Read Blessings Of A Curse - Metric Promotional Edition - Book One of The Nexus Of Kellaran Trilogy Page 12

Chapter 11

  They desperately hugged each other and cried with relief as their minds joined and embraced as fiercely as their bodies, and Talia learned what had happened.

  A few minutes later a string of popping sounds made them open their eyes, and they realized that they were on the patio of their cottage on the slope of the volcano at Hilia. It was the darkest time of night here; and perhaps three hours remained before dawn. Firepits and glowspheres lit the patio.

  Their advance security team was alertly in place all around them, and the Alliance force that had appeared at Winghoof Estate were rapidly Translocating in all around them. Within five minutes almost everyone who had been at Winghoof, including the ranch staff and the knights of Sming, had been Translocated in.

  The last group included Yazadril, Nemia, Hilsith, and fourteen injured on stretchers, as well as a dozen human walking wounded. They appeared on the patio at the same moment that the huge flight of dragons arrived in neat formation three hundred meters in the air, announced by their thunderous sound. Hilsith immediately had her patients gently Moved inside the cottage, while Yazadril and Nemia set Talia’s sword and magic items on a nearby bench.

  “Are you all right?” Nemia asked in concern as she floated up and hugged them, and Yazadril joined her in that.

  “We’re okay.” Talia somberly nodded. “The bolt hit me so fast, I didn’t even have time to feel pain before I was gone. That’s the third death the curse has saved me from.”

  “The curse and Mark, this time.” Yazadril said. “I was beginning to doubt that your re-integration would be successful, when he drastically accelerated it.

  “Mark, did you analyze the workings of the curse’s Restoration, and then cast the same thing in parallel?”

  “No. My understanding of it isn’t that complete, though it’s coming close. All I did was figure out enough of what it was doing to be able to add some of my power to it. I thought the risk of it was less than the risk of doing nothing. I saw in Merik’s memory that the bolt was incredibly powerful and concentrated, aimed at just the two of us. I knew that Talia had been scattered a lot more energetically by the bolt than by the fireball, and so I was worried that the curse’s Restoration could fail. Ria warned us that such a thing could happen.”

  Then his tone changed to one of tightly controlled anger. “Does anyone have any idea who did that, or how it was done?!”

  “From the evidence and the witnesses’ Readings, we know that the bolt was cast from directly above you.” Yazadril reported as he stepped back and began observing the redeployment of his force. “Our dragons found only a slight residue of the bolt’s casting over six and a half kilometers up, and all we can deduce from the residue is that it was probably cast by human wizards. It must have been cast by many of them, likely hundreds, perhaps lending their power to a single wizard or a small group of them. Or perhaps focusing their power through an item. You were protected by ten powerful wizards, eight elven and two human, who were casting a hemispherical Battle Shield around you and your party, yet the bolt had enough power to punch through their Shield like a spear through paper. All ten casting the Shield were felled by the shock and backlash of having their spell so violently disrupted. They are among the most severely injured, along with Joseth Narr, who was closest to you when the bolt struck. The Readings show he turned away just before the strike, which likely saved him from death or disfigurement.

  “The bolt was anti-life, causing living cells to explode, and had no other direct effects, but the energy released was formidable, causing a blast that struck those around you.

  “Will everyone live?” Talia asked.

  “I do not know, and I don’t dare disturb the Healers’ work to find out. For the humans especially, it may be a close thing. They are all very lucky that the bolt was so tightly focused on the two of you.

  “There can be no doubt that this was a finely targeted assassination, not a military strike.”

  “How is it that we were brought here to Hilia, and not home or the Hall of Justice?” Talia asked in puzzlement.

  “Your advance security team wisely decided to make this your fallback position, once they’d arrived here and learned of the gift you’ve been given by the nations of The Just Alliance.” Yazadril ruefully smiled. “This is now the most heavily Shielded and Warded place on Kellaran. If you cast your awareness outward, you’ll find around the entire island a concentrated version of the Wards that The Grand Council of Xervia use around their continent, and around their council hall. Beyond those Wards lies a concentrated version of the Wards around The Nine Valleys. Beyond those, more layers of independent Wards, fifty-six in total, cast by every race and nation in The Just Alliance. Not even the Hall of The Just Alliance is nearly so well protected.”

  “Which explains why they struck in Sming, rather than here.” Mark nodded, his brows furrowed. “You’re confident that a bolt like that couldn’t strike us here?”

  “Quite confident, not even if it were ten thousand times as powerful.” Yazadril assured him. “I’m only sorry we never thought to provide you with equally effective protection as you traveled today. The ten who were Shielding you were four of the most capable Battle Wizards among those who’ve sworn to you, and six of the best in Sming. It was not expected that they would be so suddenly and utterly bested before help could arrive, since we were ready to respond with only a moment’s notice.

  “This place only has such a hugely excessive number of Wards and shields because once the Xervians decided to gift you with Wards for Hilia, everyone else wanted to do so as well, likely to maintain their prestige as much as out of regard for you.”

  “For which I am profoundly thankful.” Talia shivered. “It’s somehow far more frightening to have been killed by an assassin’s spell than it was by our own mistake.”

  “And far more infuriating.” Mark growled, then his rage and frustration burst out of him. “Damn it, I’d like to kill them all!! Every single last one of the cowardly bastards, slow with a dull knife!!! Damn but I would dearly love to crush their skulls in right now!! That was a cowardly and craven attack, worthy only of scum!! Gods, I so want to smash something right now!!!”

  “Indeed.” Yazadril nodded, letting some of his own anger show. “I’ve left a Company of wizards and cavalry at Winghoof to care for the place, and to set a trap for any others who attack there, but it’s likely an unnecessary precaution, since it was yourselves and not your location that were targeted.

  “All of you stay here, rest and relax. I’ll be back shortly.”

  “I’m coming with you.” Nemia firmly insisted as she moved to his side.

  He nodded, and they were gone.

  “We’re very sorry.” Dilimon stated sorrowfully, and Kalem mournfully nodded in agreement.

  “A fat lot of good we did protecting you today.” she muttered under her breath.

  “Don’t worry about it.” Mark assured them in a growl, still very angry, but struggling for self-control.

  Balen and two other girls of The Devoted hurried out of the cottage with fresh clothes for him and Talia as he continued speaking. “We’re still alive. And it won’t happen again. I should have taken you more seriously when you tried to warn me about how much danger we were in. It’s too bad that while I believed you intellectually, it never really sank in emotionally. If I’d have gone with my brains instead of my heart, we’d have stayed home today. The tour was in no way necessary, though most of it was a great time. If you’d have asked us to stay home, we’d probably have gone anyway. I guess I didn’t really want to believe that hundreds of enemies might really try to kill us. Now I know better.”

  “Uh, Mark, you’re hurt. On your legs, mostly.” Balen quietly revealed.

  “Why, so I am! Ouch!” Mark chuckled as he carefully set Talia down. “I almost wish you hadn’t brought that to my attention. I really hadn’t noticed it much till then! I tell you, my heart is still thumping like ga
lloping hooves on a wooden bridge!”

  Yalla had hurried over as soon as she’d heard Mark was hurt. “I’m qualified as a Field Healer. Let me have a look.

  “Ah. Your injuries are small but numerous. Grains of sand, plant matter, and threads from your clothing were driven into your skin by the concussion. A few are deep enough to be dangerous for a human.

  “And my healing spells are not working on you.” Yalla concluded with a bit of frustration, wiping away blood trickles with a cool cloth.

  “Let me try something.” Mark mused as he realized that the tine band had been destroyed by the bolt, and its pieces were still in Sming. “Ria gave me an extensive collection of magecraft healing spells. I think I can... There. Did it with my own power.”

  “Well done.” Yalla nodded. “All the foreign matter was pushed to the surface before the wounds closed, and there’s no sign of scarring.”

  “And it’s a surprising relief as well.” Mark sighed as he sat on the nearest bench and scratched his legs. “more so than I expected, seeing as it didn’t really hurt that much.”

  “Remind me to thank Bizyutin for her suggestion that we store a few changes of clothes at each of our homes.” Talia said as she drew a yellow sundress on over her head, then returned to the earlier subject. “So Love, you were saying that we won’t be similarly endangered again?”

  “Not if we can help it. We’re safe here for now.” Mark nodded as he dressed in a white cotton vest and matching baggy pantaloons, and took a moment to enjoy the warm tropical night. When he continued he Spoke over their Link. “We’ll stay here until we’re both expert at casting my power and yours as well, especially faster and more powerful defenses. I think the tactics of our security today were fine, but our strategy was a mistake. Given how dangerous our enemies obviously are, traveling with a large group is a bad plan that unnecessarily endangers our traveling companions. This is especially true when you consider the potential of our power. With a few days practice, we could be more capable of protecting our security force than they are of protecting us.

  “Right now I’m desperately hoping none have died on our behalf.”

  “I’m pretty sure none have, at least not since the injured were brought here.” Talia assured him as she rose up and hugged him. “I think I’d have felt it if any had. And Father inferred that none had died at Winghoof.”

  He closed his eyes and gratefully wrapped his arms around her, glorying in the reassuring warmth of her love.

  “From now on until we catch the assassins, maybe even until the nexus is past, we’re going to try to avoid telling anyone where we’re going in advance.” he mused as he continued his train of thought. “We’ll just ask if we can show up immediately, and go. If we can avoid it, we won’t even ask. Actually, if we can avoid it, we won’t even decide or plan beforehand. We’ll just spontaneously travel, and try to avoid any predictable patterns. If it’s not an official occasion, we might even think about some kind of disguise.

  “On the other hand. It’s probably not that smart to make too many decisions right now. That’s all spontaneous thinking, and I’m still pretty shaken, from being terrified that I was losing you a few minutes ago.”

  “We’ll start with staying here for now, and go from there.” Talia mused. “We’ll have the dinner for the sworn served here, I don’t think it’ll be too much trouble for the Atoning to relocate the meal.

  “At least we can check off touring our properties from our list of things to do, though we didn’t get to see much of Winghoof. And all our things have been put away, and our finances, business dealings and charitable works are settled in capable hands.

  “We still need to review our magic items, weapons and armor, we need to speak to our gold neighbor, and we need to spend the four hours on physical combat skills. And we’ve added working on the curse.”

  “What time is it, anyway?” Mark asked. “In First Valley, I mean.”

  “Five hours, twenty-one minutes after noon. Things haven’t exactly gone as we’d planned, but at least we’re pretty much on schedule.”

  “We can save the time on our magic items and such.” Mark decided. “The warriors and wizards of The Atoning are already reviewing every item in our inventory for their military utility. We can Link with them for that knowledge later.

  “And I’m ready to work on spell casting now. I don’t know if Ria still thinks I should wait to do that, but I know I’m ready. And considering the magical and powerful nature of the assassination attempt, I think we should spend about half an hour on physical combat, at most, and spend the extra time practicing spell casting. We both need work on casting with my power. And when it comes to magic, I need work on everything.”

  “You’re right about that!” Talia chuckled. “It seems silly to spend any time tonight on the correct form to use when thrusting with a spear, or anything like that, when we can be mastering the use of your power.”

  “You know, this is so much faster and better than talking out loud, I wonder why we haven’t been doing this continuously since we first learned to do it?!” he thought with a grin.

  “Well, talking out loud with you is a very natural and enjoyable experience, and of course, everyone has a certain natural reluctance to spend too much time Linked. Our survival instincts make us fear the loss of our individuality.”

  “I understand that.” Mark nodded. “But I’m not worried about it. I know I’ll never have trouble figuring out which parts of us are me. And there’s a lot of things I want to do with you that can be best done by Link, like showing you combat skills, learning your wizardry, helping Ria teach you magecraft, and studying the curse. We’re a lot more skilled at Linking than we were when we first tried it. I don’t think we’ll need the wedding vow spell to protect us from Linking too deeply anymore.”

  “Let’s get things in motion.” Talia suddenly decided. “Let’s tell The Atoning to serve the dinner here as soon as they can be ready, then get everyone out of our hair. I’ve had enough of being surrounded by a crowd for one day, and I need some time alone with you.”

  “I’m with you in that.” he emphatically agreed.

  Their psionic conversation had only taken ten seconds, but the Volunteers were already looking to him expectantly, and beginning to get restless.

  “All right, Volunteers.” he called as he stood with Talia in his arms. “Talia and I will be staying here for a while. Balen, contact Sheramiv and fill her in on what’s happened. Tell her the dinner is still on, but we’ll be having it here. We’ll start dinner as soon as everyone’s here and it’s ready to be served. Tell her I’d like a report on the Atoning’s progress and planning, especially concerning the improvements and constructions here.

  “You Volunteers who wish to stay on Hilia are welcome to do so, as soon as the facilities here are ready for you. Until they are, if you want to stay here beyond the next six hours, you’ll have to work with the construction crews and use their barracks. For right now, feel free to look around if you want. Not that there’s much to see until the sun comes up.”

  “Yes sir.” Balen nodded.

  He looked around at the patio and grounds of the cottage, where the Volunteers were mostly making themselves comfortable and conferring in groups. The few ranch hands and staff from Winghoof who had escaped injury were huddled by the door to the cottage, anxiously awaiting word on the wounded. Those who were loved ones and friends of the wounded were arriving in small groups, vetted and Translocated by the wizards of the Alliance force.

  The roughly circular patio was fifteen meters wide and paved with light gray flagstone. Downslope were seven oval lawns from nine to twenty-five meters in their longest dimensions, terraced into the slope and joined by short flights of stairs that had been cut into the stone. All seven lawns and the patio were surrounded by decorative bushes and small flower gardens in low stone walls, from which drifted exotic scents. The entire area was illuminated by Li
ght spells.

  “Ria was disrupted somewhat, when the bolt struck us.” Talia Spoke as she buckled her sword belt around her waist. “She says she should recover fully in a few hours. These other items were unaffected, so far as I can tell. I lost three scrolls, but they were not unique, and I can replace them.”

  “GrimFang seems unaffected.” Mark returned as he laid his hand on his hilt.

  A moment later, Sheramiv arrived. “Talia, Mark, I’m so sorry to hear of your ordeal.” she said with a bit of a nervous bow. “We really should’ve had more wizards assigned to Shielding you in an un-warded nation, and so should the team from Sming. We won’t make that mistake again.”

  “Next time we’ll catch ‘em before they can cast a bolt.” Mark assured her. “I only hope those who were hurt are going to be all right.”

  “I’ll check on that. They should be stabilized by now.” Balen declared, and lightly ran into the cottage.

  “As to our progress, your hotels will be open for business tomorrow, and we recommend commitment to three major charitable acts over the next year.

  “With your permission, we will help build a Healers’ Hospice in Heartwood that will serve the elven lands and human kingdoms of northern Debivin. All of the kingdoms need better Healing facilities, and the lands of The People of Life are centrally located amongst them. Also, by locating it in elven lands, it’s much easier to hire sufficient wizards to allow the most urgent cases in northern Debivin to be immediately Translocated to the new hospital. It will also train human and elven Healers, as well as selected candidates from the other races, and it will be associated with the Heartwood Assembly for Advanced Study, and with the Healers’ Guild of Thon.

  “As for helping the poor, according to recent figures, in three weeks there won’t be any truly poor people left on Kellaran, but we’re helping with that effort by building a charitable trades college with the trades guilds of the empires at Juncture, where the borders of the three empires of Debivin meet.

  “Also, we’re co-operating with the representatives of The Just Alliance in building the facility that may be formally known as The Hilian Library of The Just Alliance. They will cover half the costs of construction, as well as contributing all of the library’s books, scrolls, artworks and learning materials. It’s a great project, since it will be the only place on Kellaran where the knowledge of every race in The Just Alliance is available in one place.

  “The construction costs of the rest of the facilities here are financially out of our reach right now, though by auctioning the hotel space, and by pre-selling the lets here, also by auction, we will have enough to complete the resort here within a week. Renovations and fortifications of the rest of your properties are already paid for, including The Queen of Waves, and we have more than enough left on hand to start work here.

  “As for the facilities of The Military Academy of Hilia, it is not a profit-making venture, so we felt no reservations about advertising for qualified volunteers for its construction, and asking for donations toward its costs. Response has been surprisingly universal, and the academy’s construction is already fully funded and staffed.

  “The Hidden Nation of Xervia alone has paid for more than half the cost of construction of the Military Academy, and they are among many nations who have asked permission to build embassies and consulates here. I should point out that this is an incredible diplomatic triumph! Not one of their citizens has ever been known to venture beyond Xervia’s shores, and now they wish to build a consulate here! Also, since the installation of the extensive Wards here today, combined with the fact that every visitor here is bound by Osbald’s Oath, they now consider this to be the safest place in the world. Because of this assessment, millions of them have requested permissions to visit, and a few of them have apparently asked about immigrating!

  “There’s room inside the crater for many diplomatic facilities, as well as for the academy, and in the future a small University of The Just Alliance might be built here, where the scholars of the world can learn and exchange knowledge. Work on the military academy has already begun, and will proceed night and day, with a likely completion date in less than two weeks.

  “And dinner will be served buffet-style from the patio here in approximately twenty-five minutes.”

  “Thank you. I approve of all those projects and plans, and you may proceed with them with due pace.” Mark decided, then his aspect became a bit grim.

  “Most important right now is finding out who attacked us today, and bringing them to justice. Put everyone on it that has the skills to contribute to the investigation, even if they have to be re-assigned from the other projects. I’m sure Yazadril already has a formidable team of wizards and investigators working on it, so co-ordinate with them.”

  “Yes sir. Right away.” Sheramiv nodded, and vanished.

  Balen emerged from the cottage’s doorway. “The Healers say everyone will live!” she called to all, and a cheer went up, while many who had waited for word began weeping as emotions that had been held back were released.

  Yazadril and Nemia re-appeared.

  “We can find few other clues from the assassination attempt.” Yazadril reported, letting some of his frustration show. “None of our wizards have been able to recognize a signature in the spell’s residue. We believe that the assassins might have disguised their psionic imprint while casting the spell, to prevent their identification by that method. This further muddies the waters, since it throws our earlier deduction that it was cast by human wizards into doubt, since a faked human quality may have been left as a false trail.”

  “I see.” Mark growled. “There’s really very little chance that we’ll be able to catch them, is there?”

  “No, there’s not, until they reveal themselves through further acts, as much as I hate to come right out and face the fact.

  “This was a very powerful and sophisticated attack, and expertly performed. If they’d have been up there waiting for you, they’d have struck immediately when you arrived, rather than a few moments later as they did. So they remotely detected your arrival, or were informed of the timing of your departure from Thon by someone on or near the Queen of Waves, which I consider the most likely possibility. For that reason, most of our investigators are busy in Gimoosh, interviewing everyone who was in the vicinity of your ship when you left it. All who were at Winghoof were already sworn to Justice, so it’s unlikely that the informant was one of them, but they will be Read by our investigators as a routine precaution.

  “The assassins quickly Translocated into place six and a half kilometers above you, above the limits of the detection spells of the wizards who were guarding you. The skill required to focus the bolt on just the two of you from such a distance is considerable. The bolt itself was a highly concentrated variant of the death spell that struck Shinosa Valley; it causes living cells to explode, but mostly passes through inanimate matter.

  “Since we know that the spell at Shinosa was cast by members of the insidious conspiracy, it is reasonable to assume that they were the authors of this attack as well. From that we must assume that the conspirators are neither discouraged by the formation of The Just Alliance, nor defeated by our efforts to root them out. Nor are they willing to wait in hiding, hoping that our search will eventually be called off. The strike at you shows that there will be little pause in the struggle between the conspiracy and the Alliance.

  “At any rate, you should be safe enough here. You’ll have to be more secretive when you travel from now on, until these matters are concluded.”

  “We’d already decided that.” Mark agreed. “We’ll stay here for a while, at least until the parades of the leaders. If we go anywhere before then it’ll be spontaneously and without warning, most likely back to First Valley.

  “And please, pass our most sincere thanks to everyone who came with you to help us today. The speed and magnitude of your response honors us.”

  “Not at
all.” Yazadril smiled with a dismissive gesture. “There was little we could do when we arrived, but even so, the sudden call to assemble and deploy was a valuable exercise for our fast response force. Now I’ve seen how they respond when the call is not a drill, and they did well by anyone’s standards. We arrived within six seconds of the call, and were fully deployed at Winghoof Estate within twenty seconds. If your attackers had lingered above you for even seven seconds to judge the results of their spell, we might have had them. They may have learned our response time, but we’ve only begun to improve.

  “Still, you can be sure that the members of The Fast Response Force of The Just Alliance will be flattered by your gratitude. It was your idea, you know, to have a completely integrated mixed-race response unit, and I don’t mind giving you credit for it. I recognized the brilliance of it immediately. Your four comrades deployed with our dragon and unicorn units, by the way, temporarily attached for training purposes. In a few minutes we’ll return to our base in Xervia for de-briefing and review. They’ll be off duty in about an hour, barring further unforeseen events.

  “But before we go, I wonder if you’d welcome a bit of advice on matters of governance?”

  “Your advice is always welcome and valuable, Yazadril.” Mark grinned.

  “Your plans for facilities that are designed to be usable by any race is a masterstroke. And by allowing the nations of The Just Alliance to build embassies and educational facilities here, you ensure valuable interaction between every race and nation, which can only aid the causes of unity and de-segregation.

  “You should grant Hilian citizenship to those who’ve sworn to you, since your nation has little credibility until it has citizens. But here you have a wonderful opportunity. Your nation was formed just before the founding meeting of the Alliance, its land was uninhabited before then, its facilities will be accessible to any race, and it was declared to be a multiracial nation at almost the same moment as its public declaration of independence. more so than anywhere else on Kellaran, Hilia is racially neutral territory. Therefore; for many people, it should be the most comfortable place to visit beyond their racial homelands. If you try to keep your visitors and your citizenry racially balanced, Hilia will hold the heart of The Just Alliance, though its seat of government will remain in Xervia.

  “And you should formally recognize Sheramiv’s position in your government’s administration. I picked her to speak for her group at their swearing because she’s the most capable and levelheaded among them, and one of the most experienced. Thus far she is empowered to act for you in matters of commerce, and doing a fine job from what I’ve heard. But you should give her a formal title, such as Chancellor of Hilia or something similar, so that she may more effectively represent your government in diplomatic relations.

  “You should feel free to consult any of the existing military training programs in The Just Alliance for assistance and advice in establishing and operating your military academy, and to arrange to have copies of their reference works made.

  “And it would be wise of you to do something formal to acknowledge the financial contribution of The Hidden Nation to your military academy, for it is unprecedented. They are very reticent about military matters; yet still wish to be seen to be making a contribution to the defense of the alliance, thus the magnitude of their endowment. Your personal and public recognition of their generosity would mean a lot to them.”

  “Ah. That’s all wisdom for certain, and we’ll heed it, thank you.” Mark acknowledged with a bit of a bow.

  “Excellent. Do you still plan on acting against the curse tonight?”

  “Yes, in a little over three hours.” Talia answered. “I guess we’ll be doing it here. Could you tell Alilia about the change of venue?”

  “I will. Give me a hug, cherished daughter, and we’ll see you then.”

  After sharing an embrace with his wife and daughter, Yazadril gave a psionic command to his forces as he and Nemia stepped back, arm in arm. A moment later they all Translocated out.

  “Come.” Talia said, and led Mark over to where the staff from Winghoof was gathered.

  Introductions were made, and the young couple offered kind words to those who waited for more detailed word on the condition of the wounded. Talia invited them all to stay for supper. Cooks and servers of the Atoning were busy setting up buffet tables on the lawns, and it appeared that dinner would be served shortly.

  Then Hilsith emerged from the cottage, looking fatigued to the bone. “Immediate family members may now visit the injured. Their attending Healers will answer all your questions of your loved ones’ conditions.” she announced, her voice still strong and clear. She approached Mark and Talia as her patients’ families moved inside.

  “Hilsith, you appear spent. Can I offer you a boost?” Talia asked as she urged the Healer to take a seat on the nearest bench.

  “No thank you. I could cast a Stimulant on myself, but I’d pay for it tomorrow in fatigue.” Hilsith said tiredly.

  “I wouldn’t think to advise you about that, but I was thinking I could pass you some power. It’s obvious you’re depleted.”

  “Oh, thank you. That would definitely be appreciated right now.”

  Talia Linked with her in the manner that allowed her to share power with another, and let it flow until Hilsith was fully replenished.

  “Thank you. That was well done, and I feel better already.” she nodded with a little smile.

  “How are the injured?” Mark inquired as he and Talia joined Hilsith on the bench.

  “Of those who were close to you when the bolt struck, only the injuries of Foreman Joseth Narr were serious. We’ve healed him as much as is wise, and his body should be allowed to complete its recovery naturally. He’ll be in bed for a few days, and will need two weeks of convalescence before he’s fully fit for duty. The rest of the ranch staff can be back on the job in a day or two at most. The elves will be fine. Still, due to the sinister nature of the bolt, I’ll keep them all under observation for at least a day, as a precaution.

  “The ten wizards whose Shield was broken are more difficult cases, particularly the two humans. All were dealt a severe mental and physical shock, and all will be impaired in their use of the power to varying degrees for some time, perhaps permanently. As well, there was some nerve damage and subtle scarring of the brain. The elves should heal from this, but such things are difficult to treat in humans. Their recovery is uncertain. We’ll know more in a few days.

  “In a few minutes they will be Translocated to the hospice at the Healers’ Guildhall in Latrel.

  “They can all be thankful that the bolt was so tightly focused on you two, since it had enough power to slay hundreds of elves or men.”

  “The assassins thought to take no chance that we would survive, but Mark and the curse foiled them.” Talia mused.

  “Indeed.” Hilsith nodded tiredly.

  “Would you join us for supper? It won’t be long till it’s ready.” Talia asked as savory scents reached them.

  “I will. Then perhaps a nap, before we work on the curse.”

  “Thank you so much for your efforts. We’ll go visit the injured then, before they’re sent to Latrel.” Talia said as she stood, so Mark did too.

  “It’s the least we can do, since they were injured on our behalf.” he agreed. “And perhaps we can do a bit more for them. We can certainly pay for their care, and give them a generous bonus. And a vacation at one of our resorts.”

  “Their initial care was an act of The Just Alliance.” Hilsith informed them. “Myself and the Healers here are with The Fast Response Force, and require no further compensation. Further treatment in Latrel is being arranged at the behest of Emperor Kevim of Sming, whose treasury will bear the cost. All the injured except your four wizards are citizens of Sming, and I’m sure he feels badly that you were attacked in his nation, and that his forces failed to protect you.

  “Actuall
y, I’ll join you.” the pretty polar elf decided as she stood. “I’d like to check my patients one more time before I pass on responsibility for their care.”

  “Have the Healers of The Just Alliance begun to meet and share knowledge since the alliance was formed?” Mark thoughtfully asked as they crossed the patio.

  “There are tentative plans in the works for such things, but so far, my counterparts from the other races have only co-operated in organizing Healers for the civil defense corps that are being formed everywhere.” Hilsith replied as they entered the building.

  “Then perhaps there are specialists among the other races who could help you with the healing of the stricken wizards.” he ventured.

  “Perhaps there are.” Hilsith agreed. “There are none among elvenkind who surpass my skill in such things, but I don’t know if that’s true of the other races. The Response Force only sent human and elven healers, since the injured are of those two races.”

  Mark paused in the living room of the cottage. “Just a moment.” he said as he closed his eyes and cast Speaking.

  “Good day again, Somonik. May I Link with You? It would save some time.” Mark spent a moment in silent communion with the ancient white dragon, then nodded. “Thank you.”

  He opened his eyes. “He’s initiating inquiries among the Healers of Xervia, Felion and Kletiuk. If there are any among them who can help, they’ll be along shortly.

  “By the way, where is everyone?” he asked as he realized that there were no Healers, patients or visitors in any of the cottage’s six spacious rooms.

  “There’s more to this place than meets the eye.” Hilsith smiled, and led them down the hallway to the rear of the building, past the silent bedrooms, to an open door and a stairway leading down. Beyond the doorframe the descending passage was seen to be a natural formation that had once been a lava tube, unaltered except for the wide steps expertly carved from the black, glasslike stone. Illumination was provided by the glowing globes of elven Light spells that hovered every two meters along the top of the passage, which varied in height from three to six meters above them.

  Mark counted fifty-seven steps before the passage opened onto a huge round cavern over twenty-seven meters high and sixty meters wide. The floor was flat and smooth, though the glinting black stone to the sides and above remained in its natural state.

  The wounded lay on two rows of beds just inside the cavern, with clusters of visitors and Healers gathered round.

  On the far side of the cavern a group of dwarves, gargoyles, gnomes, elves, and humans were busy, though their tasks were indiscernible at this distance. A pale blue unicorn stood to one side, observing the activity. She noticed the movement by the stairs, and turned to look.

  “Greetings, Prince Mark, Princess Talia. I am Keetom. We are Survey Team Three.” the unicorn Spoke with a nod across the distance. “We are sorry to hear of recent events in Sming.”

  “It’s a pleasure Speaking with you, Keetom, and we thank you all for your concern.” Mark returned with a wave. “How fares your work?”

  “Quite well, for we are ahead of schedule.” Keetom turned back to her team’s activity. “We survey this chamber in preparation for Kleti tunneling teams, who will excavate a large corridor between here and the inside of the crater, and a smaller corridor to the lobby of the resort. My role is to provide distance and angle reference to survey points within the crater, for my sense of location is accurate to within a hair’s width over that distance, despite all the intervening stone.”

  “That’s good to know. Thank you all for your efforts, and keep up the good work.”

  “It’s our honor and pleasure to participate in this great and unique project.” Keetom said with a happy little headshake. “For the first time, all the races of The Just Alliance co-operate in a construction. The blending of our skills is a revolution in such endeavors. For instance, we of Survey Team Three accomplish this task with greater speed and quality than has been previously achieved, due to the vast array of surveying techniques we have available.”

  “Well, those are certainly benefits I never expected!” Mark chuckled. “Tell me, do you know what usage is planned for this cavern?”

  “Why, it will be the grand hall of your residence! Your throne room, as they would say in Finitra.”

  “Oh. Thank you. Well I’ll leave you to it then. Good day.”

  Meanwhile Talia and Hilsith were talking to one of the injured. As Mark moved to join them, a quick series of bright flashes in the side of his vision signaled the arrival of a gnome, a female dwarf, a chestnut unicorn, a copper dragon, a dark tropical human woman, and an old gray giant who supported himself with crutches. All bore the Marking of the vow of justice.

  “You sent for Healers?” asked the dwarf as she bustled hurriedly over.

  “Yes, and thank you for coming. You’ll be working with Hilsith here.” Mark said, indicating her as she hurried to meet the newcomers.

  “We will Link now. There is no time to lose.” the dragon rumbled.

  Mark felt the stirring of powerful psionics as the dragon drew all the Healers into a Link.

  “We are in time, though not by much.” the gnome declared in a piping voice a minute later. With a wave of his tiny hand, the nearest of the brain-injured humans and the bed he lay on floated over and settled in the center of the circle of Healers, and they began casting subtle spells upon him. They continued that for almost eight minutes, then floated his bed back, and the other human wizard was Moved to the healing circle. Four minutes later he was replaced by one of the fallen elven wizards.

  Seeing that they’d be busy with that for a few more minutes, Mark and Talia returned to meeting and visiting those who’d been injured by the bolt’s proximity. The elven Volunteers were all fully healed from their minor injuries, and the human ranch staff were already sitting up in bed, looking about in wonder.

  Mark was informed when Joseth Narr regained consciousness, and hurried to the foreman’s bedside with Talia.

  “What happened?” the weathered human groggily asked. “And where are we?”

  “Talia and I were struck by a magic bolt, cast from high above, and you were caught in the blast.” Mark explained as he kneeled at the bedside. “It was an assassination attempt by the insidious conspiracy. You’re going to be fine, though you’ll be recovering for two weeks. The rest of your people are well, and will be fully fit in a few days. We’re in a cavern below our cottage on the distant island of Hilia.”

  “You... You were both uninjured?”

  “I was uninjured. Talia was Healed, though it was a close thing. No one was killed, and the wizards who shielded us are being treated by the best Healers in The Just Alliance.”

  “I see.” The horseman’s expression grew grim and determined. “This offends me. I tell you, it offends me a lot! Is there anything I can do to help bring the assassins to justice? If there is, you can count on me, and on all of us from Winghoof!”

  “Perhaps not directly. But I’m thinking of a way you might contribute to the cause. Winghoof raises fine horses, and now it’s a guest ranch as well. I’m wondering if it might also be a cavalry base.”

  “I don’t see why not! We have ample room for barracks and coursing runs and the rest of what’s needed, and we have grazing for over a thousand more steeds! I cut my teeth in the cavalry and served sixteen years, and I haven’t forgotten the skills!”

  “I imagine your grazing could support many more horses, if the turf was treated by elven horticultural wizards.” Talia mused.

  “That’s likely true!” Joseth chuckled.

  “So, given ample resources with which to act, you’d have no trouble managing the enterprise for all three purposes?” Mark inquired with a smile.

  “As you say, given the resources it’d be no trouble at all, and damn glad to do it besides!” Narr grinned.

  “Excellent. You rest and recover, Jo. Right now we have a lot of i
rons in the fire, but by the time you’re back on your feet, we should be able to give you everything you need. Along with being foreman and manager, you’ll be Commander of the base and a commissioned officer in the Hilian military. Your quarters and your salary will reflect that, I assure you.

  “There’s a lot more facing us than just this one assassination attempt. But we will bring them all to justice, sooner or later.”

  “That we will, and thank you, both of you.” Joseth nodded. He closed his eyes with a slight smile, and was soon asleep.

  Mark and Talia rose as the circle of Healers began treating the last of the injured elven wizards.

  When that one’s treatment was finished and his bed returned to its place, Hilsith turned to the old giant with the crutches. “Now let’s see about your legs.” she said with a smile.

  “My condition is entirely owing to my being old, and a giant.” he smiled. “There’s not much to be done about it. And I am an expert in such matters.”

  “That’s what I thought about our ten patients before you arrived.” Hilsith patiently pointed out. “But this circle of Healers is unprecedented. All of us have knowledge and skills the others lack. For example, my own skills in dealing with geriatric infirmities are far more advanced than what I knew of the Healings we just completed. It would be foolish to not let us try, at least.”

  “All right.” the giant decided as he moved to the center of the circle.

  The gnome Levitated him, and guided him with a gentle touch to lay on his back in midair.

  Two minutes later the giant Healer sat up, astonishment plain on his face. “Now that was skillfully done! Miraculous, almost!”

  “We did some work on your back as well.” The dwarf pointed out.

  “And your shoulders.” the gnome nodded as the dragon helped the giant to his feet.

  “Thank you all for your efforts here today.” Talia smiled as she stepped forward. “You prove yet again how much we all have to learn from each other. You can be sure that The Hilian University of The Just Alliance that we are building here will have a strong faculty of Healing. We would appreciate it if you would spread the word to your colleagues that Healers of every race will be welcome to share knowledge and research here.

  “And you’re all welcome to stay for a meal. I’m sure it’s ready to be served by now.”

  “Thank you for both of those.” the copper dragon rumbled with a bow. “We will accept, with the exception of myself as regards the meal, for I will not hunger for another week. There are many matters of our calling that we should discuss.”

  “All our patients should enjoy a complete recovery within three weeks at most.” Hilsith reported with a grin. “We’ll see them settled in Latrel, and join you upstairs in a few minutes.”

  “Any that are well enough to stay for dinner are welcome to, and their families and friends as well.” Talia called.

  She and Mark led the way upstairs and outside, where dinner was indeed ready to be served, and waiting upon their arrival. All of the Volunteers and almost all of the Atoning were gathered on the lawns.

  Mark announced that the injured wizards would recover fully, which was met by a relieved cheer. Then Talia bade everyone to eat, and had the patio cleared for those who were still below. The dragon alone would fill most of it, even sitting up. After they arrived by Translocation and were served, creating quite a stir among the elves, Hilsith reported the cavern cleared of all but the surveying crew. The Healers spent the meal engaging in specialized conversation, most of it completely unintelligible to the rest. The giant ate standing up, delighted with being able to do so unassisted, his stance and step confident and strong.

  As conversation tapered off during the entree, Mark Linked with Talia, then the two of them Linked with Sheramiv. The elven administrator showed no sign of the contact beyond a slight smile, recognizing that it was private. Mark carefully passed her those memories of his conversations, observations, and thoughts from that day that related to her work, and that she’d not yet been privy to. After Talia did the same, Mark asked permission to take a Reading of Sheramiv’s relevant memories of the day. Upon receiving her leave, he and Talia carefully Read all that he’d asked for and no more, taking only three seconds to do so. They paid special attention to the evaluation of their properties and possessions for military utility, particularly the magic items.

  “That was masterfully and comfortably done!” Sheramiv marveled. “Your psionic skill grows by leaps and bounds!”

  “Thank you. We’ll speak again later about further plans and instructions.” Talia smiled, and she and Mark politely closed the Link to Sheramiv, while continuing to discuss psionicly between them as they ate.

  When most everyone was finished eating, Mark stood and cast Battalion Command. It was a far more complex spell than he needed to make himself heard in this instance, but he considered it good practice.

  Talia stood when he did, and took his hand with a smile.

  “Talia and I would like to tell you all how much we appreciate the efforts and sacrifices that were made on our behalf today.” he announced, pleased that the spell worked as intended, carrying his voice to the most distant listener. “You’ve accomplished far more today than we could have hoped, and most of the day was quite enjoyable.”

  He allowed a chuckle to go around before he continued. “To all of you, we offer Hilian citizenship. Ours is a new and tiny nation, but I think we will stand proudly on the stage of world events. Your citizenship will be dual, and will not affect your citizenship in your present homelands.

  “Let those of you who accept this now stand and be recognized.”

  Every elf among them proudly stood.

  “So it is recorded.” Sheramiv announced as she surveyed the gathering. “All have accepted.”

  “Then I now proudly proclaim you citizens of The Principality of Hilia!” Mark called with a grin, which triggered a bright flash of elven power, and waited through a mighty cheer and a minute of mutual congratulation among the new Hilians.

  “It happened again.” Talia laughed, looking behind Mark.

  He turned and noticed that the Healers, the staff of Winghoof, and their friends and families were all standing.

  “They all stood to be recognized with us when you asked.” Balen giggled. “Does that make them Hilian citizens?”

  “It does if they want it to.” Mark grinned.

  “That is indeed what I intended, and I thank you.” the dwarf woman said with a smile and a bow.

  “Hilian citizenship is indeed something I will take pride in, since Hilia will stand as the spine of The Just Alliance, I think.” the dragon nodded. “And why not, since it will not affect our present citizenship.”

  “Thank you. It’s the least we can do for all of you who’ve served or suffered today.” Mark told them, and gave them his best bow before turning back to the main of the gathering, who were resuming their seats.

  “I have one more announcement. In lieu of a detailed report on all of your activities today, I have taken a Reading from Sheramiv. You are all very capable and versatile, and have all been remarkably self-organizing, yet it seems obvious that Sheramiv holds a well-earned position of leadership among you, due to her administrative ability and her courteous assertiveness.

  “With today’s events, Hilia is a nation with a proud people, and we have diplomatic relations with many other great nations. Soon we will have a city, and we will host important international institutions. Therefore, we must have a more extensive form of government than Talia and I can provide without assistance.

  “Sheramiv, please stand.”

  She did so with a proud smile. She hadn’t been informed of this in their Link earlier, but she was more than astute enough to have a strong idea of what was happening.

  “Sheramiv, before all these gathered witnesses, we name you First Minister of Hilia, and we fully empower you to act on our behalf, and on behalf of the Princ
ipality of Hilia, in all matters of commerce and government.”

  “Thank you, your Majesties.” Sheramiv smiled and bowed gracefully from the waist.

  “Sheramiv, as First Minister, you will be required to consult with us for our approval on major decisions and matters of policy, unless circumstance should necessitate such haste that consulting us is impractical. Beyond that, we will leave the day-to-day governance of Hilia in your capable hands. As it becomes necessary, you may create new positions in the government and diplomatic services of Hilia, and appoint personnel to those positions, and draw upon the treasury as needed.”

  “I shall always endeavor to serve in a manner worthy of your trust.” Sheramiv declared with great pride.

  “How about a cheer for our new First Minister?!” Mark called, and the gathering responded with a great burst of enthusiastic approval and applause.

  “We want you to know how very proud we are of every one of you.” Talia called when things had quieted down, cleverly co-opting Mark’s Field Command spell to be heard by all. “And again, we do thank you for all of your help and friendship today. In the days and years ahead, we very much look forward to getting to know every one of you as friends and comrades.

  “For now, please excuse us, as we still have several matters that we must attend to today.”

  “One more thing.” Mark added, casting an Illusory map of the island. “Here, on the north shore of the island, is a tiny lagoon with a small beach and a narrow strip of jungle, surrounded on three sides by nearly unclimbable cliffs. The waves and rocks at the mouth of the lagoon make it inaccessible to boats or swimmers. It can only be reached by Flight or Translocation. I claim it as a place of privacy and solitude for Talia and myself, for those who have our personal invitation, and no others. Perhaps in a century or two we may not need such a private retreat, but for now we’re still young. Our love is still in its infancy, and we must help it grow amidst a seemingly unending whirlwind of events, and in trying times.”

  “None shall intrude upon you there, save by Speaking, and then only when necessary.” Sheramiv declared.

  “Thank you. We’ll go there now, and we’d be pleased if you would join us there for a few moments.”

  “Of course.” she nodded.

  “To the rest of you, we bid you good evening, or rather, good morning, for I imagine we’ll be adopting Hilian time for the foreseeable future.”

  As the assembled chuckled, waving and calling farewells, Ria appeared hovering in her stiff stance over the crowd of elves. “Atoning, prepare to be evaluated for your military skills and aptitudes.” she declared. It only required a few seconds, and then she spent a minute psionicly handing out training assignments in rapid-fire succession. With no further ado, she faded from sight.

  Talia Translocated the three of them to the isolated beach, where the black sand glistened faintly in the moonlight and starlight. It was dark, and very quiet, with only the gentle wash of the waves on the sand, and a few faint insect sounds coming from the narrow strip of jungle between the beach and the cliff.

  “I’ll build a campfire, I think.” Mark smiled.

  “We’ll fetch a few amenities.” Talia giggled.

  She and Sheramiv Summoned heavy blankets, cushions, a lantern, a bottle of sparkling pink wine, and three crystal stemware glasses.

  Meanwhile Mark used Movement spells to gather three logs from the jumble of driftwood at the east end of the beach, to dig a firepit in the sand, to place two logs in a V between the firepit and the edge of the jungle for sitting or leaning on, and to cut and split the third into firewood. He stacked split wood in the pit, and with a playful grin, a showy wave, and a snap of his fingers, he ignited the wood with a loud whoosh by casting Flame upon it with Talia’s power.

  Sheramiv spread the blankets and pillows beside the logs, while Talia poured them each a glass of wine. As they took their ease, Mark reclined on the blankets and leaned back on a log, Talia sat with her legs folded beneath her and leaned against his side, while Sheramiv sat on the log opposite with her legs stretched toward the fire, her ankles crossed.

  Sheramiv opened the discussion. “Relgemit and the rest of your security force feel terrible that they failed to protect you today. He’s kept them on alert, and I imagine at this moment they’re conducting a detailed reconnoiter of the island.

  Mark took a moment to Speak to Relgemit and receive his report. “Actually, at this moment some of them are doing that, but most of them are establishing positions about sixty meters up the slope from the top of these cliffs. They can’t see us or hear us from there, but they can see all approaches to this beach by land, sea and air. Despite the many layers of mighty Wards around this entire island, he has some three hundred wizards of the Atoning casting a Battle Shield from the top of the cliffs out and down to the mouth of the cove. For practice, he says.

  “At any rate, I want you to proceed with all the proposed facilities here with equal priority; the library, the university, especially the faculty of Healers, the resort, and the military academy. Borrow if you have to. You can generate some extra income by letting out the master suites at our various locations but here, until further notice. And have our personal effects brought here from First Valley, then let out every suite in The Living Palace as well. Bring our stored items here as soon as there’s storage for them.

  “Let every nation build an embassy here, if they wish. Better yet, just build one big complex, a Consulate of The Just Alliance, and assign space in it to the various delegations. And arrange a formal function with the Hidden Nation, where we may acknowledge their generosity.

  “After all that, we’ll work on the cavalry base at Winghoof. I’d like it to serve as the faculty of cavalry of our military academy, as well as housing and supporting a garrison of fully-trained and qualified professional horse soldiers, and at least a squad of attached battle wizards who must also be qualified cavalry.

  “We’ll know about using the north face of the Xervian volcano for the academy’s firing range within the hour.

  “Once all of that’s paid for, we want to start building housing for those of meager financial worth. Nice housing.”

  Sheramiv nodded. “Will you reserve one quarter of the suites in The Living Palace for gifting, as we’ve done at your other facilities? And how will you decide which of the needy shall be given vacations at the suites you’ve reserved for that purpose?”

  “Yes on the first, and I’m not sure on the second.” Mark admitted.

  “However they are chosen, we must provide them with nice clothes and things.” Talia said, thinking out loud. “The rest of our guests will be wealthy, and it won’t help the needy if they are made to feel out of place on their vacation.”

  “There are many who’ve suffered from misfortune that would benefit from a nice vacation.” Sheramiv mused. “Far too many to host at the quarter of your suites you’ve allocated to the purpose. You could narrow the field to those who are both most in need of such therapeutic temporary relief from their cares, and who are also most deserving. Those who are needy and overburdened, but who have none-the-less made selfless contributions to the well-being of others.”

  “You have a method for finding such stalwart persons?” Mark asked.

  “I do.” Sheramiv nodded and smiled. “It would not be difficult to see to it, if I may?”

  “You may, and thank you.” Mark chuckled. “Though such humble heroes may be reluctant to accept our vacations, if they have binding responsibilities or commitments. So I suppose, in order to do them any benefit, we should not only give them a vacation, but see that while they are vacationing, their jobs are still done if necessary, their dependents cared for if they don’t go along, their pets are fed and their plants are watered and anything else that needs to be done to allow our beneficiaries to truly put their minds at ease for a while. For two weeks, let’s say. So let’s do all that, if we can.”

  “We can.” Sheramiv s
miled, and finished her glass of wine.

  “Excellent.” Mark grinned.

  “Mark and I will Speak with our gold Xervian neighbor in a few minutes.” Talia revealed. “We will invite her to visit us here, and our people should be prepared for the possibility that she will come. She may invite us to Xervia, in which case we’ll let you know before we go. And of course, we would require no other accompaniment on that trip. Our hostess and the Wards of Xervia would provide ample protection. We’ll let you know what we learn.

  “After that, we’ll need privacy, either here or at the cottage, until we sleep. That will probably be in about eight hours, which will be about two hours after noon here. We’ll sleep late, taking extra-long days and nights, until our sleep cycle matches with the local time.”

  “I’ll take my leave, then.” Sheramiv stated as she rose. “There’s much to do, and I’m eager to return to it. Let me know when you awaken, which would be about midnight, here. I’ll update you on developments and progress.”

  “Thank you, First Minister Sheramiv.” Mark grinned, as he felt her gathering power.

  “Thank you, my Prince and Princess.” Sheramiv smiled, bowed, and was gone in a silent flash.

  “Ahhh. Alone at last.” Mark smiled; touching his wineglass to Talia’s with a tink, and giving her a gentle hug with his other arm.

  “Yes. It’s wonderful, and not a moment too soon.” Talia sighed as she snuggled into his embrace. “It feels like the end of a long and difficult day, yet our day is barely half over. It seems so weird that it’s almost dawn, when my time sense still insists that it’s three hours before dusk, as it is in First Valley right now.”

  “Between the curse, the attack, and everything else, a difficult day is an understatement.” Mark agreed.

  “Right now, I could use a little therapy, my husband. Would you be so kind as to assist me?” she murmured.

  “In anything, my beautiful, magic wife.” he chuckled.

  Talia set her glass down and turned in his arms, so she could gaze into his eyes from a few centimeters. “Thank you. For I intend that you will relax.” She gave him a gentle, lingering kiss that fired his ardor.

  “Your wish is my command, my love.” he chuckled as she began kissing her way down his jaw line to his ear. “And what will you be doing, while I am relaxing?”

  “I will make love to you, my Prince. Very, gently, and, affectionately, and, lovingly, for that is the therapy I need.” she murmured, giving him a little kiss between each word. Then she softly giggled, and whispered directly into his ear.

  “I’m sure the world won’t begrudge us a few minutes for love. A half hour, at least.”

  “Or an hour.” he eagerly agreed.

  As it happened, it was ninety minutes later before they were finished with making love and swimming in the cove after, and prepared for the call. Dawn had broken forty minutes earlier, but the sheltered beach still lay deep in shadow.

  They Linked, then together Spoke the name. “Grakonexikaldoron.”

  “Greetings. I was glad to know that you survived the attack upon you in Debivin today. Glad as well that you Speak with me now.”

  “We are honored to Speak with you.” Talia returned. “Would you care to visit us here?”

  “Yes, thank you.” the great gold dragon rumbled as she appeared with a flash and a moderate blast of air.

  “Welcome to Hilia, and to our private beach.” Mark told her as he and Talia offered polite bows. “I hope you are well?”

  “I am indeed, and I count it an honor to be here. I also hope that after my visit here, you would return with me to Xervia. Tithian prophesized that you would need the mountain you were given, and though there is speculation, we will not be sure why you will need it until you go there. The answer may well be very important.”

  “That’s an investigation we’ll be glad to take part in.” Mark nodded, admiring the powerful and beautiful presence of the dragon. “And speaking of Tithian, she suggested you might be able to help me with a bit of a problem.”

  “I would be glad to, if I can.”

  Mark outlined the possible problems and advantages of his visual sensitivity to magic.

  “I can help you.” the dragon nodded. “At least with the problem of your being blinded by the flash of spells, though duplicating your ability to see magic directly will require some extensive research. Povon informed me today that you can receive complex spells, including Draconian spells, and be able to use them a short time later. I will Link with you, and show you a Draconian spell called Optical Attenuator, roughly translated. It blocks unsafe levels of energy from reaching your eyes, while allowing enough to pass for useful observation. It is used for studying the sun, lightning, and explosions from close range. But with a bit of experimenting you should be able to adapt it to your needs quite nicely.”

  The process took only a second.

  “You are indeed a marvel.” she stated when it was done, and chuckled with a deep throbbing sound. “I must confess, much of my motive for asking you to speak with me was simple curiosity. You are both completely unique in my experience in many ways, so I hoped to impose on our association as neighbors for a chance to know you.”

  “We’re more than glad that you did, for there’s a couple of other things we’d like to ask you about.” Mark revealed.

  “I am glad to answer as I can.”

  “We’re wondering if we might get permission from The Grand Council of Xervia to use the north side of our volcano there as a firing range for artillery weapons and battle magic. It would be used by the instructors and students of our military academy, as well as by ourselves, and its purpose would include the testing of dangerous new magics. And we’re hoping it wouldn’t disturb you if we do so.”

  “It would not disturb me, for the area is so full of volcanic activity that it’s never truly quiet there, and it’s often quite cacophonous.” the dragon laughed. “Thus my lair is deep beneath the stone, where only soothing vibrations reach. But you must be aware that the air there is at times noxious or poisonous to your kind, due to volcanic fumes and vapors. All who go there must be protected from that danger. As for the permission, I cannot imagine it being denied to you, but you should go through proper channels by asking Somonik to present the question to The Grand Council on your behalf.”

  “I see. I’ll ask him now then, since we would like to know as soon as possible.” Mark said as he closed his eyes.

  “So you spoke to Povon today?” Talia asked.

  “I was instructing her and Kragorram in combat skills and battle magics, until we received the call to assemble with The Fast Response Force in Debivin, after you were attacked. They are a proud young pair, and I am the most senior dragon who has time available to teach them. Since we were released from the de-briefing after the mission, they have been practicing the exercises I have set them to, and will continue to do so for another sixty-seven minutes before they are finished for the day.”

  “Ah. I’m glad for them, that they gained your instruction. I know that they hoped to train under you. Or under Somonik. And I imagine they somewhat expected that he would be too busy for them, since he now manages much of the communication of The Just Alliance, and I’m sure a great deal more as well.”

  “We have the permission of Xervia to use our land there for anything we want.” Mark happily announced as he closed the Link with Somonik. “And we can bring anyone there that bears the Marking of Osbald’s oath, so long as we keep their activities on our own land. I’ve already informed Sheramiv.”

  “Then shall we go there now?” the dragon asked. “I will ward you from noxious fumes with a spell that removes them from your close proximity.”

  “Certainly, though I’ll need a moment to inform our chief of security of our departure.”

  “Of course.” Grakonexikaldoron nodded.

  “If I may, I would like to perform our Translocation.” Talia asked. “
We intend to practice our spells at every opportunity.”

  “For that matter, I have a magecraft spell against poisoned air that should protect us with certainty.” Mark added.

  “Of course, it is wise of you to work to perfect your skills. But do you actually wish to attempt to include me in your Translocation?” the great gold asked Talia.

  “If I may, though I ask that you guide me as an instructor. And Mark would join us in the Link, so that his observations can further his own experience.”

  “Also wise of you.” the gold drake chuckled. “As Mark said so aptly earlier, it is an investigation I am glad to take part in, for I doubt that any of my race has ever been Translocated by any caster of any other race. Not that I doubt there are a few among the smaller races who could do it, but I doubt any have ever asked to do so. Though one of the demon-spawn might have done it, for they were allied with Dark Dragons in a recent conflict.

  “Contrarily, the casting will require a great deal of power. More than most humanoid Master Wizards could gather, more even than most could use effectively if it was passed to them by others. It is a great distance from here to your property in Xervia, and my physical form has a great deal of bulk compared to one such as you. Try to be sure you have the reference with certainty, that your awareness of our weights, shapes, and volumes is exact, and that you have the strength for the act, before you commit yourself to the casting of the spell. For safety’s sake, I will give you a reference location at an altitude one hundred and fifty meters above the north slope. We will have to be ready to fly when we arrive, but it is better than risking contact with the ground as we appear. And if you falter, I will take over, though that would not be pleasant for either of us.”

  “Thank you. I am fully confident, for while I will be casting the Translocate in the style of elven wizards, I will be using Mark’s power, which is many times greater than my own. For that matter, he will be double-checking for me as I prepare for the spell.”

  “Very well then, we shall proceed.” Grakonexikaldoron Linked with Talia, who Linked with Mark. In less than ten heartbeats knowledge was passed and considered, power was drawn, the spell was cast.

  Mark was ready with the magecraft Pure Breath and Flight spells, casting them on himself and Talia before they’d fallen a quarter-meter.

  “Thank you Love, I can take it now.” Talia giggled as she cast her own Flight spell.

  “Well done, both of you.” Grakonexikaldoron bowed in mid-air, her wings beating gracefully as she hovered in place. “We are above the north slope of your mount. Distances can be deceptive in such a place, since there are no trees or other familiar things to give scale to the sight. I can tell you that the bottom of the valley before you is the longest of the three boundaries of your property, at forty-four kilometers. The rim of the crater is over eight kilometers higher than the bottom of the valley.”

  Mark and Talia observed the completely desolate landscape, much of it covered in fine gray ash that swirled in the wind, the rest was solidified lava flows that striped the slopes in gray and black and red. Then they turned to look behind and up at the crater’s rim. “We’re about three quarters of the way up, it seems. And if this is the north slope, it’s late morning here.” Mark commented.

  “You are correct.”

  “It’s a lot bigger than I expected.” Talia remarked. “It’s so much bigger than the volcano at Hilia. The slope is much more steep here as well.”

  “Let’s fly up to the crater, so we can test Tithian’s theory.” Mark suggested.

  “And what did she theorize?” Grakonexikaldoron asked as they turned and flew.

  “That the crater would reflect the source of my power to a focus point above the bowl, allowing me a faster or more powerful recovery if I become depleted.”

  “That is the most popular theory, and the one I hold to as well.” the drake nodded. “If you wish, I can locate the exact position of the focus for you.”

  “Thanks, I appreciate that.”

  Little more than a minute later they flew over the snow-dusted rim of the crater. It was over a kilometer and a half wide and half a kilometer deep, its surface composed of cracked and broken volcanic glass of a deep dark blue that glinted and glared in the clear sunlight. Only a crescent below the rim on the eastern side was in shadow.

  A moment later Mark accelerated eagerly. “Tithian was right! Already I can feel the power here! It shouldn’t be hard to find the focus by the feeling of it!”

  “If that is so, its qualities as a reflector could be much improved if the surface was melted smooth.” the gold dragon commented as they soared easily above the rim. “This bowl was full of lava at the height of the last eruption here, and as the lava receded it also cooled and hardened, forming this bowl. As the material finished cooling and contracting the surface was broken as it was pulled apart.”

  “Like a dried-up puddle.” Mark observed.

  “Exactly. Almost all of the pieces remain in place, yet the reflection will be scattered somewhat. The effective focus will therefore be much larger than you are. It could be made to reflect on a point the size of your body if it were smoothed and shaped carefully enough.

  “Even as imperfect as it is, should the properties of the obsidian be such that it reflects your power efficiently, this crater may provide you with dangerous amounts of power due to its vast area alone. Be wary of this as we approach the focus.”

  “I assure you, it’s a great sensation so far!” Mark whooped. “Link with me! You have to feel this!”

  The truth of his words was revealed as he felt them sharing his sensations.

  “That is ecstasy indeed.” the dragon rumbled in amazed wonder.

  Mark continued flying up over the crater until he felt the sensation diminishing, then stopped, and slowly flew back and forth until he had defined the area of maximum effect as a sphere about three hundred meters in diameter. Finally he drifted to the center of the focus and hovered there, dragon and elf floating just above him and to either side. He slowly rotated in place, soaking up the power and taking in the panoramic view of dozens of volcanoes extending to the horizon in all directions. Many were smoking, and a few showed rivers of fire upon their flanks.

  Talia turned to follow his gaze. “From here, this land has a wondrous beauty, though it is a harsh scape indeed.”

  “True, beautiful and harsh and deadly.” the dragon agreed. “The Kwetkerthok call this land Death’s Teeth in their language, and they are a hardy folk. Even among my race there are few who choose to dwell in the heart of it, as I do, for there are dangers here that are deadly to any living being. Even Draconians. But I love it here, and I have become expert in dealing with its hazards. The great eruptions present the most risk, yet they have beauty and power that could humble a god.”

  They lapsed into silence for almost ten minutes, then Talia spoke. “You might not want to push your limits too closely the first time, my love.”

  “Ahh, I guess you’re right.” Mark regretfully agreed. “I’ve got all I can hold, and it’s starting to make me sweat. It still feels so nice, yet all things come to an end I suppose.”

  Grakonexikaldoron drifted over so that Mark was in her shadow. “As I thought. You are glowing. You have absorbed all the power you can contain, and the excess is manifesting as emitted heat and light. I suggest that you vacate the focus immediately.”

  “Right.” Mark rose another hundred meters, then moved toward the north rim as the other two paced him.

  “We have gained valuable knowledge here today.” the dragon rumbled thoughtfully. “You gave me much of value by allowing me to be Linked with you while you were absorbing power here. Furthermore, knowing that this crater reflects and concentrates your energizing power, and knowing the frequency of the energy you draw from, we can use this location to further study that energy, and its emission from the sun.

  “May I propose an accord? My companions and I amon
g the magic researchers of Xervia will undertake the reshaping and smoothing of the inner surface of the crater, as I suggested earlier, in return for your permission for us to use this as a place of study, at all times when it will not inconvenience you for us to do so, in perpetuity.”

  “Hmm. That certainly seems like a good deal for me.” Mark mused. “Though I would prefer if we amended the proposed accord to include magic researchers from every nation of The Just Alliance, so long as they wear the Marking of Osbald’s Oath. Let them all study here, and contribute to the improvements if they wish.

  “I think you Xervians probably know more about magic than the humanoid races, and that you dragons are probably most knowledgeable of all. But I saw today that even one of the most knowledgeable Healers among your race learned important things from Healers of the other races of the alliance. I’d bet that the same would be true for those who study magic. I hope that you all contribute to our academy’s faculty of magic studies, and that you all benefit from it. The Library of The Just Alliance is important, so that there’s a place where all the knowledge is available. But I think a University of The Just Alliance is just as important, for the sharing and teaching of skills and techniques that can’t be fully described in a book, and for research. Each race has a different kind of mind, and all will have unique perspectives to offer.

  “And you know, more and more I’m convinced that contributing to this sharing of knowledge and skills is as important as achieving peace and justice in the world. I think we should make it all one big interacting institution. The Academy of Knowledge of The Just Alliance. The military school should be the military faculty of The Academy, rather than being independent, so its students can learn about more than just war. The library should be The Library of The Academy, and available to all.”

  “Which would make the firing range for artillery and battle spells on the north slope here a facility of the military faculty of The Academy of Knowledge.” Talia mused. “We could have some comfortable research facilities and guest quarters built on the north rim, which would then be a facility of the faculty of magic.”

  “True, and the firing range would also be useful for any dangerous magic research, whether or not it had any direct military application.” Mark pointed out. “For that matter, if we build one building on the north rim for both faculties, they can use the windows facing into the crater to observe the research there, and the windows facing north for observing the firing range. I can’t help but think that the two groups will engage in some valuable sharing of ideas, particularly if they also share dining and recreation facilities.

  “And this place needs a name. How about Focus Mountain?”

  “I like that.” Talia smiled.

  “Your thinking is quick and of high quality.” the dragon nodded as they flew over the very place they planned to build. “On behalf of my Xervian associates, I will agree to the amended accord as you have described.

  “I will offer you a further accord. The utility of this north valley for your purposes would be greatly increased if you also controlled the slope opposite, so that you could use the entire valley. As it happens, I own that mountain, for my territory includes the twenty-three volcanoes closest to my lair. Except this one, of course. If you build me a laboratory in your facility here, to my design, wherein I and those I choose to assist me may conduct research into matters of my deciding, I will give you that mountain.”

  “Agreed, and thank you. Though I can’t promise when the construction will begin, or finish.” Mark told her. “Our finances are fully extended for at least a few weeks, and I don’t know how much has been contributed to The Academy.”

  “Ah. I have some wealth I will contribute. Perhaps I can find some time to encourage others to donate as well.”

  “That is generous of you, since I suspect you could afford to have your own laboratory built here, and have it all to yourself.” Talia chuckled.

  “True. But if I did that, other researchers would be more likely to resent me for it. And I have no real use for that mountain anyway. Since I swore upon the Truthstone, I find I am much less covetous, and much less protective of the sanctity of my territory. Until I took the oath, I felt only a burning resentment that Tithian had pressured me into giving up part of my territory. Now I look forward to sharing the grim beauty of this land with others who would never have had a chance to see it.”

  “Worthy thoughts, my beautiful friend and neighbor.” Talia nodded as she again enjoyed the panoramic view. “You should contact Sheramiv, our First Minister, with your laboratory design, and to arrange to contribute any donations you might solicit. But I think we should be going soon, for we’ve much to do before we sleep, and I think we’ll be spent by the time it’s all done.”

  The gold drake back-winged to a hover. “If I may, I have one more favor to ask of you. Two, actually.”

  “Certainly.” Talia smiled.

  “I have a friendship name, given to me by a young drake a few eons past. I would be honored if you would both call me Gran.”

  “Why thank you, Gran!” Mark grinned. “I realize what an honor you do us.”

  “Not at all. Secondly, before you go Mark, while you still hold all the power you can contain, it would be very useful to measure your strength with it.”

  “I’d like that very much, actually!” Mark laughed. “I have an assignment from the Eldest to learn how I compare to others in every measure, and how they compare to each other. Earlier today we were discussing how magic users’ strength can be measured and compared by how much they can lift with a Movement spell. Would that suit your purposes as well?”

  “It would. We could lift stone, and I have a spell that will measure its weight with fair accuracy.” Gran agreed. “Let us fly down to the bottom of the north slope. There is a great deal of loose stone there.”

  When they reached the bottom they alighted on the ground, to free more of their power and concentration for the test.

  “I’ll go first.” Talia said with a grin. She considered the mess of boulders, scree, gravel and ash that filled the bottom of the valley, cast Movement on a great mass of it, and lifted. She was surprised at how easy it came up. “Just a moment, I can do more than that.” she said as the rough sphere of loose debris rose a couple of meters, and the sides of the crater she’d left slid down and settled a bit. She picked up more and more, a stream of material rising from the bottom of the hole to add itself to the floating conglomeration. The rising flow slowed as a sweat broke out on her forehead and her brow furrowed in tense concentration. With the addition of one last fist-sized rock, she gave a tight little nod.

  “You have lifted one hundred ninety-three tonnes and three hundred and eighty-six kilos.” Gran declared, and Talia dropped her burden with a relieved deep breath, the rock crashing down and rattling as it settled.

  “Well done, love!” Mark hugged his tiny wife, who beamed with pride.

  The dragon waved her wings enough to fan away the cloud of ash that rose.

  “Tons is accurate enough, I think. Now let me try it while casting with Talia’s power.” Mark said, and cast.

  “One hundred seventy-one and a third tons.” Gran stated.

  “That’s with the wizard’s Movement spell.” Mark said as he lifted again. “Now let’s see what I can do with the magecraft version of it.”

  “One hundred eighty-two tons.” Gran revealed. “More, though still less than Talia achieved casting her own power. Now I will test my strength. I know from other tests that my power has neither grown nor faded since my first eon, but I have never tested it by measured Movement.”

  She cast upon the debris much further away, and the mass she Moved made the earlier lifts seen tiny by comparison. She raised it just clear of the surrounding terrain, added another clump of boulders, then carefully lowered it to help keep the rising ash cloud to a minimum.

  “I have lifted nineteen thousand, four hundred and el
even tons.” she stated, then turned her head away and spewed a six meter wide fireball that dissipated as it rose. “Excuse me. That’s how my people must vent the heat of exertion. Dragon-sweat, you might say.”

  “That was incredibly impressive!” Talia congratulated in amazement.

  “Thank you, though I deem it will seem less so after your husband has done his lift.” the dragon chuckled.

  “You think Mark can lift more than that?!”

  “I am quite sure of it. His lift should exceed mine as mine exceeded yours.”

  “Well, here goes.” Mark grinned, then his expression hardened in concentration. The rumble of stone on stone was deafening as he began lifting from as far away as the dragon had. He lifted the entire mass of debris from a length of the valley floor, exposing the bare rock where the two slopes met, then added more and more, clearing the bedrock for hundreds of meters. “That’s it!” he finally gasped between gritted teeth, and lowered his burden.

  “Now that was very impressive!” Gran congratulated. “You have lifted seven hundred and sixteen thousand, four hundred and sixty-eight tons of stone and ash! I doubt very much that any living mortal could equal such a feat!”

  “And I’m fairly sure I’ll improve on that, since I’m still such a beginner at using my power.” Mark panted, wiping sweat from his brow with both hands.

  “Oooh, my husband, that was magnificent!” Talia grinned as she hugged his right thigh. “And strangely, seeing you do such mighty work fills me with desire for you!”

  “Naturally enough, young one!” Gran laughed, her booming guffaws filling the air with powerful pulses of sound that shook the bones of her companions. “Might is always attractive in a male, among all peoples!”

  “Can I try it casting your power, Mark?” Talia eagerly asked.

  “Of course!” he laughed.

  She concentrated, and tried to duplicate his feat, but only managed a fraction of it before she was forced to lower the broken stones.

  “One hundred and eighty-nine thousand, twenty-seven tons.” Gran declared in mild surprise.

  “Just over a quarter of what you did.” Talia panted.

  “Perhaps it’s because I used up so much of my power with my own lift.” Mark speculated. “Let me check.” He cast again, and the dragon cast a Wind spell, as the cloud of dust and ash they were raising was more than she could clear with her wings.

  “Six hundred and ninety-one thousand tons. Almost as much as you lifted the first time.” the dragon pronounced.

  “Ah. Then my lesser lift wasn’t due to your power being depleted, my dearest.” Talia smiled, still affectionately hugging his leg. “From the evidence, one cannot cast the power of another with as much strength as the supplier of the power can cast it themselves, which makes sense. Beyond that, your ability to cast a larger portion of my power than I can cast of yours is probably due to your greater natural talent.”

  “I must agree.” Gran nodded. “And I thank you for this experience, but this coating of ash upon me is starting to irritate me, and I yearn to bathe. The next time you come here you must visit my lair, that I may show you some proper Xervian hospitality.”

  “We’ll be glad to, and soon.” Mark agreed with a bow, then playfully swept Talia up in his arms. “And we welcome you at Hilia, always. Health and happiness, Gran.”

  “Thank you.” With that, Grakonexikaldoron, mightiest of gold dragons, graced them with a bow, then waved as she straightened. “Until next time we meet, Prince Mark, Princess Talia, fare you well, and may you also enjoy health and happiness.”

  “Fare well, Gran!” Talia called and waved.

  Mark also waved as he cast the Optical Attenuator spell. When the dragon disappeared the flash was still bright, but not bright enough to leave spots in his eyes. He decided that he’d leave it running constantly from now on.

  “Come my love.” Mark told his Talia as he Linked with her. “Let’s go home. And If I may, I’d like to cast the Translocate this time.”

  “Certainly, dearest. I’m sure you’re fully ready and prepared.”

  “All right. Here we go!”