The shock among the crowd was immediate. No one seemed to be hurt. A few had been knocked down, and guards and other officials were busy calming the crowd and directing subordinates. Roland hobbled through the crowd clutching his right arm. Blood dripped down leaving a trail behind him. Willam quickly moved toward him.
“Sir, he… he,” Roland was silenced by Willam’s raised hand.
“I should have known better than to allow you to return to duty. Go see to your wounds, and get yourself home. I will forget that you were even here, and that you had anything to do with this.”
Roland attempted to stammer out a response, but was too distraught to do so. He hobbled off and was lost in the crowd.
Willam looked to Tressnou with a flat expression, a much nicer expression than usual. “I must thank you, Tressnou. I suppose I could inquire as to where my assailant is now, but I also suppose you will not tell me.” Tressnou nodded in acknowledgment. “If you would, you three return to your room. I will be busy cleaning up this mess. The first attack on our home city, oddly enough, was our own fault, my own fault.” Willam turned away and began giving orders to his men and comforting his people.
Balic, who to this point had been mostly enthralled in his meal, spoke, “Well I guess it is time to rest up, aye. Off to the inn, I suppose,” and off he went back to the inn.
Artirius looked at Tressnou, “I have to ask you, is there much that actually phases that one?”
Tressnou shook his head, “If I have met a more unconcerned dwarf, I cannot name him.”
The pair looked at each other and chuckled. They followed Balic off through the crowds and to the inn. The group found themselves again in their assigned room. The commotion began to calm in the marketplace, where the fire still burned brightly below. Most of the crowd had dispersed with a few remaining to clean up remnants of the festivities. Artirius, Tressnou and Balic conversed about the recent events and those to come.
“Tressnou, how do you think this is going to play out?” Artirius questioned.
“It is hard to say. The escalated violence here in this region can only become worse if it is believed the prince is dead. As for the human factor, just being attacked by the adversary so close to home, at home as a matter of fact, will put them on the defensive or perhaps just the opposite, on the offense. There are too many variables to consider. The only thing I can be certain of is that both factions will be interested in me.”
Balic nodded, “As usual you have put your big elf nose into other people business. One of these centuries you may just learn a lesson…” but Tressnou cut him short.
“Oh be quiet you. As usual you have two cents to add to the bank, but you have come when it is closed.”
They all laughed. Artirius motioned with his hands, “Now you two, settle down. Our concern needs to be where we move from here. Tressnou what course of action do you believe we should take?”
He looked out over the marketplace, “We must wait. We need to give each party the time to react. Willam will call on us soon. I'm sure of it.”
Balic looked skeptical, “I believe you mean you will be called on.”
“Perceptive as always.”
Artirius looked on with still questioning eyes, “So where is he, Tressnou? Where have you put the prince?”
Tressnou turned to Artirius and smiled, “If I am correct it is best that that information remains with me. I cannot tell you and Balic just yet. Let us wait until I am called on. Please my friends, trust me.”
That was all that was said the remainder of the evening. The three slept well. The dream tickled Artirius, and, as always Balic, just seemed tickled. Morning came soon enough and the well-rested adventures found themselves eating breakfast near the rekindled fire. Midmorning, a guard came knocking on the door. The summons had come. He escorted them outside around the corner and down the road leading to the jail. The door was open and prepared for their arrival. They entered the building, following behind was the guard.
The jail was efficient in design. Stepping through the front door they found themselves in the sheriff’s office. It was simple in adornment, with a desk to the right and some shelves on the back wall. Across from the entrance was another door, which presumably led to the cells themselves. Another door was to the left, it was uncertain at first where it may lead. As they closed the door on their way in Roland stepped out of the door, an odor wafting behind him. It was a relief room. Willam was sitting behind the desk waiting for them.
“Thank you, you may leave,” Willam commanded the guard.
With a nod, “Sir, thank you sir,” and he turned and left out the way they had come.
Roland moved to the side of the desk and sat at a seat readied for him. Willam motioned for the three to sit and they did so in front of the desk.
“Well, in light of events I no longer see the need for tack or secrecy. Roland here was indeed interrogating the elf prince that sat in this jail just last night. His name is or was, that point I am not sure of yet, but I’ll assume he lives, Hindrod. Torture was indeed used in some cases to gain information. We also knew of your coming before you arrived.” Willam sat with a rather blank expression on his face.
It indeed was interesting to them, as was Willam’s intention. Tressnou asked, “Can I presume you intend to tell us how you came upon this information?”
“Yes you can. I will not toy around with the facts either. We divined this from Hindrod. It seems that the one you spoke of, Galmatros, is more influential then you were aware of. The agent Pyr has been at work for some time, in more than one form. He recently made contact with the northern elves. He came in the form of a centaur, a people that are revered by the elves, as I am sure you are aware. As for your travels, the assault on Derril’s Point was known to us, and rumors of your being there were also heard. The last reports stated there was a stale mate, though the onslaught from outside seemed to have made a foothold inside again.”
Artirius looked down. He had questioned leaving, and though it was the best choice for others, it still felt like the wrong decision.
Willam continued, “It seems you are very valuable to them, Artirius. Galmatros very much wants you, though the reasoning is unknown. The individual Atriel, until you entered the woods, was unknown to us. He is also unknown by Hindrod,” Willam paused briefly, “I must say, all of this is a little bit hard to swallow. The problem is, all information points to it being true. As such, the choice seems to be side with Galmatros, or someone else. As of now there is no cohesive force against him or for that matter one behind him. Pyr has simply rekindled older conflicts.” Willam paused, allowing the gravity of this information sink in. After what seemed like many minutes, he continued with a question, “So what do you have to say about these things?”
For a minute more they were quiet, then Tressnou spoke, “What you have learned is all true. We are indeed a desired commodity. We seek Atriel hoping to find a solution with his knowledge. If any could help it would be he. Galmatros is concerned about the knowledge we may gain. Pyr himself said that if Artirius simply left, then he would be allowed a pass by Galmatros. When this failed, he told us of his plan to kill Atriel. His hope was to dissuade us from going further with our plans. It is in the best interest of the world, it seems, for us to get Artirius to Atriel. For Galmatros to have such an interest in an individual, he must be a danger.”
Roland looked at Willam whom glanced back at the lawman, “Our problems are more domestic than of the whole world though. We must weigh our options to benefit our people.”
Tressnou understood the meaning of Roland’s comment, “Truly, is it not only impossible for you to keep us here against our will, but giving us to Galmatros is not going to benefit you. I do though agree with you on a point, your domestic problems need handled. If you allow me some time to prepare, and help these two on their way, I have decided to stay here and help deal with my cousins bordering you.”
Shock and silence fell over the entire room. It was not a move that anyone expected
or really understood. Willam ignored Roland’s attempts to whisper in his ear and simply answered, “One hour hence we will escort them to a path which will lead them to Valtenberg. The deal is your total cooperation in our needs here.”
“I will do my part to help end the conflict, I promise you nothing more. I will ensure you lose no land and that both your people will have peace. Will that suffice as an oath?”
“Yes, it will do. Roland see to it that four guides are ready to take them to the mountains. They are to arrive at the path alive and well, after that point they will not be our concern. Make sure no foul play is afoot, for I imagine our wizard friend will be more aware than we realize. Also, supply them with enough to get to Valtenberg, in food and water as well as shelter supplies. And return to each his belongings, including their money.”
“But, my lord, inventory restocking fees….” Roland interrupted.
“Perhaps you are deaf, RETURN TO THEM THEIR THINGS! NOW!” Roland ran off in the back and bustled through some belongings, “Are these terms fair to you, Tressnou?”
“Yes, they most certainly will do.” Roland bustled in as the elf finished talking. He handed Balic his things and went back to collect more. “I will need to return to the inn with them, but after they leave I will begin my duties to you in the capacity we have discussed.”
“It is fair,” as Willam finished Roland again entered, carrying on his back Artirius’s belongings, and dragging with two arms Thunders Fury. Artirius was handed the bag and offered the great mace. With one arm he lifted it as though it were a toy. Roland was clearly frustrated by his struggle. He turned and went to retrieve Tressnou’s things and returned quickly. At that he bowed and left, most likely completing the plans his king and Tressnou agreed to.
Willam spoke when Roland left, “I will see you at the inn in one hour. Be prepared for you will leave at the appointed time.” He went to the door and motioned courteously for them to exit and they did.
Once in the inn and securely in their room, Tressnou was confronted by Balic, “Well, what is that all about, aye. Are you trying to get yourself killed?”
Artirius looked at Tressnou, then at Balic, “He will have a reason Balic. I am sure. Well Tressnou, before your little friend keels over, let’s have it.
Tressnou motioned for them to sit and they did. “I have to admit, there are some personal reasons guiding me.”
“I knew it,” Balic said aloud to the group, “leave it to an elf to do things for himself.”
“Of course it would be solely for my own needs, you fool. It involves my aide. He should have been at work by now in matters here. Something tells me he may need my help. I do not know the reason but do know that he is well over due. As his teacher and mentor it is my responsibility to help him. Also,” he paused briefly, “it may benefit us to resolve this conflict. If and when Galmatros moves across this land, a struggle between these two people will mean two less forces to defend against our foe, one at the least. I believe I can turn this place into something good. Unlike the dogs and mongrels who fight the dwarves to the south, the elves here at least understand some civility. I believe this is the best place for me to be.”
The group was silent a moment. Then Artirius looked to Tressnou, “And what of Balic and I? Who will get us to Atriel. Who will be our guide?”
“He does have a point there elf-man. We will need your help getting to Atriel. Neither of us know the way.”
Tressnou laughed lightly, “Neither do I. At least no further than you. I know of only one thing that will help. As for actually finding Atriel, only he can truly reveal himself and his people to you.” Tressnou wrote down a name on a piece of parchment, “You both recall the human town north of the barbarians’ land correct?”
They both nodded acknowledgement, “Mountain Gate, so simple a name, is the place’s name. It was founded many years ago, back in the time my people had their disputes. It is from there your mother is partially descended, I am sure. They had a simple task originally; guard the base of the mountain, and the elves would guard the rest. Well, when I was young and my master left, he took many followers with him. One was a younger female elf that I was taken with and I think she was taken with me as well.”
Balic’s eyes grew wide and then narrowed, “Tressnou,” he proclaimed deviously, “I never took you for a romantic.”
“If you asked from time to time you may find I actually have a heart beating in my chest just like you, which I may remind you I can stop at any moment with a word.”
Artirius and Balic could not help but laugh.
Flustered, “May I continue?” Tressnou asked. The two nodded, “Thank you. Now, as I was saying. This younger female and I remained close after they left. I have managed to keep in touch. Every decade or so, I send a message to her, and I generally receive one in response. For the past few hundred years she has run a tavern in the town. Her name is on the paper along with the taverns name. She will be the best chance to find Atriel.”
Balic nodded, “Why not simply tell us these things? We are right here after all.”
“Well, I could very well do that, but the problem is that I am not sure who is listening to us. I can hide us from sight and evil in general, but good beings or those who have good intentions can still hear us. I do not have power to defend against them. Read it when you are alone, away from the men of these woods.”
Artirius arose, “Thank you, friend, for your help. I pray for your success here, and cannot wait until our paths cross again,” he held his hand out and embraced Tressnou in friendship.
“Artirius, you are single handedly the most amazing human I have met in my long life. Thank you for being my friend, and I hope to see you again soon. Atriel will help you, all of us.”
“Hmph,” Balic grumbled.
“I would not forget you old friend. Take care, Balic. You have helped me greatly in our time together. We will see each other soon enough. Besides, I would think you would be happy to be rid of me for a while.”
“Well, to be honest I must agree with you on that point. Take care elf. Jobs with so much freedom are hard to come by. If anything happened to you I would be most displeased.”
“Thinking of ourselves, nothing new I see,” Tressnou smiled and embraced Balic. “Well, I do believe our time has come. Good luck and be safe my friends.”
On cue, the door opened and Roland was there. “The time has come. I trust all of you are ready,” he swept his arm wide motioning for them to exit through the door. They met Willam in the lobby below.
He met them with quick words, “I hope we all benefit from our arrangement here. Roland and a few of my men will escort Artirius and Balic out of town via a western path. Tressnou, you may accompany them to the town’s borders, but after that I am afraid you will be allowed to go no further with them.”
Tressnou nodded in understanding, “It is a reasonable departure. I believe my friends are ready,” he looked at Artirius and Balic who nodded, “then let us go,” he finished.
With that, the group again left the inn and traveled down the road which led to the jail. Behind it was a lightly traveled path which head to the west. Here the travelers waved a good bye and only exchanged a side long glance as they departed. What had needed said was said, and what needed done was at hand.
They traveled the entire day with no troubles. Roland and the guides kept to themselves and did not talk much to Artirius or Balic. When it came time to make camp, Roland let them know and they helped make up a fire and prepare some food, but still no one talked. Even Balic and Artirius were a bit wary. The whole ordeal was unsettling in so many ways. Tressnou was no longer with them. Wars had broken out across the land. They were dealing with a king among demons. It was indeed a trying age. It was as though it were a legend that was heard in stories and epic poems. But it was not legend. It was the time they were living in. The time they were born into.
Artirius had come home looking only to find out about himself. To abate the hunger he ha
d inside. He could never understand it, no matter how hard he tried. Were these events only more obstacles in the way of his peace? Would he find what he desired, or would this adventure be like so many of the others? Would he slay the beast, save the damsel, and free the oppressed only to, as usual, be more lost than those he had saved from their near demise? Why was he tormented so? Questions continued to twirl in the barbarian’s mind. He shook his head and looked to Balic, who was, as usual, asleep and snoring soundly. He smiled. If only he could be at peace like the good dwarf beside him. At the thought he closed his eyes and went to sleep, to the tickle of the dream, to the pain in his soul.
After the usual night of restless sleep, Artirius woke before his guides and companion. He began to clean up his things, as was the norm, and he cleaned up the camp. He was not being polite to anyone, cleaning up simply meant that they would leave sooner. He made breakfast and laid it out as people arose from their peaceful sleep. He envied them. One night of peace, the freedom that would bring to him would be welcomed.
After the meals were eaten, the camp was packed up and they left. The travel was the same as the day before, though around midday the forest began to thin. Soon enough the terrain became rockier and the brush became more coarse. Through the trees the mountains slowly became visible. As they moved in closer, the path began to climb. Just after noon the forest broke and they were at the base of the mountains. Roland and the guides lead them north. They cautioned Artirius and Balic to watch for falling rocks. Some were strewn across their path, evidence to the danger. Around an hour or so went by before they arrived where they were promised, the path through the mountains. It was narrow but well defined. It went up and up and up into the mountains, curving here and there along the way. In some places, sheer rock walls lined both sides. In other parts there was a straight drop into mists below. It was a treacherous but passable route for the two travelers.
Roland turned and looked at Artirius and Balic, “Here is where we part our ways. This path will take you to the city of Valtenberg. Snow will be in the mountains now, so be careful. I would recommend stopping when you get to a particular portion of the trail. A small alcove will shelter you from the elements, and we have some supplies there you may use to make a fire. We use this trail regularly for various reasons and keep it stocked, so the supplies will not be missed. Now, there is of course one more thing,” Roland paused.
“Please keep this to yourselves. It is known to our people and no outsiders. Even the citizens of Valtenberg do not realize it is there. When you come to the end of the trail you will meet Dewy, he is the druid currently guarding the other side. He will help open the way into Valtenberg’s northern woods. You will find yourself coming in from the northern gates of course. They do not often find dwarves coming from that direction so you may be questioned a bit. They know of the fighting in the woods, but the barbarians of course have not been involved. I have heard of ill things happening in your lands, Artirius, though the details are sketchy. That aside they should be less inclined to question you. All in all, I think you will be ok once inside.”
Balic winked, “Don’t worry lad, getting through gates is my specialty. We will be fine.”
Roland nodded and paused a moment, “So I can trust you to silence correct?”
Balic nodded, “I never say much anyway sir,” he smiled and winked again.
Artirius also nodded, “I give you my word, I will speak nothing of this trail in the mountains which you have shown us and allowed us to use. Thank you Roland.”
Roland smiled, “You know, I do not dislike you barbarian. I am glad I was able to help you. Sometimes my duties are not all that bad. We will not let harm fall on your friend while he aids us. I swear it on my life.”
“Thank you for that as well,” Artirius held out his arm and Roland gladly shook it. At that Roland and his men waved farewell and departed back the way they came. It was only Artirius and Balic now.
Balic looked up at the man, “Well, let’s get a move on then. The sooner we start walking the sooner we are done with all of this and I can go back to harassing Tressnou in his home, and get paid to do it I might add.”
Laughing the two turned and went single file up the path into the mountains.
Chapter 15