Chapter 1: Awakening [Chris O’Kane, Indy]
June 1, 708
Deep within Metamor Keep the rats play in the cellars. These are neither dank nor dark, as one might expect, but cozy homes kept clean and neat lit by fairy lights the colors of Christmas bulbs. The rats themselves are dressed similar to Keep fashion, though they rarely show themselves within the Keep proper. They, instead, stay close to rat size and live in their comfy homes, venturing out to gather food from the fields or making their own.
On the first of June, a young rat named Trey awakened within his nest. The call of the summer reached down and took hold of him, stirring him to leave his home and scamper up and up through the paths long made. On two and four legs he ran, scampering at the imperious call of the outside world. Finally, he reached the end and allowed his eyes to adjust before exiting into the bright light and warmth of a fine June day.
He found himself in one of the outer courtyards of the keep. A place busy with the hustle and bustle of daily life. People of many different species moved about on their daily errands. Also enjoying the warmth and sunshine of a new summer day.
"It's a wanderful day!" the rat exclaimed aloud to no one and everyone at the same time.
Chapter 2: Temptation [Rimme]
It was a Friday, and although it wasn't quite the end of the week, still there were many Keepers out enjoying the good weather. A couple reptile morphs lay on the rooftops, basking in the early morning sun. But for most Keepers, it was business as usual, either running their shops, or visiting the shops of others, before the bigger crowds came in on Saturday. A few nobles were already talking about Artela'kema and making their preparations for the Duke's Hunt in two days—refitting their steeds' shoes, brushing them down, or taking some practice trots around town.
For Aldwin, this was no time to be relaxing. He and the other guards were already supposed to have been back on the road today, but his employer Gwayn was still looking for a buyer for their carpets. The usual buyer for his wares had died in a plague back in March, apparently an attack by the Daedra. Gwayn had already sold off their wool blankets to various small shops, enough to pay back some of their wages for the journey to Metamor, but they needed someone who could buy carpets in bulk, or they wouldn't have enough money for the return trip home. And if they didn't leave within two days, they'd risk being trapped in Metamor—unless they did something drastic.
Aldwin hoped it didn't come to that. He joined the caravan thinking he'd use his combat skills protecting the innocent and seeing the world, getting away from his days on the town watch harassing starving beggars and petty thieves. He did not want to have to make a bad decision. But if it came down to life and death, a choice between helping his coworkers rob their boss so they could all safely return home, or being stranded homeless and friendless in a strange town in a strange form...
His stomach growled. Since their food stocks had all spoiled thanks to a heavy rain and a leaky storage box, they'd all been left to buy their own food. Or steal it, Aldwin suspected. Aldwin wanted to avoid stealing, as long as his few coins lasted. He turned the corner towards the market stalls, hoping his haggling skills were up to par.
Chapter 3: Treacherous Talk [Chris O’Kane, Indy]
No one was within range to hear, but that hardly mattered. Trey found easy footing among the stones and had no fear of falling at all. He scampered around, enjoying the light and air. He soon came across a group of five human men in a fairly empty area. They had a worried expression and were talking amongst themselves.
"Five damned days now. He ain't gonna find a new buyer in this place."
"I never understood why Gwayn comes to this accursed place. Laselle's just south and isn't touched. Folks there can use carpets just as much if not more."
Trey looked them over. Out here in the outer wards of Euper, traders from outside the Keep were common. But these men kept their voices low, and many of them were patting the weapons at their sides. They clearly looked dangerous.
"Th' old buyer was a friend of his way back. Offered him more for the carpets than anyone else. Guess he figured th' folks here might be generous." Trey tried to memorize their faces. This one didn't bother to whisper. He had scruffy brown hair and a light stubble, his hand cocked casually on the knife at his hip.
"Well, we're going to have to decide soon. Three more days and *none* of us are leaving." This man was the tallest of the five, thin and limber. He also had a hand on his dagger, but gripped it more defensively.
A sixth man came to join them, with reddish hair and a yew of Eli around his neck. He had a basket and handed out some bread.
"Bless you Aldwin!" the first man who spoke said. "Where'd you get these?" He ravenously gulped his loaf down. This man's hair was blond, and his clothes were much shabbier than Aldwin's.
"At a food stand near here. Prices were right. Why are you all here? Where's Gwayn?"
"We got tired of followin' him around. Ain't much room for us here an' he ain't got enough on him ta be worth robbin'," the hungry man said.
"That's not strictly true. The horses have enough for us in their saddles," said Aldwin. "He trusts the stable enough to leave them there, but we can get at them any time."
The other men stood up. "What're you sayin' Aldwin?"
Aldwin took a breath. "I came to offer my protection, not be turned into something unnatural. I wouldn't want to rob him—that never ends well—but I don't want to be trapped here either. I especially don't like how light our purses are. Tomorrow's Saturday: busiest day, most likely for him to find a buyer. I say we give him till then."
"And if he don't find a buyer?" This man hadn't spoken at all before now. He was the shortest of the six, with rough calloused hands and clear blue eyes.
"We leave quietly early Sunday morning. I can lie to the stables about it. We leave before Gwayn is even up. I don't want to, but I don't see we have much of a choice. Sooner or later our light purses will turn into starvation. And if we steal..."
"We get caught and end up stuck here." This man, the last to speak up, had black hair and the cleanest armor of the group.
"If we're lucky. Most places take a dim view of thieves and hang them high. But we'd best be doing our duties before or Gwayn will suspect."
The others nodded. Another human came. "There you all are! What's this, a lunch break?"
"The men got hungry," said Aldwin. "I went to find some cheap food. Can't guard on an empty stomach."
"Well, if you expect more pay, you'd best hope I not get robbed! I had to find someone willing to watch my wares while I came looking for you!"
"Well, we're all fed and rested, and ready to do our duties again," said Aldwin.
The other men nodded and followed their employer back into the crowds. If any of them had looked up, they'd have seen Trey with a furious look on his face! Betrayal! He had to do something, but what?
"It's not like there is any real threat," one said, "Nothing we can’t handle." The small group made its way through the crowd. Trey was quiet as he pondered what to do next.
"There is always someone here looking to steal what I have," the man countered. "And if I lose my items, I can't sell them and if I can’t make money neither do you."
Chapter 4: Rollover Plan [Kamau]
Rorlyn glided lazily down the valley, his eyes sweeping the land for any signs of trouble. The warmth of the day gave him plenty of thermals to use, saving him from having to flap his wings only occasionally to move to another updraft. As the Keep itself came into view he could see the people of Euper enjoying the warmth and sun.
Maintaining his altitude, he began to circle the Keep itself. Those who did not need to work were in many of the sunny places and even those on watch seemed to be soaking up the sun’s gift that day. He noticed on one of the upper towers his friend Sal, who was being pure cat and just lying on the warmed stone floor. A playful thought came to the gryphon’s mind, and he banked to his left angling his wings and tail feathers for descent. Passing over the west end of the wall he now drew in his wings, leaving them out just enough to guide what was now a full speed dive at the tower where the smilodon lay. Just before reaching the tower, he used his eagle voice, letting out a screech. Sal’s eyes popped open just in time to see and feel the huge, feathered body pass within inches of him, causing him to instinctively roll for cover.
“Damn you Rorlyn,” the big cat screamed, jumping to his feet, “you scared the living daylights out of me.”
The gryphon’s dark wing feathers flashed in golden hues as he swung around, coming close to his friend.
“That was the general idea,” he replied, a chuckle in his voice, “Can’t have someone found sleeping while standing the watch.”
“I’m not on watch you feathered and furred nit wit. These towers are manned only when we expect trouble.”
“Gee, I guess I forgot,” Rorlyn replied coming into a hover with the aid of his magic, an avian smile on his face. I, however, need to move on up the valley as I am on duty.
With a few strokes of his massive wings, he was once again at his usual height and gliding to the north. A short time later he noticed a single red skinned figure in the distance. He stared intently for a moment for he had never seen anyone who looked like this in the valley. He altered his course to bring him over to that location on the road to investigate who or what this might be.
Chapter 5: An Idle Walk [Rimme]
The six guards dispersed then, each heading to their assigned duties. Gallus returned to Gawyn's side throughout town. Rodrick and Nathan returned to the inn to guard their master's room and cargo, although Rodrick broke away to join Jerrod in ongoing games of cards and coins to win some extra bread and ale. Aldwin, minus Jerrod, went off to check the other taverns for other merchant caravans, seeking news on the road south and the usual market gossip. Which left the last guard to roam the streets for further intel and other buyers Gawyn might've missed.
Only Gawyn knew this guard's true name, but he became known as Reed among the guards for three reasons: his rail-thin stature, his silent movement, and the sharp low whistle he gave on spotting a trap. He was not particularly skilled at the sword or staff or bow, but his stealth and observation were invaluable for avoiding ambushes. If the rumors were to be believed, he had gotten his skills not as a scout, but as a thief against the city watch of Salinon. It was also rumored that he had no qualms against killing friends who knew his secrets, that Reed was loyal only to himself and might even backstab them once they left the watchful eye of Metamor.
And Reed didn't trust them either. He had indeed once been a thief, though nowhere as cruel as the rumors made him out to be. It was, in fact, for those same skills that Gawyn had tasked him with a secret mission for today. He was to find the mysterious Thieves' Guild rumored to exist in Metamor, as such guilds always did beneath the public squares and open markets. If the carpets couldn't find a reputable buyer, then an underground buyer would do, so long as the coin was good.
Reed had already warned Gawyn that he had little chance of succeeding. It was no easy task to contact the Thieves' Guild, doubly so as a foreigner, triply so in Metamor where secret passages came and went like smoke. And the prices wouldn't be great, especially since trade among thieves tended to be cut-throat in more ways than one. Still, Reed enjoyed the urban wilderness even more than the uncivilized one, and he set about investigating the many marks etched into the city walls. Most of them would have been scratched in by street kids, common thugs, bored warriors, or accidental wagon crashes, but it was as useful an exercise as searching for master thieves.
A flash of movement caught his eye. He saw a rat dart into a small mousehole along the castle walls. Normally Reed would have ignored the rat, but here in Metamor, any animal could be a spy, and his old suspicions of the city watch flared up. He began scanning the walls for other exits the rat could appear from.
Chapter 6: A Wall-side Chat [Indy]
Trey watched the man as he seemed to casually examine the various walls. There didn’t seem to be anything particularly interesting about it, but Trey was sure he was looking for something.
‘Could he be looking for me?’ The hole he’d gone into was one of a network that led through buildings. He knew the paths well and could watch from various points without being seen. Having never known anything but the Keep, Trey had no reason not to think the man wasn’t looking for him.
‘What would the brave Matthias do?’ Among rats and mice, Matthias was a legendary hero whose exploits seemed to grow in the telling. It was pretty obvious the man was looking for something. Trey had no idea if he could actually win a fight against the stranger, and he wasn’t about to try.
“What is it you want?”
Reed looked up. It seemed as though the very stones had spoken! Or had it been that rat? Could the rat speak? He wasn’t sure what the limits were on the Curses–if there were any at all!
“My employer is looking for new buyers for his wares. He has a great many carpets he needs to sell and is determined not to leave until he secures a buyer, or we have no choice.” It was the truth, and whatever he was dealing with didn’t need to know about the planned mutiny.
Trey considered what he said. It matched what he’d overheard earlier, except the part about betrayal, but if he’d been planning to betray someone, he wouldn’t mention it either. “This isn’t a spot where you’re likely to find any buyers. You’re looking for something else.”
There were holes enough in the walls, but by now the rat could be in any one of them, watching him. If it were the rat and the actual Keep wasn’t talking. Or someone invisible. Or a ghost. Reed shook his head. Too many variables. “I’d prefer to see who I’m talking to.”
“I don’t trust you.”
It was said in such a sincere way that he chuckled, despite himself. “Alright, that’s fair. We don’t know one another, after all. I don’t care to be watched, but I don’t suppose I can convince you I’m on a legitimate errand.”
‘What to do?’ Trey knew that, technically, the man was telling the truth, even though he had ill intentions in the future. ‘He hasn’t committed a crime, yet, and if I can help him, he and his comrades won’t. It’s better to stop a crime before it happens than punish it after.’ “If I could find someone to buy the carpets, where could I reach you?”
“We’re staying at the Jollie Collie. If you leave a message there, I or my companions will get it.”
“Very well, I’ll see what I can do!” Trey scampered off along the tunnels and headed towards the town. He had no idea where, or if, he could find a buyer for the merchant. And if he couldn’t soon, he needed to alert someone to the plot. ‘I hope I can stop it somehow.’
Chapter 7: The Fire Oni [Indy, Kamau]
It didn’t take much time for Rorlyn to close the distance and clearly see what the creature was. In a word, it was huge.
It stood at least nine feet tall and looked almost like an ogre except for its brilliantly red skin, wild white hair, and a pair of large, yellow horns on its head. It wore what looked like an elegantly embroidered blue loin cloth with pouches around the waist. There was another band of thick leather that looked like tiger hide, and that held a huge, spiked club to its back.
The winged mage focused on the manna about the creature. There was no doubt that it was carrying something that was magical. Giving a tap to his protective medallion he slowly spiraled down making sure that his descent would not be seen as aggressive. Coming within hearing of this creature Rorlyn ready some of his magic just in case there was trouble. The gryphon called out, “Who and what are you?”
The figure looked up. “I am Hikariarashi Kasaima. You might call me an ogre, though I’m really an oni. We’re related but not the same. Why don’t you come down and introduce yourself? I don’t like straining my neck.”
Rarely did he make first contact as his size and form frighten many, but he made an exception for this sizable visitor, “Good to meet you Mr. Harry Rush You Ka Simon, er, Harry I Rash You, ah,” Rorlyn felt somewhat embarrassed and so simply continued “Mr. Long Name. I am Rorlyn. Being on patrol I must remain airborne.”
“Rorlyn, eh? I’ll remember that. Not too many griffins where I’m from. It’s been a long journey and through a lot of wild territory. If you’re not going to come down, I’ll be on my way to the Keep.”
Using a bit of his magic to aid him he came into a low hover just out of reach of the creature's weapon. If he was going to the Keep, Rorlyn wanted more than a visual report.
“What land do you come from? And, if I may ask, what is your business at the keep?”
“It’s called different things, and you’ve almost certainly never heard of it. One name, by some, is the Broken Empire. Another is the Thirteen Kingdoms. What I’m looking for is information. Even as far away as I come from, the library of Metamor Keep is a thing of legend. I’m not looking for trouble, but I can handle it if it comes.” He chuckled and tapped the handle of his spiked, iron club. At close range it was even clearer that this weapon carried some form of magic, though it was thankfully not a runic weapon as far as he could tell.
“Information? Well, you’re certainly not the first to be looking for our library. I’ll let them know that you are coming. Just like myself, your appearance could easily project less than peaceful intent.”
As Rorlyn had not yet finished his sweep of the valley he flew up the valley far enough to be out of sight and gave out a cry to call out one of the patrol members. A rabbit morph soon appeared, and the gryphon quickly passed on the information then resumed his flight north.
The small Keeper raced to the gate where he informed the officer on duty of all that Rorlyn had passed onto him.
“Oy!” The officer exclaimed, “As if we don’t got enough trouble with lutins!”
“Well, if he doesn’t cause trouble don’t give him any! But I’m going to find Misha and alert the Longs and anyone else I can think of!”
Kasaima, when he arrived, was not surprised to see a rather large number of soldiers around the gate. At their head was a being that looked like a humanoid horse. He’d wondered if that was true or simply a rumor.
“I am Duke Thomas of Metamor Keep. I have been informed of who you say you are and why you state you are coming. We are fairly welcoming here, but we don’t want trouble.”
Kasaima laughed. “If I wanted to give you trouble, that griffon wouldn’t have made it back. I’d advise you all to stand back so I can give a demonstration!” The guards, being no fools, stood back as Kasaima lifted his iron club into the air. “Hi to raito, okiru!”
From the spikes on his club sparks of fire and flashes of light rose into the air in a vortex of power! The contingent of guards who were watching, could feel the power and heat! “Owari!” As suddenly as it began, the display ended. Kasaima looked very pleased with himself. “As you can see, if I wanted to be destructive, you’d already know.”
The display made people nervous, but they also couldn’t deny he would have been able to kill had he wanted. “Very well, as long as you stay in peace, you are welcome. You may do your research at the library, providing you can find it.”
Kasaima frowned. “Do you intend to not give me directions to it?”
“Directions wouldn’t help,” said Thomas. “The library can move on its own. If it does not wish to be found, no amount of walking will ever get you to it.”
“Ah, I see. Still, I will try, and I don’t think I’ll be denied.” Kasaima marched into the Keep unopposed but with more eyes watching him than he knew. The mages of the Keep, having been alerted to the possible threat, were already working to figure out how to contain him if it became necessary.
As he walked in, people stopped and stared, but no one challenged him or stood in his way. He was grimly amused by that, given the reception he’d gotten in other places. No one seemed eager to help him find his way around, so he found himself in an alleyway in part of the Keep. As he pondered where to go next, a small voice called out.
“Excuse me, would you happen to be in need of rugs?”
Looking to where the voice seemed to come from Kasaima saw a rat. “Did you just ask me if I needed rugs?”
“Yes! I am in need of someone looking to buy rugs. Lots of rugs.”
“I could maybe use some of your rugs as towels.” Kasaima chuckled. What else could he do?
“They’re not my rugs. They belong to a merchant visiting the Keep and if he can’t find a buyer there’s going to be trouble. I’m trying to help.”
“Well, I’m not actually in need of rugs, but I may be able to help if you can help me. I’m looking for the library.”
“Oh! That’s tricky! I can lead you to the right general area, but if Kyia doesn’t want you to get there, uh, well, you won’t. Oh, I’m Trey by the way. Mind if I hop on to help?”
“I am Hikariarashi Kasaima. My name to acquaintances is Kasaima-san. I come from far in the East where the library is legend.” He held up a hand and Trey jumped down on it and ran to his shoulder.
“Thank you Kasaima-san! Uh, isn’t it odd to use your last name? And what’s the san part?”
“I’ll explain on the way, Trey-san. Maybe you can tell me more about this place?”
Chapter 8: Another Strange Visitor [Kamau]
Meanwhile Rorlyn had resumed his journey to the north, once again riding the winds of warm air.
His years of patrolling and other adventures had taught the gryphon what the optimum height and distance was to clearly see something below and most likely remain unnoticed. Even if his target was to look up, he would appear only as a large bird. Having reached that point he resumed circling and somewhat to the north of the road to Mycransburg he saw another traveler on the road below him. He blinked in puzzlement as he got his first look at this figure.
"What in the world? Has someone declared this strange visitor day or something?”
Firstly, unlike the first encounter, it was small, reaching only a bit higher than a man’s belt. A quick way to describe its appearance would be to compare it to a small, wingless dragon. It was covered head to toe with scales. The head was purely draconic in appearance with bony ridges and two horns on it. The creature’s ears, however, were not dragon-like but long and tapered, the eyes were also definitely draconic and constantly swept the area for threats. Its tail was perhaps slightly more than half its height but rigid enough to keep it from dragging on the ground. As Rorlyn completed his first circle above he also noted its clothing. A vest and a loincloth, mostly tan in color. It had nothing on its feet and from a belt hung a short sword as well as a pouch and dagger.
“Hmm, certainly not from our area but as it’s coming from the north I wonder if it came from the Giant Downs?” the gryph mused to himself. In any case it was worth having someone taking a closer look.
With his avian vocal ability, he gave out with a bird call that he had established with the scouts and patrol to signal their need to take a look at something. Just as the creature reached a place where trees grew very close to the road a buxom woman he knew well stepped out a short distance behind the unknown creature and called out “Excuse me, you seem lost, can I help you?”
While perhaps not unexpected but certainly worrisome, the creature spun around, taking a low crouch and placed its hand on the hilt of its sword. The gryphon mage on seeing this readied a spell that would disable the unknown traveler well before it could reach the female warrior.
“Please, I mean you no harm. If you are of peaceful intent, you are welcome in these lands. As you are new to the valley, I just want to aid you in finding your way.”
Keeping her hands away from any weapon she carried she took another slow step toward it. The response was far from what she had hoped for as the newcomer drew his sword part way out of its sheath and gave a low growl. The gryphon mage flew over the treetops, banking so he would be in position to release his spell. But now the creature spun to face the large gryphon. Releasing his grip on the sword his hands fell, one to his belt and the other to his pouch. In less than a breath he had placed the object in the sling and launched it at the winged mage. With a flap of his wings, he spun to the right and banked just enough to allow the projectile to miss its mark.
Snapping his arm forward he called out,
“Scield energeyc”
Before the creature could reach for another projectile a radiant sphere reached him sprouting jagged fingers of light. A draconic roar escaped his muzzle as one of them touched him and he collapsed to the ground, twitching and riving in the dirt.
The female warrior, remembering this spell from previous engagement, walked up to the still quivering body, being sure to keep as safe distance. She gave a glance up the road as the gryphon settled to the ground, eyes quickly returning to the victim.
“Was that really necessary?” she asked, giving Rorlyn a quick glance.
“It was nowhere near a dangerous level.” Came his reply. “He will recover in a few moments.”
“Oh? Just like a certain rabbit we both know some time back.” she answered, a slight smile crossing her face.
“Cal got a much stronger dose than this one Kate.” Rorlyn answered, giving a quick flutter of his wings to settle them at his side. “Back then I had nowhere near the skill I possess now.”
A moan alerted both to the creature’s recovering and Kate quickly removed the weapons from his belt. As his eyes opened, he mumbled something in a language which neither understood.
“Draconic, I think,” Rorlyn commented “And that would make sense considering his form.”
With a nod Kate spoke in a couple other languages such as a draconic speaker might know but got no response. The red-scaled traveler wobbled into an upright position and looked between the two.
“Common, know some. No much talk of.”
“But you can understand us?” Kate asked.
His head wobbled in a way that could have been either yes or no. “Know some, not easy me understand.”
“Don’t worry about it. When we reach the Keep, we will have someone who speaks draconic interpret for you.” Kate assured him.
“If you intend to take him to the Keep, you’d best get moving. You have just about enough time to reach it before they close the gates.”
The female warrior reached for a set of leather cuffs and placed them on the scaled visitor. Soon they were on their way to the Keep and Rorlyn continued his patrol hoping for no more surprises this day.
Chapter 9: A Deep Pit [Chris O’Kane, Rimme]
The Jolly Collie was a very nice inn. And thanks to Misha's ownership, it was much cheaper than it had any right to be. Jerrod liked that quite a lot. It made him more confident with his bidding.
With Rodrick by his side, he'd managed to gather a small fortune, enough for him to split from the caravan and make his own way south. Rodrick wanted more. He wanted enough for both of them. So, they picked a new target.
Jerrod knew a trick or two when it came to gambling. He knew his deck. He knew the four kings and the four deuces. He knew how to shuffle to force them into his hand or his opponents'.
But this kid they sat down with...it was like Lady Luck were by his side. Where Jerrod got a two pair, the kid got a three-of-a-kind. Where Jerrod tried to force a four-of-a-kind, the kid would get a straight flush. The kid must have been cheating, but how? He only touched the cards to cut. He must have been bluffing the other times, but the kid was unreadable, smiling blankly whether he betted or folded.
Jerrod's confident bids all dried up, and he was forced to bid his own knife and spear and armor to win back his earnings. And now those were gone too.
"Well, gee," the kid said, scrubbing his lip with ale-soaked fingers, "I'd love to keep playing, maybe help you win back your stuff, but I see you have nothing left to bid."
Jerrod wished he'd bought more than one drink at the start. This little child was humiliating him at cards with a full pint. He needed another. He wouldn't leave until he did. He looked around the inn. Rodrick had left the instant he'd struck out, to be replaced by a frog morph who was also in dire straits, but still a ways from going broke. There were no other guards watching them.
"You know," Jerrod said slowly. "I'm in a caravan that's got some extra carpets in stock. We always lose one or two of them during transport."
The kid quirked an eye. "You're trying to pay me with a cheap rug?"
"They're not cheap," Jerrod almost hissed. "They're in great condition, all the way from Pyralis." He forced a smile. "You're not going to win anyway. Your luck won't last forever."
The kid seemed conflicted...or was it an act? Finally, the kid put down twenty gold crowns, at least five of which had once been Jerrod's. "Call," he said.
"It ain't normal to keep winning like that," Jerrod snarled. "You have to be cheating somehow. I just don't how."
"Prove it or quit whining," the boy said. "And play. Not my fault if you are such a poor player."
"Are you using magic?" Jerrod asked. "Got to be it!"
The inn went very quiet as Jerrod's accusations hung in the air. The boy leveled Jerrod with a blank look. "It seems to me, sir, that you or your companions are suffering from severely bad luck. Could it be that there is someone else to blame for your own misfortune?"
The frog man did his best to intervene. "My friend, I think you are suffering from what I like to call 'dry head'. What you need is a bit more sauce on your bones. Barkeep! Another round for the table!"
The frog hadn't won much or lost much in this game, but it was still Jerrod's money that the frog had taken and spent as he liked. Jerrod could have taken each of them down with his fists. If he got his knife or spear off the kid's hands, he could take down both of them. The thought of the City Watch never crossed his mind.
Fortunately for him, Gawyn and Reed ran into the room. Gawyn fixed a look at Jerrod's belt, conspicuously free of weapons, the coin purse empty. "What's going on? Is there any trouble here?"
Jerrod shot him a hostile look. "This boy is a cheat and a scoundrel. And I will find out how he cheated me!"
"I think you've spent enough coin for today," Gawyn said as he and Reed pulled him up. Jerrod resisted at first, but gave in. There was no point in starting a fight yet. "Come on, I just heard there's a stranger who came into town. He may be willing to buy our rugs. If his gold's good, we'll be out of here by tomorrow."
Jerrod frowned but followed him out, still glowering over his bitter loss.
"Cheer up," Reed whispered. "We'll be out of here soon."
Jerrod glared at him, spun on his heels, and shouted over the murmur of the inn: "This isn't the end of it!"
The boy watched them leave. He shrugged and took back his twenty gold crowns. He and the frog exchanged looks, then began looking around the room for another mark.
"Those two were cheating," Jerrod commented as they moved along.
"Can you prove it?" Reed responded.
"I'm sure of it," Jerrod said.
"Never mind him," Reed said. "We'll make a fortune from the rugs."
"Who wants our rugs?" He asked. "Some rich local? Another merchant?"
Reed smiled. "You'll be surprised who it is."
Chapter 10: A Search For Knowledge [Indy]
“So now we’re in the part of the Keep that moves.” Trey was enjoying the company of the strange being called Kasaima-san. Kasaima-san, for his part, was marveling at the architecture.
“Moves? How?”
“Uh, the spirit of the Keep, Kyia, does it. I really don’t know the details. It’s why the library is tricky to find. See, if Kyia doesn’t want you to find somewhere–or insists you go–that is that. All roads will either lead away from or towards it. Of course, most usually people don’t have to worry about it.”
“I see. I’m grateful for you trying to help me anyway.” Suddenly they came across the library. It stood five stories tall and had rows of long glass on each story. The top was a blue dome that seemed to glitter like a gem. The uppermost rows of windows seemed to be made of stained glass. It was braced on all sides by flying buttresses. The doors were inlaid wood with stained glass all around them. Directly above the doors, in a circle of stone, there was a golden quill and a book made of white marble. So carefully was it carved that it looked as though it could be read if anyone could reach it.
Kasaima-san let out a long, low whistle. “You’d have to go far to see prettier than this! I’m already encouraged!”
They went inside. The vestibule was a well-sized area. The floors and walls were burnished, inlaid wood that had a comforting, welcoming look. A pleasant smell of old wood hung in the air.
There was a large, ornate rug on the floor in warm red with patterns of gold and black. It had a border pattern very distinct from the interior, though not in different colors. There was a desk immediately to the right. Just beyond the desk there seemed to be a ramped pillar. Behind the desk was a human woman in a blue dress who cocked her head at Kasaima-san.
“Welcome to the library, my name is Merlia. I’m the head librarian here. How can I help you?” There was a definite questioning note in her voice and she was obviously eyeing his weapon.
“I am Hikariarashi Kasaima. My name to acquaintances is Kasaima-san. I come from far in the East where the library is legend.”
“Indeed? Well, what sort of information are you looking for?”
“I’m looking for a way to put the Broken Kingdom back together again.” He smiled and looked at Trey. “And also, what to do with a bunch of flying rugs.”
Chapter 11: The Broken Empire [Indy]
“I never said the rugs flew,” said Trey worriedly as Merlia led them deep into the library through seemingly endless stacks. Labels had recently been added, sorting things by continents. Besides Galendor, Kitchelande, and Sonngefilde there were also Irombi, Fan Shoar, and Oroz–which Trey had never heard of before.
“Oh, I know. What I mean is I could make them fly if I wanted. It’d be easier than walking all the way back. I’m just not sure how many I could buy. Assuming any are left after this, of course.”
The Galendor section was largest and had numerous subsections, making Trey’s head spin. How much knowledge was in the library? “Here we are, the section on what we call the Oriental Coastlands. What we have here was brought many years ago by a scholar.”
“Yes, that would be Zhang Yazi. My clan aided him in his endeavors as the fragmenting of the Empire began.”
“Oh? Do tell. Mr. Zhang was reluctant to say more and didn’t stay very long, fearing the Curse. He left a dictionary and these materials and that was it.”
“Prince Guo Chor became Emperor Mu on his sixteenth birthday when his father died. At that time, it was the height of the Dì Wǔ Empire. Our land was at peace, our military protected our borders, and our merchants traded well with others, including the Sathmore Empire.
“Emperor Mu took a bride as well as concubines from the leaders of the twelve districts. This has been traditional to ensure peace, since the children of his bride would be his successors and those of his concubines’ his top aides or military commanders, ensuring loyalty, or so we thought.
“Time passed. No children were born, though this was not unusual. Emperor Mu was young, and there was no rush. As it continued, though, whispers began circulating. Treacherous rumors I will not repeat. Finally, though, after twelve years, the Empress Mei gave birth to a baby girl. Within that same year the concubines also gave birth to girls. A strange coincidence, if it was one.”
“What do you mean?” asked Merlia.
“We fear the emperor may have meddled with magic to ensure an heir. My clan has been charged with protecting the royal line since time immemorial, so naturally we tried to sniff out anything causing the birth issues. If it was magic, it was beyond us. But the next time, yes, that was magic.
“It was the twenty-first year of his reign. Signs of trouble were on the land. Something was wrong. The Emperor had become increasingly indulgent and haphazard since the birth of his daughters. We tried desperately to find the source but could not. And then the thirteen princes were born. The Empress and the concubines went into labor as one, and all produced a boy at exactly the same time. All divination magic confirms it!”
“But only his and the Empress’s son could be heir, right?” asked Trey.
Kasaima gave a bitter chuckle. “You would think, little one. The leaders of the provinces had become restless in the nine years that had passed. Evil thoughts seemed to fill the land. Some evil spirit was at work, more powerful than my clan could detect. We think…” he paused, looked around, and said in a whisper, “we think it was the Dark Ones. Those you call the Daedra.”
Trey gulped and Merlia blanched. “Why?”
“Do they not seek the ruin of souls for their own pleasures? The why or how hardly matters now. What happened was a civil war. The emperor and empress were murdered, despite our best efforts to protect them. We were barely able to keep their child safe! Rivals strove to control the country and also destroy all records of the births. Fortunately, we outwitted them there and Zhang Yazi was smuggled out of the country with as many records of our history as we could. Others were stored by my clan. Naturally, it was rather unorganized.”
“Yes, that would explain a lot,” said Merlia.
“What happened? Were the princesses okay? What about the princes?”
“The royal princess has been away and has stayed away. The royal heir remains under our protection. The others returned to their respective clans and the lords feuded until recently when a truce was made, but each still wants the throne for his own and treachery abounds. My clan wants to restore the true heir to the throne, but we will need help proving it is him. Genealogy will only go so far. What we need is the Celestial Sword, created ages ago with runic magic. It was hidden long ago for unknown reasons, but I think one of the volumes that were brought here has a clue as to its location. We’re hoping it’s here because it’s certainly not among the records my clan has.”
Chapter 12: Hitting the Books [Indy]
Trey jumped onto the ground and willed himself to grow. It was an odd sensation, though not unpleasant. He’d never actually grown to his full height before–all he usually needed was about three or four feet to help carry in the gleanings. Now, once he finished, he found himself a head taller than Merlia and shorter than Kasaima, though that wasn’t surprising.
“As fun as being small is, I think I’d be more helpful at my full height. Though, I’m not sure how much help I can be. I only know how to read Common.”
Merlia went to a shelf and picked up a large book. She opened it and Trey could see Common written on one side and some other script on the other. “This is the dictionary Zhang Yazi provided. I’ve been making use of it to translate in my spare time. I think I can find the glyphs you need to look for in it.”
“I can provide those.” Kasaima raised a hand and several glowing glyphs appeared in the air. “These are what you’re looking for. Will you be helping us too Merlia?”
“Sure, I’ll just get Mael to watch the desk and I’ll be right back.”
Trey helped Kasaima to remove the scrolls and began looking through them for any symbols similar to the glowing ones overhead. Merlia returned shortly to help them and the three poured over the documents until. “Ah! I think I found something!”
Kasaima and Merlia looked up at Trey, who was pointing at a place on a large scroll. “It’s here beneath this map.”
Kasaima took the scroll and read through it quickly. “So it is! You’ve done well, Trey-san! This is the map I’ve been hoping to find. Hmm…this isn’t good.” He frowned as he looked at the scroll. “This isn’t good at all!”
“What’s wrong Kasima-san?” asked Trey.
“Apparently the reason the Celestial Sword was hidden is because it began to refuse to work for the emperor! It says here that the heart of the emperor at the time was tainted with evil! I wonder if that’s related somehow to what happened recently.”
“Why didn’t your clan know about it?” asked Merlia.
“I’m not sure,” said Kasaima slowly. “My clan has many tales of struggles against evils in the land, not too unlike what’s happened recently. They knew the Sword had been hidden, but we never found out why; we were simply told that with all the trouble it seemed wiser to hide it than risk it being lost somehow. Whoever wrote this knew a lot more than they placed on parchment! I wonder if even finding the Celestial Sword will help now.”
“What do you mean?” asked Merlia.
“Well, I was always taught it would only respond to the true imperial heir, but if it is going by morality then it’s possible bloodlines won’t matter anymore and even if all of the princes tried it, they could be found wanting! I’ll have to consider this. Do you have some spare ink and paper? I’d like to make a copy.”
“Of course! It’s right nearby.” As Merlia fetched the paper, Trey shrank down and sat on the table. He sighed.
“I’m sorry I caused you more trouble Kasaima-san.”
Kasaima smiled gently. “It’s not your fault Trey-san. This is a new problem, but it’s not insurmountable. We’ve trained our ward well, and I believe him pure of heart, so it may well choose him anyway. Even if it doesn’t, we might still be able to find a ruler who will be worthy of it, and a virtuous ruler is always the best to have. Once I’m done copying, we’ll go to the Jolly Collie and see what I can do.”
Chapter 13: The Unexpected Buyer [Rimme]
The merchant and his two guards stepped out into the sun-lit streets, still packed with cursed animal people and every shape of humanity. It was mid-afternoon by now. Already, one or two market stalls had closed for the day. Soon, the day would be over.
In the few moments when the crowds thinned out, Gwayn told them what he knew of their buyer. He warned them that they should not be alarmed by his appearance, and they should hear the entire proposal before casting judgment. Jerrod didn't like the sound of that. Nothing but trouble comes when a merchant invites his bodyguards into his business decisions.
They turned onto the main street further into Metamor, falling in step behind a well-endowed woman warrior and a reptilian beast-man. Jerrod tensed, but Reed subtly pointed out the leather cuffs on the reptile's wrists. Probably some petty thief, being taken to the Watch cells for safe-keeping.
They passed into a large open square, where wagons and riders crossed in equal measure. Along one corner, a crowd had gathered. Gwayn led Reed and Jerrod towards the crowd. Gallus emerged and waved them inward to where Aldwin was standing. It was only a couple people deep, a semi-circle around the street corner. Jerrod could already guess that their buyer was inside.
There, squaring off against a leonine spearman, was a bearded man dressed head-to-toe in furs, armed with a pair of skinning knives. With such pitiful range, the man seemed hopelessly on the defense, yet every so often, when the lion-man thrusted, the man would parry the pole aside with his left knife while he twisted and stabbed with the right for the lion's wrist. Only a last-minute retreat took the lion guard out of danger.
"Our man got bored while waiting," Gallus said laconically, as was his way.
"This ruffian is our buyer?" Jerrod said. This frontiersman did not look wealthy, even considering the craft behind the man's skins. Perhaps he was a bandit.
Reed also looked unhappy, though more in confusion than displeasure. It seemed almost as if he were already expecting to meet someone, and not this man.
"No judgments," Gwayn reminded them, and gave a short whistle. The bearded man glanced and straightened up, sheathing his knives and offering a handshake to the lion. The lion returned the favor, and the crowd gave a brief flurry of applause before dispersing.
"Thanks for the sport," the bearded man said. "A pleasure to sharpen blades with another." He turned to the five guardsmen. "This everyone in your caravan?"
"Enough for a majority vote," Gwayn said. "The other two are at the inn with our cargo. We'll involve them if we can't come to an agreement. Would you repeat your offer, as you told me?"
"Right," the man said, eying the five of them. "It's like this. I'm a trapper. I sell deerskins for wearing, rabbitskins for hauling, and bearskins for flooring. Furs've been getting hard to get, though, with the war and famines. Yes, I'm from up north. I sold my last bearskin in Starven about a week ago; they cleaned me out. Lotta new people coming into Starven lately, fleeing one battle or another. News came in as I was leaving that Lik's been annihilated. Some of the newcomers are quite rich, wagons piled up with stuff. They're getting new homes but got no new rugs to decorate them."
"Ah," Gallus spoke up. "So you will buy our rugs to take north."
The trapper glanced from Gallus to Gwayn and back, making an awkward silence that was Gwayn's to break. "Actually, lad, it seems this man got separated from his traveling party. He only has a small amount on him, but he has offered his services as an escort up north, where we can make the deal in person."
Jerrod glared. "You said he had coin on him."
"You want us to go even further north?" Aldwin sputtered. "Another month on the road?"
"And the Giantdowns sound just as dangerous as always," Reed noted.
"I agree. This sounds more like an ambush than a deal," Gallus said.
"I understand everyone's concern," Gwayn said. "I know he can't promise immediate payment but think of the opportunity! The premiums! Starven is desperate for rugs. They'll pay three times what we would normally get! We'll make a fortune!"
"Why not have him pay us the usual price now, and then we pick up the premiums in Starven?" Jerrod said, eying up the trapper for money pouches. He couldn't really see anything on his belt, save those two long knife sheaths. With knives like those, he could skin up the little thief who swindled him.
"It would certainly ensure his loyalty," Gallus noted coolly.
Gwayn put his hands on Gallus's and Reed's shoulders, then turned back to the trapper. "It seems the men and I would like to discuss the details in further depth. If you have no other lodgings, sir, would you be willing to stay the night at the Jolly Collie with us? Perhaps you could more properly explain the advantages of your arrangement." At this last remark he glanced at Reed, whose lips were drawn into a thin line. Jerrod hoped he would find out whatever private discussion had happened between them.
The trapper nodded his head. "I could use a night in a good place."
The group started walking down the street towards where the Jollie Collie waited for them.
"Everyone is scared of the Giantdowns. Afraid they'll be killed instantly by hordes of lutins or other monsters. But you needn't be so worried. It's less than a week from here. And the road there is far safer than it used to be."
Gwain nodded his head. "It's just that we've heard a lot about the dangers there."
"I'm sure people have told you have dangerous Metamor is," the trapper commented. "But here you are - safe and sound."
"What's your name?" Jarrod asked.
Chapter 14: The Squeeze [Chris O’Kane, Rimme]
"My name? Howel Suidh," the trapper said. "I've been a hunter all my life. Sorry, I'm not used to speaking with merchants. Up north, I make my deals with Lutins or soldiers. Neither of them care for negotiations. You've heard my offer. From what I hear, you can't afford to wait for another offer."
"You don't even know if there is a buyer in Starven," Jerrod said. "What if some bandits sell their loot up there before we do?"
Gwayn jumped in before Howel. "Then we camp up north for a couple weeks until it's safe to travel back south and try in Metamor again."
"A couple weeks? In the Giantdowns? Are you serious?" Aldwin gaped.
"A necessary precaution. You know the story of the merchant who fled to Midtown after a week in Metamor, returned the next day, and got cursed two days later? Seems to be a rule that you need time away from the curse to recover. Two weeks is the safest we can afford."
"Sounds like we'll be camping up north whether we find a buyer or not," Jerrod grumbled.
"Excuse me," Reed spoke up. "But I think I may have already found a buyer—"
"Gallus, would you escort our guest to the inn? Reed and I will catch up with you."
Gallus nodded and led a confused Howel away. It was clear that it didn't matter to Gwayn whether Jerrod or Aldwin followed or not. Jerrod held his ground, and Aldwin reluctantly stayed to hear the argument.
Once the two were out of earshot, Reed spoke up. "We wouldn't have to leave—"
"Your 'buyer' is nothing more than an intermediary, at best. At worst, he's the reason you'll be on guard duty all night." Gwayn turned to the other two guards. "All of you."
All three of them blinked. "Us? Tonight?" Aldwin blurted.
"Reed's 'buyer' is a rat named Trey, who claimed he'd be able to find another buyer in Metamor. What Reed has done is tell a complete stranger what inn that we're staying at, that we have lots of precious cargo we can't sell, and that we can't afford to stay and investigate if it gets stolen."
Reed glowered. "I'm a better judge of character than you think."
"I asked you to find a buyer on the streets. All you've done is expose us to thieves. Either you ensure they don't cause us trouble," Gwayn said as he crossed his arms, "or you may consider yourself dismissed."
They all cursed loudly.
"We can't be sure he's a thief," Reed countered. "And we can't just sit around and wait for a buyer to come to us. You haven't done too well in all this time."
"Who would try and attack us here in the middle of town?" Jerrod asked. "Too many witnesses around."
"We cannot take any chances," he countered. "And all of you will stand guard tonight and tomorrow till we finally leave here."
Chapter 15: In the Presence of a Dragon [Kamau]
Kate finally reached the gate to Metamor proper where the usual watch was set up.
“Taklak go dungeon?” the red reptilian asked.
“No, I think once we get someone who speaks your language, we can straighten this out.”
The red-scaled prisoner shrugged as they stopped before the first guard.
“What ya got there Kate? I ain't seen the likes of that before.”
“It would seem a newcomer to the valley that doesn’t speak common very well and is rather defensive on first meeting. You wouldn’t know of anyone here that speaks draconic, would you?”
“Nope. Not of this group at least. Ya might keep an eye out for one of the dragons.”
She gave a shake of her head. “We don’t have the time for that I’m afraid. I don’t want to toss the little guy in a cell if I can help it. At least not without hearing his side of what happened.”
“Well, ya gonna have to find yourself someone who be a language master or has often had some dealin’ with dragons.”
Just beyond where the three were talking a figure clothed in a long heavy robe, certainly far too warm for most in the heat of this day, halted.
“Excuse me,” the robed keeper said. “I didn’t hear all of your conversation, but I might be able to help with matters pertaining to dragons.”
The pair turned just as the speaker slid his hood back revealing a scaled head with a multitude of small horns.
“Master Myrtice,” Kate said with a smile. “It’s so good to see you about. The weather must be very pleasant for you.”
“It allows me to come to the Keep and the mage hall but to be comfortable, well, it would have to be much warmer than this. So, what might you need the services of a dragon for?”
“I need to be able to speak to this?” she stopped as she looked down at the little reptilian who was kneeling, face to the ground. The bearded lizard and guard also looked in puzzlement at the posture.
“Is he afraid of dragons?” the mage asked.
“I don’t know. From my first encounter with him I wouldn’t think so.”
The little creature, without looking upward, spoke something in draconic, head low enough for his nose to touch the ground. Myrtice replied to this in draconic, but the kneeling prisoner gave only a short response.
“What did he say?” Kate asked Myrtice.
“That he is not worthy to stand in the presence of a dragon.”
For a short time, the two spoke, the kneeling figure’s reply to the horned mage always being short and the posture remaining the same.
“Is there a place where we can be out of the public? I think this is going to take some time and privacy to resolve.”
“Ya can use the chamber in the tower,” the gate guard said, pointing to a door.
“Kate, will you help this fellow to the chamber?” Master Myrtice asked. “We can continue to unravel this mystery better in private.”
The female scout nodded and placed her hand under his arm, surprised to find that he was trembling. The trio made their way to the tower leaving the guard scratching his head at the entire encounter.
Chapter 16: Establishing Communications [Kamau, Indy]
As Master Myrtice entered the chamber Kate looked down at the creature she had seen as a capable warrior only hours ago, now a trembling mess.
“It’s all right. Master Myrtice is a kind person,” she said in a soothing voice. “You don’t need to be afraid of him.”
“He dragon,” managed to get out in a faint voice “All Kobold honor dragons.”
The dragon mage cast a wick light to brighten the gloomy room as he sat, “Please, everyone, take a seat while we wade through the levels of this mystery and our little friend’s fear.”
Kate took the chair nearest to her, but the red creature still stood, head bowed, eyes on the ground.
“I said, have a seat,” the dragon ordered in a rumbling voice, his eyes fixed on the still standing member of the trio. To which the Kobold immediately obeyed, landing so fast and hard that the chair nearly tipped over.
The dragon looked intently at the trembling scaled creature "Now that we have that settled, let us begin. Firstly, what is your name?"
"Oh most honored dragon, I am known as Taklowectis G’Rormugan."
"And, as we do not have any such as you in these lands, what is your race?"
"Mighty dragon, your humble servant is a Kobold from the western lands of Pensicon."
Master Myrtice shook his head "Taklowectis, if you feel you must use a title Master Myrtice will suffice. "
Once again, the Kobold's face turned into one of confusion as he replied, "I obey your command Master Myrtice."
"Very good," the dragon said, "but where is this Pensicon you speak of?"
"In the northwest part Oreforton."
The mage turned to Kate, quickly translating what was being said before sitting back in his chair and closing his eyes for a time, one hand occasionally twitching. When he opened them, he stared intently at the Kobold, who shrank back in his seat, beginning to tremble again.
"Taklowectis, I am not going to hurt you. What I want you to do, however, is to tell me if you know or have heard of the following places."
The Kobold looked intently at the mage as he spoke.
“The Dragon Mountains.”
“I have not heard of them Master Myrtice.”
“Giantdowns?”
“I have not heard of them Master Myrtice.”
“The Barrier Mountains?”
“I have not heard of them Master Myrtice.”
The bearded dragon sighed “Taklowectis, no, that name ties the tongue, it just will not do. Hmm, a shorter name, but what?”
“Taklowec, Taklow, Talo?” Kate offered.
“The shorter the better in this case I think,” the Master mage said with a nod “So Talo it shall be.”
“Talo?” the red scaled creature replied looking puzzled.
“From now on, in common speech, your name is Talo.”
“As you command Master Myrtice,” he replied bowing his head.
“So have you heard of the Flat Lands, The Desert of Dreams, Kitchlander, Sonngefilde?”
Talo shook his head repeatedly to each name.
The dragon stopped nodding slowly.
"Let us set this aside for a moment. Talo, how did you come to Metamor?"
"Master Myrtice, a mage was to transport the party I was a part of back to our homelands but when the portal opened, I found only myself not home but in your lands with none of my company."
Once again, the dragon nodded. "Talo, do not be afraid. What I am about to do will cause you no harm.”
The mage stood and moved to the Kobold. He placed his hands near its head and slowly moved them down the length of his body before returning to his seat.
“The remnant magic leaves only one possible explanation. It would seem, then, that you come from a different plane or worldly realm similar but not the same as ours."
Talo's mouth dropped open in shock, only partially understanding all that was said.
Master Myrtice turned to Kate and asked, "Are you still on duty?"
"No, I am free until Thursday," she replied.
"Then if you would be so kind as to bring our new guest to the library and introduce him to the head librarian. I know there are members of the staff that know draconic and will be able to assist him in looking for a possible reference to his home. While there is little chance of success we must try. I will send an apprentice to find him lodging and come to fetch him when he has done so."
"Of course, Master Myrtice," Kate replied, turning to Talo. "If you will follow me we will see if we can find some possible connection to the place you come from."
Talo nodded as he climbed from the chair and turned to the dragon mage once again bowing to the ground before he scurried off, following the woman scout.
Kate guided Talo through the less populated streets so as not to overwhelm the Kobold with all the sights and sounds of the Keep. As they turned another corner her red-scaled companion leaped into the air. Kate spun to face her charge and was stunned by the fact that she was looking upward as he descended. Landing lightly on his feet she noticed a small leather ball in his hand.
“Talo good catch. Stop from hitting Kate.”
From behind him a group of children came running up the street.
“Did you see a ball go past here?” a taller lad asked.
Before the woman could open her mouth Talo was moving toward the group.
“Talo have ball. You lose?”
“Yeah, Jordy was supposed to catch it but Will threw it way too hard.”
“Did not,” a smaller boy said “He said he would be going long but he didn’t and…”
The entire group as a whole slid to a stop, eyes fixed on the scaled creature holding out their ball.
“What are you?” a girl from the side of the group asked.
“Talo Kobold, new here. Lady take to library.”
“I thought you were a baby dragon,” another said, “But where are your wings?”
“No, no dragon,” Talo answered. “Kobald no wings have.”
“He is very new in the valley and doesn’t speak common well,” Kate broke in. “Talo why don’t you give them the ball back and we move onto the library?”
“Me give,” he told her, lightly tossing the ball and causing them to scramble to catch it.
“Thanks mister Kobold,” the tall boy replied. “You could come and play with us.”
“I’m afraid he can’t,” Kate told them. “He needs to find out from the library if there is a way back to his home.”
“Talo lost, need find home,” he replied as he turned. “We go now.”
The female scout noticed a growl coming from her small charge and recognized it as a stomach needing some food.
“When was the last time you ate today?” she asked.
“No eat, we had night meal but met mage early to be sent home.”
“So, you haven’t eaten for the whole day?”
He nodded. “No have supplies, no see place on road. Talo can pay if find cook.”
He placed his hand in a pouch on his belt that had been returned to him minus weapons and held out several shiny gemstones.
“If I’m not mistaken you could pay for a week's worth of food with one of those,” she exclaimed. “Best put them back before someone sees them.”
When they turned the next corner Kate spotted a street vendor selling meat and bread. She and the Kobold stopped and picked up some food to eat on the rest of the way.
By this time the streets had grown dark except for an occasional torch or lamp near a business. Thankfully she could see a tall structure a short distance brightly lit and knew their journey was near its end. The expression on Talo’s face showed that this was a very unique sight that fascinated him.
“If I’m not mistaken Mael-Murie will be on duty now. She will be a great help to you, I’m sure.”
He nodded, still in awe at what they were entering. When an owl glided from an upper floor and stood directly before them Kate’s assumption was confirmed.
“Good evening Kate,” the owl said softly, shifting to her most human form “Who is your companion?”
“Good evening Mael, This is Talo, I’ll let him give you his full formal name later as it is rather long.”
“Hmm, seems to be the day for such names. Merlia had another red fellow, near a giant size, who also had a sentence for a name. But how can I help you?”
“Talo was dropped in the valley by accident from a magic portal and he has no idea where he is and how far his home might be. We hoped you could help him find that out.”
“We do have books referring to Kobolds so we can start there,” she replied gesturing a direction with her wing.
“You recognized him as a Kobold?” the female warrior said in surprise. “He had to tell us what he was as none of us knew.”
“I’m not surprised,” the owl commented “there are not many places where they are commonly found up here in the north. Most of the information we have is more legend than fact. Still, I'll do what I can to help.”
Soon the feathered librarian had several books on the table and began working with them on finding a reference to the land Talo came from.
***
It was late by the time Trey and Kasaima left the library. The columns within were shaped like fruit-bearing trees. As dusk fell, those fruits began to shed a gentle light, keeping the interior of the library safe and well lit.
They stopped at the Deaf Mule for a late meal, Kasaima insisting on paying for them both, before they embarked further south to Euper and where the Jolly Collie was. When they arrived, however, the scene was one of chaos! Several city guards were around the Collie and Trey spotted Reed among the men the guards were questioning.
Their attention was diverted at Kasaima’s arrival. “Oy! You! What business ‘ave you got here?” asked one of the guards.
“I was told there were some rugs for sale. I wanted to see them and hear their price. What’s going on?”