23

Dear I'taira,

What is wrong with you! Snap out of this trance of fearfulness. Wake up to who you really are! The I'taira I knew would not give up. That's what you've done. You've given up on everything. You need to find hope. A hope that you can cling onto. Do you not remember our days as children? When I would be the one in danger and you would find a way to save me. No matter what enchantments, what odds. I believed in you, and still do. I know you can get out of there if you try. Luc could be in danger and needs your help. If you have no hope in anything at least try to hold on to Luc. Sister, please, you have lost all sense of purpose. HOPE! Believe in it. Sister I was always the fearful one. But I found the secret. Hope can ease fear, make it more possible to survive. Sister awaken from this awful trance and seek for the hope that will give you strength. Strength to escape, unless you can't find it. You, the best Warrior at Warrior Training, unable to find a simple thing. I never thought a Warrior could be brought so low.

I'm sorry, that's too harsh. I'm so tired of hearing you complain and not do anything. Sister please try. I was wondering though, why was Gi there? He should have no reason to visit the Tower of Deth. That's strange.

I have hardly anything to say as of right now. Ranger and I are still traveling village to village. I noticed something queer today. Ranger has never asked why Y'ata was after me. I suppose he assumed it was just because Y'ata wanted an apprentice. But sister I'm wanted for so much more than that. I wonder if Ranger will ever ask me about it? We are on the road right now. I took this opportunity to write you during our rest stop. We're about to move on, I'll update you later to night.

Night fall;

Sister, I have had the most glorious evening of my life. It was so . . . odd. We continued on our way for a few hours. When we were ready to set up camp, and we both lowered our guard, men sprung up from all around two grabbed Ranger and two grabbed me. I struggled against the men but Ranger stood there calmly. Ranger looked forward to a man who lazily leaned against a tree. The man after sometime stood up and lazily walked over to Ranger. This man was strong of build and very large. He was rugged but not good looking at all. This man stared at Ranger and laughed. "Funny how you try every thing to give us the slip but we always track ya down in the end. This time we should have your agreement right?" the man said. Ranger half smiled and said, "Ti, why do you never stop? You know that I can't, because of things I've done. Let us go. You can't gain anything by keeping us in your custody." "Us? That's right. The little girl who's been traveling with you for a time," Ti said. He looked at me a sly smirk sliding up his face. "Aren't you a pretty one. Where did Ranger find you?" I looked away. I hated men like Ti. Even if he was just kidding.

Ti again turned to Ranger. "I suppose we could leave you here. Maybe a bit more ragged than normal. But I know you'll come for ya little friend," Ti said running his hand down my cheek. I shuddered. Ranger shook his head sadly. "She's dangerous. I wouldn't wish that curse upon you," Ranger said. Ti and his men laughed. Ranger looked at me and said, "Raina don't do it. Please don't do it." I watched his eyes. They were telling me the exact opposite then what he was saying. I closed my eyes and heated my skin. The men holding me let go in a howl as their hands burned red. In a flash of movement I had all the men thrown to the ground. I was surprised how little thought it took to do such a large action. Not to mention time it should of taken me to cast the spell. I looked at Ranger who was still standing, he smiled at me and signaled that we should move on before the men woke up.

At last we settled into a camping spot. Ranger built the fire while I went and looked for herbs that would taste good in a soup. After we both ate dinner we sat across from each other looking at the fire. After a few minutes Ranger broke the silence. "So why does Y'ata want you? Besides the fact that you are a Mage," he said. I sat quietly, he was actually asking the question I thought he would never ask. I cleared my throat and started with how you were at Warrior Training then ran away and how I ran from the army. Then me becoming your spy, and all the events that led up to the kidnap of princess I'talia. Strange how I hadn't thought of her for such a long time. When I had mentioned that fact Ranger stopped me and said in a shocked voice, "You actually kidnapped the princess?" I nodded. "Get some rest we'll be leaving early," he said then he stood and went to start his look out.


I closed my eye's. Oh what a scene to come before my eyes! Sister why haven't you told me how bad things really are? No its not your fault. Why was I so blind? I saw you. After I had been seeing my visions without comprehending I opened up for full understanding. I can't believe it. Forgive me, forgive me. I feel so . . . I'm sorry. How could I have been so heartless. I'm coming for you. I don't care what pain I suffer. It will all be penitence for the things I have forced you to endure. I could have ended it. I should have come and rescued you from the very beginning.

Yours in pitiful sorrow,


Raina

We have taken a rest stop so I will write you one last time before I send this letter. After I had woken from the knowledge of you in danger I went to Ranger and told him I would be leaving immediately for the Tower of Deth. He gave a sly smile. "I'm coming with you. But we have to find the Princess. I don't care how much you say you trust this Luc. I want to be sure that we have her and that she's safe. Well hurry and help me pack up camp. We need to get started if we want to get to your sister in time," he said.

I looked at Ranger and I was so grateful that he understood me and what I had to do. Then with out really knowing what I was doing I ran to Ranger and gave him a hug and a kiss on the cheek. I immediately turned to pack up camp to avoid an awkward moment. Though I chanced a glance back and he was giving me a quizzical look. Sister I know this is not the time, but I do like Ranger as a person. He's a good friend. Be comforted that we are on our way to rescue you. And find Luc and the princess.

The more I've thought about it the more I wonder why Ranger wants to find I'talia? And those men who wanted his allegiance? This is becoming very confusing.

Love,
Raina.

22

Dear Raina,

Luc's not here. I need him. I'm well. Scared. No torture yet. Nothing but the dronings of Sol and the darkness inescapably trapped inside these four walls. 

 I think Y'ata's gone. Gi's here. He scares me. Everything scares me. I'm not supposed to be scared, Raina! He tries to get me to talk. I don't. He doesn't hurt me though. 

 Yours,

    I'taira

Later:

Luc's still not here. I want him here. Gi's gone now.  He was going to let me escape. He said he would come get me last night. He never came. The guards said he left yesterday. 

 I need Luc. Where is he? 

~I'taira

Later:

I need Luc! I need him to tell me everything is going to be okay. I need his smile! I need him! 

~'Tair

21

Dear sister,

Don't you dare die on me again, I'll personally kill you if you do. You scared me so bad. I can't go through emotional trauma like that right now! Please hold in there. If not for me, for Luc. I know he likes you. He talked very . . . fondly of you when he was here. And I did give him permission to fall in love with you. And don't you dare wish to be any different than who you are. But please don't you die on me. I cried in your letter as you were dying and I cried right in front of Ranger. Do you have any idea how embarrassing that was? Its over now right? Just don't you ever scare me like that again. Please, please, regain a hold on life. I need you more than you will ever know. Don't give in to boredom it will all be alright.

Say hello to Sol for me. Now that you are feeling better you should listen to Sol. He knows the way out (possibly), and if you listen to him he might help you escape (maybe). But please listen to him. Sister I am very worried about you. Y'ata must be planing something with you. You must get out of there, you must! I was so mad when Y'ata held you in the air! He was either infusing you with strength to survive until your health picked up or he was searching your memories. Memories about me. Tell me what exactly made you afraid when he was staring at you? I need to know to be sure of what he was doing. And what thoughts were you talking about? I'm confused and I wish to know. And as to your question about him wanting me so much I have no idea. There is an old story that I've heard around the camp fires in these small villages. The story goes something like this:

A young but old Mage will arise strong and confused, calm but nervous, sure but unsure, the Mage will overthrow the evil Mages of the time and help bring peace. Look for this Mage close to the one who will bring true peace or deliverance. Remember, part friend, part enemy, part beautiful, part fearful. Look for the day when the Mage will bring balance and help bring peace, though the one with true diliverence will be shuned from almost all.

I think it's rather false and just a wish. But maybe Y'ata fears I'm that Mage who will bring down the evil Mages. I think its funny.

Well to speak on lighter things and to keep my mind from wondering I'll tell you of what Ranger and I have been up to. Hm--where to start. Last week after I sent you the letter Ranger and I continued on our way towards another town. I guess Ranger has been traveling from town to town for years. Sometimes he'll teach me more swordsmanship. He's been using a sword for fifteen years or more. He's so good. Any how, each town we visit villages the girls flutter at his passing and frown at mine. Funny how it also works in reverse. The young men smile when I pass and give dirty looks to Ranger as he passes. We tease each other about it all the time. We have so much fun together. We talk like we've known each other for years, and I love it. I don't think I've enjoyed someones company as much as his since . . . yours. I haven't been able to find out why Y'ata is after Ranger every time I bring it up he switches topics. I wish I knew why but I'm content to leave that subject alone for the present. I never knew that it could be so much fun to work.

In the last village we went to I was helping an old lady. She was so funny. I don't know why every one insists on making the connection that Ranger isn't married and neither am I, or at least the older people comment on it. This old lady asked me if I was married and I said no. Then she asked if I was engaged. And again I said no. This old lady was feeling very inquisitive and asked if I've ever had an offer of marriage. I was about to say no when I realized that day on the farm when Aunt told me and when I had to talk to Carcon. So I said yes. The old lady then turned me around and looked in my eyes and said,"Good thing you said no. Ranger is a good man." She then didn't talk to me again. I don't get it. Good I said no but then why put in that "Ranger is a good man"? I still don't get it. Well I have fallen in love. But with whom you'll never guess. It's the people. I thought it would be impossible to care for so many people, but I do. And I have Ranger to blame for it. Though I hate to admit it, he was right. It is important to care about the people. I've seen so many refugees from all the rebellions going around that I can't help but wonder that there's a better way to make things right. Rather than tearing apart the normal people. There has to be!

Until we meet anew,
Raina

P.S. I'm sure Luc's fine. He's probably just taking it nice and slow with the princess. I'm sorry this letter isn't very long. I've been busy. Well good luck. And don't ever die on me again! I hope this finds you in good health. I miss you.

20

Dear Raina,

Greetings from the land of Gaol! Haven't heard a thing from Luc. Maybe I'm dead. I really don't know. I've been here years. Thousands of years!
About five hundred years ago, I sat on my little cot, thinking and eating the scraps that had been thrown into me that morning, when my thoughts were broken by the sound of an approaching visitor. My heart was beating loudly and I was so excited to finally see someone! Imagine my dismay when I found that my new gaol partner was to be Sol. At first I was only sad because I thought that must mean that something had happened to Luc but when I learned that he was safe and that Sol had let himself be caught, I was in for another nasty feeling. Annoyance.
Sol has been attempting to teach me more lessons. The occasional times I do listen, he doesn't make any sense. He says he needs to teach me but all he really does is ramble on.
But I get so lonely that I don't always mind his presence.
Raina, I'm dying. I don't say this out of some melodramatic fantasy. I can feel my body wasting away. The water we get is little and the food even less. I see Sol's glances and I know that he knows it too.
I've had a lot of time to think. I'm not afraid to leave this world. Only you. And Luc. And Benk. My friends. I only wish I could convey to you how much you mean to me. Don't ever forget me.
I don't wish to be melancholy. Perhaps in dying I can foil the King's plans. Perhaps this is the best good I can do for our cause. I will not be used against my people. It's better this way.
I will always love you. You are my greatest friend and my dearest sister.


Yours Always,
I'taira




Later:

Y' a t a i s b a c k . S o l w i l l w r i t e f o r m e.

Y'ata returned yesterday evening. Sol was rambling on. (I was not rambling. I was quoting Tessennon.) I am afraid I have been drained of much of my strength and I lay on the small cot, hardly moving. We were startled out of our nonsensical thoughts of escape (Mine were not nonsensical) by the opening of the prison door.
The wind rushed in and I was certain I had finally died. The light was so bright and the air began to circulate and I actually smiled. My smile vanished the moment I recognized the figure in the door. I struggled to sit up, refusing to give the impression of a broken carcass to this devil of a mage.
Before I had the time or strength to lift myself, Y'ata rushed to me and seized my arms in his hands and lifted me in the air with inhuman strength. He didn't say anything but just stared at me with the look of a madman. As suddenly as he had lifted me, he dropped me back onto the fragile cot causing it to break, which in any other situation would have been highly humorous.
He quickly left and we have not seen him since. I can still feel his hands on my arms and his eyes scanning my face and I still tremble with the thoughts. I'm afraid.

Forgive me. I'm doing much better. We have been sent in good food and clean water and I feel as if I have had a grand feast. I don't know what Y'ata has in store for us but it must be something entirely evil if it has got him to do anything slightly good in preparation for it.
Sol has been lecturing me again on courage. He thinks it's good that I'm afraid, saying I must now overcome that. I think Y'ata has already unconsciuosly subjected me to the worst torture: Sol.
Well, that is a bit melodramtic. I cannot deny that I am slightly glad he is here. I am not so lonely and some of his ramblings are actually soothing and do wonders at putting me to sleep.
So, what the life you lead sister! I used to think it would be grand to be in gaol, prisoner of the King, ah what the adventure! But it is quite the contrary and it is those who do not get caught that have all the adventures.
I cannot think why Y'ata is so bent on getting you. I am certain you are very skilled but why should he waste so much time on you? I don't get him. And did you ever figure out why he was specifically after Ranger? He sounds like a nice guy, but I don't get him either. I don't get much right now. The further I get entagled in these political matters the more my mind spins. I came into this knowing exactly what I was going to do and how everything would work out. But everything has become so tangled and I don't know what I'm supposed to do. I wish I could think clearly! Mayhap I've been drugged. I don't know. I don't know anything right now.
I wish Luc would come. I always thought I would be the one to save myself but I just want someone to rescue me! I never thought I'd be the damsel in distress, but by my bow I want my prince to come!
My mind wanders. I love your letters and I pray for your safety.

Yours in gaol,
'Tair

P.S.
Do you really think Luc could ever love me? Agh! I don't want to sound like a schoolgirl. I admit, I like Luc but he is so good. I don't think I will ever deserve someone half as good as him. If I were only more like you! Maybe then he would love. But I'm not. I'm only me.

P.S.

I'm scared for Luc. What do you think could have happened to him? Where is he?

19

'Tair,

What will I ever do with you? Now I know why you always had to stay home. You needed me to get you out of trouble. Sister how could you let your pride get in the way? Do you not know what this is going to do to me? Not to mention they might torture you and I can't handle the thought of that. I'll think of some way to get you out of there.

I surprise even my self sometimes. I just had a brilliant beyond brilliant idea. I can't believe I thought about it when I wasn't even really trying to. I put a spell on this letter so only you can read it. So here's my idea, I . . . I shouldn't even be thinking about this. Alright, I'll kidnap Princess I'talia. It'll be so easy. How could the King not realize the opportunity he just placed in my hands? I have been practicing with Master Sotur'i again and I have learned so many spells that it seems that Master Sotur'i was holding back. I tried to duel Sotur'i the other day and he beat me so badly it was shocking. But from that I have improved greatly, so I should be able to take any one on in a fight. I can't believe I'm going to do this. I . . . this is insane. This is something that you would come up with-not me. I will have to leave everything behind but you can't expect me to do nothing. I know you would storm the tower if it meant saving me. Sister I won't leave you to rot. I hope I am justified in my decision. I will write later telling you of my success.

Later:

Sister, I'm in a forest I can't say where but just know that I am well and so is I'talia. Though she is a little discomforted. I mean who wouldn't. I'm sure you've heard of her capture by now but I thought I'd give you the true version. I had told my contacts I was leaving and probably wouldn't return so I got final messages, none of which were very helpful. Early the next morning I packed up some of my belongings and sent them to the place I was going to head for after I had the Princess. I then took off my disguise, I can not tell you how nice it felt to look in the mirror and just see me. I had thought I'd lost my self. I've been called R'ay for the past while and I have to say I prefer being called Raina. I put on my Mages cloak and pulled up the hood. I snuck out of the inn I had been staying in and sat in the town main square waiting for the sun to rise and with it the people. I sat in the square for several hours. I had figured out that the Princess took a tour of the town every second day of the second week. It happened to be that day.

I sat in contemplation, I watched as the baker warmed his breads and as the beggars came out of their ally ways and sat themselves in the place that would offer them the best advantage of getting money. The young market slaves came early so as to have the ingredients for their masters breakfast. The worker builders carrying their heavy hammers and ax's and other building equipment headed towards the new section of the city. Strangely no one paid me any attention. Some people even bumped into me as the day wore on.

Around two in the afternoon I'talia showed up. Today she was with Gi, Benk, and Master Sotur'i. I had of course suspected all of them to be there. I had seen it before from my foresight. I soon was able to spot the guards and saw my opportunity. I'talia had stopped to talk to a young women of obvious high standing, the rest of the group waited. They had passed me by and I was now fairly close to Master Sotur'i. I wasn't using any magic so he couldn't sense me. In a sudden burst of power I lunged into the air and before Sotur'i could do anything I knocked him out with the hilt of my dagger. I now crouched where Sotur'i had stood. Every one spun around staring. I heightened my strength, and from that increased my speed, and ran forward grabbing I'talia and bringing her to stand away from every one else. I put my dagger to her neck and told no one to move or else she dies immediately. The guards who had half way drawn their swords stopped. Silence enveloped the square. Then Gi straightened up and said to me, "Mage Raina, I presume? If your anything like your sister I'taira then I highly doubt that you would actually kill the Princess." His men started forward. "You miss judge me Gi," I said. And with that I pushed the dagger harder into I'talia's neck causing a spot of blood to appear on my dagger. The men stopped. I turned to Benk and said, "She says she's sorry. She's very sorry Benk." Benk looked confused but I know it was just to fool the others, I could see in his eyes that he understood. While I said this Gi must have signaled to I'talia to pull my hood down because as soon as I turned to Gi my hood had been yanked off. Obviously it was so that people could identify what I really looked like. I couldn't do anything about this but pull the Princess closer and press the dagger harder. She gasped giving the first sign of fear. I could see surprise in the eyes of those around. I don't think it is much of a surprise that we look so much a like except for our hair but it seems everyone else does. I felt like I had enough socializing so I shot a small piece of paper through the air which landed at Benks feet. "Benk come alone with what I ask, and follow the directions from the place outlined in the note. If you don't you'll find her," I nodded to I'talia, "dead in the place I've indicated. Or at least you'll find whats left of her." With that I said a spell that sent the both of us through the air. We landed a little distance out of town where I promptly knocked out I'talia. I then traveled with her into the Mysterious Magical Forest, which is forbidden and we are probably a two days journey into the forest. Well that's the story. I hope you approve. But it was done and was had to be done. But I did have the best intentions in mind.

Love,

Raina.

More recent:

I knew it! I knew it, I knew it! Well that's taking a little too much credit upon myself. After all I saw in the future that he would come and he came! Luc, he's here. So the princess and I were sitting down, she in denial, me in triumph. When the rock she was sitting on moved. She jumped up and screamed. Running as far from the camp as my spell would let her go. I watched the rock roll and walked over to where it came from. I looked down and there was a young man. I had expected Sol to accompany him but it was just Luc and Weed. I helped Luc out of the hole and Weed jumped up and went to sniffing and slithering around camp. He is so beautiful, Weed is I mean. No description could ever prepare someone to meet a creature like Weed. I welcomed Luc into camp and told him I had been waiting for him. I made dinner while he sat and rested and the princess started to edge back in closer.

After dinner was ready we all sat down to a-- fine meal. Luc seemed exhausted from his trip and the princess refused to eat. I have to tell you what I did. I didn't really mean to be that rude but the princess was being such a prat that I think she deserved it. I walked over to her with her dinner and offered it to her. "I think you poisoned it," I'talia said. "Why would I want to poison you when I can trade you for something?"I said. But she stuck her nose in the air and refused to eat. "Have it your way, I serve meals only at certain times and I guess you don't want it," I said. And with that I flipped over her plate and threw it on the ground. She looked hungrily at the spoiled food. Luc smiled. He always does doesn't he.

Later that night when the princess was asleep I decided to talk with Luc and see what had really happened. He told me how you ran off and how they were forced to hide to keep from being captured. Apparently Sol is not yet satisfied with what you have learned and decided to stay. Luc would get serious at some small brief parts but for the most he was smiling. Always smiling. I think he would make a perfect match for you. He is after all your complete opposite. You have to decide between Gi and Luc, I personally like Luc better. He might not be quite as gorgeous as Gi is, but he makes up for it by his charismatic personality. I like him and I'm happy for you both. You could teach him how to fight and he could teach you some humility. I give you my permission to like him. You can also like Gi, if you have to. Well good night.

Later:

You won't believe what happened! I'll have to start at the beginning. I was in a Mage's sleep which means my body's resting but my mind stays awake and alert. I sat up in a start. The future I saw too frightening to believe. Y'ata was coming. He was coming for me. He didn't care if it killed I'talia. He wanted me. An apprentice who had over powered her Master, who had fled from a army, and kidnapped a princess with no consequence to herself. I had accidentally woken up Weed who looked at me strangely. I crawled over to Luc and lightly shook his shoulder. He opened his eyes and sat up and, again, smiled. "Luc I need you to take I'talia to a safe place where you can watch over her and trade her for my sister. I'll try to catch up but . . . Y'ata is coming. He's coming for me. I'll leave immediately. But you two should leave as soon as possible," I said. Luc nodded and went around packing up camp. I walked over to I'talia knelt down and started to bind her hands with rope that I had. She woke up and looked at me tiredly. "Princess your leaving camp, with Luc. He'll take good care of you," I said pulling her to her feet. She looked between Luc and me. Luc smiled at her, having finished cleaning up camp and moved the rock standing next to the opening in the ground. Luc took her by the elbow and lowered her in after Weed. "Good luck Luc, and here are the direction for the trading. I might not be able to be there on time so I'll need you to do it. Or not to do it, I'm not sure that it will work ." "Good luck your self," Luc said giving me another smile. Then I couldn't help it so I said, "Luc just to let you know you have my permission to fall in love with my sister." I think that would be the first time I have ever seen a man blush so red. I had the smile that time. And you can't be mad at me because your in prison and need to be thinking positively.

I stood there for a moment then fled for my life. I have never ran so fast. I ran for all I was worth. If I had used magic it would have been far too easy for Y'ata to track me. So I ran. I had my Mage's cloak about me to keep me in the shadows. I ran into a clearing with a small spring and needed to stop for a drink. I was so tired. While I was in the middle of drinking a man sprinted from the opposite side of the clearing very much out of breath. We both looked at each other both breathing heavily when a Mage appeared out from behind the man. He ran to where I stood and we looked at each other and the Mage just laughed. It was so insane sounding that I could feel my hairs prickle at the sound. The man in an out of breath voice said quietly to me, "I'm s-sorry . . . I brought Y'ata here. I was . . . was running and . . . and I'm sorry I found you." I had controlled my breathing by now. "He's after you? I thought he was after me," I said. The man looked up at me again the Y'ata broke lauged. "I was looking for the both of you," Y'ata said. "Raina, Raina, thought you could run from me did you?" Y'ata paused to laugh again. "Ranger meet my new apprentice Raina." The man's eyes locked with mine, his full of accusatory. I felt awful under that look so I said to Y'ata, "I will die before I become your apprentice."

An ugly smirk curled the ends of Y'ata's lips. "You don't have to die, I could just kill your sister." "You wouldn't dare!" I yelled at him. By now the man whom Y'ata called Ranger had control of his breath and leaned close to me and whispered, "You take right, I'll take left." He paused then yelled, "Go!" I ran at Y'ata throwing spell after spell in his direction. I whipped out my sword and swung it at Y'ata's figure, but my blade bit into wood. I had hit a tree as did Ranger. Y'ata was in the air looking furious. "You both dare to try and stand against me?" he said. I opened up my mind to the future and I saw the spell Y'ata was going to throw at me so I said the counter the mere second before he cast the actual spell. He glared at me and said, "We must extinguish our foresight or else we won't have half a decent fight." I could feel his withdraw of power. I pulled my sword lose from the tree and I turned off my foresight. I slunck slowly over to Ranger and whispered, "You distract with the sword." Ranger nodded and ran forward. I protected Ranger from any spells that Y'ata was throwing at him and now they were in combat. Ranger is such a good fighter. Anyways it was an amazing fight. I threw spells at Y'ata and finally with the two of us working together Y'ata had to with draw. He screamed back at us viciously, "I'll be back, and not alone." He then disappeared in a flash of light. I became suddenly weak and my legs wobbled dangerously beneath me. Ranger ran to my side, "Come on we need to keep moving."

And so we did. We probably walked two or three miles before I collapsed and passed out. I guess the spells that I warded off from Ranger were extremely strong and had zapped me of my strength. That usually doesn't happen unless you the spells that you are blocking are too strong for your magic. So I was out and when I finally came to it was dark and Ranger was sitting next to a small fire. "How long have I been asleep?" I asked him. "About two days." He said. "Two days. That long?"I asked. He nodded. "Are feeling alright?" he said. "I feel fine right now." "Good. Are you ready for some food?" he asked. I smiled and said, "Yes please." It was then that I noticed that I still had my hood on. I had put a spell on it so that it couldn't be removed. So Ranger had no idea what I looked like. He handed me a plate of some sort of meat and a mush thing to the side of it. I thankfully excepted it and removed the part of my hood that hid my mouth. I bowed my head so that he couldn't see my face. Between bites I surveyed him. We'd been so busy during our fight against Y'ata that I hadn't even seen what he looked like. He has dark, longish (but not too long), sandy blond hair, with a small curl to it. Bright blue eyes that are so clear that you can almost see every feeling he feels through them. He's strong in build with a strong prominent jaw line and a perfect smile. I'm sure that no person could look as perfect as he does.

Back into the story, he watched me in silence for a minute then said, "I tried to take your hood off so you could breath but it wouldn't come off so I left it. Is it made out of material that easy to breath out of?" I nodded. "Why do you wear it?" Ranger asked. "It's part of being a Mage." "Ah, I forgot you were a Mage. Why else would Y'ata want you as an apprentice?" he said. I went back to eating. "Well we should probably introduce ourselves properly since we'll be traveling with each other for a while,"Ranger said. "What? Why would we travel together?" I asked. "Well Y'ata is planning to come back and we do make a very good team." I couldn't believe it, he wanted safety of a Mage. "I suppose that will be alright," I said a little uncertain. "My name is . . . Raina." I had thought of not telling him my name but then he had heard Y'ata say it. "Nice to meet you Raina. People call me Ranger." He said inclining his head in a small sort of bow. I was done eating so I pulled the cloth back around my mouth. "Do you also wear that hood because your disfigured?" Ranger asked. I laughed, I couldn't believe how straight forward he was. "No of course not. But since were getting more personal, why do the people call you Ranger?" He looked thoughtful for a moment then said, "You'll find out tomorrow. But for now you should get some rest. I'll take the first watch." He walked away into the woods. I lay back down and opened my mind to be flooded with the future. I let my body relax once again. For some reason I trusted Ranger. After I had taken my shift and he'd gotten some rest, the sun rose.

We traveled a short distance to the top of a hill where there was a view such as I have never seen. Burnt buildings, black crops, lone crisp trees. How can one prepare ones self for a sight so deadening? We stood in silence for several minutes. Ranger turned away and headed further up along the ridge to the less burnt area and motioned me to follow. When we came to the top of the ridge it sloped down into a little green valley spotted with houses. "These are the people the fires didn't kill." Ranger said. "I spend all my time caring for the forests and ancient life. Sometimes working with robbers and then other times helping the people who survive the rampage of the rebels." "Wait that fire back there was started by the rebels?" I asked, shocked that we, who fought for a good cause, could do such a thing. "All will be revealed in time. For now I hope you will help me serve the every day hero's." He said heading toward the little village. He stopped and turned around. "Raina, " he said. "Your going to have to take your hood off or people will suspect you as an evil magician." I frowned I could see the trickery in his eyes. Very clever. But then again people would think that wouldn't they? So I unwrapped my hood and stuffed it into the back of the pack Ranger had helped me to make. My hair obscured my face so he couldn't see it. I swung around looking him straight in the eyes. He gave no reaction like so many other people usually do. But I could see in his eyes that he was surprised how pretty I was. I smiled causing him to smile with me. He lead the way down to the village and that's were our journey started.

When we went inside the village Ranger was immediately surrounded by little boys the eldest probably twelve. They all called his names each one telling him how they were the best at swords since he left. I looked around while he was busy with the little boy's and saw young girls emerging from every house. I could tell that they had just ran a brush through their hair trying to look as good as they could for Ranger. I smiled. They walked to each other and started to whisper excitedly until their gazes fell upon me. I could feel the hate from each one of those girls, the envy. It felt awful I was about to shrink away when one of the older women who had gotten through the swarm of boys asked Ranger who I was. Ranger grabbed my arm softly and said loudly for everyone to hear, "This is my fighting partner and soon to be fellow ranger." I shot him a glance at this, I had no intention of becoming a ranger. He pushed his way through the crowed and past the girls who fluttered at his passing. He lead me to a discrepant house and past it into a field. An old man sat on a broken ground tiller. He looked up when he saw Ranger and smiled. "Ranger my dear boy! Come to help me again have ya?" Ranger returned the smile and said, "I'm not good with fixing materials but my friend Raina is very talented in that area. She'll help you fix anything that needs to be fixed. When she's done helping you will you bring her to the town square?" The old man nodded and stood up. Ranger left and I didn't know what to do. The old man looked me over and said, "You must be one of those magic folk. Well . . . no use fighting about that. Help me fix this blasted tool and we'll move on from there." And so I went up to it having no idea what I was supposed to do. I recognized it from our farm and said the words that would hopefully put the tiller to rights. The old man looked over it once it was done and nodded and told me to follow him. I swear I fixed every thing that man owned. But the last thing I fixed was a rocking chair for his old wife who had to lay in bed because her rocking chair didn't work. He asked me to fix the rocking chair instead of telling me to fix it like he had done with the other stuff. I spent most of the day in that manner.

All in all I actually liked doing that work. After he couldn't think of anything else for me to fix he started to lead me back to the city. And since it was a far walk he started up a conversation. "Raina, that's what he called ya right?" I nodded. He contiued, "Are ya married?" I shook my head. "How long ya know the young Ranger?" "Not very long." I said. The old man kept asking me questions about myself that I almost regretted being alone with him. But at length we reached the village. Ranger was playing with the little boys while the girls watched and giggled at him. I can't believe we used to be as immature as those girls. I'm glad we grew up. Well as soon as I came close Ranger called out making everyone become silent. It must be that every time he opens his mouth people listen. "Boy's do want to see a real fight?" he said. The boys cheered and even the young men who had been standing a little far off perked up at that. "Raina will you be so kind as to engage in a sword fight with me?" I looked at him uncertain and realized that I had placed my weapon in the ground like I usually do, I wasn't sure if he wanted me to have such a grand display of magic. Ranger nodded seeming to perceive my thoughts and we circled around each other. He took lunges, which, with my enhanced speed, I was able to dodge out of the way and after a few attempts at that I summoned my sword from the ground. Ooo's and Ahh's rippled across the crowed as my sword blocked his. I reached out and grasped my weapon and we started to fight. It was so relaxing. We weren't trying to kill each other or teach something we were merely showing the art that we both cared for. Our movements were percise and we seemed to move as if in a dance, perfectly synchronized. We knew what the other would do and correlated our actions to counter the attacks. We finished after several minutes and the crowd was in silence. I looked over at the girls who stood with mouths open, gawking at the fact that I had sword played with their hero. Ranger and I bowed to each other and the boys ran up to the both of us telling us their favorite moves that we had done. After we spent the night there we left early in the morning and just travled. Ranger explained to me that there are two types of heros. Heros of man and heros of the world. This explanation will surprise you. Heros of men are those who end up in history books but heros of the world are those who in meekness serve to provide and save their families and all they hold dear. Ranger is a very interesting person.

I hope you are safe sister. I pray that your out of prison. I hope Sol isn't driving you crazy. I also hope Luc is safe. If you know anything about him and Princess I'talia or what's going on I would love to hear.

Love as always,

Raina.

18

Dearest Raina,

May I live to see another day. May I live to hear your beautiful scoldings. May I live to fight another fight! May I live to taste my first kiss! May I live to regret what has passed.

I know not whether laws be right, Or whether laws be wrong; All that we know who lie in gaol Is that the wall is strong; And that each day is like a year, A year whose days are long.

Do you remember the tales of Kaun? The tales of the songs we used to sing as children and how they came to be? I remember sitting in the old cellar, pretending I was in gaol for starting the Rebellion, endlessly singing that mournful strain. What goes around, comes around.
A small shaft of sunlight beams in through the barred window high above my head, giving me sufficient light to lay before you the events of these last days.

I lay awake some hours that night we camped by the Tower. It loomed large and solitary in the open space and seemed to grow in the moonlight.
Near mid night, I heard the voices of Luc and Sol, sitting near the embers of the camp fire. Here is what I heard of their conversation. I only include it so that perhaps you will understand Luc a bit more.
"What have you learned of Emlyn?" Sol asked.
Luc's voice was sad and I could imagine his face, one of those rare times that sorrow shadows his bright eyes. "Nothing. I've searched for months, Uncle. But she is gone." He must have dropped his head in his hands for these last words were muffled.
"Ah..." Sol was silent for a moment. "So it would seem." Another pause. "It was a good six years ago that you came to me last. You told me you were setting out on your journey to become a hero and a Warrior. How did it go?"
Luc laughed softly. But his laugh died out quickly and he waited a moment to answer.
"Long ago I yearned to be a hero without knowing, in truth, what a hero was. Now, perhaps, I understand it a little better. A grower of turnips or a shaper of clay, a farmer or a king--every man is a hero if he strives more for others than for himself alone." He began to speak but his words caught in his throat. He tried again. "Emlyn showed me that. Did you know that she came with me on that journey? She insisted that a hero needed a page, just like the old stories." I could hear his usual smile in his voice. "But she was the one to become a hero. She was the one that opened my eyes to the heroes around me. We would spend weeks in one place, Emlyn insisting that a hero needed to fix all the problems he could, but in truth, each place we stopped, I was the one that got fixed, while Emlyn did the fixing for others. And everywhere she went, she left a trail of sunshine and I saw how it changed people, more than any conquering Warrior can. I decided that it would be better for me to become like Emlyn than any of the Warriors of old. The real heroes are the ones that save lives, not destroy them.
"We met Aunt Mor'en in Fre'gard and Emlyn got so close to Zel that I didn't have the heart to tear her away. I never made it to Warrior Training. And I didn't become the hero that I first set out to be. But I did change. And I'm still changing. I only wish I could do to people what Emlyn did. The world lost one of their greatest hero's when they lost Emlyn." His voice cracked and I pressed my ear against my pillow, a few solitary tears of sympathy leaking from my eyes, sorry for intruding on such a private conversation.
I fell asleep with a smile on my face though, the by-product of Luc's enthusiasm and countless smiles.

The fateful day dawned cold and bright. I was confronted by Sol early in my preparations. I groaned at his presence but turned to face him.
"Good morning, Sol." I said in the brightest tone I could muster.
He just grunted and stared me down. I stared right back and we stood there for a good minute.
"Are you afraid?" The question startled me and I nearly laughed.
"Old man, I haven't been afraid for years. There's no point in starting now." A bit cocky, but saying it helped to quench the small bit of fear in my gut.
"Then you are a fool." There was no smile in his voice and I saw a shadow flit across his face. I remained silent, unsure how to answer to that accusation.
"Lesson five: Courage."
"Already mastered, old man." Now I was overdoing the cocky role a bit much.
His eyes closed and he pressed his fingertips together. "Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear." He walked away and I just shook my head. What a weirdo!
I finished stretching myself and doing all I could to mentally prepare myself for a duel that seemed every moment to grow in size.
Luc had gone into the Tower to fix the details of the duel with Y'ata and I was anxious when he took so long to return. I sat on a stump, attempting to "master the fear" inside me. I calmed myself and put myself in a trancelike state, imagining every detail of the coming fight, a trick I had taught myself and one that has never failed to keep me focused.
Sol was doing some type of "meditation" in his tent, most likely asleep, and I was completely alone, facing the Tower and waiting for Luc to return and call me to duel.
My legs suddenly cramped and I stood, attempting to stretch them out and get the blood flowing. I was stomping around when I nearly stomped on Benk's toes. He seemed to appear out of thin air and I was speechless at his sudden appearance.
My first impulse was to embrace my old friend but I quickly recalled to remembrance his hated profession and our strict difference of feelings and opinions in a highly important matter.
He smiled very slightly and motioned for me to be silent when I opened my mouth. I could sense his discomfort and I gained confidence in knowing that I was in my "territory" and he was the intruder.
"Just listen to me Tair." His voice was level and businesslike. We were both aware of our differences and knew that it would just be a waste of time to try and patch it up. You know, besides you, he is the only one that has taken to calling me Tair?
Anyway, "We don't have a lot of time." He glanced around and I saw his eyes focus on the Tower door. "The King knows you're here. He had Y'ata set up this whole "duel" thing, knowing that if you were still alive Mor'en was sure to find you, desperate to save her daughter." He grimaced. "I have told you time and again that you must not take everything by it's face value!" We both couldn't help from smiling as we thought on the times that he had tried to teach me the ways of the Spy and in a lot of ways told me more than I should rightly know. "But that's beside the point. The whole thing is rigged. You may be able to go through a decent fight, but the King will be waiting to set the trap. His entire force is on his way here and a tse-tse fly wouldn't be able to escape. You've got to go now!"
We heard the big Tower door swing open and he stepped into the shadows of the trees.
"Please Tair! You've got to get out!" He seemed in earnest but something stopped me. I realize now that what I took to be intuition was nothing more than pride.
I glanced behind me and saw Luc coming closer. "Go away Benk." I turned my back on him but he would not leave so easily.
He came up to me, leaving himself open to Luc seeing him, and grasped my arm, turning me to face him. I could see Luc hurrying foward and Benk spoke quickly.
"Tair, I don't know who you think I've turned into, but you must know that I'm not going to leave you here to die! It's a trap! Just listen to me!" I yanked my arm away from him and delivered a good slap.
"GO. AWAY." I could not keep the tears from coming and he must have taken that for a weakening.
By this time Luc was beside me. He put his hand on my arm and gave me a questioning look, his eyes full of worry.
Luc turned to Benk and I was afraid there would be a messy confrontation. Luc is not the most skilled fighter, but neither is Benk and I don't think either of them would have hesitated in starting such a duel of honor.
But fate intervened. Or rather, Sol did. I had completely forgotten about him and his appearance startled me.
He turned his penetrating glance on Benk. "Young man, what could possibly have enticed you to come here?" Benk must have seen that Sol seemed to be in charge and he directed his case there.
"I'taira is my friend and I have come to warn her. This duel is a trap and the King is waiting to catch her. You must all leave now." He was composed but earnest.
Sol stared him down and he stood under it admirably. After a moment Sol turned to Luc.
"Pack up camp." Luc obeyed instantly and I was left to face Sol
"What!?" My voice screeched out. Something snapped in me. "He's a spy! The King's right hand man!" I nearly yelled, my finger pointing to his chest. "How can you believe him?!"
Sol watched me calmly and then turned to pack up his things. I found myself alone, Benk having disappeared, apparently confident that I would leave with Sol and Luc. But my blood was running high and my pride had been pricked.
I stomped my way to the Tower, passing by Luc but heedless of his protestations. I burst into the Tower and nearly smacked into Y'ata.
He is a tall and well built man, with graying hair and amber eyes. I stepped back to give myself room and then, with eyes blazing, I confronted the Mage.
"Mage Y'ata," I bowed slightly. "Let us begin." He smiled, a rather sickly sight, and the doors behind me swung shut.
The room was circular and empty, the perfect spot for a duel. The ceiling was high, but short enough to convey that there was another room on top. I inspected the space with my eyes, storing it in my memory and then nodded that I was ready. He handed me a beautifully jewelled blade and I hefted it in my hands, getting used to it. I find jewelled weapons silly things, but there was no denying that this blade was beautiful. It dazzled the eyes and I already felt as though I had been put under a spell.
I shook myself free of the feeling and we both circled the room and then, saluting each other, began. The fight was long and troublesome, but no magic was involved. With you as my sister, I believe I have some sort of sense of magic and I felt nothing and I actually gained. But so did he. I would gain ground, confident that I could end the whole thing soon and then he would push back the attack.
To make a long fight short, neither won. As you must have guessed, the King came bursting in the doors in the second hour and I was surrounded. I fought as best I could but I was dry of strength and with a bop on the head, I was out.
I found myself in this small room, with nothing but my writing pad and pen on my person. By my reckoning it has been almost two days since the duel. I delayed writing to you, hoping to write you after my "great escape" but I fear it may be long in coming. As far as I can guess, I am in the Tower of Deth. I don't know if Zel is here, but if she is I'm afraid I have little chance of helping her. I don't know why I am kept here still, but I fancy the King will get me when he needs me. I thank the stars that you never told me details of our followers. At least they will be safe when the torture begins.
I write this to you not for the intent that you rescue me, but that you carry on the work of the rebellion and if you ever see Benk, tell him I am sorry. I... I'm just sorry.
I don't know what has happened to Luc or Sol or Weed but I hope they are safe. Even Sol. On the bright side I suppose I could say that I got rid of Sol before I completed my lessons. But that thought doesn't help much.

Yours always,
I'taira, Warrior of the Rebellion

P.S.
Don't worry about me! I love you!

17

'Taira,

Your very funny. You are having such a hard time with Sol. I find his riddles and way of speaking very entertaining. I would love to talk to him about problems of the world. Sages are ever so good at debating. Sol must have been transformed, or something, to become so drastically different. Though when you tell the future you . . . change a little. Sometimes for the thing your seeing. But it is a very dangerous way to see the future. But I think you should really try to learn from Sol. The sooner you learn the sooner he leaves and the sooner your happier with yourself. This is obviously about the revenge thing. You need to stop thinking about revenge and think positively. Your friends are still alive I know it. Or at least I feel it. That's the frustrating thing about seeing the future. People always take you seriously.

I find Luc to be an intriguing person. Likable, engaging, yet hiding something. He lost his sister for heavens sake! He can't be all happy unless he's hiding his feelings. Which is very dangerous. When you hide your feelings for so long they might all compact leading to an out ward burst. The only reason why I know this is because Master Sotur'i spent a whole day explaining it to me. I wonder why he feels like he has to be strong? His sister is obviously in an orphanage, with Zel, or dead. I personally don't think she's dead. But that just makes things more confusing. Most Mages have no reason to lie since they don't care about anything other than themselves so Y'ata wouldn't be lying. That's what makes me an 'unstable Mage,' or at least according to Master Sotur'i. I don't think it does. Anyhow I'm still trying to figure out Luc. He could be lying. But he can't gain anything by lying, unless he is bringing you to the King. But I can't see him doing that. This is very unsettling.

I really hope you do well in fighting a Mage. I pray this reaches you before you fight because I have some helpful hints. A Mage will always say that they will win, don't believe it. Their foresight would be clogged with the wish to win therefor unable to see. Second, some Mages won't strike unless absolutely necessary, but this is a special case. Y'ata is one of the King's most trusted Magician and has been for several generations. He would be used to fighting without magic. He will probably strike whenever he can. Also if he sees he's going to lose he will most likely revert to magic. Then he'll probably use it in little insignificant ways that are unnoticeable. Such as move the ground beneath your feet to through you off balance or pull your hair. I know it sounds funny but it'll yank your hair back really hard and trust me it hurts and throws off your concentration. Be safe, and though you say you don't need it, good luck. I know the Ajatar will help a lot but always look for the expected and unexpected.

Did you know that Master Sotur'i was thinking once of sending me away to train with Y'ata? I of course told him I'd rather die. Everyone knows that who ever trains with Y'ata ends up as the Kings property. And all the things that Y'ata has done! It gives me the shivers when I think of Zel living in the Tower of Deth. You better save her. Well Benk has left H'lafa and I'm not sure where he went. It was so secretive. One day he was here trying to find out if I was an impostor and then the other he gone. But Gi has taken his spot in keeping an eye on me. Between him and Benk I hardly have time to use magic. My mind has become so clouded that my foresight has almost stopped. I've had to take a weekend trip into the woods to clear my mind. I have felt so much better. But of course right when I got back Gi was asking where I had been. Honestly I don't think the King ever gives up. I have seriously considered joining Warrior Training but I know I can't. The only reason why I fight so well right now is because of the magic I use. I would definitely be found out if I went to Warrior Training. So for now I've decided to sit still and keep doing what I'm doing.

One of my contacts has told me that the King is moving his troops towards the Tower of Deth. The Mage Y'ata apparently wants a whole contingent of soldiers. Get Zel out and get out of there your self. That's all my spying has afforded me. I have started to meld into the groups of town women. That's where the gossip is the best. I thought gossip traveled fast in a little town but small groups can make it travel twice as fast. Apparently the King has been having problems keeping prisoners from escape attempts, several of which have been somewhat successful. The word on the street is that no one has escaped yet but everyone expects to hear of a brake out soon. If your friends are anything like you, I have a feeling they would be trying to escape even if it was near impossible.

A frightening experience happened a few days ago. I knew my heart had stopped. I was shopping in the market talking to the baker about his wife who had a cold and wasn't doing so well when someone walked up behind me and whispered, "End the conversation, act calm and head to the woods. Or else I'll run you through with me blade!" And with that I felt a small blade press up against the arch of my back. I told the baker I had something I had to do and bade him farewell and started towards the woods. This is not the thing that scared me, it is the fact that I could get free from this person if I wanted to but it would blow my cover as a spy so I couldn't do anything. I walked through the town with the man in the dark cape, I pretending to talk to him like we were old friends. We ran into Gi who of course stopped us I being a very suspicious figure anyways. "Where are you going?" Gi asked. "To the edge of the road past the woods. This is a dear friend of mine from my village and he was just passing through so I thought I would walk with him as far as I could," I said. Gi looked suspicious but nodded and walked on. "Your very quick," the mans voice rasped in my ear. He now held my fore arm and had a knife at my side. I was becoming very interested in who this person was. We came to the woods and I led the way into the dark sheltered woods. As soon as we reached a clearing where we were deep enough to not be found easily. The man threw me to the ground and started to pace around the small clearing.

"What are you doing here?" he asked. "I don't think I have to answer that question until I know who you are." I said trying to sound strong. "After you tell me what your doing here." I sat in contemplation what would it hurt if I told him. "I'm here because my father is an ill retired soldier and my mother can't afford to take care of my siblings and so I left to come here and work so I could help take care of my family." "Liar." he said quietly. "I speak the truth." He laughed right out loud. And pulled back his hood. That's when my heart froze.

Master Sotur'i. I was in horror. Thoughts swirled through my head. He could turn me into the King, he could kill me. "I'll ask you one more time," Sotur'i said. "I already told you." I was hoping against hope that he didn't recognize me. "Raina, I am the one who taught you. Do you think I can't tell when your casting a spell to conceal yourself." He said. And that is what put two and two together. Master Sotur'i is a minor magician who can use his powers to seek out other magic caster. That's how he knew I was a Mage. I was kneeling down now not meeting his gaze. "Master Sotur'i," I said, "I am running from the Kings soldiers. Having refused arrest and I have fled here." I bowed my head as a sign of submission. While he thought on my words I searched through the future. I saw that he did not intend to turn me in so I relaxed. "I am very much surprised that you've been able to stay hidden for so long." Sotur'i mused out loud. "Indeed, I taught you very well." I could tell that he was thinking of what to do. "I wish to continue teaching you," he said. I couldn't believe it. He wanted to keep teaching me! After all I did. I stood up and was about to say yes when I realized something strange. Why would he teach me? He had so much power that he knew he could hand me over to any other Master. "I'll think about it," I said, then I turned and left. When I wasn't quite out of ear shot he said, "I've taught you too well. Questioning acts of kindness." I kept walking. He wanted to provoke me into saying that I except his offer. He hates waiting. But I think I will except. Of course after I make sure there couldn't be any trap in my excepting. I hope you have better luck and less suspicions than I have.

Love,

Raina.

P.S. Just for old times sake . . . Do you like Luc?

16

Dear Raina,

Sages!!!
Before I go on, thank you for your letter. Your thoughts are very interesting to me and I am so very grateful for all you are doing. You are invaluable.
I could go on in your praises but I am afraid I am a bit out of sorts and this letter is my outlet.
Here is my tale. Judge me how you will, but know that I have done my best.

I started on what I will refer to as the Journey. The sky was clear, mirroring my thoughts and emotions. The world passed me by in a moving picture and I felt my soul expand. As I neared the Tunnel head, my thoughts came down from the clouds and I put them to work on the present moment. I searched for Mor'en's nephew but to no avail.
I waited some time, anxious to be on my way. The sun moved slowly across the sky and as it reached it's peak, so did my impatience. As I had left Mor'en that morning, she had stressed that her nephew would meet me and that I was to wait for him at all costs. But I resolved to wait no longer and so I entered the Tunnel, thinking how much faster I would go by myself, even thinking that I could get back before the morrow days end.
I was well on my way before the sun disappeared behind the horizon and I made myself a worthy camp and lay to rest, content with my day's labor.
I was awakened in the dead of night by a touch of a hand on my shoulder. My eyes flew open and I jumped up. Before me was a young man, surely not more than eight and twenty. The embers of the fire showed me little else but his figure. He was tall, at least enough to surpass me and his shoulders were strong and held confidently. I could see in the way he held himself that he was no Warrior, but nevertheless, he seemed to be well used to physical activity.
I was given little time to make note of more, as he motioned for me to wait while he went off a distance towards the Tunnel I had recently left.
I was certain this was Mor'en's nephew and my conscience nagged me for leaving him behind. But I was gladly interrupted out of any guilty thoughts when the young man came back, pulling along some sort of animal. I was curious that this young man would follow, knowing that I had purposely left him behind, and I was more curious to know what sort of animal he brought with him. Surely he should know that we were bound to be in boggy land and an animal would have great difficulty and would slow us down.
He held the animal back in the shadows and then held out his hand to me.
"My name is Luc. I'm Mor'en's nephew. I thought I was supposed to meet you at the Tunnel head but I guess I must have heard wrong. I got there as quick as I could but when you weren't there I decided to follow you. Sorry it took me so long. I had to get Weed."
I liked this fellow. As he spoke he ran his hands through his hair and he has this insane smile that seemed to light up the dark night. I felt bad for leaving him behind. He seemed so innocent and.. cute. Just like a little kid. His whole manner was just of a happy little boy, and an angel boy at that. His supposing that he had been the one to have heard wrong was so sweet that I could not help but correct him.
"No, you didn't hear wrong. I'm sorry, it was my fault. I should have waited longer but when you didn't show I went without you." He smiled brightly and I felt like everything was good. "Who's Weed?"
Luc smiled even brighter and tugged on the rope leading to the animal that had stayed in the shadows. The creature came into a spot of moonlight and I stepped back in wonder. Before me was the most gorgeous and... irresistible creature.
"What is it?" I breathed.
Luc whispered back, "It's an Ajatar."
"What!" For some reason I was still whispering. "An Ajatar! They are forbidden!" A slow smile came to the lips of Luc and I smiled in return. Here was a man after my own heart. The word "forbidden" kept ringing in my ears and each time I heard it, it brought with it a certain sweetness.
I slowly approached the enticing creature. I am sure you have heard descriptions of their beauty, but nothing can prepare you for the real thing. The air around seems to shimmer and their eyes draw you in, ever nearer, as if it is some sweet smell of a long forgotten memory, urging you to remember yet always out of your grasp.
I knelt beside the creature, my eyes riveted on his shimmering black skin and piercing silver eyes. I felt my breath shorten as I touched the soft skin and as the creature leaned into my hand rolling it's agile neck around my arm.
I was shivering with the feeling of it all and Luc knelt beside me, smiling softly and petting the Ajatar.
"Why do you call it Weed? Is it male or female?"
He laughed softly, still keeping the moment quiet, as I was. "It's male and Mor'en named him Weed. I told her she was crazy in picking such a commonplace name for something so exquisitely out of the ordinary, but she insisted. She says he is the weed in the cultivated garden of the King's. He has tried to get rid of the Ajatars, but they will keep coming back." He ended with a sigh.
We sat thus for some time, reveling in the beauty and mystery of such a creature. I sat back against the trunk of a tree and Luc did the same, while Weed laid down in the grass, adding his quiet snores to the music of the night.
"Why did you bring him, Luc?" Luc looked over at me and smiled his insane smile.
"Mor'en didn't tell you much, did she?" I shook my head and he took the role of narrator. "Mor'en has one child, a girl named Zel. Zel is now eighteen years of age. Up until last J'an, she was in our caravan along with a friend of hers, a girl nearly six years older, but as close as can be. She disappeared the night before Zel did. Her name is Emlyn. She is my sister." I saw a shadow pass over his face and I touched his arm, not knowing how to express my sympathy. He continued after a moment. "We were searching for Emlyn the night Zel disappeared. We had left her in the camp, along with two of our trusted friends, but when we returned early the following morning, she was gone. We had no leads, no traces of how or why she left. We eventually heard news of the Mage Y'ata and his... exploits in Hagel. Y'ata and Mor'en have had their quarrels and Y'ata had threatened revenge. If Mor'en has any fault, it is pride, one almost all Sages are known to have. She left the quarrel neglected.
"When we heard of Y'ata, Mor'en became certain that he had something to do with Zel's disappearance. We followed his trail and it eventually led us to the Tower of Deth. Y'ata is powerful and he has not let his defenses down. He is well aware of his many enemies and he has kept himself holed up in that Tower, along with Zel. I'm afraid he also has great pride and he cannot be compelled to release her. He has admitted to having her, but no amount of pleading or threatening will conduce him to give her up.
"But he is growing restless in there and we grow more fearful for Zel's safety. The day before we found you, he contacted Mor'en, stating that he will release Zel on two conditions. One, he be sent the best Warrior in the kingdom and he or she be subject to a duel with him and two, we bring him a jug of Blackberry Current from Fre'gard. He loves the stuff!" Luc smiled and I couldn't help but smile back. He prepared to go on but a question crossed my mind and I voiced it.
"Wait, how did you know who I was?" He looked a bit uncomfortable as I stared him down, not terribly happy that any but yourself knew my secret.
"Well, first, everything about you gave clues and... your journal said so very clearly." I gasped and he held up his hand. "I didn't read it! We were trying to figure out who you were and Mor'en found your journal. She only read some and then decided that it would be best if you came with us." I still glared at him but he went on. "News travels quickly and it is no secret that the Warrior I'taira has fled from H'lafa and that the King is searching earnestly for her. We were searched while your were still unconscious." He pointed out. "But Mor'en is not only a Sage in name and her ingenuity saved you." He smiled, as if all were forgiven and I shrugged it off.
"Sounds like Y'ata is a bit eccentric. A duel and Blackberry Current?" I asked increduously.
"Yes, eccentric fits him perfectly, along with old and doddery. But that doesn't diminish his powers or skills. He is a master with the Sword and has apparently always longed to test it against the professed masters."
"Then why did Mor'en take my sword away?!"
"Y'ata insisted on providing the weapons. He claims that Warriors are only good with their own "charmed" weapons." Luc's smiles were abundant even while speaking of things like duels and mages. Sorry, mages aren't bad, at least not all.
"How does Weed come into this?"
"Mor'en believes that Y'ata will try to cross us somehow and I don't blame her. She thought it best that we bring Weed along so he can block the spells. Strange, isn't it, that the King is so against Ajatars. You almost could believe that he puts the people under a spell. It would certainly explain his aversion to Ajatars and Mages. Both can sense a spell and both can shrug it off." He looked thoughtful for a moment. "We can't let Y'ata know we have Weed with us. He would stop at nothing to get his hands on this baby." He reached over and rubbed Weed, eliciting a soft rumble.
"What about Emlyn?"
Luc's smile faded quickly and he crumbled the grass in his hands. "We still haven't found any trace of her. Y'ata claims to know nothing of her but maybe he will be a little more forthcoming at the point of your sword."
I tried not to laugh but failed. The look on Luc's face was classic. He was startled, but joined in the laughter. When our laughter died out we sat in silence for a few minutes. I felt myself dozing off and decided to get a few more hours of sleep before we started.
I stood up. "Well Luc, I am glad you made it." He stood up and shook my hand again.
"Glad to be here I'taira." He smiled and I made my way back to my blankets, shaking my head and smiling, truly glad for the company of this silly young man.
I was awoken in the morning by the muzzling of Weed. Really, he can act so very much like a dog that it is hard to remember that he is supposed to possess as much brain power as a human.
Luc was busily preparing breakfast and I set to cleaning up camp.
We started off in good time and kept a good pace throughout the day. With Weed with us, we didn't need to fear any traps of illusion spells but the place was difficult enough. We had no horses and my legs quickly became sore, tromping through the thick mud and skirting clear of pools and frightful looking plants. But I am used to such soreness and Luc seemed to take no thought to the exertion.
Weed sprang along the tops of the trees and rocks, keeping clear of the plentiful muck. He was being more help than not, as he carried half the bags on his back. I am continually amazed at his strength. He goes no higher than my knee and he appears to be awfully thin, but I believe he could carry me if he had the mind to.
Near noon we stopped at the first clear spring we could find and ate a good meal, refreshing our tired senses. We started again and I was hopeful every hour that the Tower would come in sight. But the hours wore on and the scenery never changed. I began to believe that we were going in circles and by the fifth time we passed the same squirrel shaped bush, I was certain of it.
"Luc, we're going in circles!"
He smiled back at me and shook his head. "Mor'en gave me very clear directions. We're going the right way!"
Nevertheless by the time the sun began to disappear, so did Luc's smile, and I could see that even he believed that we were lost. He stopped to look around and remember his directions and soon we started off again.
The ground was wet and swampy and by this time we didn't care what direction we went in, only that we could find a suitable spot to camp.
I was sore and grouchy and double grouchy at Luc for keeping up his singing and smiling. Nothing could dampen his spirits.
I finally could take it no longer so I sat myself down on a hunk of rock and refused to go on. Luc just glanced at me and sat himself down on an opposing rock, content to let me rest. I glared at Weed, hanging from a nearby branch.
"I think he's faulty." I said, pointing to Weed as I crunched an apple.
"Faulty?"
"Yeah, I think we've been put under some kind of illusion spell and we really are going in circles."
Luc just laughed and leaned back, his short, dark hair blending in with the browns of the tree against which he leaned.
"No, I would sooner call myself a N'erd than Weed faulty. If anything, I am faulty and have got us mixed up. But we'll work it out." He closed his eyes, obviously pondering the directions he had been given.
I was content to let him figure everything out by himself and I closed my eyes, getting what rest I could while sitting up.
No sooner had I closed my eyes, than I felt the rock beneath me shift. My eyes flew open and I glanced around, unsure of what I had felt. Luc's eyes were still closed and he was oblivious to the world.
The rock shifted again and I jumped up. "What the!" The rock was rolling from side to side and I was freaking out. Luc had come up beside me now and was studying the rock curiously.
"Odd," he said, obviously more interested than afraid. He is just the kind of person that doesn't find anything to be strange and would smile at the thought of rocks that move themselves or trees that dance.
The rock gave a sudden shift and rolled straight towards us. The ground was uneven and with the many obstacles in it's path we had no trouble in sidestepping before it got to us. I watched it roll by and eventually bump against a tree, to just lay there.
I kept my eyes on the rock, certain it was somehow enchanted and meant us harm, and I jumped a mile high when I heard a new voice, right behind me.
"Lessons one, two, and three: failed." I found myself facing the exact impersonation of the Sage I met long ago in the woods near Tayna. He was small and stooped, holding in his right hand a great big staff made entirely of rubber. He was clothed in long robes of the deepest black, nearly blending in with the shadows in the failing light. His voice was high and... merry, reminding me almost of Luc's happy tones, but adding along with it a most annoying sense of authority and confidence. His eyes were shining brightly, seeming to cast beams of green at all he saw. He was entirely devoid of hair, his bald head seeming to glow in the rays of the falling sun.
I took all this in as we stared at one another. My mind would not believe that this was the same man that I had met all those years ago and something else registered faintly that this was a different man. My thoughts moved through the mud we had been in all day and it was a few moments before I registered what he had said.
"Excuse me? Lessons?" His eyes twinkled and he smiled but remained silent. "May I ask who you are?"
"Very few can say who they really are, for very few ever know." My brain still stumbled on in the mire of confusion and he went on. "If you were to ask what I am, ah, that I could tell you. For I am a Sage little one and I am a man. I am known on the lips of man as the Sage Sol and in the hearts, as Friend and Teacher. Some call me Wise, some Foolish, but to say who I really am, ah my child, that I am afraid I cannot tell you. For I have not yet completed my journey and even I, in my wisdom and age, cannot say who I am."
I must have looked the complete dolt as I stared at him. Luc clapped the old man on the back and embraced him, shocking me out of my thoughts.
"Uncle Sol!" The meeting was joyous and I felt out of place as they reminisced and caught up on old acquaintances. Luc finally turned to me.
"Tair, this is Mor'en's oldest brother Sol. It has been years since he has honored the world with his presence! It is a great privilege to have him with us." He kept his arm around the old man and smiled down at him.
"You have grown much, little man. Amazing how the young grow so quickly!" Sol was certain to go on in his ramblings but I stopped him.
"Pardon me for my slowness of mind, but I'm still on the rock." I pointed back at the motionless rock. Sol smiled and chuckled.
"Ah, little one, it is just a rock." He pointed to the space the rock had previously occupied and I saw that there was a great sort of tunnel there. My mind began to speed up and I placed things together.
"Yes, amazing how one can be so easily fooled when there is so simple an explanation. I am afraid many of the world's problems are thus. For if I had not come when I did, you would surely have spent wasted time toiling over the problem of the Rock, never thinking to look to it's source, finding the answer gaping up at you."
I felt my face go red, from anger or embarrasment, I know not. It was simple to see that he had been in the tunnel and used some sort of lever to move the rock from underneath, thus creating the illusion of the moving rock.
I shrugged my shoulders and passed the feeling off, deciding to be civil. "I am honored to meet you Sage Sol." I bowed slightly and felt his eyes sharpen on me.
"Honored, you say. Ah, an honor is bestowed on a person with the intention of blessing. But is it an honor that you have met me? We shall see."
He turned to Luc then. "Young man, you are completely right in saying it has been far too long since I have seen my dearest little Mor'en. I would gladly go with you to see her but I see that you are busy." He rubbed his chin and watched me.
"I shall come with you! It is apparent that you have poor directional skills my boy. All I had to do was switch a few rocks and misplace a few bushes and I had you going in circles for hours." I gasped but Luc just smiled good-naturedly.
Sol turned to me. "And you, young lady need to learn a few things." His voice was teasing but his eyes were not. "
I started to ask him what this whole "lesson" thing was about but he just walked off with Luc who lowered him down into the tunnel from which he returned in a few minutes with some belongings.
I was getting impatient to be off and find a spot to camp as the sun was disappearing rapidly and the night was becoming chill.
"Come on wise guy, show us where we can sleep for the night." I tried to make my voice sound friendly but I was not feeling anything akin to friendliness for this old man. Certainly, he had done no more than get us lost for hours, but he was just getting on my nerves! And he kept mentioning these "lessons" and I felt for all the world as if I would bust!
Sol led us to a beautiful, dry spot and I quickly set up camp while Luc cooked a delicious meal. I was mad that it was the second day and we were still a good half day's journey from the Tower and I was tired from all that walking. I was silent during the meal and hurried off to bed, falling asleep within moments.
In the morning I was doing much better and I tried to right the wrongs of yesterday by starting up a conversation with Sol while Luc was cleaning up camp.
"Sol," I tried to keep my attitude humble. "Would you answer me a question?"
"One." He was petting Weed and his eyes were wandering over the muddy terrain.
I had intended to ask him about the the Sage that I had met that night long ago, but I was dying with curiosity to know about the lessons.
"What are these lessons?"
He smiled and looked at me. "For each of us comes a time when we learn a vital lesson in life. There are five vital lessons. Lessons that no person can teach another. But along with these five, there are countless other lessons, lessons some know, some know of, and some those who know must teach to those who do not. I know who you are, I have watched you since you were small and I have kept track of the lessons you have learned. But you were getting on so poorly that I determined I must find you and make certain you learn more quickly!" His eyes were teasing now, but I was not finding it funny. "I have set aside ten lessons for you to learn while I am with you. When you have learned them, I will go. But only then will you be rid of me." He stood up to go.
"But what are the lessons!?" I asked, agitated.
"Only one question." And he walked away, leaving me more confused than ever.
How could he know who I was and how could he have watched me so carefully? I was certain now that this was a different man than the one that had given me that screwy message and yet from what he had said, I had to conclude that he at least knew about it. I was not to be put off and decided to go for another question.
I approached Sol but he held up his hand for silence. "Shh. Lesson number four, Silence is Golden." And with that,we started off. I had to endure a full day of silence! Luc was content to keep his thoughts to himself and Sol seemed in a trancelike state throughout the tiring day. Weed bounded along silently, seeming to understand the creed of the day.
We finally reached the Tower after a long and weary day of slow travel, but Sol insisted we get a good nights rest and fight our battles in the morning.
I don't know how he came to take over this venture, but Luc seems more than happy to follow his lead. How does the old man even know what we're doing?
Sages! I am to battle Y'ata tomorrow Wish me luck! (With Sol, not Y'ata.)
Always,
Tair

15

Dear Tair,

Don't be too confident. Sometimes being too confident can make one fail. Be safe but know that I trust you and I'm sure you'll be fine. I am afraid that I can't see what happens to you clearly. That's one problem about being a Mage. Every time you look into the future your feelings will get into the way unless you don't care either way. Unfortunately, yet fortunately, I care about you so I can't really know what will happen to you. But from what I saw you are a very good fighter. I really hope you do well. I have one small qualm about you being sent to the Tower of Deth. Though I myself must admit that I don't really know much about the Tower. Why would a Sage send you there? I sense something very wrong. Any Sage who is half as good as they say would be able to brake in. This is very troubling to me. I have a feeling she's part of the rebellion. Before you leave find out for sure. And I'm not so sure that you should come here. I know that you are still being looked for. It wouldn't be extremely wise for you to come here. I heard a small group of soldiers talking about you. It was funny. They call you the Wondrous Warrior of I'ikane. You are like a goddess to their eyes. They describe you as one of beauty and grace yet you are like a devil when it comes to fighting. And unfortunately have chosen to follow the rebellion. I had to keep from laughing. If only they knew.

Sister, Benk is always around. It gets very annoying. Maybe his not quite so convinced as I thought he was. He is after all a spy. And he must be a very good one too if he works so closely with the king. I feel sort of bad finding him out. I sort of cheated. When you mentioned him in your letters I saw someone like your description spying on something or other. That's why I guessed. And I feel like I cheated him out of a great game. But I play along. He asked me to lunch and it would look strange if I said no so I had to say yes. It was of course during the two hour brake of Warrior Training, Benk is still there. So it was a little awkward. He . . . I'll just have to give you the whole conversation. "Do you know much about the Warrior Tair?" he asked. I nodded, honestly who hadn't heard of you. Benk pressed on further, "Did you know that she won a two hour sword fighting battle against the best second year trainee ever known?" "Yes," I said, "The little boys in my sword fighting class are always telling me about it. It seems to me like she was incredible. I wish I could have met her." He nodded looking a little cast down. We sat in silence for a little while before he continued, "Did you also know that there is a Mage?" I leaned in closer to him and whispered, "I thought they didn't exist?" Looking around to give the impression I was afraid a Mage would appear out of no where. Benk smiled, "I thought so too. But I was good friends with 'Tair and her sister is the Mage that everyone is talking about," he said. "Really, why would her sister tell you?" I asked," Seeing your just as loyal to the king as anyone." He looked down and asked, "Do you really like what the king is doing?" I sat quietly for a moment then said, "I'm not sure. To say that I didn't would mean that I'm against the crown and to say that I do wouldn't exactly be honest. I mean who can please everybody?" Benk looked thoughtfully then said he must be getting back to Warrior training. I bid him farewell and sat at the table by myself.
It was odd I could tell Benk was between two stand points, but why? I left for my teaching area to start the days lessons. Benk was there hiding very ingeniously. But thanks to minor magic I was able to see him. I love teaching the sweet little children. Listening to the boys talk about the latest tournament and how they were going to be the best when they reached Warrior Training. And the girls would either be talking about you and how you were the best that Warrior Training had ever seen, or about I'talia and her latest dressing styles. They're all so funny. It's so enjoyable to catch their attention when doing a complicated move. You have made your self quite a legend here. Several people say your the Mage and that's why you ran. Others say that you were payed to believe in the rebellion. All rumors are so exaggerated that it's almost impossible to see any truth in some of them. But all are sure on one point. You are the best Warrior. I have found an interesting part of news. The King has ordered his troops to head to places suspected of holding traitors (rebellionists) and having them brought to the capitol to be tried. I also have been given an offer to join the Warrior Training. I have not answered them. I don't think I will join unless you think it wise.

Sister, I worry about you and your grief. I can't believe all your friends are dead. It's impossible. I have been doing some snooping around the castle and have found a back door that may lead into the dungeons. Or at least that's where the guards change. So I am pretty sure. I think I will be able to recognize your friends. I know they aren't dead. Either the rebellion has them and covered their disappearance by "killing" them. Or the King has them and hid his acts under the same thing. But I know they aren't dead. It's just too coincidental.

Later:

I was sitting with a contact at the town local tavern when we were placed kitty corner to Benk with someone else. I pretended not to see Benk and tried to not stare too much at the man he was with. He fit your description of the King and he wore several jeweled rings, he also looked like the man who came to the farm abd said he was the king. I used my magic to enhance my hearing so I could listen to what they were saying. Here's all I heard:

"Yes," Benk was saying. "I searched out that girl as much as possible. She has nothing wrong about her. She seems completely loyal to you and loves your people." "I know that you think she is fine but think about it Benk, she did arrive the exact same day that Raina disappeared." the other man said. "But if you met her . . . your right she could be very clever at deceiving me. But if she was the Mage shouldn't I be able to tell?" Benk asked. "Benk she's probably using magic to disguise herself. She would really have to be careful, especially since she's here at the capitol," the man said. Benk took a deep breath. He opened his mouth to say something when he stopped.

I knew he'd seen me. I had been getting too into their conversation. I turned to the man across from me and struck up a conversation so fast and well that even I thought we'd been talking for a long time. But both of them stood up and walked out followed by several people. I blew it, but now I'll have to be very careful. Benks friend certainly thought I was different. Well I must excuse my self. I have to go and contemplate. I haven't had time to think very clearly so I must leave.

Love,

Raina