Suderland

The weeks passed, and it seemed to Aepida that she would never see land again, let alone home. She had made good friends with the crew. She learned a little Norse as well. She also learned a lot about sailing a ship. But a lot of the time, she was bored. There is only so much a passenger on a cargo ship can do.

Her favorite way to pass the time was helping Cooky. His real name was Manfred. As a child growing up. He was called Manny. Now, because he could cook, he was called Cooky. She called him Manny, and he liked that.

She was learning a lot of new herbs and spices from him. All the dishes seemed exotic to her. They didn't have such things in Hort. The variety of fish added made for some tasty meals. In turn, She taught him some of her mother's dishes, which usually contained vegetables. Sometimes, meat was added when it was available. Adding fish to her mother's recipes gave them a new wonderful flavor. The crew benefited greatly from their friendship.

At night she could now have some privacy with the canvas drapes. But, the Captain never seemed to sleep there. At The day's end, he would sit at the books for roughly thirty minutes and then leave. When important events occurred, he would make an entry in the ship's log. At no other time did he stay in the cabin. Apollo also would never stay there, as well. Of course, he never stayed in hotels or inns, either.

On stretched the weeks. For four months, she had been on the Dyrr Valhalla. When one day, she heard someone yelling from the mast tops. She quickly went out to see what the commotion was. She found the Captain at the ship's bow with a telescope to his eye. Realizing her presence, he lowered the spyglass to greet her.

"Hello, lass. How are you this fine day," he said.

"Very fine, thank you. What is going on? I heard someone yelling."

"Aye, that was the lookout. He has spotted land, Suderland. If we are lucky, there will be an open dock and new cargo to be hauled. Here take a look."

He handed the telescope to her. She held it up to her eye as she saw him do. He instructed her to focus the instrument, and a port city popped into view. She lowered the glass and raised it several times, amazed at how it brought distant objects into view.

"It is like magic," she exclaimed.

"No," said the Captain. "It is just a tool with Little disks of glass that are ground in a certain way when they are put together, make distant objects seem closer."

"Maybe so," said Aepida. "It seems magical to me."

Aepida became anxious. She had never been away from home before. Let alone across the sea to a different continent. How was she supposed to convince such an expanse of people to join together to fight an indescribable enemy?

As the Captain had said, they were docked by late afternoon. The sun was a mere quarter high from sunset. Apolo joined her on deck.

"We will remain on the ship until daybreak. Then we will go ashore to find suitable lodgings. The Captain told me there is a library in the city. He said we should be able to find lots of information about Suderland there. We may need an interpreter to read them, I am afraid."

"A library, what is that?" asked Aepida.

"Libraries are mostly known for housing books, lots of them. They often have informational items such as maps, promotional, and historical items as well," said Apollo.

"Oh," was all she could say.

Aepida went to help Manny cook the evening meal and to say goodbye. It seemed she was doing that way too often lately.

Morning came way too early for Aepida. The clamor outside the cabin woke her. She packed her meager belongings and went out on deck. The Captain and Apollo met her as she went out on deck.

"Good morning, lass," said the Captain. "The crew and I would like to give you something to remember us by."

She had been so focused on the Captain and Apollo that she had not noticed the entire crew standing behind them. Apollo and the Captain stepped aside and allowed Manny to approach her.

"We all wanted to give you something," said Manny. "The Captain allowed us to rifle through his sea chest to find something. We hope you like it." He handed her a small wooden box. She opened it and pulled out a gold chain. From it hung an anchor with a bright blue stane at its tip. She put it up to her heart.

"It's...it's b...b...beautiful," she choked out.

Starting with the Captain, she gave the entire crew an emotional hug. When she got to Manny, that hug lasted a little longer and was held just a little tighter. As they departed, the crew formed an honor line on both sides of the gangplank. Aepida held on to Apollo's arm as she was too emotional and unsteady. Once they got ashore, they stopped for a few minutes as Aepida regained her composure.

They found lodgings deep into the city, which they learned was called Kree, named after their legendary founder. The desk clerk had so informed them. The hotel offered a brunch buffet for their guest since she was now registered. She was invited to help herself. She was hungry, so she did. The hardest part was picking what to try. Everything smelled and looked so good.

After lunch, she went to check her room. It was the most luxurious yet. There was a settee, an oversized bed, and a wash basin. And soap that smelled like perfume. But, the luxury only made her long for Hort. She laid back on the bed. She wondered what Hans was doing. She even wondered, had he had found someone else. She shook off that last thought. She believed in his love for her. Still, she couldn't blame him if he had.

She fell asleep dreaming of Hans and the meadow. In her dream, she did not stop him. But a knock on the interrupted her dream. The knock came again before she could get her senses about her. She arose and answered the door. It was Apollo.

"Were you sleeping?" he asked.

"I guess so. What time is it?"

"A little after sunrise," he said.

"I slept the whole night away. I thought I just dosed off. What is going on?"

"I came to get you so we could go to the library. You may want to get breakfast first."

"I am kind of hungry if you don't mind."

"I don't mind. The library is not going anywhere."

She ate a small breakfast. She was eager to see what a library was like. She did not want to waste too much time. It was not too far away. She was amazed when she finally saw it. The building was huge. It seemed even bigger inside. She had never seen anything like this in her life. There were shelves of books reaching up to the ceiling so high a ladder was needed to get them. She stood in awe for several minutes.

At the center of the room. Directly in front of the entrance was a large desk. An Elvin man was sitting there recording something in a large book. As they approached, he looked up and said something in a language neither understood.

"Do you speak Westlin?" Apollo asked.

"Indeed I do. I speak six languages fluently," he replied, smiling proudly.

Apollo smiled back. "That is quite impressive. I must humbly admit that we only speak Westine."

"That is no problem., No problem at all. How may I help you today."

"My daughter and I are looking for books on Suderland. We are venturing into the heartland and want to learn as much as possible about her before traveling."

"We have a lot of books on suderland, but only about fifty written in Westine. However, I have read them myself. They are very informative and accurate. If you would please follow me."

He led them over to a set of shelves where all fifty books were located on shelves at nearly eye level.

"These books are quite popular with tourists, so we keep them here," said the man.

He then selected four good-sized volumes and beckoned them to follow. He sat them on a large table at the end of the shelves.

"These will be a good start for you. You will find most of what you need. This one is more geographical. This one is historical. The others cover the culture and political structure of various regions. This table will give you plenty of room to work."

"Thank you," said Apollo. "We are also interested in purchasing some maps. We are limited in what we can carry, so no more than five good ones."

"Maps, We have maps. I am sure I know just what you're looking for."

The man raced away but soon returned with five maps, each printed on only one side of a sheet of paper. Apollo looked them over, nodding at each one.

"Yes, these will do nicely. Thank you, Mister, Aaah."

"Kimtay, Sir, no need for the Mister, Just Kimtay."

"Thank you, Kimtay. You have been most helpful. I am Apollo, and this is my daughter, Aepida. How much do we owe you for the maps."

"You are most kind. One silver for the maps, please."

Apollo handed him the silver. The man bid him his leave as he had other work to do.

"Let me know if I can be of further assistance. I am here to serve.

Aepida and Apollo sat at the table and began reading the volumes. Aepida had trouble reading some words which were beyond her skill level. But with Apollo's help, and sometimes Kimtay, she was getting through. Subliminally, she was becoming educated as well.

By midday, Aepida was getting hungry and exhausted. Apollo suggested she go to the hotel and get something to eat and rest. They would return in the morning. She gladly took his advice and ate some lunch in the hotel lobby. Then she went to her room, trying to absorb all she had learned. She soon fell asleep, but this time she woke up a few hours later. Looking out her window, she realized it was dinner time and went down to eat. She milled around the lobby and then went back to her room. She fell back to sleep.

That was her routine for the next five days. On the last day, they bid Kimtay farewell. Apollo told her that they would be leaving in the morning. She slept a little less easily that night.

Apollo stayed in human form as they began the next leg of their journey. Their destination was Casden, the capital. There, they hope to find sympathetic ears. Kree was a much bigger city than either of them had seen. By nightfall, they were still nowhere near the edge. They found a spot to spend the night along the banks of a river that flowed through it. Morning came, and another day went, and they still had not seen the end. They spent another night there. It was late the next day when they finally passed through the gate. Still, there was an urban expanse to travel through. Another two days passed before the houses began to spread out and were replaced by farmland.

The road they were on was teeming with traffic, caravans of merchandise, farmers with fresh produce, people on holiday, shoppers, and much more. Aepida began to long for the peaceful countryside. It would be a few days before the traffic would start to ebb. It finally arrived. They were rolling hills, and the traffic was mainly farmers with ox carts going from one field to another to harvest or sow.

That night, they found a little, cozy woods isolated enough where they could build a fire and brew some tea. Aepida was delighted to have tea with her evening meal rather than just plain water. She fell asleep. It was after dawn. She heard Apollo tell her to stay where she was and remain silent. She looked around but did as he told her.

She was not sure how long she lay there. Apollo came back and sat next to her.

"There are soldiers on the road. They are looking for someone or something. They don't appear to be interested in searching the woods, though. We will remain here until they leave, or I find another way," he said.

He took out the maps and began to study them, lifting his head to listen in the direction of the road. Then, returning to the maps. They stayed where they were. The soldiers did not attempt to enter the forest. By midday, they were gone, marching toward Kree.

"I don't think they were looking for anybody. They were waiting for somebody or something. Otherwise, they certainly, would have searched the area., but they stayed on the road. I think it's safe now. I am going to assume my normal form. Stay here until I return."

Aepida nodded that she understood. He was gone for a little while then the dapple grey horse emerged from a nearby thicket. They walked back out to the road. Once she was mounted, they continued on their journey. The road was crowded now because of the soldiers, yet, traveling at a nice pace. They soon found themselves in a crowd of people going in the same direction. A tall young man was walking along beside them.

'That was some spectacle back. There wasn't it?" he said, looking at Aepida.

"What do you mean?" said Aepida.

"Those soldiers and whoever the dignitary was. He had a very fancy coach anyway. They stopped all traffic so they could pass. You have got to be pretty important and rich to get that type of escort."

"I guess I slept through it. I didn't see a thing," said Aepida.

"Oh, it was fantastic. They had painted Spears, polished swords, and ceremonial dress uniforms and armor, Bright red they were. The coat of arms was a goat with crossed swords above its head. That is what you call: A Very Important Person."

Aepida choked back a laugh. "What are they important for?"

"I don't know. They are just important, that's all, said the man with a puzzled look."

"I am from a small town. A Very Important Person there was who I bought cheese from." This time she couldn't hold back and laughed. The man laughed as well.

"Hello," said the man holding his hand. "My name is Kyle. I am going home to visit my folks. I'm an apprentice in a business in Kree. My father wants me to take over the business when I'm done. By the way, he sells cheese, among other things."

Aepida laughed and took his hand to shake. "Hi, I'm Aepida. I am, on my way, to meet some old family friends in the capital. By old, I mean before I was ever born."

I have never been there. I have heard that it's bigger than Kree. So I can't tell you much. Besides, it's filled with politicians. I can't understand them at all."

"I have never met a politician before. It sounds like a strange place."

Night fell. Aepida and Apollo found an isolated area by themselves. She ate a small dinner from their provisions and soon fell asleep. Apollo., as the horse, stood guard.

Kyle had gone off by himself. She didn't think he had gone far. There were several campfires around them, so they lit one too. She ate some dinner and was about to lie down to sleep. When she heard a terrifying scream, she jumped onto Apollo, and they raced to the sound. Without thinking, she pulled. Her mother's shawl up to cover her face. Only her eyes could be seen.

When they arrived at the scene, about five men had a woman and two children captive. Kyle was found with his hands behind his back and kneeling on the ground. A man with his sword stood over him.

Aepida had dismounted and drawn her sword. She approached the man with the sword and demanded he let him go. The man laughed and approached her, challenging her. He spoke, but she could not understand him. He raised his sword to strike. Aepida attacked. In a flash of a moment, the man's sword was lying on the ground with his arm. He soon fell to the ground in agony.

The other four men moved to take revenge, ignoring Apollo. As they walked past him, Apollo kicked with all his might from his hind legs. Both hooves caught one of them in the rib cage, crushing his ribs. He flew a small distance and fell dead. The rest no longer ignored Apollo. Nor challenged Aepida. And ran off into the darkness.

Apeda freed the captives without saying a word, mounted Apollo, and returned to their camp. In the morning, they were on the road again. Kyle soon caught up with them.

"I want to thank you for saving us last night," he said. When he was close enough, he could speak softly.

"Save you from what?" She asked, putting on her best-confused look.

"From those bandits who were going to kill us. You and your horse killed two of them."

"You are mistaken. I'm just a girl. I couldn't kill a bandit. Now, Apollo, he might. He's a bit protective of me," she said, patting his neck.

"But he looked just like Apollo."

"So do a lot of other horses on the road. It's a common color."

Kyle fell back as he mulled over what he had just been told. Then he remembered something else. He raced to catch up with them.

"I don't know why you're being so secretive, but I know it's you. The shawl, you had it covering your face. That one right there that is hanging on your cloak."

Aepida's hand quickly grabbed the shawl. She halted Apollo and led him solely off the road to a secluded spot. Kyle followed. Right behind her. When they stopped, she took off her cloak and laid it across follows back. Then she turned to face Kyle. Looking at him sternly, she said.

"I saved your life once. I am going to try and save it again. My enemies would offer you a lot of money to find what you know! But the only thing you'll get out of it is a painful death. Never speak of this to anyone, for your sake and all the ones you love. It would have been better if those bandits had killed you. If my enemies find out about you."

The tone of her voice, The look in her eyes, Everything about her now scared him. He was shaken from head to toe. He stuttered as he spoke.

"I will never tell anyone."

He ran off and never looked back. She and Apollo decided to camp there for the night. Suddenly Aepida felt drained and tired. She sat quietly by the fire. Apollo wandered off and returned in human form. He sat next to her but remained as quiet as she was.

Aepida felt bound up inside. She had thoughts that wanted to come out. But she could not form the words. She looked at Apollo and nodded her head to acknowledge he was there. She remained silent. At some time in the night, she rolled on her side and fell asleep. When morning came, Aepida apologized for the way she was acting.

"I don't know what came over me. I can barely remember what happened or what I said. It was like I was possessed."

"In a way, I think you were. The sword took over you to protect you. Similar to what happens in battle. This time battle wasn't needed, and the sword took action to save you and Kyle. It was the only way without hurting an innocent."

"I think you were right. That was Sthogas' voice. It was like I was an observer rather than a participant. Poor Kyle. He was so scared."

"On the other hand," said Apollo. "I don't think he will be telling anyone about us. Just the same, I think we should find an alternate route. I don't wanna take any chances."

Aepida agreed, and they sat pouring over the maps until a suitable alternate was found. It would add several days to their journey, but it was better than endangering themselves, let alone innocent people. The road was more of a path, overgrown and sometimes hard to follow. Both of them felt better out here than they did on the road. It was also easy to forage for food. Wild nuts and berries were in abundance. Suderland's longer growing season had some advantages for travelers.

This was a wilderness, though. Days and weeks passed without seeing any other people. Even the wildlife avoided them. Bear, wolves, deer, and many different types of animals were seen, but none bothered them. It was twenty-seven days before they saw any sign of civilization. There were farmhouses at first. Then a clear road, and finally, a small village. There was no inn or even a pub. It reminded Aepida of Hort. The evening was approaching, so they bypassed the little town and headed into the wood, where they found a river and made camp. As they sat by their campfire studying the maps. The village was not even shown on them.

"How much longer until we reach the capital?" asked Aepida.

"I am not certain. I believe we are about here," he said, pointing to one of the maps. "The only reason I have for that is this indication of the end of the wilderness. We traveled two days from when we first saw the hint of farmed land. This road goes on to join the main road again. It measures about the same distance. I would guess about another twenty-some days."

Aepida gave a half-hearted chuckle and replied. "And all I wanted to do was go home."

She had a hearty meal of nuts, berries, mushrooms, and other fruits they gathered along the river. They did not talk much. Even Apollo seemed a bit down. Aepida lay down on the Bank of the river and allowed the gurgling water to lull her to sleep.

It took them thirty-five days. At last, they stood on a small hill on the main road into the capital city. The signs leading into the town were written in elven, which could only be read by the notes they had on their maps. The first order of business was to find suitable lodgings. A discreet little inn just off the main road proved ideal.

Their task was a major one, and they had to find a way to gain an audience with whatever officials they had to take their plea to. They did not even speak the language here. The enormity of the task was overwhelming. Both she and Apollo needed to rest for a while.

The inn was not as luxurious as some of the others he had stayed in, and the meals were not included. However, there were eateries and markets selling fruit and vegetables within walking distance. Apollo would find a library, or another source, to find out who they may contact to get their message to government officials. Aepida would rest for a few days. And prepare herself for the most daunting task she would face so far.

He did find a library while Aepida went to find something to eat. She chose the open market as her money would go further that way. She ate lunch in her room.

The clerk of the library was Moti. He knew a mage with government connections that still served and helped people take their concerns to the government. His shop was in the center of the city near the government complex. He gave Apollo a name, address, and directions to get there.

Apollo returned to Aepida and told her what he had found out. He wanted to stick to the plan of rest before making any effort towards a meeting. He would make sure of the location before that.

After three days, Aepida appreciated his wisdom to let her rest. She had not realized how much of a toll their journey had taken on her. They waited two more days before attempting to introduce themselves.

The first attempt found no one at home. Aepida moved into a boarding house nearby. Apollo kept an eye on the House for signs of somebody returning home. Two days later, Apollo witnessed a man entering the building. Apollo knocked on the door. Aepida stood by his side. Somebody yelled inside, but they could not understand. Apollo knocked with greater urgency.

A man answered the door. He had dark eyes, hair, and a beard with two white streaks running full length on each side. He started to say something when he saw Aepida. His eyes widened as if he had seen a ghost. He said something they could not understand, which prompted Aepida to ask.

"Do you speak Westine?"

He nodded his head in the affirmative. He did not speak. The three just stood there without saying a word until the man regained his composure.

"You, you are the prophesied one. The warrior Hope. Your name is Hope, isn't it?"

"My name is Aepida."

He appeared a bit disappointed. Then his eyes lit up.

"You come from the land of the seven tribes. Aepida is a Savin word. You are Savin, are you not?"

"My mother is Savin, and my father is Croata."

"Yes, you are from the seven tribes. You are Savin. Aepida is a Savin word. It means to hope."

"It once was that way, but the seven tribes are so blended together now. Most of us are members of all tribes. The girls are named after the mother's line. The boys are named after the father's line. Some don't even follow that anymore."

"You are a maiden, yes?"

"I am."

"Then it all fits. The prophecy said a maiden, Hope, would lead us to overcome the forces of the shadows. When I saw your face, I was shocked that it would be fulfilled on my doorstep."

"We have come to talk to whatever console we need to get them to form an army and ally with forest. I have a list of things that will be needed to arm themselves with. We also need to fortify the armor of Oerst in the same way."

" Of course, I had already informed the Council of the Prophecy. Other majors also confirmed seeing it as well. I will send messengers to the Commissioner. You must stay here! I won't have it any other way. My name is Otto. Protocol for a formal meaning, I would be addressed as Mage Qtto in my house. Otto is all you need. All craftspeople should be "addressed" by their craft first and then their name. They will introduce themselves, so you know how to address them."

"Thank you, Sir, is Westine protocol to show gratitude for such hospitality," said Aepida.

Otto showed them to their rooms. After which, he summoned his servants to prepare meals for them. Then he excused himself. He had to inform the Council of the prophecies for fulfillment. He would return as soon as he was able.

After eating, Aepida and Apollo went to her room. Upon checking that the servants were not in range to hear what he said, he addressed her.

"I am afraid our situation will get increasingly dangerous from here on out. More people are going to know about us and our mission than ever. Trusting this many people to secrecy is too unrealistic. We will have to be more vigilant than ever. There is no other way. Our enemies will hide best if they appear to be our friends."

"Do you think Otto will betray us?" asked Aepida.

"I don't know. Even if he is completely loyal to our cause, a mere slip of the tongue could give us away. The more that know. The easier it could happen. Our enemy is clever and could trick some unsuspecting person into betraying us. Just stay alert. Sleep lightly."

With that, Apollo went to his room and assumed his disembodied form, so he could refresh himself and keep watch over Aepida unseen.

Aepida sat on the edge of the bed, thinking about what Apollo had said. It made her uneasy. The thought that someone you trusted could give you away. Without even realizing it. Yet there was nothing she, or anybody else, could do about it. There was also the possibility she could be killed. The thought that she may never see Hans again hurt more than the thought of dying. She would like to have the chance to say goodbye.

She was awakened from a nap by a rap at the door. She invited them in. It was one of the servants. Using a kind of sign language to say it was time to eat. She met Apollo in the hallway and followed the servant to the dining room. They seated themselves where the servants indicated. Otto was not present. They ate in silence. Aepida was surprised to see Apollo eating the food being offered. He had rarely actually eaten anything the whole time they had traveled together. After they were finished, they were offered wine or water to drink. Both chose water.

In the same sign language. They thanked them for dinner and said they would like to return to their rooms. Once in their rooms, they settled in for the night. Otto had not appeared the entire evening. Apeda wondered what had happened to him and was worried that something had gone wrong. Apollo, alone in his room, harbored the same thought, and he possessed the power to do something about it.

In his ethereal form. He set out to find Otto. The government complex was at the very center of the city. It was easy to find. All the roads led to it. Finding where Otto might be within the complex was another thing. He failed to locate him. He returned to his room after checking that Apeda was safe. He remained in the ethereal, as he did every night to refresh himself and covertly protect her.

Otto was not at breakfast the following morning. Apollo was becoming concerned that their mission had become compromised. He excused himself from breakfast. He signed to the servants he was going for a walk. He asked Aepida to stay inside.

Despite his worrying, he could not find any threat. Even in ethereal form, everything was normal. The only thing that seemed abnormal was the absence of Otto. He began to wonder if Otto was a threat. When he returned to the house. Otto was there and greeted him as he entered. The servants had been dismissed. It was only the three of them.

"I am sorry," said Otto. "The council was in a closed session. I tried to get word to the president. I could not until they adjourned. I stayed until he was aware of the urgent message I had. It was for his ears only! He finally granted me an audience, though he warned me, He was tired. That what I had to say better be of the utmost importance."

"I told him of your arrival. I reminded him that I was not the only mage that had seen the prophecy. Council has recessed for two days. He wants to see the three of us at first light. He will provide breakfast."

Apollo listened carefully to him as he spoke. There was no sound or feeling of deceit. His voice contained no malice in his voice. Only the nervousness of someone about to become a part of a historical event. When they were alone, he assured Aepida that he felt they were safe.

Early morning found Aepida, Apollo, and Otto standing before, a great, ornate door that seemed too large, even for the grand building it guarded. Otto raised the hammer and let it drop. It bounced three times. It opened, and an elven man bid them to follow him. He led them down a hall lit by candle chandeliers hanging from a high ceiling. So high, Aepida wondered, how could they light the candles? They stopped at a nondescript door. The only thing on it was a curved handle that the elf used to open it. The four of them entered, led by the elf, to stand before an elven man with a long white beard and bushy white eyebrow. His eyes were more of a tan color than brown. His nose was thin and seemed somewhat pointed. His lips were thin and barely visible through his beard. He addressed Otto first.

"Major Otto, I thank you for your graciousness. I am looking forward to dining with you."

The president then said something to the younger elf, then he and Otto left. When they were gone, the president pulled up three chairs and sat them in front of the desk, the only other furniture in the room. Aepida and Apollo were set facing the desk. The president sat facing them.

"I am President Tai Kim. As you have already heard, I am pleased to meet you."

"President Tai Kim. I am Aepida. From the village of Hort, in the land of the seven tribes of Westine. It is an honor to meet you."

"I am Guardian Apollo. I have no other titles. I am honored to meet you."

"Hmmm, Guardian, I wondered if you would reveal yourself. I am glad that you trust me so."

"I considered not. I hope that the ancient prejudices no longer exist."

"With me, they don't. With others, I can't be sure."

"Ages ago, before you were born, while the seven tribes were still roaming the wilderness wearing skins, I had a vision. A young maiden and a changeling would visit me. They would reveal to me something terrifying, the end of everything. I was an accomplished wizard. My magic was strong in healing or killing as was needed. The maiden told me that what was to come could not be killed, and the wounds inflicted could not be healed. That maiden is you."

Apeda powder head., choosing her words carefully.

"President Kim, then you already know my message. There is more, though. Your magic and all the magic of the elves are still strong. So is the magic of Westine, Oerst, and Norland. But not one of them can stand up against the beast alone. Sutherland, Westine, Oerst, and Norland must ally together. And enchant the armor worn by all the warriors. All of you must stand together to form a magical barrier to slow the beast's advance. We cannot kill him, but we can drain his power and make him impotent. All is not lost."

"We must wage war without killing the enemy! How can this be?"

"Our enemy is not alive. It is of the shadow world, an anomaly of creation. Since it never lived, it cannot die. It cannot. It can be defeated. We, however, have lived and can die. The beast knows both of these facts. I cannot promise you. Even if we win, there won't be casualties. If the combined Magic of all the races work together, many of the wounds may not necessarily be fatal. If we are successful, we will banish the shadow creatures to whence they came."

"You are so young. Yet, you speak wisdom. How is this child."

"I speak the words of the two fathers. They are not my own."

"Who are these two fathers you speak of?"

"You know them as Yin and Yang, the light and the darkness. The opposites. The positive and the negative."

"I see," said Tai Kim. "I am beginning to understand. I think now we should join our friend Otto for breakfast. I would hate to see him waste away at a time like this."

Both Aepida and Apollo smiled as the president led them out of the room to his private dining room in his quarters. Otto stood when they entered and made proper greetings. They conversed, but nobody mentioned what was discussed in the office before breakfast. After breakfast, they convened back at the office. The seating arrangement was the same, except for the addition of a chair for Otto.

"Mage Otto, my friend," said President Tai Kim. "I believe it would be dangerous for us to reveal the importance of our guests at this time. I must bring up the proposals she has made to the Security Council. Then to the whole assembly. Such emergency actions will attract attention. If they stay here, they will be linked to those actions. You are to keep them at your place as relatives of old friends. That means you must show them the sites of the capital. Be aware! We must keep this secret as long as possible. Other mages have already sent me messages of urgency, so be careful."

"It will be my pleasure, President Tai Kim. I will do my best."

The next few days were filled with sightseeing. And there was a lot to see. There were beautiful gardens with magnificent fountains, A zoo with exotic animals, and A museum with works of art! They even went to a concert. To Aepida, who had never heard even heard of such things? It was unbelievable that man was capable of such wonders.

At the same time, it made her long for the simple life she had left behind. It reminded her that there was beauty in nature. Yet, she was in awe of the beauty man had created.

After five days, Otto suggested they take a break and spend a quiet day at home. Aepida readily accepted the idea. They had breakfast on a patio at the back of the house. The morning was delightfully cool. A hot beverage, unfamiliar to Aepida, was served. She found it delightful and relaxing. The servant left but soon returned. She whispered something in Otto's ear. He then excused himself and left. A few moments later, he returned. Speaking quietly but loud enough for Aepida and Apollo to hear.

"We have been summoned," said Otto. "By the President."

They followed him to the front door, where another man stood waiting

"This is Mage Boris," said Otto. "He is the one who brought the message."

Aepida and Apollo greeted him appropriately. Boris then led them through side streets and alleys. When asked why. He said to avoid curious eyes.

As they emerged from an alley. An arrow pierced Boris' cloak, hit the wall, and fell to the ground. Boris formed a magic fireball and threw it in the direction from which the Arrow came. A group of men soon surrounded them, bearing knives and swords. Otto and Boris fought with their Magic, Apollo with his fists, and Aepida with her sword. In a short space of time. Four of the men we had been slain. The last three had enough and fled.

"Hurry, cried Boris. "Take the most direct route. We have already been exposed."

Soon they were at the great door. Otto knocked as before, and it was answered. They were led to the President's office. This time he was sitting behind the desk. Boris said something in elven that alarmed the President. It must have been about the attack.

"Are any of you harmed?" he asked in Westine. All of them answered that they were not.

"Mage Otto, did you get a good look at these attackers?"

"President Tai Kim, I did indeed. We all did. Each one of us killed one before the rest fled."

"The girl killed one as well?"

"Yes. Quite skillfully too. I might add."

"Mage Otto, Mage Boris, do you think they were assassins or robbers."

"President Tai Kim," said Otto, "They were far too clumsy for assassins. If they were robbers, they were new at it. They did not handle their weapons well at all."

Boris chimed in. "President Tai Kim, it seemed to me they were amateurs. They were far too easily dispatched."

"This is very disturbing," said the President."Even if they were inept, the attack has caused a breach in our security. Our liaison to unite the races has been revealed. Those that survived will certainly, tell others."

"Fortunately, I had been sent for you to tell you that your case has been put before the Council. And they have approved a formal alliance with Orst. I intend to have you set in writing your recommendations on fortifying and preparing our weapons against the enemy. We also want you to carry a formal letter to Oerst offering our friendship and military support." The President looked at Apeda and directly addressed her.

"I will give you all I know," said Apeda. But there was no hiding the sadness in her eyes as she thought of another journey and leaving her home further behind.

"Good," said the President. 'We will spend the next three days working on that. I will arrange for passage to Oerst, also. You should stay here! Where the security is tight. Mage Boris, Mage Otto, I cannot let you return to your homes. The risk is too great! Secrecy is of the utmost necessity. I want you two to accompany Aepida to Oerst and Norland. Guard her well. Apollo, do you have any objections against them accompanying you?"

"No President Tai kim. The extra security will be welcome," said Apollo.

For the next three days, Aepida tried to cram as much of the vision shown to her that day in the Meadow. She was concerned she would forget something. Unknown to her, she was being guided by the two fathers.

It was a massive undertaking. It all hinged on the entire world would come to combine all their talents, skills, and strength in a united front to succeed. At the end of the three days, Aepida and everyone involved were exhausted, but there would be no rest. The next part of their mission was about to begin.

President Tai Kim gathered Aepida, Apollo, Mage Otto, and Mage Boris in his office. He sat in a chair in front of the desk as he had at their first meeting. He looked grave when they entered.

"Come in. Have a seat," said the President. Apollo took a seat to his far right. Then was Aepida, then Mage Qtto, then Mage Boris. He turned to address Aepida and Apollo.

"I have arranged for passage, with a military escort, to take you to Orin. There you will have the use of my yacht, which is also a warship capable of defending itself. Six warships will accompany you throughout your Journey. First, you will go to Frei, a military port, and replenish your supplies for your trip to Oerst. Each of you will carry letters of introduction, and documents of military support to Oerst, when those documents are signed. You will continue to Norland. Couriers will take the documents back to me via various routes. The yacht and its escorts can travel much faster than a cargo ship. It is my hope. We can conclude this quickly and get you back home."

It seemed to Aepida that his last sentence was a sincere expression of sympathy. One she greatly appreciated.

"Thank you, President...," she choked up and could not finish.

"It is all right, child. I know something about the weight that destiny puts on a person. You are so young and have carried it well. It is we who are grateful to you."

He then turned to address Apollo.

"As we have already discussed, Mage Otto and Mage Boris will accompany you as extra security. You have the highest authority regarding her security. You have served her well. I see no reason to change things."

"Thank you, President Tai Kim," Apollo replied.

The President then turned to address the two mages.

"Mage Otto, Mage Boris, you are to provide security, keeping any threats from getting to Apollo and Aepida. Let's make their journey a swift and safe one."

Both pledged to protect them with their very lives.

Now addressing all of them, the President spoke.

"The journey to Orin would normally take twelve days. I have arranged for fresh horses at points along the way. You will be traveling day and night, nonstop. The hope is we can cut it down to six days. Once on the yacht, you will be able to relax and rest. You will leave first thing in the morning. Breakfast will be provided just before you leave."

All acknowledged that they understood. They were then escorted to their rooms, where a veritable feast was provided for their dinner. Aepida ate her fill with Apollo sitting with her. They did not talk until she was done.

Aepida became weary and indicated she wanted to go to bed. Apollo stood to leave. Bidding each other good night, he parted to his room. Aepida was soon sound asleep.

Breakfast was nearly as big an affair as dinner had been. But as soon as they were done, President Tai Kim led them outside to an awaiting coach drawn by a team of six horses. As the four companions climbed in, President Tai Kim apologized.

"I am afraid it will be a rough ride once you get out of the city. But haste is a necessity. Try to make the best of it. I wish I could do better."

With that, the horses jerked the coach forward. They proceeded at a trot until they got out of town. Then it was at full gallop ahead. The road was anything but smooth, every bump through the passengers around like Ragdolls. Any conversation was impossible under the circumstances. Nobody felt like talking anyway. At midday, they stopped for fresh horses and a quick meal. Then it was on the road again.

Mid-afternoon brought another stop for fresh horses and a chance for the passenger to stretch their legs a bit. Then they were on their way again. Dusk was another stop. Eat some dinner and fresh horses, and they were on again. At night it was hard to see the road, so the drivers slowed the horses down to a walk. This was an advantage for the passengers. They were able to sleep some.

The morning was another stop for horses and some breakfast. It was the same every day on the way to Oran. It had taken them eight days instead of the six the president had hoped for. By the time they arrived at the docks. All but Apollo were exhausted. He did, however, fake it to conceal his true self. Boarding the president's yacht was a relief. Each passenger was assigned a room that was more like a hotel or inn than a ship. As they prepared to set sail, a meal was brought directly to their rooms. Aepida was grateful for that. After she finished eating, she laid down to recuperate.

When she awoke, they were already out to sea. It was late afternoon. The Sun was already giving an orange tint to everything. It gave the white sails of the yacht a fiery glow. The six warships escorting them were even more impressive because all you could see were the sails' Orange glow. The breeze was a steady, strong one. The sea was relatively calm, which enabled the ships to plow through it more easily.

Apollo, Mage Otto, and Mage Boris approached her with greetings.

"We have good weather for sailing today," said Apollo.

"Yes, it is a beautiful afternoon. Much more comfortable than a cargo ship," answered Aepida.

They decided to tour the upper deck of the ship. Nobody wanted to talk about their mission. So the conversation remained light. Mage Otto and Mage Boris even made some jokes that made Aepida laugh. As the sun began to set, Apollo suggested that they turn in and recuperate from the arduous journey they had just completed. Thus they each returned to their rooms.

The day seemed to pass quickly. It took fourteen days to get to Krei. They had good weather and calm seas. They were now docked at a military pier alongside the six export ships. They would be supplied and made ready for the next leg of their journey, Oerst.