathed them. Hand-in-hand he escorted Sandy to her Quarters before returning to his own.
The days, and their morning meetings seemed to pass by in a blur, Tristan wondered, as he stood on his balcony greeting the day. The merchantmen he and the rest of the crew of the Osprey had taken set sail for Nicholae with the morning tide yesterday.Their holds had been filled with iron ingots, casks and barrels of salt, fine timber logs and sponges that had been gathered and dried from the sea. Many of the booth's of the market now had tenants. The streets were nearly all clean and half the buildings and the inside of the city walls had fresh coats of white wash. The granite roads were uncovered all the way to the iron mine and a few leagues into the forest going east and west. Patrols had discovered two small groups of humans and meadow folk living underground back in the forest near the meadows edge. He let out an explosive breath. Today was the day he was to meet this mysterious Kalix, he had heard so much about.
Tristan had been to hundreds of formal state affairs, why was he so nervous. Calming himself he inhaled deeply and closed his eyes willing the image of Celestae's face to appear before him. Tristan looked into those emerald eyes and everything was ok again. He finished dressing in his green britches and Leather cuirass. His long brown hair was pulled back and tied with leather into the rangers braid. His soft leather half boots, hardly made a sound as he moved to the table and belted on his sword. Then he went down to meet this mysterious Kalix.
Prince Tristan entered, seeing his small company sitting at their table. Captain Talon, and Astrid were there as well. He walked toward his seat and on the way he passed a very old elf who sat sipping noisily at his tea. The old man's walking staff fell to floor at Tristan's feet. With out any hesitation he stooped picked up the staff and laid it gently across the old patrons lap. "There you go Elder Elf, may you have a most pleasant day." He then turned and went to take his seat by his betrothed. Tristan sat, asked the blessings of the gods on their meal, his company and his people. "Has Master Kalix yet arrived?" he enquired.
Celestrae smiled sweetly at him and nodded to her father who rose from his chair and walked over to the old elf sipping and slurping at his tea. "It is time Father" Lord Talon said as he helped the stooped old elf to his his feet. Lord Talon did his best to keep a smile from touching his face.
"So it would seem my son, so it would seem." He struck the floor with his staff and a shower of golden light enveloped him. When the shower fell away, a dark haired elf with lavender eyes stood in the old mans place. His emerald robe was trimmed in gold thread work. Kalix held a white staff with a large amethyst clutched in a dragons talon."It is indeed time. I am Kalix of clan Talon, royal mage to house Breezae and the throne of Ontillae. I am sorry for the delay in our meeting but I have been busy to the west." The Wizard said in a commanding tone. "I see here before me assembled many Lords and Ladies of ancient Ontillae.
"Lady Tyrana Starglow, Duchess to the duchy of house Starglow."
"Lord Sorast of Tides, Duke to the Duchy of Tides"
"Lord Sheldon Oakendale, Duke of Oakendale"
"Lady Sandy Lallae, Duchess of Lallae"
"Lady Spring Meadowbrook, Duchess of Meadowbrook"
"Lord Adonai Delphia, Duke of Delphia"
"Lady Ripley Erie, Duchess of Raven"
"Lord Shardal Sillicalm, Duke of Sillicalm"
"Lady Wren Willowdawn, Duchess of Willowdawn"
"Lady Kiannia Dunes, Duchess of Dunes"
"Lord Sebastian Kelpstone, Duke of Kelpstone beneath the sea"
"Lady Valonia Gullsea, Duchess of Gullsea."
"Lord Shea Lakefort, Duke of Lakefort"
"Lady Lorrayne Axefall, Duchess of Axefall"
"Lord Flinton Forgefire, Duke of Forgefire"
"Lord Townsend Talon, Duke of Celestrae, and my son"
"Lady Astrid Talon, Heir to the Duchy of Celestrae, beloved Granddaughter"
"Lady Celestrae Talon, Heir of House Celestae, Princess of Clan Talon, Betrothed to house Breezae, Queen in waiting of all Ontillae and beloved Granddaughter"
" This kind young man is a Prince, that would stoop to lift the fallen walking stick, of an old elf who slurps loudly at his tea. Long have I waited for thee Tristan. Lord Breezae of House Breezae, Clan Sunbringer, Duke of Breezae, King of all Ontillae, and over King of the Seven Jewels of the East"
The Elven mage looked at each with a penetrating gaze. "You, assembled Lords and Ladies are the hope of this realm and all Shaelendria though they know you not. Prince Tristan show them the birthmark of Clan Sunbringer so all will know you." He paused as Tristan stood and raised his shirt to reveal the dragon shape birthmark over his heart. "All bear witness this is your true King, even as each of you bear a birthmark of a star on your right shoulder blade. Celestae too bears the Dragon birthmark over her heart of Clan Talon. These are the signs that the Drelven have come. Beneath the skin of each of you flows the blood of both Noble Elven Houses and Noble Dragon Clans. You are the first of the Drelven, You are the fruit of the compact between Sunbringer and Shaelendar. I welcome you home to Ontillae. Long have we held our breath awaiting your coming. Already a city whose populace was broken with despair has new life. Great evil that has for decades held sway here, is being purged. The war birds that once plied the sea's sail stronger than before. Like the phoenix, shall Ontillae rise from these ashes once more. Follow me now to the Market Square." He then turned and made his way out into the green cobblestone courtyard and marched down the street to the Market Square.
The procession entered the crowded Market Square. Where the brightly colored booths flapped in the breeze from the sea. A large platform had been raised in the center. Kalix made his way to the top and waited there for them. It appeared most of the citizenry of Breezae was crowded in and around the market. They filled balconies and rooftops, they stood in anticipation as Tristan, Celestae, Lady Astrid, and Captain Talon joined him. The other Lords and Ladies took their places unrehearsed on the tier below.
" Know ye all good citizens, this is the day of prophecies and compacts forged in times eons ago. Long has the House of Breezae been gone from these hallowed shores, long has been your suffering and despair. Unkown, to you the house of Breezae returned and brought he with him the long missing Lords and Ladies of this land. Lord Talon stood over a century in the stead of House Breezae. You have endured much more than your share of injustice from the evil that is without these walls. These here upon this platform are but some of the Drelven." Kalix nodded to Tristan, who knelt down before him. He then placed his hand on Tristan's head. "This humble Lord that kneels here before me is in fact the son of your Beloved Lord Edvon and Lady Dannah. He is heir to this Duchy and to the throne of all Ontillae, He is the Over king of the Seven Jewels of the East. Tristan is Heir to all, and he is also a descendant of the Noble Dragon Clan Sunbringer making him Kinsmen to Elerrinar the Dragon Protector of House Breezae. Who has stood watch all these thousands of year's. Noble is his blood for Sunbringer the Dragon King was his sire. Elerrinar will you acknowledge this Lord that kneels before me?"
Overhead came a deafening roar and great tongues of flame filled the sky. The great golden drake plunged towards them and shimmered in a cascade of golden light. Then as the cascade reached the platform it fell away to reveal a large golden elf. "I will claim Prince Tristan as my kinsman and validate his claim He is the sole heir of House Breezae and beloved of Clan Sunbringer." A battle crown appeared in Elerrinar's hands. "Will You Prince Tristan, Heir to House Breezae, Heir to the throne of Ontillae, Heir to the Seven Jewels of the East, and Beloved of Clan Sunbringer, Swear to uphold justice and serve your people as their Duke and rightful Lord?"
"I do so swear my protector and kinsmen, with my last breath shall i fight for my people." Tristan said in a humble voice.
"Then rise Duke Tristan and receive thee, thine inheritance hidden all these long years. People of Breezae here is your Lord." Elerrinar placed the crown upon Tristan's head and shimmered as a golden shower upwards toward the west wall and breathed a vast plume of flame and the air shimmered and wavered then like a curtain being dropped the palace of Breezae and the great dragon chapel were revealed. No longer hidden. Great towers and High walls encased with white marble and copper tiled roof tops with the Breezae banners snapping in the wind emerged. On top of the Great Dragon Temple sat Elerrinar who roared, " Welcome Home Duke of Breezae and my kinsmen. Welcome home Tristan long have I awaited thee!!!!."
The Lords and Ladies yelled, "Welcome Home Duke Tristan, Welcome Home!!!!" and they dropped to one knee, then the people of Breezae roared "Welcome Home Duke Tristan Welcome Home!!!!
Elerrinnar looked down on the celebrations. The market square was filled with music,laughter and dancing. Kalix flew beside him. "It would appear old friend, that hope has sprang from every sector of the city. Their Lord has returned, moved among them. He and his small company has taught them to live once more." Kalix sent to Elerrinnar.
The pair of gold dragons circled high over the city, keeping their silent vigil. "They have so much that rest upon them. They have claimed Breezae, and must soon strive to claim the rest of Ontillae. Prince Tristan will not stop until the lands of his Lords, and Ladies are reclaimed." The dragons drifted upon the night wind to land upon the great dome of the dragon Temple. "Then Tristan, and his small company will have to move to reclaim the Seven Jewels of the Eastern sea. Only then, will they be ready to reforge the Shaelendrian Empire." Elerrinnar turned to Kalix, and the great wurms studied each other. "I have so much pride in our grand children and all the drelven." He shimmered in a mist of golden light then stood there as an elf holding two tankards of firemead. Kalix joined him and they toasted to their grandchildren.