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Chapter Text

Did we just die and not notice?' Alfyn exclaimed, beating a fist against his chest dramatically.

'What now?' Therion scowled at his companion 'I swear Alf, you're so random sometimes.'

Alfyn grinned and motioned enthusiastically back down the road they had just travelled. 'Look there, seems we're being followed by a Valkyrie and an Angel. Shucks, I sure hope they're our heavenly reward - I will be one happy corpse!'

Therion peered at the two women striding towards them. For once Alf hadn't been exaggerating. The taller woman moved confidently, her fur-clad figure solid and fluid, plaited hair bouncing at her firm step. Beside her the slight and graceful blonde should have been dwarfed but her gentle beauty shone even from a distance. Her ash staff and white robe marked her role.

'A Cleric.' Therion muttered darkly, already moving back from the roadside, and heading towards the tree-line.

'Whoa, Therion - where you going mate?' Alfyn got to his feet to stare at the rapidly retreating thief.

'Anywhere that's not here. I'm not overly fond of religious types.'

'Awww. Okay.' Alf took a last regretful glance at the women, slung his satchel over his shoulder and started to follow Therion away from the road.

Muttering to himself Therion swathed through tall grass, not bothering to check if his companion was behind him. Sure, life was too short to hold on to grudges - but he would make an exception in the case of the bloody Order of the Sacred Flame. Stupid to wander this close to Flamesgrace. He should have know better.

Overwhelmed by his bitterness, Therion's keen awareness of his surroundings were slack. The first warning that something was amiss came from Alfyn's startled yelp of alarm.

Therion whipped his head up just as something large and heavy bowled into him at ferocious speed knocking him clean off his feet and tumbling him down into the mud on his back. There was a metallic crack followed by an ear-splitting bestial yowl that ripped into the air then an almost heartbreaking whimper.

Despite being winded and confused, Therion's survival instincts kicked in hard and he rolled quickly onto his belly a dagger in his hand and peered out over the grass. His mind could made little sense of what he saw.

A huge snow leopard lay prone on the ground close to where he had fallen with one of its hind legs caught in a iron trap - a trap situated just where Therion had himself been about to step before he'd been diverted by the beast.

The tall woman was sprinting towards him, a bow in her hand and murder in her flinty eyes. The Cleric with her robe held up nearly to her knee's in her attempt to keep pace with her companion was failing miserably at restraining her friend but gamely continuing to try.

Alfyn stepped in front of Therion but was simply brushed aside by the Valkyrie as if he was a particularly annoying fly.

'What hast thou done!' The woman shrieked at Therion, bringing the point of her notched arrow almost to his nose.

'H'aanit - Peace!' The Cleric was breathing hard but her tone was firm 'If Linde had been attacking the young man he would be in ribbons by now. I think perhaps she knocked him away from the trap.'

'Thou art mad, she knowes him not - why wouldst she?' H'aanit's hand had started to tremble with emotion then finally with a growl she eased her bow back and the arrow away. Her attention switched to the leopard. A small cry escaped her throat and she threw herself at the cat gathering its huge head into her arms.

The Cleric got down on her knees next to the trap and started to examine it. Alfyn moved to join her. 'It has a lock..' she said. 'See it - just there. I don't think we are going to be able to release it and free the leg unless the trap owner happens by. This is not good.' The young woman motioned for H'aanit to keep the cat still as she removed her gloves and gently examined where the trap had closed its jaws.

'Not much blood,' Alfyn noted, reaching into his satchel. 'At least nothing major has been ruptured. There will be a break and tendon damage though I'd wager.'

Therion had picked himself up and moved in behind them silently. 'I can open the lock.' he said quietly, palming his picks.

The Cleric noted his tools and nodded at him 'Thank you sir, it would be much appreciated if you can.' She looked at Alfyn who was furiously pounding something in a bowl. 'You are an Apothecary?' she asked.

He nodded. 'This should the dull the pain at the wound so that we can get a better look without causing too much distress to the beast.'

'Linde. She is named Linde.' The Cleric pushed a strand of hair back from her face and looked up at him shyly 'I'm Ophilia, that's H'aanit. Thank you for your help.'

'Well in fairness Sister, I reckon your magnificent pet saved my friend here from disaster so the thanks should be from us. I'm Alfyn by the way.'

'Linde ist not a pet. She ist my companion. And my friend.' H'aanit growled.

'Apologies Mistress H'aanit, I didn't mean any offence.' Alfyn replied.

'Can'st thou help her?' H'aanit asked in a small voice.

'Once the trap is free we can assess it better,' Alfyn said although his tone was warm and reassuring. 'How's that lock coming Therion?' Alfyn glanced at his companion.

'Damn thing is as rusty as sin - whoever set it is bloody shoddy with his equipment,' Therion muttered. 'Nearly... yeah there.' The pressure loosened and Linde let out a weak growl.

'Okay.. err Master Therion?' Ophilia pressed in close beside Alfyn and lifted Linde's damaged leg gently.

'Yeah, what?' Therion mumbled.

'Could you slowly pull the trap away while I am supporting the leg please.'

'Uhh, yeah. Sure.'

Between the three of them they freed the cat from the device and the Cleric and Apothecary immediately set about surveying the damage.

'Seems a pretty clean break,' Alfyn commented - rubbing his tincture expertly around the wound. 'I can't see any splintering, course I'm not an expert in feline bone structure.'

'I concur,' Ophilia agreed. 'We should set the bone to its proper position and perhaps you have something that will prevent infection?' Alfyn nodded 'Perfect and then I can finish it up.' Alfyn looked quizzically at her. 'Well, my healing, I suppose it's like persuading the body to heal itself only a lot quicker. If I did it now with the bone out of place it would heal but not as effectively as it will if it's in the right place - and any aid in preventing infection will improve the result even more.'

'So all wilt be alrighte?' H'aanit asked hopefully.

Ophilia beamed at her friend. 'I'm sure of it! She will likely need to rest until morning and she is going to be very hungry. Perhaps you could get onto organising some food for her.' The Cleric added, realising H'aanit's frustration at her inability to help the beast.

'A wise idea Ophilia. Thankest thou.' H'aanit rested her head briefly on the leopards. 'All wilt be well Linde. Take heart my friend. Thou art safe in the care of Ophilia and Master Alfyn.'

Therion moved closer to H'aanit. 'I'll help if you want. I owe your cat some thanks.' His tone was harsh but the feeling behind it appeared genuine.

H'aanit stood and ran a frank and critical eye over him. 'I will hunt alone.' she said stiffly.

Therion turned away at her rebuke, but she reached out a hand and placed it firmly on his shoulder. 'It may'st be that Linde would appreciatethou holding her to calm her whilst the healers tend her wound. She hast obviously taken a liking to thou though I cannot fathom why.'

'Don't hold back on the compliments will ya.' Therion said gruffly, none the less he moved into position at the cat's head and tentatively put a hand on the great beasts brow. Nodding encouragement H'aanit disappeared into the tree's, with her bow to hand and confident bounce back in her step.

Alfyn and Ophilia, their heads bent companionably together, worked swiftly and competently both taking silent measure of each other's skills. Once the physical challenges had been completed Alfyn drew back with keen anticipation on his face.

'Hold fast Linde,' Ophilia reassured their patient 'We're nearly done.' She placed her hand on the cats flank, closed her eyes and tilted her face upwards. Almost immediately Alfyn and Therion felt a warm pleasant sensation wash over them gently. Linde snuffled once very contentedly, stretched out her injured paw and appearing happy with the result she closed her eyes in sleep.

'Oh...' Alfyn breathed. 'That was like someone was stroking my back - like my Mam did when I was a nipper. Was that you?'

Ophilia blushed bright red. 'I.. I.. should have warned you, I didn't think of it.' She looked up shyly at him once again 'The healing light isn't really focused - like any kind of light it spreads out. I guess any minor aches or pains you may have been having will also have been eased by it.'

'Just dandy.' Therion sarcastically cut in. 'That tumble Linde gave me left me with a sore arse, so please accept my arses thanks for your attention your holiness.'

The smallest flash of uncertainty crossed the Cleric's face, but when she turned her gaze to Therion she had a soft smile. 'I'm glad your rear is more comfortable Mister Therion...' she said kindly. 'Although I urge that you continue to pay a caution to it. Jarring injuries can be rather unpredictable. Should your bottom present any further problem please be sure to mention it to me and I will be happy to make a more detailed assessment of it.'

Therion scowled back at her. 'I think you'd be better off tending to Alf, his face seems to have turned a peculiar purple.' he huffed.

Alfyn couldn't hold it in anymore. He roared with laughter.

'All ist well? What ist so funny?' H'aanit was back, a brace of large rabbits dangling from her hand.

'We were just contemplating Therion's magnificent bottom.' Alfyn declared.

'Really?' H'aanit looked confused 'I hath not noticed anything exemplary about it, do I miss something?'

'Again with the compliments..thanks.' The tips of Therion's ears had turned pink in stark contrast to his white hair. 'I think I will keep my conversation with myself - the rest of you can go hang!' he sulked.

H'aanit's confusion grew. 'Thou art vexed because I think thou bottom not nice? Ist important to thee?' She thought about it for a few seconds. 'In honesty I hath not truly considered the matter.' She mused seriously. 'If thou wish it, I hast only to check more closely and mine opinion may'st change.' Therion buried his head in his hands.

Once the general mirth finally died down Ophilia wandered off to gather firewood while H'aanit began butchering and preparing one of her rabbits. Alfyn offered to go in search of water. Therion started to move but H'aanit waved at him to stay as the cat was slumbering with her head in his lap.

'Alf and I need to get going to reach Atlasdam before nightfall.' Therion protested.

'Thou wil'st eaten with us.' H'aanit commanded rather than offered. 'We hath the same destination, it wouldst be well to travel together on the morrow, I hath noted that the road ist offering scant safety these days.'

'How do you know you are safe from us?'

'I trust in Linde. She hath never led me astray.' H'aanit shrugged 'I also trust in mine own skills to flatten thou should thou not be as thou seemest.'

'Therion felt the approach of the cleric behind him, her arms full of wood. 'Linde got her whiskers in a twist,' Therion snorted sarcastically. 'I am a thief and should certainly not be trusted'.

'Obviously not a good one.' H'aanit noted sagely. 'I thinken it unwise to broadcast the fact thou art a thief if thou intends to steal. Surely it wouldst be better to stayen quiet about it!'

Therion sighed heavily at the Huntress. 'And you Sister?' he challenged the Cleric. 'Surely you have a lecture on morality for me?'

'Have you stolen from us?' Ophilia asked curiously, laying down her load carefully.

'Not yet.' Therion admitted.

'Then I shall keep a close eye on my spare underclothes and should any go missing I shall deem you worthy of a lecture. Until then..' she shrugged. 'None of my business.'

'I wouldn't throw him a challenge!' Alfyn chuckled, returning with his refilled water bottles.

The stew H'aanit cooked along with some creative seasoning provided by Alfyn was simply mouth-watering. Linde woke as it was cooking and was presented with a whole rabbit to herself which she devoured gratefully before settling down again between H'aanit and Ophilia who showered her with affection that left her a purring like a kitten.

Therion remain mostly silent, listening to the good natured banter between Alf and Ophilia as they discussed healing and anecdotes of successes and failures. H'aanit added a few grisly stories about wounds she had witnessed or received from the many varied beasts she had hunted with her master over the years. Eventually, as night fell talk turned to their respective destinations.

'Fancy that. You're the Flamebearer - I guess that makes you a bit famous then.' Alfyn grinned at Ophilia. 'I bet the ritual is something to see!'

'Don't remind me!' the girl groaned. I'm sure to mess it up - or trip and fall on my face and set fire to the church or something. I didn't exactly prepare for this. That's why I'm heading to Atlasdam, look at some maps - read some of the accounts of previous Kindling journeys. It only happens every twenty years and keeping the flame fed, well, I hope I'm up to the task.'

'Thou defeateth the flame-guardian and were judged worthy child - thou have nothing to fear. Thou also hast Linde and I.' H'aanit took Ophilia's hand and squeezed it.

'I wouldn't have made it this far without the two of you. You should see them fight in tandem Alf, it's like watching a force of nature. Amazing - beautiful.' H'aanit flushed bright and muttered something inaudible. 'Anyway,' Ophilia continued 'We also hope to find some information about the beast that H'aanit's master had been hunting when he went missing. Then it's to Stonegard to follow up on the leads there in the search for him.'

'Sounds like quite the adventure.' Alfyn noted wistfully.

Therion volunteered to take the first watch over the night and settled himself by the fire. H'aanit moved to lay behind Ophilia, so the cleric was sandwiched between herself and the leopard. 'I sleepeth most lightly.' She noted meaningfully before laying her head down and falling into slumber almost immediately.

'I really don't know how she manages to do that.' Ophilia sighed as she shifted to get a better position, but despite her words she was also asleep within minutes.

Alfyn and Therion sat in companionable silence for a while until it was broken by a small cry from the Cleric. Alfyn started to his feet but H'aanit gestured him away with her arm, before resting it comfortingly around her still sleeping friend whose quiet whimpers eased at the contact. H'aanit promptly fell asleep once more.

'Well, ain't that just the most adorable sight.' Alfyn sighed softly before making for his own blanket.

'Yeah, frikkin' lovely.' Therion grumbled unkindly back to him as the Apothecary settled himself down. 'And Alf.. don't get any funny ideas about accompanying them further than Atlasdam either you big ninny. It ain't gonna happen.'

'No problem mate.' Alfyn smiled as he closed his eyes.

Chapter Text

It had been a very long morning and Therion was grumpy.  Grumpier than his normal base level of grump even.

It had taken considerably longer than it should have to get to Atlasdam mainly because Alf insisted on stopping every few minutes to examine every single weed he spied and then got himself into a long and pointless conversation with the Cleric about it. While H'aanit had seemed happy to indulge them it had riled Therion's nerves no end. It didn't help that Ophilia had eaten it all up with a spoon appearing to be genuinely interested and chattering on and on with question after bloody question.

Still, he supposed it had kept the Cleric's attention off him a bit.  Once too often he had felt her eyes boring a hole through him and when he caught her off-guard staring at him her face was sad. It was so bloody annoying. He had sighed a deep sigh of relief when they'd finally spied the City in the distance and now they were here their unwanted association could be at an end and good riddance.

As soon as they hit town Therion slipped away from the others who went off to get rooms and food.  He desperately needed some time alone and his fingers were itching too. All that wholesome camaraderie had made him completely uncomfortable and he figured that some petty larceny was definitely in order to redress the balance.

Therion wove his way skilfully through the crowds thronging the streets - mainly students and scholars - and the thief was pleased to note the high number of well heeled targets that spread out before him like a tasty banquet.

The city itself was quite open, bright and well maintained which was not such a good thing but Therion knew his trade well and he still anticipated rich and varied pickings come the evening.  Until darkness fell he decided he would pass some time having a good listen to the chatter around and about for any juicy titbits. He quickly found a lively Tavern that was not too far from the university itself, ordered himself a beer and settled himself down at the bar intent on some relaxed information gathering.

Almost immediately his mood was dampened again. The main buzz was about the arrival of the Flamebearer into town even though Ophilia had literally only arrived a short time ago.

The woman holding court over the subject was a Cleric herself, a much older woman surrounded by a few others of her damned profession and a growing crowd of onlookers.

'She is completely insane you know.' The sister was proclaiming with a vicious smirk and seemed gratified by the serious nods at her words.  'I was one of the Sister's at Flamesgrace back when they brought her to the Cathedral.' The woman carried on.  'It's not a time I will ever forget.'

'She was carrying the severed head of her Mother I heard'  another of the Sisters said breathlessly.

The older woman nodded gravely. ' Bloated and rotten it was, at least a week gone when they found her clinging to it like a doll.'  There was a collective gasp at the image.  The Cleric leaned in closer to her audience.  'It was reckoned her folk had been destitutes, refugees fleeing the war overtaken by some enemy outriders.  Left the child for dead too, but some devilment kept her alive - I swear by the Flame that nothing holy could have survived the slaughter.'  More gasps. 'Taken by the dark God himself she was - it took four Sisters and two guards to get that head out of her grasp, and the child herself only five or so at the time. I still bear the scar where she bit me on that day.' The woman added dramatically.

'How in the world did she come to be performing the Kindling?' a portly well-dressed man asked with curious indignation.

'Snuck in and stole the flame when the Archbishop fell ill.'  The Cleric shook her head sadly. 'And for shame after all he had done for her, adopting the whelp and allowing his own daughter to be raised alongside her.'  There was a small pause.  'It was Lianna who was supposed to carry the Flame - not a well regarded choice but at least she was an Archbishop's daughter and not the devil-get of some unknown pauper.'

Therion found that his hands were strangling the neck of his beer glass to the point it might shatter. He relaxed his hold and tried to maintain a nonchalant air as he moved closer.

'It's all bad timing really,' The Cleric continued 'The flames dampening, more and more people are turning away from the church and now this debacle. We need some strong leadership starting with a strong Flamebearer. Still..' The old woman started to chuckle. '..the girl won't last long on the road. It's happened once or twice in the church history, where the Bearer falls foul of some misadventure or another and the journey has to get restarted.' The old harridan seemed extremely pleased with her prediction of Ophilia's impending doom.

'Archbishop Josef is a good man - he was a Flamebearer himself. I find it hard to accept that he could be taken in so completely.' The new speaker was a younger male Cleric, much more provincially dressed than the others he grouped with.  'I met Sister Ophilia only once,' he admitted '..but she appeared to be devoted to her role.'

'Brother Paul, you are a good man but you are way outside of the politic of the Church.' The old Cleric thumped her staff on the floor hard making everyone jump. 'We have almost ruined ourselves providing to the ever increasing poor - and to what end.. Josef believes as you do in regard to charity and Ophilia is renowned for her passion for the wretches - continually sneaking about to provide to them.' The woman sniffed in pure derision then took up her subject again with relish. 'Of course Josef tolerates and encourages her, takes pride in her but is ever blind to the fact that she is unstable.' 

The woman's audience were beginning to murmur amongst themselves again at increasing levels.  She searched her memory for a story to draw them back in.  Eventually she smiled. 'I remember an incident which occurred years before she had even taken the robe, she must have been twelve or thirteen.'  The old Cleric sneered.  'Ophilia snuck out of her dormitory in the dead of night to get up to the flames knows what mischief.  Not much I wouldn’t put past her.'  The crowd quietened down,  listening intently. 'Was gone all night, found her in the morning in the snow underneath her window - the crazy girl had given no thought when she left of how she was going to get back inside again.  She had given away her good church-provided boots and her acolyte cloak - to some undesirable most likely - and she was frozen solid, took a fever, nearly died.  Did lose a couple of toes to the frostbite.  You know what punishment she took?  None.'  The Cleric sniffed sourly.  'Brat totally refused to say where she had been or what she'd been up to and the Archbishop just accepted it.  Said her suffering had been punishment enough.  Pah.' 

The glass Therion was holding slipped from his fingers and shattered onto the ground causing everyone to look up at him. He backed away to the bar and threw some leaves down then walked out of the Tavern slowly and carefully. He continued walking until he reached the road that led back out of the city where he sank to his knees breathing heavily.

This could not be right. It was simply impossible.

Therion's mind jolted him back to a time seven years ago that he had worked hard to forget.

There had been falling, pain and confusion. A long stumbled road.

Therion's experiences with church run orphanages in his youngest years had left him hating the establishment and yet in his agony he had developed a half baked idea that he could get help at the Cathedral if he could just get there.

His arrival in Flamesgrace had quickly shown him that if he wanted help he would have to pay for it.  Dearly.  The Cleric he had spoken to had looked down on him like the trash he was, demanding coin far beyond his means as a 'donation'.

Broken, starving and witless in his pain - his skills and his sense had deserted him. He was caught stealing and hauled to a cell. As he lay on the bare stone floor shivering and cursing the cold of the Frostlands, he realised with finality that he was probably not going to survive this.  He also realised that he didn’t much care.

Then a tiny face had appeared at the door of his cell. Huge grey eyes had looked up at him from deep within a heavy purple hood as she fumbled with a cell key, needing both slender hands to turn it in the rusty lock.

When he didn’t move, that small hand had taken his and pulled him staggering to his feet.  'Quickly now!'  she whispered, alternately trying to push him, then pull him to get him moving..and then somehow they were outside in the snow.

Shivering fiercely he found himself wrapped in a cloak as the girl continued to chivvy him along until eventually she pushed him through the doorway of a small, abandoned shack.  He didn’t care where he was - it was just so good to be out of the snow.

'I'm not supposed to do this.'  The girl had said earnestly as she helped Therion to the floor 'But if they won't do it then will try.'  And he had felt a gentle warmth wash over him before he slipped into sleep.

When he woke in the morning he found himself covered in a sturdy purple cloak with three apples, a pair of boots and a silver locket on a chain sat on an upturned barrel beside him. His body was also in a much better state than it had been before that night.

He had slipped out of town as soon as he awoke, sold the boots which had been far too small for him and allowed his bitterness to overtake the memory of the child who had helped him. The locket he had kept a while, he'd liked looking at the tiny portrait of a man and woman inside and because of its quality he had reckoned on getting a better price in a bigger town.

Had that child really been Ophilia?  If the old crone in the Tavern had told it true then the girl really was crazy.

The road out of the city lay winding in front of him and the urge to run down it as fast as he could and not look back was overwhelming.

But.  An itch started somewhere underneath his ribcage.

With a sigh he turned back and headed into the City.

Chapter Text

Ophilia, H'aanit and Alfyn had found a decent Inn as close to the city library as they could. The Cleric who was still carrying all of the generous stipend that the Cathedral had provided when she started out insisted on hiring a room that covered a big portion of the top floor of the building as it contained not only three good sized beds but a large fireplace, dining table and a private bath-tub. The Innkeeper had also agreed to allow Linde inside but only in their room so the extra space was very welcome.

As soon as they had closed the door behind them Ophilia dumped her pack on the nearest bed. 'I can't believe how fast I ran through all my spare clothes.' she groaned unbuttoning her clerical robe and dumping the muddy garment on the floor leaving herself stood only in a long thick under-dress. 'Whatever possessed anyone to decide that white is a good colour for robes.. it really doesn't travel well.'

'I thinke it's supposed to represent thy purity and virtue.' H'aanit said raising an eyebrow at the Cleric.

With a sigh, Ophilia took her last clean robe from her pack and shook it out. 'I had best drop into the laundry on my way to the library.' She looked over at Alfyn who had turned his back but appeared to be blushing furiously.

'By the flame!' Ophilia exclaimed in impatience. 'I would assume that you would be quite used to the sight of an undressed female!' Alfyn made an odd choking sound.

'Oh.. oh dear..' The cleric started to blush as well 'I meant in the course of your work not... I mean I wasn't trying to insinuate that you.. oh .. '

H'aanit started to laugh a low throaty chuckle.

'That's work 'ain't it,' the poor boy mumbled. 'You got the injury to focus on instead of..of..'

'Doth thou really intend to dig thyself any bigger a hole to fall into Alfyn?' H'aanit's amusement grew. 'Ophilia cover thyself before the lad faints.'

'I AM covered,' the cleric sighed but she did move over to the screened space in the corner of the room with her clean clothes and a basin of water to freshen up.

'Will you both be coming to the Library with me?' Ophilia enquired after a few moments of splashing water.

'Linde and I shoulde hunt outside the city until nightfall.' H'aanit replied, 'Truthe be that neither of us are comfortable in towns and she will requireth the freedom if we are to spend the night here with thou. It will get easier with time perchance'.

Ophilia emerged fully dressed from behind the screen and sat next to her friend giving her a consoling hug.

'I will see if I can find anything on this 'Redeye' beast. If anything is recorded it will be here I am sure.' Ophilia reached out to give Linde a reassuring pat.

'Wilt thou accompany Ophilia, Master Alfyn?' H'aanit asked formally of the lad who had finally returned to his normal colouring and was busy trying to establish some order in his healing satchel. 'I admit I woulde be much relieved to knoweth she had someone with her.'

'Which I don't actually need if you have other things you want to do.' Ophilia objected gently.

'No, I'd really like to come.' Alfyn replied 'I ain't had a huge exposure to book-work but I reckon there must be some real interesting stuff on medicinal plants. Besides, I'm intrigued by your Kindling thing too. Be good to know a bit more.'

'Then let us eat and get about our business.' Ophilia declared excitedly

The afternoon passed pleasantly. The librarian was extremely helpful, sourcing books and information for both Alfyn and Ophilia and she even suggested that she set up a meeting for the following afternoon with a particular scholar - Professor Albright - who had an active interest in history and theology and who the Librarian was sure would be extremely pleased to help with her research.

 On the subject of Redeye they had drawn a blank but even there the librarian refused to admit defeat and said she would speak to a few people she knew who had an interest in unusual beasts.

Alfyn was amazed by all of the botanical journals that they found particularly the ones with delicately drawn illustration of flora - so much so that they stopped at a bookstore on their way back and Ophilia insisted on purchasing two such books - one for Alfyn and one to be sent back home to his friend and colleague Zeph, for she pointed out quite firmly that the education of an apothecary was most certainly an excellent use of church money. The colourful hair-ribbons that she added for Zeph's sister could not be likewise explained but nearly brought Alfyn to tears which had amused her greatly.

When they returned to the Inn, Ophilia begged some time alone to take a bath so Alfyn stayed down in the bar while she returned to their room to await the bathwater to be brought up. In the meantime she decided that she really needed to sew up the pocket on her robe which has started to tear.

Stripping to her under-dress once more, she wrapped herself in a blanket against the later afternoon chill, found her sewing kit and settled in front of the fire to attend the task. Very soon the air filled with some colourful and inventive language - her thumb and finger were bleeding - and she threw the robe across the room in dismay. She HATED sewing.

'Well, that was hardly very ladylike your holiness.' Therion appeared suddenly, staring in the window of the room at her. He slithered his body gracefully down somehow unlatching the window from the outside and landing with ease on his feet.

'We have a perfectly serviceable door you know.' Ophilia scowled at him.

'I was up on the roof when I heard such language that I assumed you must be being attacked by a hoard of pirates so I took the quickest route.'  Therion went and picked up the robe that the girl had thrown across the room then sat down next to her by the fire.

'How did you find us?' Ophilia's crankiness was replaced with genuine curiosity. 'To be honest, when you took off so fast this morning I really didn't expect to see you again. Alf said you would be back but I had my doubts.'

'So, it turns out that tracking down the Flamebearer, an Amazonian Huntress with her snow Leopard and a dullard country apothecary isn't actually that hard.'  Therion had managed to untangle the thread and the needle and had started to deftly sew the pocket with neat even stitches.

'Oh, Therion, you sew so well!' the girl exclaimed in delight. 'I'm pretty terrible at it. I spend more time bleeding than stitching'. She showed him her bloody fingers as evidence.

'It just takes practise and patience.' Therion said 'And most clothing don't come with the range of pockets I require so I adapt them myself.' He looked up archly at her 'And of course any task that requires nimble fingers is useful for keeping my edge sharp.'

'You just can't help but throw your thievery in my face can you?' Ophilia noted.

There was a long uncomfortable silence.

'Hmmm, well..'  When Therion finally spoke his voice was soft, very unlike his usual sarcastic tone. 'It's not like you can talk is it Sister? I believe you have made use of your own light fingers in the past, as well as a comprehensive list of other misdemeanours.'

'I beg your pardon!' She exclaimed 'I don't think...'

'Let me see..' he interrupted her but kept his eyes firmly down on his needlework. 'First there was the theft of a prison cell key, then aiding a criminal to escape.' He looked up briefly when she made a small hiss of dismay and  noted her horrified expression.  Lowering his eyes again he ploughed on.  'Does hiding said criminal constitute a separate sin or does it come under the escape one? I guess it doesn’t matter. Oh of course I can't forget the use of healing magic when not qualified to do so. Tell me Ophilia have I missed anything? I was kinda out of it at the time so some of the finer details are a bit hazy.'

'You recognised me.' Ophilia spoke so softly he could hardly hear her. 'I recognised you almost straight away.'

'In truth I didn't. Someone was gossiping about the Flamebearer and recounted a story of how she lost some toes after giving away her boots and her cloak. You realise that your boots were way too small for me don't you?'

'Yes, Therion. I realise it was stupid, but your feet were so cold.' She self-consciously pushed her own feet further underneath herself as if to hide them. 'And I'm ashamed to admit that you HAVE missed out a sin that I committed that evening. In fact it was the biggest one of all.'

'Oh?' he raised an eyebrow at her.

'When I witnessed the way they treated you I was so... angry. Rage, pride, ego - take your pick, they are all unfitting in a cleric. I was thirteen and full of self-righteousness. I decided there and then that I would rescue and heal you since you had so cruelly been denied.' She shook her head and her voice turned bitter. 'I failed to be sensible or at all thoughtful. It would have only taken a visit to the Archbishop to explain the situation - what I had witnessed - and you would have been released. He would have made sure you got the proper care you needed to recover and seen to it that you were fed and warm and safe.'  Ophilia put out a hand to touch his arm, but pulled it back quickly when the thief flinched away.   'All of that was due to you,' she sighed. 'It should have been given to you - but because of my poor decision to act alone all you got was some half-baked acolyte healing, a pair of boots that didn't fit and an apple.'

'And a necklace. I assume the portrait inside were your parents.' He added quietly.

She waved away his protest. 'My behaviour that night shames me Therion.  And I am so very sorry.'

He looked at her, his expression blank then shook his head. 'Wow. I think you really are as mad as they say.' Therion bit off the piece of thread he had been using and handed Ophilia her robe back.

'Yes,' she agreed, 'Probably.'

They were suddenly interrupted by a knock at the door and several buckets of hot water were delivered filling the bath-tub.

'So if we're done reminiscing I wouldn't mind taking my bath now.' Ophilia said crisply. 'Do I have to bar the window after you?'

'Nah, I'll use the door this time.' He rose to his feet and made his way across the room.

'Therion.' Her voice was serious. He paused where he stood, not looking back.

 'I don't mean this as a judgement - just honesty.  I... I don't think that I can like a thief... and on the same note I don't believe that you could like a cleric either.'  She looked down at the robe he had mended and saw the little row of flowers he had embroidered along the top of the pocket. 'We are more than just that one thing though.' He waited, silent as she composed her thoughts. 'Maybe one day I could like the man and if that were the case then it would require at least acceptance of the thief.'

Therion smiled, glad that there was no-one to see it.  Damn it hurt the muscles in his face.  'I sincerely doubt that will ever happen your Holiness' he replied.

Chapter Text

H'aanit sat at the top of a softly undulating hill - the highest point she had been able to find in these peculiar 'Flatlands'. From her vantage she could just see the rooftops and spires of Atlasdam in the distance to the North and the road that led the way down to Rippletide to the south. It was blessedly quiet and although the area provided a lack of cover she was contented. The sun would be setting soon though, meaning that she needed to think about returning to the Inn and to Ophilia, a thought that filled her with trepidation. When they had arrived at the City earlier that day, H'aanit had quickly found that the lack of any green nature in the streets was...unnerving. The smells in the air were completely different. The press of so many people all in one place scurrying here and there left her feeling claustrophobic. Linde felt the same way that she did too.

'Strengthen thy resolve girl..' She admonished herself sternly in a passable mimic of her masters tone. 'Fear only thine own reaction to fear.' Linde looked up at her quizzically from where she lay at H'aanit's feet. The woman shook her head and reached down to scratch at her companions ears. 'We must persevere old friend.' she told the cat. 'Just a few days and we can be away from this place and back to our hunt.'

They sat in silence for a short while longer before H'aanit decided it was time for a last run before they returned. Calling Linde to her side she stood and stretched, gazing down the long road away from the City longingly. A pair of travellers were heading her way at a fast jog - in the lead a tall burly man carrying a burden in his arms and behind him a young woman was struggling to keep up. H'aanit slowly moved down the slight incline with Linde keeping close to her heels - her intent to intercept with the strangers. Woman and cat were both alert but H'aanit was not overly concerned - the manner and demeanour of the two rushing towards her told more of desperation than of threat. Her own people, the hunters of the Woodlands were ever strong and noble and they took pride in the aid that they gave to wayfarers through their lands. Her character would not change simply because she was far away from home.

'Ho!' She called when the man came within earshot. 'May'st I provide any assistance?'

The man's pace faltered slightly but he did not stop.

'My companion is requiring medical aid,' he said as she came up to him and loped along by his side. She realised that the bundle in his arm was in fact a figure wrapped tightly in a thick grey cloak. A mass of auburn hair cascaded out from under the top end and one delicate unshod foot poked from the other. The girl behind them was rapidly running out of breath, possibly due to the enormous backpack that she carried.

'I do travel with a Sister of the Order of the Flame,' H'aanit said as the man finally slowed to a stop to allow the following girl to catch up. 'She stayeth in an Inn not far from the gates to the city. We also may'st still have the services of an apothecary. If thou wish 'it I can guide you to them.'

'Wonderful!' the young girl wheezed, bent over double trying to breath and keep a wary eye on Linde at the same time.

'You have our thanks Huntress,' the man said simply.

'Here child.' H'aanit put out her hand to the girl. 'Let me carry your pack so you may runneth more easily.' A look of horror crossed the girl's face followed swiftly by resignation.

'Thanks.' She muttered, stripping it off her back and handing it over. H'aanit was amazed at its weight. They started jogging again, an easy canter for the huntress and the cat - but obviously still a struggle for the man and girl who looked almost dead on their feet.

'I'm Tressa.' The girl panted as she soldiered forwards her tone still bright despite her obvious discomfort 'Our Knight there is Sir Olberic and our friend, Lady Primrose.'

'I am named H'aanit, and mine companion is Linde, but child, please saveth thy breath for the run, unless you would liketh me to carry you?'

'Err, no I think I'm okay. Yeah, I'll shut up.' The girl set a determined look to her face and tried to pick up a bit of speed.

'She must be tired if you managed to get her to shut up that easily,' the Knight commented.

'As are you.' H'aanit observed back at him having taken in the slight limp and rolled set to the man's shoulders as he moved. Her keen eye had also noted the solid sword and spear strapped to his back, his worn but excellent quality armour and his piercing dark eyes set below a craggy brow. A well made man, she noted to herself - she had not seen any of his like in the city this morning.

The sky was just beginning its path into twilight when the little band finally arrived at the Inn. H'aanit went in first and spied Alfyn at the bar with a mug of ale in his hand and an uncommonly angry expression on his face. He looked up at her entrance and waved abruptly at her beckoning her over. She strode towards him but cut off what he was about to say gesturing to the others that had followed her in and explaining the situation quietly to the apothecary. He nodded at her and his manner changed completely as he went forward to meet the newcomers.

'Your friend needs assistance?' he asked with a welcoming smile. 'Please follow me to our room, Sister Ophilia is upstairs and we can best help you out up there.'

He led the way, reaching their door first and knocked loudly just as it was being opened by Therion.

'Li, are you decent?' Alf called.

'Course she is.' Therion drawled 'Whadda you think we were doing in there?' he smirked. Alfyn pushed past the thief as Ophilia got to her feet from where she was sat in front of the fire.

'Everything okay Alf?' she asked as the room suddenly became crowded.

'Put her down over here on the bed,' Alfyn said to the huge man.

'Olberic.' The man murmured in introduction as he placed his burden gently down on top of the sheets. 'This is Primrose.'

'Well, Primrose, let's take a look and see what we have.' Alf said starting to untangle the prone woman from the cloak covering her.

'She passed out around two hours ago,' Olberic informed hovering at the apothecary's shoulder. 'She hasn't regained consciousness since that time. We were engaged in a fight two days prior when the Lady Primrose took a slash to her side but the wound appeared not to be deep or of any particular remark. I tended it myself.' The big man shrugged. 'I have encountered many wounds. I swear by my sword that this one did not seem of any note.'

Ophilia walked towards the knight, tightening the blanket wrapped around her as she went. She took him lightly by the arm and gently steered him towards the table on the other side of the room.

'You look exhausted Sir Knight,' she said quietly. 'Please sit and rest while we take a look at your friend.'

H'aanit had likewise got Tressa to sit and reunited her with her pack. The girl looked about to launch into conversation, but H'aanit put a warning finger to her lips and the girl gulped and nodded.

'Therion.' Ophilia took note of the thief still stood by the door of the room, looking like he was about to make a bolt for it.

'Err, yes sister?' Her manner had changed from the girl he had just been talking too just a few minutes before into.. well.. something else. It unnerved him.

'I'm sure you are probably acquainted with where I keep my purse.' Ophilia flashed him the briefest of smiles to soften her words 'Could you please take it and get refreshment for us all. Oh and a few more blankets.'

'At once yer Holiness.' Well, he'd tried for a bit of respectfulness in his tone - in front of the strangers and all - but he missed by a mile.

Ignoring his sniped reply Ophilia next turned her attention to the woman on the bed. Alf had succeeded in rolling her carefully out of the cloak and was trying gingerly to balance her on her side so that he could better see her wound. Ophilia climbed onto the opposite side of the bed so that she could hold their patient for proper inspection.

Primrose was dressed scantily in an exotic garb of scarlet that completely left her midriff exposed although the skin was currently hidden away under a precise and thickly applied bandage that spanned fully around her stomach and ribs. The left-hand side was a mess. Blood and some foul-smelling viscous liquid from where the wound must be located and had seeped through the covering and had crusted hard - Alf pulled at it carefully but the bandage wasn't yielding to his ministrations. While Alf was trying to get to the wound, Ophilia was running a firm hand down the woman's body.

'Her forehead and neck are burning up but everywhere else is very cold, what about round the wound Alf?' she asked him.

'Yeah, it's hot I reckon, can almost feel the heat on my face. We need to get this dressing off as quick as we can. It will need to be soaked.' They both looked in unison at the bathtub.

Alfyn scooped Primrose up in his arms and Ophilia went over to the tub, dropped the blanket she had secured around herself and stepped into the water in her shift. She knelt down and held her arms open for Alf to softly place the woman into, so that she was holding her head above the water in the crook of her arm, but the rest of the woman was submerged.

'I'm worried it might be a poison of some kind,' Alf was saying quietly to Ophilia as they waited for the water to start to loosen the clotted bandage. 'Sir Olberic,' he raised his voice to the Knight who was seated back in a chair his eyes closed. 'What was it that created the wound? A weapon?.'

'No it was a beast we encountered on the road. Not one I have seen the like of before- bit like a giant grey badger but its snout was shorter. During the battle Primrose was dancing and got too close - she took a single swipe from its claws. Didn't even give her pause at the time - she completed her dance, and the rest of the fight without issue.'

'Dancing?' Alf queried.

'You have to experience it to understand.' The Knight replied stoically.

'Do you recognise the beast H'aanit? I worry that we may be dealing with a toxin of some kind.'

H'aanit conferred with Olberic a bit further about their foe, but she eventually admitted that she did not know the manner of the beast either.

'However, I would sayeth to you Alfyn, that a beast who carries a toxin doth so for a specific reason - most often to incapacitate its enemies or to protect itself. In both cases its venom acts most speedily otherwise it woulde not fulfil its intended purpose. Also consider that the moste usual method to deliver such poisons is by a bite, sting or a spray. I knowe not of any that carried a poisoned claw.'

'Well, at least that's some good news. Thanks H'aanit. Alf turned back to Ophilia. 'Might be just an infection then hopefully.' The girl nodded at him.

As Alfyn started again to pick at the bandage Therion arrived back with a bemused server in tow and a couple of trays loaded with food and drink. Olberic and Tressa fell at the plates almost before they were on the table. Therion raised an eyebrow at the ladies in the bathtub and decided, for once, not to even bother with a comment. He took up his position by the door again, a mug of ale in hand.

Finally the bandages were removed. Clean - the wound was light but it was also very swollen and edged with angry blisters of white, yellow and red.

Ophilia sent a small pulse of healing out, just a tiny caress as she admitted that she was afraid to do any more while their patient was unresponsive. Almost as she said it the woman jolted awake, and started to flail in shock in the water. Ophilia tightened her grip on her and held her firm.

'Primrose,' the Cleric said calmly 'You are safe. My name is Ophilia and I am a Sister of the Flame. We are tending to your injury, but please...be still.'

Primrose had half climbed up the body of the girl holding her in her panic, but she relaxed under Ophilia's peaceful request, resting her head against the girls chest and heaving a big juddering sigh. Olberic has risen from his seat, but H'aanit bade him to sit back down.

'How do you feel Primrose,' Ophilia asked, stroking the woman's brow and pushing her hair carefully out of her face.

'Like I got trampled by a horse and then hung.' Primrose's voice faint and unfocused.

'You have a fever from the infection in your wound. I need you to try and stay awake and alert for me. No..' the firmness was back in Ophilia's tone. 'Please don't close your eyes. Look at me Primrose. Stay looking at my face.'

'Such a beautiful face.' Primrose said dreamily 'And such a very soft bosom...Sister, why are we wet?'

'We're taking a bath.' Ophilia smiled kindly as Primrose nestled her head deeper into her chest.

'Ah.. just like in that book... 'The Cleric and the Dancer'.  Such a fine story! And the good stuff really got going on page..'

'Eighty-nine' both woman said in unison and laughed.

'Oh it hurts to laugh, please don't make me laugh,' Primrose winced.

'Ah.. Hello Primrose, I'm Alfyn and I'm your apothecary.' He grinned at the woman who strained round to look at him. 'I think it's about time to get you out of the bath and get that wound sorted out. You okay with that?'

'Will you come with me?' Primrose asked Ophilia.

'Of course!'

'Mmmm, okay then.'

Alfyn got a blanket ready and asked H'aanit to lift Primrose out of the water and take her over to the bed. They got the woman covered quickly and settled. Alf held up a second blanket and wrapped it round the cleric when she got up next and lifted her off her feet and onto the floor. Ophilia went quickly behind the screen in the corner, threw off her wet clothes and pulled her robe on, then joined Primrose on the bed, taking hold of her hand.

'I'm gonna need to drain this wound Primrose.' Alfyn told her 'Need to get all the bad stuff out and clear blood flowing. It's going to hurt a bit. Sorry 'bout that. Once it's done we got a nice bowl of stew here for you to get your energy back up.'

Ophilia channelled healing in small bursts as Alfyn tended to the blistering and purge and she couldn't help but be hugely impressed with Primrose's strength. The woman didn't cry out once although the grip of her hand did become quite intense at certain points. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity it was done and Ophilia was able to help Primrose get some food inside of her. Quickly after the woman fell into an easy sleep.

'Go team!' Alfyn wrapped Ophilia in an enthusiastic hug. Olberic, whose vigour seemed to be much replenished thanked them both, asking Alfyn if he could purchase some of his mixtures for their ongoing journey, then taking Ophilia's hand and pressing it gently.

'It has been a long time since I felt a Cleric's healing.' The Knight told her. 'Was a time when it was a regular thing, in the army. I have to say though that your touch was by far the kindest I have ever experienced. Thank you.'

'May the flame guide you, Sir Olberic. And thank you for your words. I will cherish them.' Ophilia reached out a hand and touched his cheek.

Alfyn quickly declared that they should all go to the bar and get some drinking in and give Primrose a chance to rest.

Tressa was already falling asleep in her chair, so Ophilia suggested she should join Primrose. The girl protested.. quite loudly.. that she wanted to go with the others but under the soft advice of the cleric she was persuaded to bed. Ophilia also declined joining them saying she wanted to keep a watch on her patient. Everyone else made their way downstairs.

Ophilia went and sat with Linde on the hearth and cuddled up close to the cat sighing in relief at the peace and quiet. A few minutes later the door opened again and Alfyn slipped back in. He handed Ophilia a basket of ripe plums and a hot drink with a big grin.

'Gotta keep yer energy up Li,' he told her. 'After the day we've had who knows what tomorrow will be like eh?'

Chapter Text

Why are you following me Therion? I told you I don't need an escort.' Ophilia turned to confront the lad walking a few steps behind her.

'Because the big scary lady with the nice leopard told me that if I let anything happen to you today she would hunt me down and feed certain parts of me to Linde. I'm not willing to wager that she's joking.' Therion scowled. 'Keep moving Your Holiness. I'm trying to keep a low profile which in present company isn't easy.'

Ophilia started walking again and Therion resumed his shadowing, still scowling. Babysitting was NOT his forte, he had enough on his plate looking out for himself. He also didn't much like the bubble of anxiety he was feeling - it was too much like he gave a damn.

The conversation in the bar the previous evening was undoubtedly what had unnerved him he thought sourly. Alfyn had been angry. The apothecary had filled H'aanit and Olberic in on the rumours that were swirling around the taproom about the Flamebearer and then H'aanit had quite calmly stated that Ophilia was well aware of what was being said about her and wasn’t bothered by it in the slightest.

'In truth, her frankness maketh me only more desiring to offer aid to her.' H'aanit had admitted.

Olberic had remained silent through most of the conversation but he eventually sat forward and said quietly 'I do not know the Flamebearer but I admit I was shocked that she used her healing so freely for Primrose given that there was a most able apothecary in attendance.' He looked at the confused expressions around him. 'What do you know of a Cleric's healing?' he asked them.

'Very little.' Alfyn admitted.

Olberic paused and his eyes took on a far-away look as he smiled slightly to himself. 'One of the Cleric's I knew in my army days was constantly whining about the level of angst that a platoon of soldiers could create. Said just being around us gave him a toothache! A good man but he could be a mean bugger - he once explained it to me - his healing - and it made me understand his personality a whole lot more.'  Olberic sat back in his chair and gathered his thoughts. 'Unlike the potions and tinctures that you concoct Alfyn, a Cleric acts as a conduit between the Gods and those they are healing. They expend a lot of energy to open the flow of light and in order to connect it they also need to emote the pain of the targets and offer a taste of their own spirit to direct the heal. It's not a physical hurt, but there is a kind of emotional price unique to the healer.'  There was silence again for a short while then Olberic sighed.  'What I'm saying is that it is not generally taken for granted that a Cleric will use their healing in any given circumstance. They are supposed to give it unquestioningly, but I think I understand why many are reluctant to do so.' He shook his head and shuddered slightly. 'If Sister Ophilia is always so...generous... then it's hardly surprising that many of her fellows will look on it as bad for their reputation. She sets a standard of giving freely and too soon it becomes an expectation that they all should be doing the same.'

'I dunno.' Alfyn looked perplexed. 'Why would anyone decide not to give aid to someone who needed it? Li has it right, you just do it. I know I would.'

'Then you are a better man than most Master Alfyn.' Olberic said. He reached out a hand and lightly touched H'aanit on the arm. 'I am glad that you accompany the Sister, H'aanit. I wish that I too could offer my sword to her service but I have already made a pledge to the Lady Primrose to accompany her to Stillsnow.' The Knight looked quite downcast.

That whole conversation had not gone down well with Therion. The damn itch in his chest was getting unbearable and he really didn't want to scratch it. He was determined that he was not going to accompany the crazy lady and her scary minder any further than this town.  Alfyn could go if he wanted. Well Alfyn did want, that was pretty obvious and getting the apothecary off his back also meant that finally Therion could resume his own comfortably solitary path. He could get himself to Noblecourt and start the job of getting shot of the damned bracelet he wore. Things had gone to hell in a handcart since it had been snapped on his wrist.

'We're here.' Ophilia broke through the thief's introspection as she came a stop outside a huge pair of doors leading into an impressively grand building. 'Consider me safely delivered - even I can't get into trouble in a library.'

'Fatal paper-cuts.' Therion muttered, following her inside.

~ 0 ~

Professor Cyrus Albright was having an unusual and perplexing day. His morning lessons with the Princess had been as stimulating as ever, he was intensely proud of the keen mind and the dedication that his young charge continued to demonstrated. He was sure that she would make an excellent ruler some day and was honoured that in some small way he may have contributed to that.  After the lesson Cyrus was pleased to learn that he had finally been successful in gaining access to a particular section of the great library that contained a tome that was going to be essential to his current research and so he had hurried there in eager anticipation of an afternoon of research.  Mercedes, the Librarian greeted him warmly on his arrival and had then given him some even greater news - she had secured him an appointment with the Flamebearer whom he would be meeting in just a few hours time.

Unfortunately after that the day began to take a significant nosedive. The tome he had been so anxious to see was missing, presumed stolen, and it was quite the conundrum. Just as he was starting to look at the mystery of whom could have taken his book he received a summons to the Headmaster's office. The headmaster had reprimanded him once again for citing non-public information in his last published paper. It was a regular clash - Cyrus held the view that all knowledge should be shared and the Headmaster took a far more conservative stance that knowledge should only be portioned out.  In this instance Cyrus had been obliged to apologise and promise that his new study and access would not result in him making the same 'mistake'. It rattled his chains no end.

Well, at least one of his problems he solved quickly. Asking a few questions he had determined that his missing book had almost certainly been purloined by a fellow scholar who had run up some unfortunate debts and Cyrus decided that he would deal with him after his encounter with the Flamebearer.

Despite the difficulties of the day, Cyrus couldn't deny his excitement at the pending meeting. He had been a boy of around ten when the last Kindling had taken place and even back then it had excited and inspired him.  He genuinely hoped that he would get to witness the actual event at some stage during his life, perhaps when his duties to the crown and his own research were less demanding, but in the meantime an assignation with the Flamebearer would do very nicely. Obviously he had heard most of the gossip making the rounds about this Sister Ophilia - quite intriguing really - although he was well aware that Scholars and Clerics were worse than old women when it came to sharing the more juicy details of a good or bad story. Gossip and conjecture in his mind was ultimately damaging and lazy and he would not allow any preconceived ideas to colour this audience. He was perfectly capable of coming to his own well considered conclusions.

Cyrus gathered together a number of books and started to look over some of his own favoured parts of previous Kindling journeys, bookmarking them then scribbling a few summaries down on paper in his elegant handwriting. He was quite deeply involved in arranging his notes into some kind of order when the door to the reading room was opened gently. He held up a hand to stave off interruption so as not to lose concentration.

'Oh! He's so PRETTY!' an unfamiliar female voice exclaimed in a whisper so quiet that were it not for Cyrus's extremely acute hearing he would have missed it.

'Seriously Sister? Are you leching?' a second voice whispered with a snort of amusement.

'I'm admiring an aesthetic..' came the outraged reply.

'You're doing what now?'

'Shhhhh..' the woman admonished.

Finishing what he had been working on Cyrus looked up at the new arrivals and momentarily discovered that his own power of speech had deserted him. This ethereal, beautiful creature could surely not be the one that he had been hearing about?  She was so young, so slight - delicate even. Her eyes... Cyrus gave himself a mental shake. 'Focus Albright' he reprimanded internally. 'Wait, did she call me pretty?'

'Sister Ophilia?' Cyrus moved forward gracefully and reached out his hands to take hers. They were tiny and soft and..

'Professor Albright?' the girl queried.

'One and the same my dear.' He was still holding onto her hands. 'I can't even begin to tell you what an honour it is to meet with you, please - sit.' He led her to the writing desk and pulled out a chair for her.

'Um hello..' Therion said, forcing the scholar to notice him for the first time.

'Ah, young man - You must be Alfyn.' Cyrus bounded forward enthusiastically with an outstretched hand. Therion kept both of his firmly in his pockets.

'Pfft. Our apothecary is currently skipping through a field with a Knight picking flowers.' Therion said then nodded towards the Cleric. 'I'm her chaperone.' He gave Cyrus his best menacing stare.

'Ah indeed. Would you like to be seated sir?'

'I'll stand.' Therion leaned belligerently against the door.

Ophilia was mouthing something probably quite rude at Therion whilst the Professors back was turned. Therion's mood lifted. Maybe the afternoon was going to be more fun than he'd thought.

He was wrong. Woefully wrong.  Ophilia and the Professor soon got into a deep and very animated conversation.  Question after question poured from the little Cleric and with each the Scholar became more and more enraptured in the subject.

'You have an agile mind,' Cyrus commented to Ophilia after what seemed to Therion like an eternity of meaningless noise. 'I find it hard reconcile the rumours with the real person in all honesty.'

'Ah,' Ophilia smiled. 'That's because I left my horns and pitchfork back at the Inn.'

Cyrus chuckled and sat back in his chair regarding her closely. His manner turned suddenly serious. 'Ophilia, I feel that you have been trying to gain something very specific but I have been unable to grasp what it is. Please.. don't fear to ask - any insight I can give you I am more than happy to share.'

Ophilia looked slightly taken aback. She thought about it for a second then nodded and leaned closer to him. 'Professor, from the information in these accounts, there seems to be no discernable schedule for completing the Kindling. Some have taken just a month to complete and others more than a year, yet I cannot see a reason why in the narrative.'

'Hmm,' the Scholar looked at her thoughtfully then he too leaned in closer causing his perfectly styled black hair to fall handsomely over his lilac eyes. 'The fault for that probably lies in the fact that we Scholars present an unbiased and factual reckoning when we submit such journeys to paper.  We can note where a person goes and what they do - but I think your answer may lie more in the spiritual rather than the physical.  Does the Church not hold any personal journals of the past Flamebearer's?'

Ophilia shrugged. 'If they do - I have not seen one, but then I was not prepared for this as my sister was.'

'I can only give my opinion Ophilia. I have no real basis on which to anchor my thoughts, but I have given the very same question some consideration myself over the years.'

'Please - I would like to hear what you think Professor.'

Cyrus reached out both his hands and took one of the Cleric's lightly between them. 'It is my belief Sister that the journey you make is, in itself the preparation for what you give to the flame.  All of the flames that are fed during the Kindling take on a good amount of the spirit of the Flamebearer you know - your spirit in this case. Where you go and what you do up until performing the ritual - I believe that it prepares your spirit in readiness for that moment.' He squeezed her hand gently, his eyes very bright. 'When the actual time is right for you to commit to performing the Kindling, well that a decision that is made between yourself and the God's.  That you carry the flame is proof in itself that you have their blessing.  Don't be afraid to take whatever time is required to gain the experience you need to complete your task and please Ophilia..'  his grip became quite tight.  'Don't doubt yourself or your path because of what other people think or say.'

He fell silent. They sat together in quiet contemplation of his words. Therion was about to forcibly break the moment when the door to the room burst open almost causing him to fall, leaning against it as he was.

'Professor Albright!' a pretty blond girl raced into the room and took sight of Cyrus and Ophilia still sat facing each other clasping hands. She skidded to a stop.

'Ah Therese!,' Cyrus stood 'Ophilia, this is one of my students. Therese, this is Sister Ophilia, the Flamebearer.'

'Mmmn,' The girl grunted.

'Was there something you needed Therese?' Cyrus sounded a little confused. 'Are you unsure of the work I set you?' he asked kindly.

'Ugh, No Professor. I heard you talking it through with the Princess after the lesson. All is well.'

Therese took a long critical look at the Cleric. Her shoulders drooped. 'I am sorry to bother you Professor Albright.' The girl said starting to blush furiously.

'It's no problem.' Cyrus's confusion was growing. 'I guess I will see you in lessons tomorrow then.'

Therese backed out of the room - quietly closing the door behind her.

'A good pupil overall,' Cyrus murmured half to himself. 'Easily distracted however.'

He turned back to Ophilia. 'Well my dear, I think I have taken enough of your time for today. I am sorry that Alfyn was unable to attend.  I was going to mention to him that I will be making a trip under the city this evening to clear up a trivial matter that has arisen.  I believe there are some rather interesting fungi that grow in patches down there that appear to have some hallucinogenic qualities according to a number of our students - I thought it may interest him. Perhaps I should gather some for him?'

'Well Professor, if it's convenient to you - why don't you join us for supper at the Inn on your way there and you can ask him yourself?' Ophilia smiled encouragingly.

'Oh. Supper would be most pleasant.' Cyrus waved towards Therion. 'Err, thank you for escorting the Sister, Sir.'

'Don't mention it.' Therion mumbled.

'Until later then Ophilia.' Cyrus smiled, and began gathering up his books.

Chapter Text

'Wow!' Tressa exclaimed loudly, dumping her backpack down on the table. 'It's official, students will literally buy any old sh... err.. stuff.' she collapsed onto the seat next to Olberic with a contented sigh.

'A good day's trading then?' the warrior enquired politely.

'Better than good.' Tressa declared. 'If only all my customers were such smucks, I'd be able to retire at twenty! Hey Primrose you're outta bed! - blimey your looking much better!'

'Better than comatose?' Primrose smiled at the young girl.

'Taking a bath with a Cleric obviously did it!' Tressa joked 'Honest Prim, you were saying some dead funny sh...stuff last night.'

'Yes thank-you Tressa' Primrose turned and offered yet another apology to Ophilia who was sat beside her.

'Oh, it's quite alright Lady Primrose,' Ophilia replied seriously. 'It's nice to know that my bosom is soft and comfortable.'

'So, very sorry..' Primrose repeated.

'Too easy.' Ophilia grinned.

'Oh! That's wicked Sister.' Primrose started to chuckle, a sweet tinkling sound.

'It's nice to hear you laugh Lady Primrose,' Olberic mused thoughtfully. 'I don't think I have before today.'

Primrose looked startled. 'Truly?' she asked.

Tressa nodded. 'Yeah Prim, didn't know you knew how. Maybe Alfie slipped you some happy juice with your meds.' She started stroking the large white feather on her cap thoughtfully. 'Actually, that's not a half bad idea... Hmm - student's would LOVE some happy juice. Hey Alf..'

Alfyn paused in his pounding of a mixture he'd been demonstrating to H'aanit. 'What's up?' he asked.

'No.' Olberic said firmly.

Tressa poked her tongue out and punched the warrior on the arm. 'Hey, no fun!' she laughed at him. 'So when are we eating? I'm starving!'

'We're waiting for Li's date to arrive.' Alfyn chuckled as the Cleric's face flamed into a ferocious blush. 'According to Therion, our beloved Sister thinks this bloke is very pretty.'

'I'm going to murder that little rat.' Ophilia grumbled 'Where's the traitor got to anyway?' she asked noting his absence.

'Off working I expect.' Primrose replied with a sniff. 'I admit - I'm surprised to find you travelling with a thief, Sister.' She shrugged. 'But who am I to question it after you gave healing to a .. dancer.'

'Pfft. Alf did all the hard work. I was just there for supporting duties.' Ophilia smiled.

It was at that moment that Cyrus made his entrance.  He swept through the door of the Inn with a light energetic step and a confident air. Perfectly tailored in black and silver he beamed handsomely upon spying Ophilia.

'Oh my,' Primrose breathed as the Cleric went to welcome the Professor. 'Very aesthetic!'

'Professor Albright, I'm so glad you could join us.' Ophilia said holding out her hands as she walked towards him.

'Ah Ophilia my dear, you look radiant.' He said cheerfully. 'You must forgive my enthusiasm,'  he added with a boyish grin. 'It has been a long time since I've had the opportunity to take supper with so beautiful a lady.' Cyrus gave a small elegant bow and raised her hands to his lips.

The sniggering came from more than one direction.

'Please, let me introduce you to my friends.' Ophilia said managing to keep her smile in place with some effort.

'Then, please can we eat!' Tressa whined.

'Ah, Alfyn' Cyrus said when he was introduced to the apothecary 'I believe that you met with our Librarian yesterday. Did you recognise her? She confided that she knew you from her childhood years in Clearbrook.'

'She came from Clearbrook?' Alfyn looked mystified. 'I'm sorry, I didn't recognise the lass. What's her name?'

'Mercedes.'

'Shucks, really?' Alfyn beamed from ear to ear, 'Last time I saw her she was a wee little thing. Awww, Zeph will be made up to hear this news!'

Ophilia continued with the introductions. When she got to Olberic, the scholar's face took on a slightly bemused expression.

'Forgive me Sir Knight, but is that not the crest of Hornburg that you wear?' Cyrus asked a little breathlessly.

Olberic grunted and inclined his head.

'Then, excuse me Sir - but would you in fact be Sir Olberic Eisenberg, the unbending blade?'

Olberic nodded again reluctantly.

Cyrus looked stunned. Primrose seemed shocked. Alfyn whooped and punched the air.

'F..f..forgive me Sir Olberic,' Cyrus stuttered 'But it was widely reported that you died on the battlefield on the day that Hornburg fell. Why, it's almost like a legend suddenly sprung from the history books and back to life!' His eyes started to sparkle in enthusiasm. 'Quite remarkable!'

'Me n' Zeph used to pretend we were the twin blades of Hornburg when we were kids.' Alfyn said excitedly. 'Used to bash each other with sticks until me Mam put a stop to it after Zeph got a concussion... Shucks, he is never going to believe this!'

'Hardly newsworthy.' Olberic said quietly. 'What is a Knight when his Liege and his Kingdom is gone? Just a man like any other.'

Cyrus took a seat next to the warrior still staring in awe. He opened his mouth, shut it, then shook his head. 'There are just so many things I want to ask.' he said honestly 'I can't even order them coherently.'

Olberic sighed. 'Shall we sort some food then before Tressa starts moaning again?' he asked trying to cover his discomfort.

As they were deciding on their meal Therion sauntered in with an extremely self-satisfied smirk on his face.

'Hello again Professor.' He said in an overly friendly tone and nudged Tressa further up the bench so that he could take a seat at the scholars side.

'Hello young man.' Cyrus politely replied.

'Oh, Ophilia. I bought you a present.' The thief pulled out a package wrapped neatly in brown paper and placed it on the table in front of the Cleric. Ophilia glancing from the package to Therion and back again in confusion.

H'aanit made a little sound not unlike a growl. 'You boughteth it? Really?'

Therion nodded solemnly. 'The merchant was kind enough to gift-wrap it for me.' He pointed out.

'And the money with which thou boughteth it? From whence did that come?' H'aanit asked suspiciously.

Therion sighed. 'Do I really need to answer that?'

'Hmm. I find I trusteth you not when you smile in such a manner.' H'aanit frowned. 'My words from earlier are still valid Master Therion. Linde is ever hungry.'

Ophilia picked up the package opening it cautiously. Her cheeks coloured sweetly but she exclaimed in delight 'Oh Therion, thank-you! It has truly been an age since I have seen one of these!' She clasped an old and dog-eared copy of 'The Cleric and the Dancer' in her hands.

Primrose was smiling as well. 'Wonderful!' she agreed 'It evokes happy memories for me too Therion. I know of few young girls who have not been enraptured by this story at some time or another.'

'You're obviously a well read man Professor,' Therion clapped a friendly hand on the scholar's shoulder. 'Do you know of this volume too?'

Cyrus's eyes had widened and he drew in a quick breath. 'Um, yes. I am familiar with it. It was quite popular when I was a student.'

'It's rumoured that the writer resides right here in Atlasdam.' Therion added innocently.

'Ah yes, I think I heard something of the sort.' Cyrus was starting to look uncomfortable but to his relief all the others were talking amongst themselves, the ladies in particular enthralled in looking over the book.

Therion leaned in very close to Cyrus. 'Your secret is safe with me Professor.' he whispered quietly. 'For now.'

'My thanks Master Therion.' The Scholar mumbled with sincerity. 'While this whimsy allowed me the funds to pursue my graduation, I do not consider it to be my finest hour.'

'Sure does seem to have made a lot of ladies happy though.' Therion grunted.

Cyrus considered the slight young man pressed close to him. He nodded thoughtfully.  'It is good that you felt compelled to check me out Therion..' he said seriously. '..And I admit I am uncommonly impressed that you were able to discover my secret. It is known by very few.'  The Scholar glanced at Ophilia with a gentle smile. 'It relieves me to find that Sister Ophilia has someone of your obvious talent on her side for I fear she may well need your skill and wit before her journey is done.'

'Ah..well. Thanks Professor.' Suddenly Therion became uneasy. His itch began begging to be scratched again.

'So Alfyn,' Cyrus raised his voice and turned to the apothecary as the food began to arrive. 'Would you like me to collect some of these mushroom's that I have been hearing about?'

'Actually Prof, would you mind if I came along?' Alfyn asked earnestly 'It can be of great use to see a plant in its entirety and the condition in which it grows.

'Why of course - I would be pleased to have you along. I hope that you will be able to impart some of your knowledge to me, I had not considered such but of course it does make perfect sense.' Cyrus beamed.

'What taketh you underground sir?' H'aanit asked curiously 'Is it a particular hunt that you maketh?'

'Of a kind, Mistress H'aanit. I seek a fellow Scholar whom I believe to be a thief of knowledge. I hope to apprehend the villain and persuade him to confess his crimes.'

'Oh,' Olberic raised an eyebrow 'Do you suppose it will be dangerous?'

Cyrus chuckled. 'Well, us Scholar's do have a reputation for fearsomeness Sir Knight!' he shook his head laughing aloud. 'In truth no, I think it will be but a simple task - but one that I would attend to with some haste.'

'If you don't object I would like to come along too. It has been a few days since my blade has seen any practise and even the hint of a battle is appealing.' Olberic sighed. 'I grow weary of sitting idle.' He admitted.

'But I would be honoured - and I pray that some requirement is forthcoming since to witness the unbending blade in action...' Cyrus smiled happily.

Ophilia looked torn. 'I would like to come too.' She finally decided. 'In truth I have no liking for the dark or enclosed places but a friend pointed out to me I am on a journey to feed my spirit and so...'

Once the meal was ended H'aanit got up and went to fetch Linde and her bow. Primrose stated that she wished another early night to heal up properly and Tressa surprisingly begged off on an adventure, quietly requesting to borrow the book that Therion had purchased.

'I've not read it.' Tressa told the Cleric. 'Sounds like I'm missing out.'

'Start at page eighty-nine.' Ophilia advised with a smile, then noticing that Cyrus had become very red in the face she enquired if all was well with him.

'Quite, dear lady.' he assured her.

In the end it was six and Linde that set out to the underground entrance, Therion had silently tagged along, walking behind the rest of them with a sour look on his face.

Like the city as a whole, the tunnels that they entered were spacious and airy, well designed and well kept. Technically a sewer, the smell wasn't overpowering and the patches of mushroom that they found were abundant and healthy looking. Alfyn was extremely careful in his harvest, donning gloves and covering his mouth with a cloth, explaining to Cyrus that some such Fungi could release spores which may also bring on the hallucinogenic effect that had been reported.

'Why is a scholar actually living down here?' Olberic asked after they had travelled quite deep into the system 'Is it in relation to some kind of research?'

'I admit I do not know the man well,' Cyrus said 'But it is said that he has accrued quite large gambling debts. I can only assume that he has taken to living here in lieu of having to pay for bed and board.'

Linde, who had been taking full advantage of the opportunity to exercise by running ahead suddenly stopped and fell low to the ground.

'Linde senseth someone close by.' H'aanit said quietly. They all paused.

'Would you like to confront this man alone Professor?' Olberic asked.

'I think I would like to have words with him and see if we can resolve this simply.' The Professor admitted. 'It will not be an easy thing for Russell to discover that he has been found out.'

'Then we will wait, and offer aid only if it is required. Olberic said, quietly unsheathing his sword but taking up a resting position.

'My thanks.' Cyrus strode forward and through and archway ahead of them. For several minutes they all listened to the indistinct and muffled conversation between the two Scholars, but finally it became obvious that Russell was beginning to get tetchy.

'Damn you to Hell, Albright!' Russell shouted.

'Now listen young man, we do not have to resort to violence.' Cyrus's voice had become raised as well. 'Let us sort this out like gentlemen. If you surrender to the headmaster and give us details of the tomes you have sold, I'm sure it will go much better on you.'

'Not a chance.' Russell snarled, and there was a loud cracking sound.

'I think that's our cue.' Olberic's eyes were shining. He started forward.

Chaos was ensuing in the subterranean study. Books were flying through the air from the bookcases that lined the walls as if being thrown by an invisible hand, mostly aimed quite precisely at Cyrus's head.

'I don't want to have to hurt you lad..' Cyrus was protesting, trying to bat the tomes away but still taking hits from the left and the right.

Russell's eyes widened in alarm as Olberic charged in positioning himself in front of Cyrus and cutting through the books with powerful and clean slices of his blade. The book whirlwind stuttered to a halt.

'Come now son, you are outnumbered.' Olberic advised as H'aanit strode calmly in with Linde at her heals to take position to his left and Alfyn sauntered to his right. Ophilia went behind them, her back to the wall and Therion remained at the door.

Russell's face contorted in anger. He threw up his hands and shouted something undecipherable before swinging them down again in a complex spiral. Out of nowhere two large clouds of swirling water appeared in front of him, radiating a bitter cold.

'Water wisps!' Cyrus exclaimed. 'Not bad boy.'

'Just evening the odds'. Russell exclaimed from behind his elemental wall.

'Yes, I hear you aren't so good at odds if the stories of gambling debts are to be believed.' Cyrus replied jovially. 'Last chance now.'

A ball of fire started to create itself in Russell's outstretched hand.

'No. You will not.' Ophilia's gentle voice came from behind them all, and one by one the companions were surrounded by an iridescent blue light that pulsed almost prettily.

Russell launched his fireball straight at Olberic while at the same time spikes of ice popped at H'aanit and Alfyn. The protecting light juddered and splintered as the attacks hit but the magic was rebounded back at the casters smashing into them with crackling energy.  A new shield quickly replaced the old.

'Take the wisps first.' Cyrus advised. He raised his hands and his own fire began to build above his palms. 'Oh fire, rage strong.' He intoned quietly and flicked his wrists. A volley of three fiery missiles shot from him each exploding into flames on their foes.

Olberic took a step forward to bring himself into sword range of the wisps and again with confident strokes he began to swing with effortless control, cutting through the water constructs and interrupting their attempted attacks. The steel in his hand became uncomfortably cold to the touch but he continued on, his face a stoic mask of determination.

Alfyn, noting the chill, scrabbled in his bag. He drew out a number of items including one dried red flower. He crumbled his ingredients quickly together then threw the resulting dust towards the wisps. On contact a dry warmth bellowed, almost like a blast from a furnace and the temperature of the air around them moderated while the wisps shimmered and shrank slightly in size.

'Shame I only had one fire lily', Alfyn shrugged and began rooted around again.

H'aanit was amusing herself by shooting arrows at the long flapping arms of Russell's robes every time he raised them to try and cast, thwarting the majority of his attempts. A few grazed off his skin. That appeared to amuse her too.

Eventually, under the weight of Alfyn's lily concoction, Olberic's sword and a repeated onslaught of fire from Cyrus the wisps were defeated and Russell stood alone, bleeding and furious. He raised his hands again, now ignoring the arrows that bounced off him and began a long incantation.

'Russell, NO!' Cyrus bellowed, releasing a stream of ice at the scholar. It hit its target but was shrugged off and the man continued with his spell. Tendrils of bright flame started to form over his head spinning and dancing intricately, growing bigger and stronger with each word uttered. Linde threw herself Russell, snapping at him, but even her weight and ferocity did not move him. Olberic tried to battle against the intensity of the heat to get to close enough to take a swing. Sweat popped but he was unable to gain ground.

'Go.'

It was a simple word that finished the incantation and the fire released in a tempest. The initial wave rebounded under the clerics shield, but the casting  was relentless. Flames started to burn at the companions, catching onto clothing and searing their skin. Linde howled in pain. Under the effort of maintaining the spell Russell fell to his knee's panting and finally the onslaught stopped but nobody was able to move towards him.

'Oh, Sacred Light..' Ophilia had struggled painfully to her feet supported by her staff and her eyes suddenly flashed brilliantly golden as the Light filled her. The wave of healing she released them was almost as intense as the fire had been. It tore through them all like a tornado.

Russell, sensing the danger aimed a hand at the Cleric who looked back at him sorrowfully.

'May the sacred flame shine forth,' she whispered as light poured from her staff and enveloped the man in a blinding, debilitating flash. In the same moment he was hit simultaneously by a tremendous bolt of ice, two daggers, a precise sword slice, a volley of arrows, a concoction that immediately sent him to sleep and one very annoyed leopard.

'Oh, that was quite tiring. I think I need to learn to manage my energy a bit better' Ophilia remarked to herself as she sank shakily to the floor.

'Hey, your eyes are still glowing gold. It's really pretty.' Alfyn smiled at her as he carefully checked her over. 'You need to eat something. Here.' He handed her a plum.

'I always thought it was a bit freakish.' Ophilia admitted as she bit into the juicy flesh of the fruit.

H'aanit was helping Cyrus to secure the slumbering Russell's hands together.

'I can't believe he used Dragonsbreath,' Cyrus was shaking his head 'That's not going to go down well with anyone. It's a killer plain and simple. Ah boy, what were you thinking.'

With Russell slung over one of Olberic's shoulders, the party made their way out of the underground and into the fresh night air. Olberic was in the most jovial mood that he had been in since they had met him, and H'aanit matched his cheer.. they played and replayed the fight over between themselves with childlike enthusiasm.  Alfyn offered to carry Ophilia who had stumbled more than once in her fatigue, but she smiled and declined, using her staff to steady herself.

Cyrus was effusive in his thanks to everyone. 'I had a most enjoyable evening, despite the roasting.' he exclaimed 'I am sorry about the lad though. He could have been a fine scholar - not everyone can produce a spell like Dragonsbreath. What a waste.' He said sadly.

When they reached the Inn, Cyrus bade them goodnight and Olberic went with the scholar to deliver Russell to the authorities.

'Beer.' Alfyn declared and H'aanit agreed cheerily.

'I'm just going to catch my breath before going up to bed.' Ophilia sat herself on a bench outside the Inn and to her surprise Therion sat beside her.

'Get me one in.' He told Alf.

'You all right?' Therion asked gruffly when the other two had gone inside.

'I thought I'd better wait a bit till my eyes go normal again - I don't want to scare Primrose and Tressa. Glowing eyes-balls floating towards them in the dark and all.' Ophilia laughed at the image.

'Do you want us to come to Stonegard with you and H'aanit?' Therion asked suddenly out of nowhere, absently scratching at his ribs. 'I mean, Alf really wants to go along, but he's too nice to say so after he said he was coming with me to Noblecourt. He's a good lad.' Therion finished lamely.

'You need to ask?' Ophilia beamed 'Of course we'd love that!'

'Hmmmm, well, the Prof said it's a bit of a spiritual thingy for you so maybe having a thief around would be like bad karma or something, I dunno.'  Therion stared at his feet.

'I think I can handle it.' Ophilia grinned.

'Right. I'll tell Alf then. You not coming inside Sister?'

'A few more minutes. You go ahead.'

'Nah, it's okay. I can wait.' Therion replied, his fingers nervously twisting at the bracelet on his wrist.

Chapter Text

Therion sat at the window of their room in the Inn with a troubled frown on his face.  The cheery brightness of the late morning sun seemed to be mocking him as were the pitiable moans of the girl that he had been harangued into babysitting yet again. Therion sighed deeply and glanced over at the bed where Ophilia lay looking at peace in her sleep - until another spasm of misery caused her to toss lightly and whimper.

The Thief stared glumly out to the street below hoping to get a glimpse of one of their companions returning to rescue him from this situation but he recognised no-one in the crowd.  He was under strict instructions to allow Ophilia to sleep as long as she needed since she had drained so much of her energy the night before but if she didn't calm soon he was going to have to wake her and be damned with them all.

He sat for what seemed like an eternity, indecision warring in him, frustration growing. Finally there was a light knocking at the door.  Relief flooded through the thief and he was up and opening it without delay. His face must have fallen when it turned out to be Cyrus on the other side.

'Good Morning, Therion,' Cyrus said, his usual enthusiasm strangely muted. 'It's nice that you are so obviously pleased to see me.'

Therion stepped aside to admit the Professor.

'Hoping it was Alf or one of the ladies so that they could deal with...that.' Therion mumbled, jerking his thumb at the distressed girl on the bed.

Cyrus's mouth made a small 'o' of surprise.  He quickly removed his cloak and gloves and perched himself of the edge of Ophilia's bed, reaching out a hand to rest firmly on the sleeping girls shoulder.'  She almost instantly relaxed at the touch.  Therion relaxed too.  Cyrus gently smoothed a loose strand of hair back from the Clerics face and she stirred, slowly opening her eyes.

'Cyrus?' she asked sleepily in confusion.

'You appeared to be in the grip of a nightmare my dear,' Cyrus said soothingly to her. 'I pray that the misadventures of last night were not the cause of your discomfort.'

'A nightmare?' she asked with a small frown.  'I don't remember such, but I very rarely remember my dreams.'  Ophilia yawned, stretched and sat up then looked over to Therion who was back at the window.  'How did you pluck the short straw again?' she asked with the smallest hint of a smile.

'H'aanit's a bully.'  He said blandly.  'Alf said you need food, but breakfast is pretty cold now.'  He chucked an apple at her, nearly bouncing it off Cyrus who ducked with superb reflex.  Ophilia laughed, catching it deftly and taking a huge bite.

'Thanks,' she mumbled around a mouthful of fruit. 'I can't believe how tired and hungry I am.'  She added once she had swallowed.

'Well, you did rather over-extended yourself last night.' Cyrus commented as he moved from the bed to the table and took a seat.  'I must say that healing..'  he shook his head.  '..Magnificent, my dear, simply magnificent.'  He looked thoughtful.  'You know, those shields were rather interesting too - I have never seen the like in action - very effective - a sublime mix of defence and offence.' He chuckled to himself.  'But I digress.  I think you may find that in time and with experience your energy reserve and stamina will increase.  It's like any muscle, the more it is worked the more efficient it will become.'

'I hope so,' she muttered.

The door to the room opened and Primrose rushed in carrying a number of packages and her face flushed as if she had been running.  Her eyes went straight to Cyrus sat at the table and she threw down her burdens her face growing even redder in anger.

'How dare you!' Primrose flew towards the startled Scholar with her hands raised as if to slap him.

'Primrose!'  Ophilia's outraged exclamation stopped the girl just short of her target.  Primrose whipped round to face the Cleric.

'Stay out of it, Ophilia, I'll handle this.'  Primrose turned back towards Cyrus and stalked the remaining distance to him still shaking angrily.  She put a hand on each of the arms of the chair that he was sat in and pushed her face close to his.

'Looking to add a Cleric to your list of conquests Professor? ' she sneered.  'Not content with besmirching the Princess you want to shame a woman of the church too?  Over..My..Dead..Body!'

Ophilia gasped.  Therion stood shocked with his mouth hanging open then he started to laugh. 'The Princess?' he bellowed holding his belly.  'Really? Looks like you got completely outranked your Holiness.'

'Obviously it's not true.'  Cyrus whispered and despite the woman shaking a fist in his face he looked sad rather than scared or intimidated.  'I actually came this morning to apologise to you Ophilia, that I would be unable to continue with our study as I...'  Utter devastation dulled his eyes.  'Well.. I will be leaving the city tomorrow - on an extended sabbatical.  For the sake of Her Highness' reputation of course - not because of any truth to the rumour.'

'Pretty words from a serpent tongue.' Primrose spat at him.

Therion was laughing so hard that he was bent almost double. He was suddenly shocked by an extremely well aimed pillow that hit him with a thud.  He looked up in surprise.

'Get away from him Primrose.'  Ophilia said in quiet fury. She had stood and after flinging the pillow at Therion she put her hands on her hips and glared ominously at everyone.

Primrose stared in amazement at the fierce Cleric and decided not to argue. She backed away slowly.  Ophilia watched her till she was a safe distance from the Scholar who had finally started to look a bit nervous.

'You.'  Ophilia pointed at Therion.  'Stop laughing. NOW. '  He complied immediately.  Ophilia next turned to face Primrose. 'And you..'  They looked at each other for a long second.  Ophilia strode forwards and wrapped the surprised woman in a huge hug.  'Thank-you for caring.'  she said pulling back and kissing Primrose solidly on the cheek.  'However,'  she added, the fire back in her eyes, 'You may think me unworldly but I ask that you remember I am not stupid.'  Primrose thought about it then nodded her agreement wordlessly.

Finally Ophilia turned to Cyrus.  Compassion completely replaced her anger.  She went to him and knelt before him.

'Please Professor, accept my heartfelt apologies and my sympathy at your predicament.  I understand only too well how painful rumours and ill words can hurt and undermine.'

'You don't doubt me?'  Cyrus asked a bit breathlessly.

'Should I?'  her eyes searched his face.

'No.'  He replied honestly.

'I didn't think so.'  Their eyes locked for a lingering moment then she raised a playful eyebrow at him. 'Shame though really,'  she said, putting a hand lightly on his knee.  'I was so looking forward to a bit of besmirching..'

His eyes grew very wide. 'Oh.. um ...I...'  he stuttered and then noticed the huge grin that had crept over the Cleric's face like the sun coming out from behind a cloud.  'Ah, you're teasing me.'  He blushed prettily.

Primrose started to chuckle.  'I guess I'm sorry too Professor, I completely overreacted.'  She went to him and patted him on the shoulder.

He flinched just slightly but gamely smiled back at her.  'Standing up for a friend is something you should never have to apologise for Lady Primrose, Indeed I would have felt the same way if I had believed someone was trying to hurt our dear Ophilia.'

Therion was scowling. Then he sighed.  'Hey Prof, it'd be an idea to grease the palms of some of the Innkeepers in town, they'll put in a good word about you so at least when you come back your reputation will be .. better.'

Therion noted the brilliant and encouraging smile that Ophilia was now sending his way.  'And I guess I will go do that for you now...'  he said grumpily, pulling his scarf around his neck and thumping his way to the door.

'Well then..I should also take my leave.  I have a lot of arrangements to make.'  Cyrus patted at Ophilia's hand that was still resting on his leg.

'What will you do now Professor?'  Primrose enquired as she went to pick up the bundles she had scattered when she had come in.

'Well actually - for all that this is a sorry state of affairs, I do have a rudimentary plan.'  Cyrus replied with something that almost approached his usual enthusiasm.  'There was one book unaccounted for after Russell gave up the details of those he stole and sold - one that has been missing for fifteen years, so a long time before our thief began his pilfering.  I think I may start a search for it, it's rather an intriguing mystery.'

'I'm sure you will get it sorted in a jiffy.'  Primrose said encouragingly, obviously intent on reparation of her earlier behaviour.

'Thank you Lady Primrose. I have to admit that I am fond of a puzzle.' He still sounded down despite his best efforts.

Ophilia stared up at him and squeezed his hand tightly. 'I wonder Professor, may I be very forward and ask ...'  she trailed off, looking for the right words.

'Please,' he said. 'As I said yesterday...'

'Cyrus, would you consider scribing my journey?.. I know..'  she added quickly, a blush rising  '..That it is a menial thing for a scholar of your standing to undertake, but I do wish to ask since it appears you may have some time free to accompany us.'

He looked astounded.

'I am sorry if I have offended you.'  Ophilia said quietly.

Cyrus opened his mouth to speak but no words came out. Ophilia's blush grew into a red hot flush and she started to move away but he held onto her hand in a vice-like grip.

'I.. I.. am so sorry my dear,'  he stuttered.  'I am ..'  he swallowed hard as his eyes grew shiny bright.. 'I am simply overwhelmed by your consideration.. and your request.'

'She's not asking you to marry her Professor.'  Primrose said rolling her eyes.

'Yes, oh my dearest yes!  I would love too!'  Cyrus had found his ability to speak once more.  'I can think of nothing, absolutely nothing that would be a greater honour than to accompany you on your journey.  And to write the telling of the most kindly and beautiful Flamebearer that ever lived?  Oh Ophilia!  Such a tale it shall be!'  He stood up pulling Ophilia to her feet with him then picked her up and swirled her round enthusiastically.

'I see'eth we have a new companion.'  H'aanit said drily from the doorway where she and Olberic had appeared.  Olberic was frowning at the scholars manhandling of the Cleric and he cleared his throat menacingly.

'Don't worry Olberic, I will keep an eye on them on the road.'  Primrose looked highly amused.

'You're coming as well?' Ophilia asked breathlessly as Cyrus finally put her down. 'But we will be going in the opposite direction of Stillsnow, literally going back the way you came.'

'Yes.'  A slight shadow swept briefly over Primrose's face but she smiled brightly at the Cleric.  'We may discuss my particular journey further down the road Ophilia, but for now Tressa, Olberic and I feel keenly that we would like to join with you and help H'aanit in looking for her master.'

'That would be wonderful.'  The Cleric admitted with tears springing to her eyes.

After getting some advice from Olberic about what he needed to pack for life on the road, Cyrus finally left to prepare with a bounce in his step.  Alfyn returned from the library, where he had spent the morning catching up with his erstwhile playmate Mercedes and was thrilled at the news of the swelling ranks of their company. Therion, when he finally returned that evening was less thrilled but oddly resigned rather than sarcastic and a bit distracted.

Over the first of many beers that evening Alfyn took the thief aside and quietly asked if he was okay.

Therion shrugged.  'Look, when I was doing the rounds of the Inn's today I heard a whisper and I followed it. There's been a price put on the Cleric's head.. not through the usual channels.  Couldn't get to the bottom of it but the word is out and the reward is.. tempting..  Not to me Alfyn..'  He sighed at the outraged expression on the Apothecary's face  '..I mean it's tempting enough for it to be taken seriously.  Someone with a fair amount of leaf is behind it and that's not a good thing.'

'Changed your mind about going along then?'  Alfyn asked roughly.

'It made me think twice.' Therion admitted.  'But no. I ain't changed my mind.  I know where to look for this sort of crap.  Least I can be of some use.  I think it would be fair to tell the others though.'

'Hmm.  But maybe not Ophilia.' Alf looked at the Cleric who was smiling gently at something Tressa was saying.  'I dunno, I get the feeling if she thought she was causing anyone else to be put in danger she might just slip away on her own.'

'Yeah, she's that sort of crazy alright.' Therion agreed.

Chapter Text

Tressa was feeling kinda thoughtful.  Although she kept up her diary with the sporadic regularity that travelling allowed she didn’t generally think of herself in terms of being particularly introspective or even much of a forward planner - she liked to keep her face to the wind and blow where the breeze took her.  But her current conundrum required some serious thinking if she was going to play her hand right. 

She followed along behind her companions at a distance that allowed herself some breathing space but that also did not elicit any comment or suspicion.  Trouble was the Cleric was never alone. It almost seemed that someone was constantly there keeping an eye on her as if by design.  Either she was with Alf discussing healing or plants or she was with Cyrus talking about all kinds of unbelievably boring stuff most of which could send anyone else to sleep within ten minutes - then in the evenings she had watch duty with Olberic, slept alongside H'aanit and Linde and both Primrose and Therion fell into conversations with her as the mood took them or when Ophilia was finally free.  Tressa was seriously going to have to make more of an effort to befriend the sister if she was going to get the Cleric onside for the idea that was bubbling away in her mind.

Okay then, Tressa decided - no time like the present.  They would be setting up camp soon for the night - and she was running out of distance.  They would arrive in Rippletide in two days time and she wanted to have everything in place by then.

After the chores were done, wood and water gathered and the meat that H'aanit had hunted was roasting away nicely, the companions came together around the fire ready for their evening meal. 

'Hey Ophilia,' Tressa said casually, taking her bowl and sitting herself down next to the Sister, 'I'm guessing you're the person nearest to me in age here so how old are you? '

'I expect you're probably right.' Ophilia smiled at Tressa - 'I'm twenty.'

'When's your birthday then?' Tressa pressed on.

'Err..When's yours?' the Cleric deflected.

'Hey, I asked first!'

'Ah.'  Ophilia looked uncomfortable.  'I'm sorry Tressa, I don’t really know.' She said quietly.

'You don't know when your birthday is?' Tressa exclaimed  'Well that's just stupid. How come?'

Ophilia coloured awkwardly as attention turned to the two girls at Tressa's loud outburst.

'Tressa!'  Primrose warned immediately seeing the Cleric's discomfort.

'It's fine, Prim.'  Ophilia said.

'I don’t get it.'  Tressa said stubbornly.  'I mean - if you don’t know what day to count from how can you decide that you're suddenly a year older?   It makes no sense at all!'

'TRESSA!' Olberic said firmly.  'Enough!'

'It ain't unique you know,'  Therion said, his voice sarcastic.  'Ain't like I got a birthday either.  Pfft, that's a luxury for spoiled brats.

'Who you calling a brat?'  Tressa's face had gone red as she shot to her feet, ready to leap and take a swing at the thief.

Ophilia grabbed at the girl's hand.  'Peace!' she said firmly.

'Sorry Sister.'  Tressa sat, folded her arms and glowered at Therion who looked supremely unconcerned at her ire.

There was an uncomfortable silence.

'So,' Tressa started again, rather belligerently 'Is there anything we can talk about that isn’t some big secret?'

Ophilia looked fraught, 'Oh Tressa, I don't intend to be secretive, forgive me.'

'Hmm, well forgive me if I just want to get to know the people I am travelling with.  Don't you think it's a bit crazy not to?' Tressa looked around her.

'Yer can't push stuff like that.' Alfyn spoke up with a grin.  'It's an organic process .. a few beers .. some friendly banter and yer find yerself getting to know people better.  Interrogation ain't the way to go my impatient friend!'

'Right, well if you're so good at it you get her to spill then.' Tressa pouted.

Alfyn raised a quizzical eyebrow at Ophilia who nodded slightly in response.

His grin widened.  'Okay Kid, just watch the Master.'  Alf got up and sauntered to where the girls were sat.  'Hey Li,' he said, sitting on the ground beside them resting his chin on his hands on Ophilia's knee and looking up at her mischievously.

'Err, Hi Alf.'  The Cleric was trying hard not to smile.

'So, I overheard a rumour that you don't know when your birthday is.  That's mighty sad, if you don’t mind me saying.'

'You think so?'  Ophilia replied.

'It's kind of a thing ain't it?  Why not just choose a day for yourself?' Alf asked.

'If you've never had one you don’t really miss it I guess, it's never bothered me.'  Ophilia answered. 'I don’t understand why it's a big deal.' She admitted.

'Gotta say,' Alf said gently after a short pause 'I can't help but wonder how it came about.  Not knowing I mean.  There a story behind that Li?'

Ophilia nodded 'Not much of one,' she said.  'My family were travelling when we were attacked and it was a week or more before anyone else happened to pass by.'  The Cleric shrugged.  'I was the only one who'd survived and nothing remained to indicate who we were or where we were from.'  Ophilia had to look away, embarrassed  when Alf's smile slipped from his face. ' I was taken to the cathedral,' she continued resolutely. 'and I was ... ill... for quite a while so if I ever did know anything about before, I'd forgotten it by the time I recovered. I was estimated to be around five years old at the time and that's the point I've always gauged my age from.'

'Wait!' Tressa couldn’t contain herself from bursting in. 'So you don’t even know if you got the age right, let alone date! You could be younger or older.  That is just insane!'

'Not that I wanteth to interrupt..' H'aanit said suddenly. 'But I thinketh the meat is starting to burn.

There was a general scrabble to save and then serve dinner.

'Now that Ophilia has shared something, I think we should ALL have to answer a question.'  Tressa announced when the cleaning up had been done and a lull had fallen over the camp. 

'And I expect you get to ask them right?'  Primrose said shaking her head.  'I don’t think so.'

'We could take it in turns, one person every night,' Tressa was wholly caught up in the idea 'It would be fun.'

'Screw that.'  Therion snorted indelicately.

'Yeah, it's probably a bit soon, even for me!'  Alfyn agreed laughing.

'I am not adverse to being asked a question if thou so wishe it Tressa,'  H'aanit surprised everyone by saying  'On the hunt, my master and I often passed the night-time hours in such pursuits.  I admit that I miss it.'

'Oh, then I must think of a good question for you H'aanit!'  Tressa replied enthusiastically.  'Yes! I have one,' she added after a few minutes of pondering. 'H'aanit, what is your greatest desire!'

'That ist an easy one,' H'aanit replied instantly. 'I would liketh to encounter a dragon.'

'A dragon?'  Tressa queried. 'Why on earth would you want to do that?'

'Well, my Master has oft told the account of his own encounter with such and shown the scar that doth accompany the tale.'  H'aanit explained.  'Unfortunately my Master ist also well known to exaggerate in his telling, particularly when he partaketh in ale and thus while I have heard the telling many times, it is never quite the same.  I woulde liketh to see for myself the true challenge so that I may better understand.'  H'aanit grinned a particularly scary grin 'I wouldst also liketh to try and tame a dragon, if such can be done.' She added.

'I'm not sure that a dragon is truly classified as a beast H'aanit'.  Cyrus interrupted thoughtfully.  'They speak and they reason and they plan, there is even rumour that they can be skilled in magic's other than just their elemental breath.  It would make for a most challenging of adversary given their raw strength and cunning.'

'Yes indeede.'  H'aanit sighed lustily.

'The only dragon I know about is the one in the story where he stole a maiden and locked her away in a tower till a handsome Knight came to rescue her.'  Tressa declared, 'Although it's a pretty stupid story if you ask me - why would you wait to be rescued?  I'd rescue myself thank you very much.'

'Oh, I loved that story when I was a child,' Primrose said 'Although now that I'm grown, I have to agree with you Tressa - why wait for a rescuer that may never come?  Better to rely on your own skills and get yourself out of the mess.'

'Well, from my own perspective, the Knight in the story was at fault too.' Olberic grunted. 'It would be folly to just run off to face a dragon, the chances of success would be very slim and it would do no good to yourself or the fair maiden to get skewered and spit-roasted immediately for the lack of a sensible plan or back-up.'

'Are there no romantics among you all?'  Cyrus groaned, 'Surely the point of the story is the happily ever after of the Knight and the Maid?'

'What do you think Li?  What would you do if you were stolen away by a dragon?'  Alfyn grinned at her.

'I would wonder why the dragon stole me.'  Ophilia said.

'What do you mean 'why'?'  Cyrus asked 'Dragon's are renowned for their collection of beautiful things - any dragon would prize having you as their possession.'

'Thank- you Cyrus, but I feel that it would be pointlessly troublesome to steal me just to keep me as a trophy.  The dragon would have to find a tower and provide food and warmth - why should he bother with all that when he could just go and steal some gold or jewels instead? 

'Ahh, such practical thinking dearheart,' Cyrus said, a little disappointed.

'So, what thinkest thou Ophilia, why hath the dragon really stolen you?'  H'aanit asked inquisitively.

'For the same reasons I just mentioned, I don't think it is for sport or to fatten me up and eat me at a later date.'  Ophilia smiled at her companions. 'I'd judge that the dragon is motivated by loneliness.  Perhaps he is just looking for a companion.'  Suddenly she frowned seriously. 'I would need to point out to him fairly firmly that kidnap and incarceration is NOT a terribly good way to foster gentle feelings or form new friendships though.

Therion started to laugh sarcastically.  'I'd really pity the dragon who stole you Ophilia,' he said shaking his head, 'Within a week you would have him giving out his treasure to the poor and breathing fire to keep the homeless warm..'

'And giving pleasure rides on his back to orphans!' Alfyn added.

'Ho, very funny.' Ophilia said crossly as everyone else joined in with the laughter.

By the end of the evening Tressa had started to feel a bit bad that she had only sought out Ophilia with the intention of bending her to her scheme - she'd had the most fun ever since she had set off away from home.  Her time travelling with just Olberic and Primrose had been awesome of course, but back then Prim had been much more silent and sullen and Olberic stoic and .. heh.. unbending.  It felt good to get to know these odd people a bit better.  And more to the point, she was feeling confident about floating her new idea past the Cleric.

Tressa decided to make her move early the following afternoon when Ophilia was walking companionably alongside Cyrus, talking about some obscure fact about the Kindling ceremony.  She walked with them for a while staying quiet, as if listening with interest to their discussion.  When there was a pause in the conversation she reached out and linked arms with the Cleric in a friendly fashion.

'Your Kindling thing is really cool.'  Tressa said innocently. 'Might I take a closer look at the lantern Sister?'

'Of course Tressa, but please take care with it.'  Ophilia replied a little nervously.  She handed the Lantern over to the girl who oooh'ed and ahhh'ed at it.

'It's so pretty.'  Tressa said 'It's quite amazing to think such a little thing has such power and meaning.  Hmm.  I wonder what it's worth would be on the open market.' She couldn’t help but speculate.

Ophilia chuckled.  'I think that's what they mean when they call something 'priceless'.' She said.

'Oh no - everything has a price Sister.'  The tiny merchant decreed 'It's just a case of finding the right buyer.'

Tressa stared at the lantern some more, then looked up at the Cleric and smiled.  'You know Sister, you will be drawing such crowds to you, especially in Saintsbridge and Goldshore.  It occurs to me that witnessing the Kindling can only happen a couple of times in any person's life.'

'You are correct Tressa.'  Cyrus said. 'Most people only have the chance once.  I feel blessed to be making this journey, as well as getting to see the ceremony personally.'  He smiled a little shyly at Ophilia 'And of course getting to spend time with the lovely Flamebearer.' He added.

'Me too!'  Tressa exclaimed.  'I do wish however that there were some way to mark such an event, a memento that I could keep and show to my grandkids one day, say to them I was there.'  She sighed.

'Oh I agree Tressa, a fine idea.'  Cyrus said enthusiastically.

'Spit it out Tressa.'  Ophilia said without rancour.  'What are you angling for?'

'Sister?' Tressa tried guileless but broke under the Clerics amused gaze.  'Okay, you got me.' she mumbled..  'It would be a great idea though.'

'I can't believe you have any idea much less a good one, pint-size.' Therion stated catching the end of the conversation as he ambled up towards them munching on an apple.

'Shut it you.'  Tressa threatened to which the thief just laughed unkindly.

'We having a meeting?' Alf asked, running up behind them all and putting his arms around Therion and Ophilia's shoulders, dragging them into him.

'Get off Oafyn.' Therion grumbled.

'Tressa's just about to tell us her great idea.'  Ophilia told him good naturedly.

'Tressa had an idea?' Alf asked in mock amazement.

'I already said that.' Therion grumbled some more.

'You lot are impossible.' Tressa sniffed. 'For you information - it is a good idea.'

'I admit I am intrigued Tressa, please do enlighten us.' Cyrus encouraged.

'All those people that will flock to the Kindling, it's what we merchants call a captive audience.'  Tressa lectured.  'It would be simple to appeal to their desire to keep the memory of the special occasion alive by providing small trinkets as keepsakes of the event.'

'Fleecing the devout.  Actually, I like it.' Therion muttered in grudging appreciation.

Ophilia looked a bit stunned.  'What trinkets did you have in mind?' she asked faintly.

'My Da has a contact who is just spectacular in producing little wooden items.  I was thinking maybe a mini replica of the lantern.'

'Oh I see.'  The Cleric thought about it for a moment. 'Well, it's not a bad idea I suppose.' she pondered, causing an involuntary cheer from the merchant.   'And potentially it could raise an awful lot of money for charitable causes.'

'C..c..charitable causes?' Tressa stumbled, her eyes going wide. 'Right..yes .. well..  Forty percent of the profits would of course be donated.'

'You mean ninety percent I think.' Ophilia's expression turned steely.

Alfyn started to laugh.

'And I think you forget the amount of work your sales staff will have to put in Sister,' Tressa countered 'Unless of course you're planning to sell them yourself while you're Kindling along.'  She reached up to stroke the feather in her cap.  'I think Sixty percent to charity is more than fair.'

'And I'm sure all the starving children will thank you at Eighty.'

'Don't forget the lepers your holiness.  They have to be worth five percent at least.'  Therion teased her.

'Can we just settle at Seventy-five and be done.'  Tressa asked, annoyed now.

'Seventy-five.' Ophilia held out her hand to shake with the Merchant.

'If it's any use to you Mistress Tressa, I have spent some time past making a number of comprehensive drawings of the lantern for my notes.' Cyrus said.  'I am more than willing to let you have a copy.  I wonder.. have you considered a range made in precious metals, perhaps with a sapphire flame.  I know that I would be most interested...' he stopped to open his pack and get out his notebook.  Tressa stopped beside him.

'Really Professor?  Hmm interesting...' she said as the others walked on ahead.

'What have you done?' Alfyn asked cheerfully when they were out of earshot.

'Awww look how happy Tressa is, and the money for causes will be very welcome.  A win all round I think.'  Ophilia practically glowed.

Therion shook his head.  'Yep.'  He said. 'I would really pity that poor dragon.'

Chapter Text

Night-time had fallen hard, the blackness outside the window was complete with low cloud cover that obscured even the brightest of stars.  The dying embers of a fire burned low in the hearth but the man sat quietly, observing the glowing remains and waited.  He would not retire for the night until the final report was in even though it was late in its arrival - either from the messengers fear of bearing bad news or maybe simply from the lack of news itself.

The man swirled the dregs of his wine around in the glass.  Even this smallest drop was worth more in leaf than any other single thing in the chamber but his taste for the expensive only extended to drink and a man needed some vices to keep him motivated when all of his carefully laid plans were starting to unravel slowly around him in so inexplicable a manner.

The door clicked quietly and the man felt another come to stand behind him in silence until given bidding to speak.  He made the newcomer wait - a small and rather petty punishment for his tardiness - before eventually standing and moving crisply over to the desk on the other side of the room.

'Report.'  The man commanded.

His second shifted nervously from foot to foot, eyes darting anywhere rather than at his masters face.  He gulped.  'There has been no change.  They arrive in Rippletide.' 

'New information on the group?'

'Not much.' The second admitted. 'We have managed to dig nothing particularly noteworthy about the merchant, huntress or apothecary and the scholar's achievements are public record in Atlasdam.  Eisenberg's legend is well known but we have no idea where he's been hiding since the fall of Hornburg and the dancer appears to be simply that.  Word is that she killed her Brothel Master before fleeing Sunshade - but apparently the man was pure slime and any of his girls could have done it - but she was the only one who ran.  Maybe it's the case of a love struck Knight coming out of the shadows for the defence of an exotic maid. Pure speculation though I'm afraid sir.

'Hmm.'  The man pondered 'The Thief?'

'Very little sir, an unsubstantiated rumour linking him recently with Bolderfall but we haven’t even managed to get a name for him yet.'

'I want something on him.  He is our best hope for turning I think, eyes in the camp would be useful.'  The man paced over to the window thoughtfully.  'It will take them nine or ten days to travel from Rippletide to Saintsbridge at their current pace - more if they stop for supplies at Cobblestone and Sunshade.  I want the witch finished before she gets anywhere near her first Kindling.'

'Then we need to give the matter over to the assassins guild, sir.  They will get it done regardless of the size or skill of the group she hides in - putting out notice to common criminals has been pointless - their group number too many to make it an attractive proposition.'

'No.  I will not enter into a formal contract.  It risks too much given the nature of our involvement and what she carries.'

The second shrugged.  'In that case all I can suggest is that since they'll need to use the Cobblestone Pass to get through if we can get enough men together it may be a good place for an ambush, better than anywhere else along their route for sure.'

'A sound idea - but also get news out to our local agents tonight.  A suitable reward is to be added for picking off any of her companions successfully.  Lets break up her ranks.'

'Yes sir.'  The second bowed. 'Is there anything else?'

'Bring me better news tomorrow.' The man said waving his hand dismissively.

~0~

The last day and a half of travel to Rippletide had been gruelling.  Despite never wandering far from the road the companions were beset by ranging beasts and monster's on numerous occasions.  None of the encounters had proved to be of any real consequence to the group but it did make for a tired and restless set of travellers who eventually made their way into town. 

Tressa was happy to be back home even though she had only travelled up to Atlasdam and back on her great journey so far - she was bursting to tell her parents about the sights she had seen and to discuss the details of her new business venture with them and get production of her memento's underway.

'I swear,'  Olberic muttered as the girl ran merrily ahead as soon as the town had come into sight. 'That child makes me feel old.'

'But you are old, sweetheart.'  Primrose instantly replied, then looked shocked at her own words and started to giggle. 'Oh dear,' she patted the flustered Knight on the arm.  'I do apologise, I think I've had too much of this lot's influence!'

Olberic chuckled.  'None the less it is true.  I feel I have taken an unfair amount out of our poor healers - both of them look dead on their feet.'

'Well, if you will insist on throwing yourself in front of everyone Olberic,' Primrose chided gently 'It's no wonder you come off the worst in every scrap.'

'I understand you sentiments completely Sir Knight,' Cyrus interjected, surprising both of his companions who had thought him lost in his own thoughts as he usually was. 'I admit that I very much underestimated  the vigour's of the road and had I but known I would be taking an extended journey I would have better prepared myself physically for the undertaking.  I cannot remember a time when I felt so tired.  Ah, if only you could harness the energy of youth.'  He shook his head.

'And yet somehow you still manage to look immaculate.' Primrose grouched at him good naturedly.

'Thank-you my dear - but I'm afraid that you far outshine my poor efforts in that respect.  Your radiance is quite breathtaking as always.'

'Hmm, I simply can't work out how you managed to get yourself in so much trouble with the ladies in Atlasdam.' Primrose muttered.

'I have been pondering that myself.'  Cyrus replied seriously. 'I feel that I rather badly let my student Therese down.' Seeing the incomprehension on the face of his two companions he composed his thoughts carefully.  'I completely failed to see that she had become jealous of the time I dedicated to the Princess during our lessons.'  He explained earnestly.  'Although it was she that created the rumours about an association that did not exist I find I cannot lay blame on her for her actions - I was the one at fault for failing to understand her dedication to her studies and my own unfair allocation of time and encouragement.'  He sighed sadly.

'Her dedication to studies?' Olberic raised an eyebrow at the scholar making Primrose giggle again.

'Of course,'  Cyrus said simply. 'What else could have possibly motivated her actions?'

'I can't think.'  Primrose was laughing now 'Perhaps we should have a good talk about that sometime Professor.' She added.

'I would be most grateful Lady Primrose, for I am sure your insight would be enlightening indeed.' Cyrus beamed at her.

The rest of the day was spent pleasantly around the bustling town.  Alfyn and Ophilia spent much of the afternoon at the docks, gawping at the ships as they came and went, loading and unloading cargo.  Cyrus managed to pick up half a library's worth of new books and then wondered how he was going to manage carrying them all around with him.  Eventually he organised for a few of the titles to be delivered back to Atlasdam - although making his choices obviously pained him.  Olberic and H'aanit amused themselves and each other by challenging some of the brawly sailors to impromptu fights and in a few cases some good natured arm wrestling challenges.  By the time evening came around they had both won an impressive number of leaves, H'aanit's pile outnumbering Olberic's to his resignation.'

'I thinketh it is simply because they are unaccustomed to being challenged by a woman and leopard,'  H'aanit commiserated with the Knight, clapping him on the shoulder in easy comradeship.  'If I am honest, I would be wary of challenging thee sir Knight, thy skill is unquestionable.'

'As is yours.' Olberic replied earnestly.  'I would appreciate a lesson in the bow from you Mistress H'aanit.  I do not believe I could find a better tutor.'

The evening meal was spent with Tressa's mother and father who had put on a spread unlike anything they had eaten in quite some time.  Therion turned up in time to eat, and was amused by Tressa's growled warning that if he tried anything in her home town she would skin him.

'Bit late for that.' He drawled sarcastically.  Tressa was further annoyed when Therion spent a long while talking with her father quietly, sure he was up to no good.

It was decided that they would spend tomorrow in Rippletide as well while Tressa got herself sorted and giving the others a bit more time to relax before they started out to Stoneguard.  Leaving Tressa with her parents the others went straight to the Inn where they were lodging and even Alfyn was too tired to stay up drinking past one mug.

The next day they all slept in late and the ladies took a trip to the bath's after breakfast for a long soak.  Lunch was taken once again with Tressa and her family and then a lazy afternoon followed of completing chores and buying supplies for the next step of their journey.  The companions declined an evening meal with Tressa and her family - wanting them to have some time alone together and so they dined in a delightful tavern not far from the docks where the seafood was spectacular and the beer cheap and plentiful. 

After a few glasses of water, Ophilia said that she was going to return to the Inn and Cyrus offered to accompany her, eager to get back to his new books.  He offered the Cleric a courtly arm as they left the tavern together in the darkness and they strolled at a leisurely pace back towards their lodging chatting animatedly about one of the new tomes that Cyrus had purchased. 

They were walking past the entrance to the docks when suddenly Ophilia stopped dead in her tracks and looked upwards, eyes very round and her nose crinkled as if she was smelling the air.  A look of confusion crossed her face and she went very pale.

'Are you well dearest?'  Cyrus asked turning back to face her, instantly concerned at her expression.  She held up a hand, staving off questions as she turned her head this way and that rapidly.

'Okay you rumbled me.' Therion said grudgingly stepping out from the shadows a little way behind them. 'Damn I'm losing my touch.' He grumbled.

'Shhhhh Therion.'  Ophilia commanded quietly.  'Something's...wrong... I can't work out where...'  A large splashing sound broke through her sentence.  Ophilia's head snapped in the direction of the noise and panic tore across her expression.  She thrust her staff and lantern into the hands of the extremely confused thief who had sheepishly joined them and then she lifted her robe to her knee's and took off at a full run towards the sound.

Cyrus and Therion stared after her for a second.

'Get the others.' Cyrus ordered before he started sprinting down the dock after the Cleric.  Therion bolted like a rabbit back towards the Tavern.

Ophilia was halfway down the dock heading towards three sailors who were peering over the edge of the wooden platform and down into the water.  All three looked up sharply at the sound of her rapid approach and when she barged into them as if she had not seen them one of the men grabbed her roughly by the arms.  The second man said something to his mates and there was a roar of laughter as the third man reached to his belt and drew a knife.

 As Cyrus ran close he saw the ominous flash of the knife-blade in the moonlight and he bellowed an instinctive spell.  Lightning flashed wildly- blinding everyone - and bolts of pure energy rained down on the men.  The thrust of the knife was diverted under the pressure of the sudden elemental attack -  it hit Ophilia with a glancing blow to the shoulder instead of to her chest. The second man charged bull-like towards Cyrus in an attempt to knock him flat and prevent further casting but Cyrus neatly sidestepped the rush and continued conjuring.  The scholar felt rather than saw Therion running past him at breakneck speed and heard in blessed relief the shouts and exclamations of their other companions as they ran up in support a way behind. 

The man holding Ophilia took stock of the unfolding events and grinned nastily, picking the girl up and throwing her into the water with an enormous splash but then found himself falling to his knees as a pair of knives embedded deep within his back.

Therion looked over the dockside just as Ophilia's head emerged, breaking the surface.

'A blade!' she spluttered at him urgently.. 'Quickly!..'

Therion shrugged out of his scarf and jumped into the water landing neatly beside her.  They conversed briefly, then as their friends came running up to the edge of the pier  the cleric and thief both dived back down into the murky depth.

Olberic wrestled the man that had run at Cyrus to the ground knocking his head solidly against the planking then kicking him.  He turned to see the one that had wielded the knife go down under a massive punch to the face from H'aanit.   Primrose was holding Aelfric's Lantern high over her head peering out into the water where Ophilia and Therion had disappeared and putting a restraining hand on Alfyn who looked totally distraught and was trying to jump in after them. 

There was silence.

Finally the surface of the water erupted and both Therion and Ophilia appeared with a third body supported between the two of them.

'That's Tressa!'  Primrose cried, as the three of them slowly made their way towards the dock.

'She is still breathing!' Ophilia gasped, struggling to swim and support the prone girl 'But she was under for a long time..' she added treading water as Olberic reached down to grab at Tressa and bring her to dry land.

Ophilia was hoisted in next, but without waiting for a breath she crawled across to where Alfyn had laid Tressa out and had started to work on her.

'We need to get the water from her lungs,' Ophilia said between deep gasps, sucking in air greedily.

'I know Li.  For all the God's - get some pressure on your own bloody wound will you..' Alfyn's voice was harsh, his eyes angry.  Ophilia reeled as if she had been slapped. 

'Of course.' she murmured sitting back but not moving far away.  Somebody put a cloak around her shoulders as she started to shiver violently.

'They'd bloody tied her into a sack..' Therion was spluttering to Olberic who had just brought him up out of the water. 'We had to cut her out of it, took forever..'

They were interrupted by a violent spasm of coughing from Tressa, who was on her side bringing up water and heaving heavily.

''By the flame...'  Ophilia shut her eyes in a prayer of thanks as tears started to spill.

'We need to get her back home.  Now.'  Alfyn said sitting back on his heels.  He looked over at Ophilia.  'Let me see your arm.' He said roughly.

Ophilia opened her eyes.  'It's fine.'  She stated blankly. 'I will see to it myself.  Concentrate on Tressa.'  She stood up with help from Cyrus, leaning heavily on him as her knee's almost gave way.

'H'aanit, take Tressa back to her home, Alfyn - go with them please.  Primrose with me to deal with these...gentlemen.' Olberic said as he poked a toe at one of the unconscious sailors.  'Cyrus,  get Ophilia and Therion back to the Inn and sorted if you will.  Nobody is to go off alone until we have an idea of what the hell is going on.  Do you hear me?'  Everyone capable of doing so nodded.

Primrose handed Ophilia back her staff and lantern, squeezing her hand as she whispered 'Don't mind Alfyn, he was beside himself when you two disappeared into the water.  Let him work through it.'  Ophilia nodded.

Refusing to take no for an answer, Cyrus swept Ophilia off her feet, totally ignoring her protests that she was ruining his fine clothes and marched the short distance to their Inn with Therion trailing behind them dripping like a drowned puppy.  They made their way up to their rooms, which Cyrus insisted on checking thoroughly then bade them to get changed and meet back up together in the largest room that was being shared by the girls.

Once they were all in dry things Cyrus came in from where he was guarding the hallway and  lit the fire in the hearth with a small flick of his fingers.  Seeing Ophilia struggling to raise her arm to sort her wet hair due to her injured shoulder he motioned for her to sit in front of the fire and positioned himself behind her with her hairbrush gently helping to untangle the mess.  Therion had sprawled down on her other side staring moodily at the flames.  Nobody spoke for a long time.

'How did you know.'  Therion asked suddenly.  He turned on his back to look at Ophilia. 'Suddenly you just knew that something was wrong,  I thought you'd spotted me following you, but it wasn’t that was it?'

Ophilia had settled back onto Cyrus's chest once her hair had dried off and he felt her go stiff at Therion's words.  He put his arms around her softly.  'If something is troubling you dearheart, please say.  We will help in any way we can.'

'It's the healing.'  She said quietly. 'I don’t think I have ever healed anyone repeatedly over a number of days and it has left me with.. an awareness..of you all.  I can kind of feel you, if you are near or far away, a general direction of sorts.  It's no clearer than that, but even so it feels like I am intruding somehow.'

'Is that why you haven’t bothered healing your shoulder?'  Therion asked gruffly.  Ophilia nodded.

'Well that's a bit dumb your holiness.' Therion said mildly.

'I'd have thought you would have been the first to be horrified by this side effect.' Ophilia admitted.

Therion shrugged nonchalantly 'You ain't spying on purpose, which is more than can be said for me.'  He suddenly grinned at her, the expression quite unexpected from him.  'Besides - it could be fun to put myself in places you wouldn’t expect just to wind you up.'

'I wish I had a pillow to throw at you but I'm just too tired to get one.' Ophilia grouched.

They all bolted upright in alarm when the door knocked, but relaxed again when Alfyn's voice called through. 'It's just us'.

H'aanit and Alf came in and H'aanit rushed to Ophilia and pulled both her and Cyrus simultaneously into a hug.

'Thou haden me so worried!'  she exclaimed, her voice thick with emotion then she threw herself at Therion who looked genuinely scared.  'Thou too rogue,' she said hugging him as well.

'Err...okay.'  Therion mumbled patting awkwardly at her back.

Alfyn was still stood at the door, his hand rubbing the back of his neck.  'I'm sorry.'  He said quietly, looking downcast.  'I got properly angry with the both of you and it was unfair of me.'

'Never mind that, Ophilia groaned at him. 'How's Tressa?'

Alfyn smiled a bit 'Perked up fine.' He replied 'Was even moaning about missing out on all the fun on account she was in a sack at the bottom of the sea.'

Cyrus laughed outright.  'A most resilient character Miss Tressa.' he chuckled.

'Yeah,'  Alfyn agreed 'You can say that again.  Prim and Olberic are staying over at her house to keep an eye on stuff there.  Here...'  Alfyn came right in and handed Therion his two daggers back.  'That one's dead.' He said bluntly, 'The other two ain't talking but Olberic's gonna try again in the morning along with Tressa's Da.'  Alf turned to Ophilia.  'So can I get a look at that wound now Li?' he asked hesitantly.

'Um.. Do you promise not to get mad at me again?' she asked pulling a face.

'Dunno, what you done now?'

'She hasn’t done anything - that's the problem.' Therion ratted her out.

'Seriously?  Li? ...' Alf heaved a heavy sigh. 'C'mon, let's see it - and I'm gonna make sure whatever I need to put on it will sting like hell.' He added.

'It usually does anyway.' She said tartly as the apothecary helped her to her feet and took a look at her shoulder.  Once he had finished messing with it Ophilia channelled a light heal to close up the wound after explaining to Alf and H'aanit the effect that it was having on her and them agreeing they were fine with it.

'Do you forgive me Li?'  Alf asked once she was whole again.

'Nope.'  She said.  'I think you'll have to make it up to me.  A herb tea would be good, and some toast maybe.'  She added with a smile.

'You're a harsh woman.' Alf moaned pulling her into a fierce hug and kissing her sloppily on the cheek.

Chapter Text

Olberic was really very angry.

Why had someone grabbed Tressa, put her in a sack and thrown her in the sea last night?  What the hell could she have done to anyone to have deserved that?

Then there was the issue of the Cleric.  How dare Ophilia think it was okay throw herself into harm's way with no regard to her own safety, nearly taking a dagger to her heart for her trouble?  Pure foolishness. Protecting the other's was his job dammit..

The hardest part was that he had could very easily have lost two of his companions last night and he had been totally useless.  Too far away to help - having to witness the event unable to make a difference.

Olberic was no stranger to failure. It had followed him around like a personal miasma for eight years now and it had burrowed a home in his heart - dampening the fire that had once burned there.  The loss of his Kingdom had devastated the supreme confidence he'd had in his youth.

However he refused to believe that he was totally washed up and dried out just yet.  He may not know why he still wielded his blade - but he did retain some skill and the smallest slither of pride. He may no longer have an army at his back and his most trusted ally at his side but he'd be damned to hell before he allowed anything like last night to happen again.

The second thing, and the one that had driven his pot completely over the boil was that the only people who could have potentially answered his first question - the two attacker's they had captured - were now both dead.

They had refused to speak last night despite his best attempts at physical persuasion and Primrose's more subtle and alluring approach so he had decided that they would wait till morning instead of keep on pressing them long into the night.

They had been very much alive when they left the gaol. Apparently death occurred no more than a few hours later and not a clue was left as to how it happened. It wasn't from their wounds and they didn't seem to have taken or been administered any poison. They were just simply sat there where they had been left completely and utterly dead.

The only useful information Olberic was able to gather at all came courtesy of Tressa's father - these men had not been known in Rippletide and they had not come off any ship currently in harbour.

The first victims to Olberic's anger were the gaol guards. He took them heavily to task looking to find any role - however small - they may have played in the demise of his prisoners. He found none but left the soldiers thoroughly chastised and in no uncertainty of his contempt at their shoddy care. Venting at those unfortunates raised the inferno in his blood to new heights and Olberic stomped back to Tressa's home with her father scurrying along behind him trying unsuccessfully to placate the raging Knight.

At Tressa's home he found his other source of frustration. Ophilia. Olberic's ire made it impossible to contain his usually temperate tongue and he spent a long time lashing her with it like she was a raw recruit caught napping on duty.

He took her to task over her spontaneous actions, the risks she had taken and her general disregard for her own wellbeing. Ophilia for her part simply allowed him to rave, wordlessly stalling the attempted protests that the others had tried to input on her behalf and listening to him with intense civility until finally he ran out of words.

'I apologise Sir Knight.' she said sincerely once he had fallen silent. 'The Archbishop has attempted repeatedly to educate me in the proper repression of my emotions to allow clear thought and action yet despite his gentle teachings I still fail on occasion.' She sighed heavily. ' I value speaking the truth Sir Olberic..' she continued '.. So I find I cannot promise to do better in the future, only to try to. That said, I do not regret the choices I made last night. While I do appreciate and accept your concerns - as long as my actions do no harm to others I believe that it is my right to decide the level of risk I may take.'

'Do you have to be so bloody reasonable?' Olberic retorted sourly, his anger deflating. 'And honestly Ophilia - have you not considered that you would be harming me - us - if something bad had happened to you?'

Ophilia blinked and looked startled.

'I didn't think so.' He said.

'So,' Primrose interjected delicately. 'What do we do now? We can't just sit here indefinitely.'

'We have no idea what last night was all about if indeed it was anything other than just a random event.' Cyrus said thoughtfully. 'Lacking any real information I believe we can only continue on with our intended course until such time as we have some actual insight.'

'I agree.' Olberic said. 'But I think we can all concur that extra vigilance is required.'

The companions began to get themselves together to move out as early as possible. It was Tressa of all people that was the only one that expressed any cheerful enthusiasm. She had already managed to persuade her parents that continuing with her travels was the right thing to do and she scurried around the others eagerly badgering them to pick up the pace and get going.

Olberic was the last out of the door when the time came. He solemnly promised Tressa's parents that he would do everything in his power to keep their daughter safe.

'Your Cleric had a point.' Tressa's father said to the Knight reflectively. I had people around me too when I started out as a traveller just like Tressa is now.  They allowed me the freedom to be myself but also gave advise and opened my eyes to options. Honestly I'd rather that you promised to use your experience to help guide my daughter's feet along the path rather than you tried to restrict her choices in order to keep her safe. The world isn't a nice place. We both know that. Learning, experience and the company of good people is the best way to navigate new waters.' He nodded at the Knight and clasped his arm before turning and going back inside.

Olberic found himself brooding as the companions started back out on the road falling easily into patterns that had begun after leaving Atlasdam. Brooding was also a thing that had settled on him since the fall of Hornburg. He doubted that Erhardt would even recognise the man he had become. Perhaps he would get the chance to find that out for himself before his journey was done.

'Might I walk with yer Sir Olberic?' Alfyn asked having stalled and waited for him as he brought up the rearguard of the group.

'You may.' Olberic grunted, although he wished for nothing more than to be left to his thoughts.

'Great!' Alfyn grinned matching his loping stride to the Knight and running his hand through his hair causing it to stand up in even messier shocks than normal.

They walked in companionable silence for a bit taking the measure of the road and the sight of the sea along the coastal path. After a while Primrose joined with them, having escaped from Tressa's babble when the young girl ran to join up with Ophilia and Cyrus and interrupt whatever their conversation had been.

'Tressa is remarkably untouched by her ordeal.' Primrose noted as the men unconsciously adjusted their pace to her smaller steps.

'Dunno if she really realises how close she was to, well - you know.' Alfyn said. 'She was out for most of it - a blessing' I guess.'

'All the same,' Primrose's face was grim 'We have got to accept that our undertaking isn't exactly safe. Even just travelling the roads could result in the worst happening.'

They all felt the weight of her words.

'Ain't really nothing in life that's truly safe though is it?' Alfyn mused. 'Zeph's sister was bit by a rare snake just gathering flowers - something she does most days. No rhyme or reason really. Just happens.'

'All the same a bit of planning and thought can lessen the risks.' Olberic stated.

'Right yer are Sir Olberic,' Alf agreed.

'So are you two here to take me to task for the way I spoke to Ophilia earlier?' Olberic asked with a weary sigh. 'Because I already regret my anger and how I handled it.'

'I honestly don't think Ophilia minded in the least.' Primrose replied. 'If it had been me I would have probably punched you there and then - you were rather ... verbal. Of course Ophilia being Ophilia just let you run your anger down on her which was just what you needed to do. Her understanding and compassion is quite beyond me.'

'I got a feeling she'd prefer your honesty anyway. Not one to let stuff simmer.' Alfyn added. 'It ain't gonna be the only time you clash either. A bit too alike in your ways you two are.'

Olberic raised an eyebrow at that.

'I mean, her first thought is to give herself to the service of others n' your first thought is to keep others safe.' Alfyn explained. 'It's a subtle difference but an important one and I can't see either of you changing any time soon. There are gonna be times when what she does is gonna take her places that ain't wholesome. Even just in healing - we get called to areas that are disreputable and have to deal with people who are half crazy in pain, or violent in their sickness. Ain't you noticed she is a lot physically stronger than you'd expect for someone of her size?' Alfyn chuckled. 'I know she's had to pin down more than one person to administer to them and certainly taken more than a few hits in the doing of it. She may look vulnerable but don't let it colour your assessment. She has a spine of pure steel.'

'I see.' Olberic mused.

'Don't mean that you won't want to protect her though. Hell, I was mad at her  last night, soaking wet, bleeding and more concerned with Tressa than caring for herself.  Just I think maybe she needs to learn that people care about her before she's gonna understand that taking care of herself is important too.' Alfyn shrugged 'But what do I know?' he said with a grin. 'I'm just a guy who likes any excuse to cuddle a pretty girl.'

Primrose snorted at him. 'I don't see you ever needing an excuse Alfyn you'd cuddle a tree-stump if there wasn't anyone around you could get your hands on!'

'Oh, how you wound me Lady Primrose... perhaps you would like to offer a hug to make me feel better?' Alfyn held out his arms hopefully.

'Bad boy.' Primrose admonished him.

'I think perhaps I should go and make peace.' Olberic pondered. 'It will do no-one any good to have a cloud hanging, and I'm the one at fault.'

'No fault in caring Olberic.' Primrose smiled at the Knight. 'Actually I confess that I have been feeling rather sorry for you lately .. It occurred to me that you have been used to the disciplined ranks of troops you commanded in battle and yet now  you have somehow managed to land yourself with this ragtag band of reprobates. Honestly darling, it's a wonder your still sane!'

'Ain't that the truth.' Alfyn grinned.

Olberic waited until Tressa finally bored of conversation with Ophilia and Cyrus, and had run forward to the front of their rank where H'aanit and Therion were walking either side of Linde.

'Right then.' The warrior muttered a farewell to Alf and Primrose and picked up his pace towards the Cleric and Scholar.

It was Cyrus that first noted his approach. The professor frowned darkly and put an arm protectively around Ophilia's shoulder whilst managing to not even break in whatever he was saying to her. Olberic smiled weakly at the man and held both his hands up slightly to indicate his peaceful intent. Cyrus inclined his head barely noticeably but was still frowning.

When Olberic pulled up alongside Ophilia she beamed up at him.

'Your timing is impeccable Sir Olberic,' she welcomed him warmly. 'Cyrus has been gamely trying to explain to me the fundamentals of battle strategy for the past few days now and I fear I may be wearing him down with my questions!'

'Nonsense dearest,' Cyrus squeezed her shoulder 'Your questioning is always invigorating and thoughtful.'

'And your patience is endless.' Ophilia grinned at him. 'Between you and me Sir Knight, I confess I have struggled with a number of concepts. If it were not for the good Professor's amazing ability to teach I would be hopelessly lost. It is not a subject covered in the curriculum of the Church.'

Olberic grunted in surprise. 'An odd choice of topic Sister, whatever began your interest?'

'I was fortunate enough to have picked up a rather fascinating book in Rippletide.' Cyrus explained, his frown finally melting away, 'I happened to remark on it to our friend here and Ophilia's rather endearing keenness to learn new things took over from there.'

'Like I said,' Ophilia laughed, shyly slipping her own arm affectionately around the Scholars waist. '.. I have questioned this poor man to within an inch of his life.'

'It is unfortunate that my own knowledge of the subject is lacking,' Cyrus admitted. 'Obviously I have historically taken an interest in magical warfare but I know very little of physical combat. It's just not something I have studied in any great depth and given our current travels I find it a rather relevant point of interest.'

'It occurs to me...,' Ophilia said thoughtfully, '...That we happen to be travelling with a veritable font of battle experience Cyrus.  Do you think it would be wise of us to beg some insight into our studies?'

'Oh dearheart, what a remarkable idea!  Real life experience is a far greater source of practical knowledge than a book!'

They both turned to look imploringly at Olberic.

Faced with two almost identical expressions of hopeful enthusiasm Olberic found himself chuckling.  Suddenly the weight that had settled across his shoulders started to alleviate just a bit.

'Has no-one ever warned you that asking a veteran for his war-stories is dangerous?' he grunted at them. 'We are generally very hard to stop once we get going!'

'Oh how wonderful!' Ophilia squealed, her eyes shining.

'Indeed!' Cyrus added beaming brightly at the Warrior.

Chapter Text

The sun came up slowly over the distant horizon with the promise of another fine day.

H'aanit and Therion had drawn the last shift of the night's watch, so the Hunter and Linde were on one side of the slumbering camp facing out to the South where they would head later that morning and Therion had found an obliging tree with a comfortable secure bough that afforded him a good view to the North from where they had come the previous evening.

The going had been really slow again - it seemed even a short distance was enough to bring a new challenge to the group, monsters mainly seemed to litter the coastal roads - far more Therion reflected, than he had experienced when he'd travelled alone - but maybe it was simply the size of the party that flushed so many out and into their path. Olberic seemed mightily pleased with it though - said it gave them a good workout so that they could perfect their formations and fighting techniques. Or some such crap.

Therion had also been eagerly awaiting the sun's rise so that he could properly examine his newest ill-gotten gain in more detail. Ah, joyful anticipation, a buzz of pleasure ran over him as he turned the little notebook over in his hands, trying to gauge if there was enough light yet to read it's treasures by.

His sudden obsession with obtaining the notebook had begun yesterday evening when they had set up camp after their third day of travel out of Rippletide. For the first time he'd seen on their journey Ophilia had reached for the little book that Therion now held. She had simply slipped it from her pack and had begun to write furiously. Every so often she would stop, look up and gaze at Therion, then quickly look away when he caught her eye and begin writing again. Her serious, earnest face illuminated by the light of her holy lantern got him absolutely fired to know what the hell she was writing about.

Obviously, Therion had already sneaked away Tressa's journal many times for some light entertainment - he particularly enjoyed the Merchant's detailed and wide-eyed descriptions of what the ladies talked about when they got together for 'girl time'. Heh.

Therion had also had a nose through Cyrus's writings once. He probably wasn't going to bother with that again unless he came down with a severe bout of insomnia and required a good sleeping aid.

Now, Therion smirked to himself - surely here he was holding the golden goose. There just had to be something incriminating or embarrassing he could use against the good Sister when he needed it. He just hoped her writing wasn't going to be a load of religious whining instead.

With a contented little sigh, he opened the soft leather-bound cover and peered closely at the neat concise handwriting within.

'Dearest Therion.' He jolted in shock almost dropping the book. What the hell?

'I knew I could rely on you - you miserable thief. Ha ha.

(Seriously T, we need to talk about you taking Tressa's diary - yes, I saw you do it - did you actually mean me to? I'm getting off topic but don't think I'll forget - consider it a pending lecture!)

Anyway, to the point. We are being followed (or stalked or something).

You know the whole healing thing where I can 'feel' you all?' Well, today I have been 'feeling' an extra person. I thought I was mistaken at first, it can be challenging keeping track of seven plus Linde - but since the camp settled down I am sure.. So that means this person must have been close enough to us to be in healing range when we battled at least a few times over the last few days.

It's worrying no? I can feel them right now as I write, just on the outskirts of the camp and moving around as if they are circling us.

I am keeping awake - making sure no-one goes near them alone - just in case, you know. Or if this person get too close I will obviously raise the alarm. I'm so glad Olberic has banned going off on our own! I don't want to risk another 'Tressa in the sack' scenario.

I'm not sure what to do T, I don't know whether I should just tell everyone outright - but I figure it's got to be better that they don't know that we know about them, right? So I'm trying to be covert about it all. I snuck a note into Cyrus's book, and one into Primrose's slipper and obviously this one to you - I know if I write what looks like any kind of diary you will just have to have a nose! I hope it's sooner rather than later!

Honestly, I'm not very good at this sneaky stuff so I'm praying that you have an idea or two about what to do and how to let the others know so we can catch this person rather than just scare them off.

Is this making sense?'

'Not really..' Therion thought scanning the camp and the surrounding area. He saw nothing so he returned to the letter.

'Hope you can help T, if not I will try and get news to the other somehow myself.

By the way - did my staring at you annoy you as much as I hoped it would? Ha Ha. I knew that would tip your curiosity over the edge! If I wasn't so worried this would be really funny. Caught you!

Love

Ophilia

P.S - I should give you a stern scolding for taking my things but instead I'm going to give you a full and open invitation to have, take or examine ANY of my belongings at any time you want without having to ask. What is mine is yours. Guess what Therion! .. that means you can't ever steal anything from me again, because it's already yours! Gotcha!

P.P.S - the above does  NOT  include the lantern. That's off limits obviously.. Technically it's not mine and you seriously don't want to risk a smiting from a God do you?'

Cursing himself for being so predictable - again - Therion tore the note from the book, carefully folded it and slipped it into one of his many pockets hiding the movement with an exaggerated yawn and stretching his arms.

He scanned the campsite. He noted that Ophilia's eyes were half opened and looking directly at him although it was probably only noticeable because he was expecting it.

He suddenly felt a crushing sense of very uncomfortable responsibility. Why was she reaching out to him of all people. 'It's your own fault for believing that maybe you could deal with being part of a group.' Therion chided himself bitterly.

It would be best to just to go tell Olberic and have done, let the big dumb hero sort it out. Except Olberic had a default mindset of rush in, hit stuff then deal with the fallout after and Therion could see Ophilia's logic. Catch this stalker and they might get some answers and not have to watch their arses everywhere they went. He sat and pondered the predicament as the sun rose higher and the camp began to stir.

Therion thought Primrose may give the game away after finding a note in her shoe of all places but turns out he had underestimated the girl. Perhaps she had history of secret assignations and clandestine encounters because if he hadn't already known what was lurking in her little scarlet slipper he would never have actually spotted her remove and read the note.

Therion was amused by the fierce look that swept the dancer's face at the words she read and he wondered if her note had included the kind of 'personal' remarks that his had. He would have to steal it and find out. No, strike that. Better not.

Cyrus had picked up his book and opened it even before he had fully sat up from his sleeping position. The scholar maintained a completely nonchalant expression even while the knitting of his handsome brow clearly told Therion that he'd read the words that Ophilia had left for him.

Intrigued, the Thief decided to keep to his place in the tree and observe how his companions handled the situation before he made up his mind how to act himself.

Primrose wandered over to Tressa who was engaged in emptying and restoring her pack for about the hundredth time. Primrose giggled merrily and with very exaggerated movements pulled the girl to her and started whispering to her, all the while continuing to giggle. Tressa looked startled but caught on pretty quick and started to giggle too. Primrose picked up Tressa's journal which had been on the ground next to her pack and waved it around playfully lifting it out of reach, making the Merchant fight to get it back. Obviously Primrose had somehow slipped her note into its pages although Therion didn't see it happen. He was seriously impressed. Tressa reclaimed her journal in a pretend sulk and opened it up. The two women sat together, chatting quietly after that.

Cyrus had also been watching the exchange between Primrose and Tressa, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. After a few minutes of quiet contemplation he stood, book in hand, and went over to where Ophilia was sat. He crouched down beside her and reached out to stroke the hair back from her face and behind her ear. He leaned in closer and brushed his lips lightly against her cheek then resting his head against hers he muttered quiet words to her. Ophilia blushed redder than the risen sun, but her eyes were serious and thoughtful. After a moment listening to whatever Cyrus had been murmuring, she reached out to him hesitantly and caressed his neck with her fingertips whilst whispering back. With a final lingering kiss to her cheek, Cyrus stood and turned to Olberic who was watching the exchange with a fiercely protective scowl while Alfyn who was sprawled next to the warrior had his mouth hanging open.

'Ah, Sir Olberic.' Cyrus said 'Ophilia and I discovered something rather perplexing in this book last night, but alas you were already asleep. I wonder, could you take a glance and give us your thoughts? The Sister believes that the written account is flawed based on your memory of the battle that you shared with her.'

Olberic still looked annoyed but he grabbed proffered book a little roughly from Cyrus's hands. He opened it and slowly read what was inside. Alfyn had sat up curiously and was reading over the warriors shoulder. Olberic's craggy brow creased as his frown deepened at what he read.

'I see.' The Warrior glanced up at Ophilia 'What exactly do you think is wrong in this account child?'

'I thought, from the way you told it that the enemy were much closer that you had originally anticipated Sir Olberic.' Ophilia replied.

'Indeed.' He said darkly.

At Ophilia's warning that their unwanted guest was close, Therion dangled himself down from his tree branch and made his way over to where H'aanit was still sat with Linde at her watch-post, unaware of the situation.

'H'aanit! Therion greeted her 'Did you just see Cyrus and Ophilia?'

H'aanit turned to look back at her camp-mates, then at Therion in confusion. 'I see'eth nothing Master Therion, aside the road ahead. Doth thou have something to share?' she asked eagerly.

'You betcha!' Therion leaned down to share his confidence with her, cupping his hand round his mouth and learning to her ear. 'Ophilia senses a stranger stalking the camp very close by.' He told her quickly, then added a bit louder. 'The Professor woke up this morning with a bit of a flirt on and got all smoochy with her holiness. I thought Olberic was gonna bust a blood-vessel!'

'Oh, how lovely!' H'aanit exclaimed.

'Lovely?' Therion queried 'I was sure you were gonna go and punch him.'

'Why wouldst I do that?' H'aanit asked 'Ist sweet to see'eth their tender feelings.'

'You disappoint me huntress.' Therion groaned. H'aanit just smirked at his pained expression and stood up fluidly from her sitting position, walking back to the others and starting to get their supplies ready for breakfast.

'Hey guys!' Tressa jumped up and twirled into the centre of them all brandishing paper and a pencil. 'I've started a list for the supplies we need from the next town. You losers always go off and buy your stuff individually when it is so much cheaper to get everything together.' The Merchant rolled her eyes comically at them. 'You can thank me in beer from all the leaf you'll save.' She added hopefully, placing the paper down in front of Alfyn.

'Great idea squirt!' Alfyn said then nearly choked on his tongue when he read 'Our secret plans to catch the bad guy' as the header at the top of the page.

After a lot of jockeying back and forth, the 'list' being passed around and some general teasing at the supposed items that were being added, a plan was hatched. Ophilia was up first. She went to her bag and hunted through it and then looked up, distressed.

'Hey, has anyone seen my notebook?' she asked, 'I was sure I put it away last night but I must have dropped it somewhere.' She started to walk a little way away from the group to the west. 'I really don't want to lose it.' She was saying, 'It was a parting gift from Lianna.' She made a show of seeming to search the ground and undergrowth where she had walked to.

Therion silently approached her. 'Err, is this the one Sister?' He asked meekly. 'I found when I took over watch. Forgot about it completely.' He handed her the book.

'Oh thank-you Therion!' she smiled warmly at him. 'I was worried I might have dropped it further out.'

'Hmm. Olberic said. 'My water-bottle is almost empty. I better get a refill before we set out. Anyone else need topping up?' most of the group replied they did.

'I'll help then.' Alfyn said, gathering the bottles and following Olberic out of the clearing towards the river to the south.'

'If we hast some time, I wouldst like to go'eth gather some more of the berries we picked yesterday.' H'aanit said thoughtfully 'They went very well with our breakfast oats.'

'They did indeed!' Cyrus said enthusiastically. 'I would be happy to accompany you Mistress H'aanit, if you would be good enough to lead the way.' They left together along the northern path.

'Ophilia,' Primrose called to her after a few minutes had passed 'Did you borrow my mirror?'

'Yes Prim, but I put it back.' Ophilia called back in reply 'It is exactly where I found it.'

It didn't take long for the scouting teams to circle behind their quarry in a pincer movement following the hints given by the conversation between Ophilia and Primrose. In the end it didn't even come to a fight. H'aanit took their prisoner with ridiculous ease and a big net that she said she kept for beast taming.

The man was marched back to the camp between H'aanit and Olberic. He made no resistance whatsoever and said nothing at all. Once back he was forced to his knees.

'Nothing on him.' Olberic stated after a very thorough search. The man just stared out in front of him - his eyes vacant. 'No food, no weapons. Literally just the clothes he's stood in.' The man wasn't particularly old and his body-tone and posture spoke of a person used to fighting, so his compliance and his lack of weapon seemed very at odds to his appearance.

'Drugged?' Primrose asked as Alfyn and Ophilia moved carefully forward to examine him.

'Not that I can tell.' Alfyn said. 'His pulse and breathing seem normal, can't see any swelling anywhere.'

'Interesting.' Cyrus had moved forwards 'I feel - a tingle.' He went in a step closer reaching out a hand and placing it lightly on the man's brow.'

'Careful Prof.' Alfyn said. 'Don't want you catching something.' The Scholar waved away the boy's concerns.

'Definitely a magic based malady..' he said thoughtfully 'Centred around the head if my calculations are correct. A mind spell or compulsion? As far as I know all such spells are alchemical in construct but they can be set to trigger by certain events.'

'Can it be broken?' Olberic asked.

'Only the caster would know, there's no clear signature to the magic but whoever it was has to be strong in his field.' Cyrus replied with grudging admiration.

'So what we're saying is we have nothing. Yet again.' Therion pushed his way forward to peer at their prisoner. Suddenly the man's eyes went wide. A hand shot out breaking the bond that had secured it as if it was paper. He grabbed onto Therion's wrist hard.

'Thief.' The man intoned in a deep voice. Therion struggled against the hand gripping him but failed to break free. Olberic had also made a lunge at the man but was shrugged off. The man dropped Therion's wrist as suddenly as he had taken it and his own hand fell back down to his side. He closed his eyes.

'Well okay.' Therion looked shaken. 'I wasn't expecting that.'

Everyone started speaking at once.

'Who are you?' Therion asked eventually poking at the prisoner. The man remained silent. 'Hey! What's the deal?' Still nothing. 'This is crazy.' Therion muttered.

'Um.' Ophilia suddenly spoke up 'I think he might be dead. I can't feel him anymore.'

They confirmed that yes, the man was dead.

'Must be the compulsion, triggered when he was caught I'd deduce.' Cyrus reasoned.

'We shoulde searcheth the area.' H'aanit said. 'He cannot have had nothing for succour, he may'st have stashed his belongings somewhere close by.'

The companions split into pairs but were commanded not to move too far away from each other by Olberic. Linde got a sniff of the dead guy and ran off enthusiastically followed by H'aanit and Therion. It wasn't long before they shouted that they had found something.

Something turned out to be a cache of weapons and a pack stuffed with a substantial amount of coin and some food.

'Nice, but not really helpful for identification.' Olberic grumbled. 'I guess we just make our way to Stonegard and get on with H'aanit's hunt and keep our eyes and ears open.'

'Frustrating.' Primrose agreed.

'Never fear,' Cyrus said with rather fierce determination. 'With each encounter we gather more of the picture. We know magic was used now and that fact is a relevant starting point for query. We will work it out friends!'

Still, it was with a rather dejected air that everyone made their way back to camp and started to pack up to resume their journey.

As soon as they were out of general earshot of the rest of the group Cyrus reached to take hold of Ophilia's hand and drew her back a little way.

'I wanted to apologise most profoundly for my behaviour earlier my dear.' He said earnestly 'It was terribly forward of me and I hope you do not think ill of me for it. I simply could not deduce another way in which to speak with you that would not have potentially aroused the suspicion of our watcher.'

'It was a clever ploy, Professor, and not at all unpleasant.' Ophilia smiled at him brightly. 'Although next time I would appreciate a more private setting than the middle of our camp with everyone watching.'

'Yes of course..' Cyrus began, then stopped dead. 'N..n..next time?' he stuttered. Comprehension slowly washed over his face and he smiled tentatively back at Ophilia. 'Ah, I believe you are teasing me again.' He chuckled.

She squeezed his hand. 'Probably.' She agreed.

Chapter Text

Alfyn first came face to face with the dire wolf when he dived off the road to examine a nettle he'd spied growing alongside a tumbled wall. 

They were less than half a day outside of Stonegard and were due to reach the town by mid-afternoon by Cyrus's reckoning and although the settlement was not yet in sight they were all ready for a proper bed and some rest.

Alf always felt a bit uncomfortable about holding up the team with his obsession for flora even though they insisted that it was to their benefit for him to have his stock full and versatile. Even so, he tried to keep the interruption minimal which is why he had ventured out to examine the plant on his own. 

He wasn’t far from his companions - although they had travelled past him as he took stock of the little weed, trying to commit to memory it's natural details before he dug it out.  He took a quick look around for other examples but it seemed to be the only one growing in the vicinity.  'I'll just take a peek the other side of this wall', Alfyn thought to himself and climbed the tumbled stone that piled up to about waist height on him. 

He wasn’t sure exactly what it was that made him look up since he had been concentrating on his feet - but when he did glance forward he was immediately confronted by a pair of red eyes staring at him from a very short distance away.

The wolf was huge.

'Whoa.'  Alfyn skidded to a halt in his climb and crouched down, making himself as small as possible.  Very slowly he started to try and scrabble his way backwards, reversing over the mound of stones.

The wolf lowered its head at the movement and growled, a quiet rumble in its throat.   Alfyn froze again.  He wondered absently how long it would be before Li realised that he'd been left behind - it would be her that noticed he was sure - and if he would still be in one piece when she did. 

He considered calling out, but  really didn’t wanna startle the big doggie so instead he clenched his fist and thought about his ice magic.  Maybe it would be enough to root the wolf in place while he made a run for it. 

The wolf took a slow step forward towards him and lifted its muzzle into the air sniffing while never taking its eyes off of the Apothecary.  Alfyn gulped, then let out a relieved breath when he heard a sound behind him.  Someone was approaching. 

'Careful.' He half whispered, hoping whoever it was could hear.  'Got a bit of a problem here.'

He realised his words were wasted when it was Linde whose head popped up above the wall although the sight of the leopard immediately calmed his fear.  He knew Linde's ability - he was totally okay with bringing this particular cat to a dog-fight.  His money was on the cat.

Linde had stopped on the top of the rubble.  The wolf's eyes had shifted to the snow leopard and then.... okay - Alfyn wasn’t expecting that.

 Linde jumped gracefully down to where the wolf had sat down on its haunches, it's tongue lolling out like it was grinning.  Linde pounced on the wolf, but it was a weird kind of half attack, batting into the side of the wolf with her rump, then frolicking around the beast in what looked like playful mock challenges.  The wolf raised its head and gave out a low howl, then joined in the play.

Alfyn took the opportunity to scrabble back up to the top of the wall and saw his companions hastening back towards his position, H'aanit very much in the lead with a joyful smile on her face.

'Linde seems to be acting mighty strange H'aanit.' Alfyn said as she rushed past him.

'Hagen!'  H'aanit exclaimed literally leaping the stones and rushing to the dire wolf, her arms open wide.  When the wolf jumped at the Huntress, Alfyn couldn’t help but hold his breath, his heart racing - but H'aanit somehow managed to say on her feet - embracing the wolf, while Linde continued running circles around the pair of them.

'Okay....'  Olberic said as he reached where Alfyn was stood.  'That's not something you see every day!'

Ophilia rushed past them, scrabbling down the stones with a crazy lack of grace but somehow managing not to fall.  'Is it Hagen?'  she asked breathlessly when she reached H'aanit, who turned to the little Cleric beaming.

'It ist!' H'aanit declared 'Hagen!' she returned her attention to the wolf that was licking at her neck happily 'Where ist thy companion?  Where ist Z'aanta?' 

At the mention of Z'aanta's name the wolf whimpered and rubbed himself against H'aanit's legs.  When the Huntress crouched down next to the beast, he huffed a very human sounding sigh then turned to the Cleric standing next to her friend and gently gathered a mouthful of her robe in his jaw pulling at it impatiently.

'Um, I think Hagen wants us to go this way...'  Ophilia said as the wolf started to lead her back out to the road. 

Once everyone had followed, the wolf let go of his grip on Ophilia and trotted up the path in the direction they had been heading.  Linde ran to join him and walked along side him as he led the companions onward towards Stonegard.

Ophilia waited for H'aanit to reach her and took her friends hand as they moved forward.  'This has to be a good sign.' The Cleric reassured the Huntress. 'You said that Hagen would not be parted from his companion, and that if the worst had happened then Hagen would return to the wild.  I am sure that Z'aanta must be nearby.'

Following the beasts and without stopping for lunch, the journey to Stonegard took less time than anticipated and it was just past noon when they were in sight of the gates to the town.  Hagen stopped a good way before the town walls.  He waited for everyone to catch up and then he whined a small whine, bumped his head against H'aanit's legs and took off, running like the wind away from them and back into the wilderness.  Linde did not follow him.

'Hagen, wait!' H'aanit called desperately to the wolf, but he was gone.  'I doth not understand!'  she cried.

'If I may Huntress,'  Cyrus had stepped up to her side. 'I would like to postulate a theory.'  H'aanit grunted at him.  'A wolf's sense of smell is quite remarkable.'  Cyrus said carefully '..and that of a dire wolf is even greater than a normal one.  It may well be that the sheer press of unfamiliar scent in a town as large as this one is uncomfortable for a beast such as him.  It may also be that your Master is in town right now, but his wolf is unhappy to reside in the environment.  Let us ask at the Inn and possibly the Taverns to see if we can locate any word.'

'Thou speaketh wisely Professor - I thanken thee.'  H'aanit clasped the man's shoulder causing him to stumble slightly at her strength.

After a brief stop at the first Inn  that they passed to secure accommodation and to lighten their loads the companions made their way to the tavern.

'In truthe the Tavern is the moste likely of places that My Master would visit.'  H'aanit said wryly as they entered.  She went to the bar and ordered Stew and drinks for everyone and politely enquired if Linde would be permitted to enter.

'Aye,' the barman replied 'If yon beast is controlled Mistress, then we have no issue.'  H'aanit asked him about Z'aanta and the barman looked surprised then said 'Be you his 'prentice then? He spoke of you often when he was deep in his cups.'

'He hath been here?'

'Not for a good while now.  Thought he's moved on - it's his usual way when he visits with Natalia.'

H'aanit raised an eyebrow.  'Can'st thou tell me where I can find this Natalia?' she asked.

Returning to their table with food, H'aanit filled her friends in on the details of her conversation.

'I will come with you.'  Ophilia said when H'aanit told that she would be hunting down the woman that her master spent time with in town. Primrose nodded that she would go too.

Tressa wanted to organise supplies with Olberic's help and Alfyn said he would go into town with them to ply his trade if there were any in need.  Cyrus expressed a desire to get some letters written and sent off in relation to the mind magic he suspected their stalker had been afflicted with. 

'You are with the Professor then Therion,' Olberic ordered.  Therion rolled his eyes.

'I can write here in the Tavern,' Cyrus told the thief, 'Then we will see if we can meet up with the ladies and offer aid.'  He smiled at H'aanit.

It turned out that Natalia was easy to find. 

Natalia was quite overcome to finally meet H'aanit, admitting that Z'aanta spoke often about his talented apprentice and of his pride in her.  H'aanit was somewhat surprised that she did not know of the woman, who it seemed had been a part of her master's life for a long time.

'It should not be such a surprise child.'  Natalia reassured H'aanit. 'Despite his drinking and his gambling, he truly wishes you to think well of him.  His respect for your virtue and your values makes him wary of introduction to his Mistress, especially as we first met through his friendship with my late husband.'

'I doth not see why he wouldst think me critical that he doth find happiness with thou.' H'aanit admitted. 'I am glad that we hath met.'

'So am I.'  Natalia agreed.

Unfortunately, Natalia was unable to provide much insight into where Z'aanta may currently be.

'I last saw him nearly three months ago.' She admitted. 'It is not uncommon for him to visit only briefly and be away for long periods of time - but this time was slightly different.  I know that the one that had recruited him, Eliza - had sent some Knights Ardante here to look into rumours that the beast he hunted had been spotted in the Spectrewood - to the west of town.  It was mere happenstance that Z'aanta arrived at the same time that they did.  I did not witness him leave on his hunt, nor did he return.  In truth I don't know if he was diverted beforehand and rushed away to follow a new trail.'

'Then I will looketh for clues in this Spectrewood.'  H'aanit said resolvedly.

'It is getting quite late.'  Ophilia said.  'Should we return to the Tavern for food and take up the hunt in the morning?'

'Thou may'st Sister,'  H'aanit said gently 'But mine path lies before me and I will follow it.'  Her eyes took on a steely glint.

'I stand with you H'aanit.'  Ophilia reassured her friend.  'But seriously would it not be wise to gather our companions and seek their aid?'

H'aanit didn't respond.  Bidding farewell to Natalia, she simply walked from the woman's house and started down the street in the direction the woman had indicated.

'You go with H'aanit, Ophilia.'  Primrose directed the Cleric.  'I will head back and try to rally the others.'

'We are not supposed to be alone, Olberic will be vexed if you go back unaccompanied.'  Ophilia look worried.

'I can manage the Knight.'  Primrose said loftily.  'It is no distance to the Tavern at all.  It will be well - but I feel H'aanit will not be stopped and I do not want her or you alone.'

Ophilia was undecided.  H'aanit was disappearing further away.  'Go Ophilia.'  Primrose commanded, and the cleric finally scurried off to catch up to her friend.

Dusk was falling as H'aanit and Ophilia found the road out of Stonegard that led to the Spectrewood.  Ophilia was still trying to talk the huntress in postponing her hunt until the morning but the woman was blatantly ignoring her.  When they discovered that their path was blocked by a large rock-fall Ophilia heaved a sigh of relief.

'We cannot get past this H'aanit.'  The Cleric advised 'Let us look again in the morning and see if we can find another path.'

Once again ignoring her friend, H'aanit, with Linde at her heels resolutely turned from the path and started out into the forest.

Ophilia held her lantern higher in the increasing gloom and nervously followed her friend.  After a while it began to feel that they were simply travelling around in circles.  Ophilia had no idea the distance or the direction they were going.  The dense woodland canopied the sky so she could not see the stars as they came twinkling out, and her fear rose at the almost total darkness that surrounded them.  She really did not feel at ease in the dark.  One thing that did bring comfort was the fact that she could feel their companions coming closer.  Holding that thought close to her heart, she bit down the overwhelming fatigue plaguing her due to the exacting pace that H'aanit was setting and concentrated on keeping up.

At length, H'aanit pulled up and swore colourfully.  She gestured at a tree that stood in the path she was cutting across the forest.  'Ancient one.'  H'aanit explained pulling her bow and notching an arrow.

'Okay?' Ophilia asked, not quite knowing what the Huntress was referring too, and then gave a small scream as the tree started to move and advance on them menacingly.  In fairness, the fight was a short one.  H'aanit was fired by her hunt and Linde was a whirlwind of death with tooth and claw.  Although brief the fight was physical.  After trying a few bolts of holy light that seemed to affect the monster not at all, Ophilia merely concentrated on preparation of healing should it be required.  It wasn’t.  Rather than being exhausted by her battle, both H'aanit and Linde seemed invigorated, pushing past the remains of the monster and running on down the path that opened up at its defeat.

'Wait, oh please wait..'  Ophilia moaned pitiably, stumbling as she tried to up her pace after the huntress.  In the end, feeling that her other companions were now closer to her than H'aanit was, she sank to the ground and simply waited.

When Olberic charged his way into view, Ophilia stood up wearily. 

'She isn’t far but I just couldn’t keep pace anymore!'  she said relieved to see that the warrior wasn’t frowning at her.

'Which way Sister?'  he asked and she pointed.  'She seems to have stopped.  We should make haste.'

Alfyn took her hand as they started forward.  'If you need a lift let me know Li,' he whispered at her 'I'm amazed you managed to keep up with her this far!'

It took another five minutes to reach the place that the Huntress had stopped.  She was rooting around in the darkness in a fairly open glade.  As her companions marched in bringing light, it revealed that there had been some kind of fight there some time ago. 

'Z'aanta's arrow.'  H'aanit said expressionlessly, holding it out for the others to see.  'I thinke these the remains of the Knights Ardante that he did  accompany.  I see not any sign of him save this.  There ist a trail over to the right.' She indicated.

Silently the group moved forward to the narrow trail that led further into the forest.  They had not moved very far down it when they came to a second clearing and H'aanit stopped dead in her tracks.

'Oh!'  she murmured.  'Run..!' she added quietly, turning and ushering her companions swiftly back down the trail.  As they turned and did as she bade they could all hear something behind them, heavy and pounding as it ran them down.  They had just stumbled back into the first glade when their pursuer burst out of the trail and bowled into H'aanit who was at the rear, but it did not lessen its momentum as it ripped through them all, a tempest of hooves and brute force that knocked them all save Olberic flying.

Ophilia was to her feet first, light blazing her eyes golden and healing flooding everyone back into action.  She propped herself against a tree, completely winded but wide eyed at the beast that had attacked them. 

Olberic had moved swiftly forward, having taken his spear to hand to give himself a further range from their foe, stabbing forward relentlessly, trying to move it further back and away from the others.  H'aanit had also regained her feet, her hands almost blurring with the speed that she notched and released arrow after arrow at the creature as Linde snapped at bit at it.

'What manner of beast is this?'  Cyrus called trying to see any weakness that could be exploited in the enemy.

'Tis known as a Lord of the Forest.  Tis as much like a stag as Linde ist to a housecat.'  H'aanit shouted back to him. 

Cyrus sent a fireball crashing into the beasts flank and it reared onto its hind legs.  'Well, it doesn’t like fire.'  He mused. 'Let's go with that then.'  Extending to his full height and with intense concentration he conjured a volley of blasts that hit the beast one after the other, sending it into a frenzy that allowed Olberic the chance to get in and launch a blistering series of deep and sustained thrusts with his spear.  Primrose was weaving her dances gracefully between her friends, while Tressa was howling her winds at the creature, a serious look on her normally sunny face. 

Without warning  the beast suddenly charged forward at Olberic smashing him with his horns.  Olberic fell hard and unconscious.  The beast appeared to be winding up for another charge that would surely finish off the prone Knight when Therion sprang out of nowhere at a thunderous speed, launching himself acrobatically and landing on the creatures back, a dagger in each hand buried into its neck giving him a handhold.  The beast whipped  around at the sudden assault and started bucking trying to dislodge the thief who was clinging on for dear life.  Alfyn and Primrose dragged Olberic out of the way and Alfyn quickly began to administer to the warrior. 

Cyrus channelled a heavy stream of ice that caught his foes hooves, and it's own momentum brought the creature to its knees.  Therion leapt off its back as it came to the ground and threw himself out of the way, landing next to Ophilia.  Bellowing in rage the beast targeted the thief, kicking its feet free of the ice and stampeding towards him, head down and eyes blazing.  Ophilia stepped forward and sent blinding light forward, while pushing Therion out of the way.  Before it managed to cover even half the distance towards them it was met and sent spinning off course by the arrival of the huge grey dire wolf, that had jumped with startling grace and tremendous ferocity. 

Olberic who was now back on his feet pulled out his sword and ran swiftly to where the beast lay trying to catch its breath. 

' Letten my arrow flyen true.'  H'aanit shouted, letting loose a bolt that hit the animal directly between the eyes.  Olberic stepped in to end the beast's suffering.

While Alfyn and Ophilia checked everyone over,  H'aanit was with Hagen talking quietly to the wolf.  Hagen got up and started down the path back to the second clearing slowly, once more waiting for everyone to join him. 

Walking into the glade, Hagen ran straight to what appeared to be a pillar at the periphery and sat down in front of it.  H'aanit followed and as she went close to where the wolf was sat she suddenly stumbled and fell to her knees.  Ophilia started forwards, raising Aelfric's Lantern high to light her way.  When she reached her friend she stared in horror as H'aanit put her face in her hands and started to tremble.  Ophilia wrapped her arms around the Huntress.

Alfyn had run up behind them, thinking that H'aanit was hurt.  He too stopped dead.

'Oh.'  He said tonelessly looking at the stone statue in front of them.  'Is that...?'

'It ist mine Master.'  H'aanit replied, her voice shaking.

'Oh.'  Alfyn said again, moving forward and reaching out a hand to tentatively touch the figure.  It was freezing cold to the touch.  'Ice?' he queried.

'Petrifaction.'  Cyrus was beside him now running his fingers over Z'aanta's back.  'He has been turned to stone.'

Primrose was knelt down the other side of H'aanit and had her arm around the huntress as well.  'How does that even happen?'  she asked angrily. 'Magic?'

'There may be a magical way.' Cyrus said gently 'But is more commonly known as a weapon of certain historical, some may say mythical beasts.'

Ophilia had removed her gloves.  She went forward and reached towards the figures chest.  She placed her hand lightly on the stone and sent out a small healing wave.  Closing her eyes she did it a second time and then a third. 

'His spirit remains H'aanit.  I am sure of this.'  Ophilia said opening her eyes.  'It is distant but Z'aanta is not dead.  Truly I don’t know more but there has to be hope that this can be reversed.'

Therion came up with an arrow in his hand. 'Found this embedded in a tree over there.' He said 'Got a note attached to it addressed to you H'aanit.'

The Huntress reached up and took the paper.  She read the contents then passed it to Primrose who also scanned the message.  'Z'aanta says that it was Redeye that turned him to stone.  Wrote this as his body was turning.  Says the beast is a danger to all and must be stopped.' Primrose told the rest.

'A remarkable man.'  Olberic said respectfully.  'To keep ones wits in such an event...'

'He says that a seer in Stillsnow may have knowledge of how to stop this beast or at least how to reverse the petrifaction.  Name of Susanna.'  Primrose squeezed H'aanit's arm. 'Seems we both have business in Stillsnow H'aanit.  We will get this sorted.'

H'aanit stood, and reached out to place her hand on her Master.  'I Swear I will revive thou Master.'  She said fiercely.  'My hunt doth not end here and nor doth yours.'  Her shoulders slumped a little. 'I doth hate to leave him here alone  in the dark liketh this though.'  She said quietly.  'He ist a man who  hath always enjoyed company.'  Hagen growled.  'I know you will stayeth with him Hagen.'  She smiled sadly.

'Well we can stay a while.'  Ophilia said.  'Get a fire going, tell some stories.'

'Great idea Li, I'll get some wood!'  Alfyn bounded off with Tressa in tow.

'Ah, H'aanit.'  Cyrus had approached the Huntress rather shyly.  'I have heard you tell of how your Master likes to have a drink.  I happened to buy this today, for a friend I'm hoping to drop in to see on our travels - but I rather feel it would be better used to share tonight.  If you would like.'  He handed her a bottle of liquor.

'Thanken thee Cyrus.'  H'aanit said gratefully 'Indeed mine Master woulde be most appreciative.'

Once the fire was set and burning merrily, H'aanit was requested to tell some tales of Z'aanta and his hunts.  She obliged readily, opening the spirit bottle as she began and taking a few large gulps.  As soon as it hit her throat she spluttered. 'By the Gods!' she swore.  'What IST this Cyrus?'

'Ah,' he grinned at her. 'Yes its quite potent if I remember.  It has always been how Odette liked her drink.'

There was general merriment as the bottle was passed round, particularly at the tears that fell immediately down Tressa's face at the tiny sip she took.  After Therion swigged a generous mouthful and just managed to keep from grimacing he handed the bottle to Ophilia with a huge grin.

'Sister?' he offered.

'Thank-you.'  She took the bottle and raised it to her mouth. 

'Um, it is very strong dearheart..' Cyrus began. 'Oh.  Oh dear...'  he added as the Cleric took two large gulps.  Everyone leaned a little bit closer.

She passed the bottle to Alfyn and delicately wiped her mouth, then noticed everyone staring at her.

'What?' she asked.

'Err, never seen you drink before.'  Alfyn said with his mouth hanging open.

'Just because I generally choose to keep my wits about me doesn’t mean I don’t ever drink.'  She said a bit huffily.  'It is very cold in the Frostlands after all.'  She added as the spirit ran its warm course down into her belly.

'Shall we pick lots now to see who has to carry her Holiness home?'  Therion drawled.  'Hope I win, I saw a load of low hanging branches to hit her head on.'

'I hope you do too.'  Ophilia said with a perfectly straight face.  'I do tend to get so very affectionate when I have had a drink...'

H'aanit watched quietly as the banter continued among her friends. 'I wishen thou were here to join in Master.' She thought to herself. 'I believeth thou wouldst greatly enjoy my comrade's company.  One day soon thou wilt sit and enjoy a drinke with all of us.  This I sweareth.'

Chapter Text

Primrose walked silently alongside H'aanit and Linde as the companions made their way once again back to Rippletide.  It seemed that so far all Primrose had really achieved towards her own personal goal was walking the same roads over and over.  Strangely she wasn’t particularly annoyed about it. 

When she had first left Sunshade after plunging her dagger into the rotten heart of Helganish and leaving him to bleed out alone on the unforgiving sands of the desert - she had been fired with the single-minded aim of getting to Stillsnow and finally, finally beginning the journey that had started for her ten years ago.  It had cost her so much to get to that point.

And yet.

Perhaps it had been the death of Yusafa - who could have truly been a friend and who had made the ultimate sacrifice - that had wormed the smallest flame of warmth back into Primrose's heart so that when she encountered H'aanit and Ophilia there was a shred of hope in her that allowed her to actually want to help these women.  Despite taking her in completely the opposite direction than she had needed to go she did not regret her spontaneous decision to accompany them.

These people that she had been travelling with for more than two weeks now were simply unlike any she had come across before and as a keen observer of others they intrigued her too. 

The first thing that had struck Primrose while she was being cared for was the open honesty and kind compassion of Alfyn and Ophilia.  They were simply without guile at all and having spent the last five years in a town where everyone wore a mask and emotions were buried deep the unexpected and quite genuine care they both had for a stranger, followed by unconditional camaraderie was quite intoxicating.  Nothing was demanded or expected.  There were no awkward questions.  There was laughter and gentle teasing.

Primrose had already begun to tentatively trust in Olberic by the time he had picked up the body of  Yusafa and respectfully placed her in the grave that he had dug after he had aided her in her fight with her boss.  Indeed when she had first spotted him in the establishment that she danced he had immediately stood out.  He had been the only man showing no interest in her whatsoever.  He just sat with a brooding grimace staring moodily at the bottom of the tankard he was drinking from, quite obviously realising he was in a place he had no desire to be.

Then there was H'aanit.  By the Gods, Primrose could become obsessed thinking about the Huntress.  That she was strong and brave was obvious.  That she was loyal and driven had become clear in Stonegard.  That her heart was warm and caring.. well, the first time she had seen H'aanit take a hold of Ophilia in the night and comfort away the girls night fears has almost moved Primrose to tears.  The look of tenderness in the huntress's eyes when she ministered to Ophilia was of a kind that Primrose had not received from anyone in a very long time.

None the less Primrose was feeling uncomfortable.  If she examined the feeling closer she would probably even say vulnerable.  She knew that the time was coming ever closer when she would be required to tell her companions about the nature of her personal quest.  If she had thought less of them or perhaps had remained as cynical as she had been just a short while ago - she could have happily not revealed anything, but now the thought of these people risking themselves on her behalf without disclosure seemed wrong.

It was not going to be easy.  The choices that Primrose had made in the last ten years had been wholly her own but that's not to say she was proud of them.  They had simply been a means to the end that she had committed too on the very day that she had watched her father's murder.

'I hath a concern, Lady Primrose.'  It took a  few seconds to realise that H'aanit had spoken to her, lost in her own thoughts as she was.

'What troubles you Huntress?' Primrose replied gently, a little surprised that H'aanit was confiding in her.           

'I thinken there ist something amiss with Therion.'  H'aanit  said quietly.  'I hath observed that thou spendeth much time in consideration of your fellows Lady Primrose and I wonder if thou hast likewise noten anything.'

'You noticed?'  Primrose couldn’t help the blush that rose to her cheeks at the fact the Huntress had paid that close attention to her.

H'aanit looked at her curiously.  'Doth I hath it wrong Lady Primrose.  If I hath caused offence then I apologise.'

'No, no... its fine H'aanit.'  Primrose said quickly.  'So, err Therion.  I admit I haven’t noted anything unusual.  I have not really been considering him though.  What concerns you?'

H'aanit shrugged.  'He doth not sleep.'

'Surely you would be better talking to Alfyn.'  Primrose replied.

'Therion wouldst not appreciate my interference and Alfyn is such that he wouldst surely fuss if he thoughteth there was a problem.'  H'aanit bit her lip.  'I wouldst liketh to be sure before I take such a step.' 

'Have you spoken to Therion?'  Primrose mused.

'I hath.  He sayeth only that he doth not require much sleep.  But 'tis not only that alone for I feeleth his face hast also been most grim lately.'

Primrose couldn’t help the grin that bloomed.  'More than usual?' she asked.

H'aanit chuckled.  'Thou art right Lady Primrose, mayhap I worry too much.'

'I will keep a look out H'aanit.'  Primrose promised 'Perhaps we could talk later when I have had a chance to assess your words?' she added shyly.

'You have mine thanks.  It ist always enjoyable to speaketh with you, I wouldst liken to have more occasion to do so.'

'As would I.'  Primrose agreed feeling her traitorous blush rise again.  

Good to her word, Primrose spent the rest of the day carefully observing Therion.  In all truth, he had been the companion that Primrose had avoided the most over the course of their travels so far. 

It was not because the boy was a thief, for who was she to judge when it came to the morals of a profession.  No, it was more to do with the bitterness that she recognised in his eyes and the familiar air of shrewd calculation that existed in her own heart.  Therion was the most likely to see her as she really was and that was uncomfortable so she had simply abstained from any intimacy with him wherever was possible.

Watching him now, Primrose had to admit that H'aanit had a point.  She was shocked at the dullness in his eyes where usually there was keen attention, the slouch to his step instead of his swagger but most of all she observed a number of his times when the lad seemed to be muttering to himself - as if he was having a conversation even though he had kept himself alone all day.

There was one other thing that her observation picked up, and that was that she was by no means the only person that seemed to be watching the thief. 

 The most obvious of the other observers was Cyrus, whom she felt would be scribing in a notebook if he had one to hand.  Although he walked with Ophilia and Alfyn all three of them seemed quiet, there was none of their usual babble.  Primrose felt a sudden flash of resentment.  How had she not noticed this before.  The air was laden with tension that she had been oblivious too.  Perhaps she really had been focusing on her own dilemma too hard.

She marched up to Cyrus and the others with a determined expression and feeling just a little belligerent.

'So what's going on.'  She demanded, her voice quiet but her words angry.

'Ahh, Lady Primrose..'  the Scholar looked a little dazed. 'I..am not quite sure what you ...'  he was cut off by Ophilia taking his arm.

' Primrose is most astute.'  She told him.

'Yes indeed, dearheart.  You are right of course.' He agreed.

'You talking about Therion then?'  Alfyn mumbled. 

Primrose nodded.  'H'aanit has noticed some peculiarity too.  What's going on?'

'Well, we aren’t exactly sure.'  Cyrus was rubbing his chin thoughtfully.  'It goes right back to the day when we caught the stalker and he grabbed at Therion and named him 'Thief'.  Both Ophilia and I felt something strange when it happened, but it wasn’t until we discussed it after leaving Stonegard that we realise that it might be significant.'

'That was two days ago - why hasn’t it been brought up?' Primrose asked tightly.

'Well my dear - it simply boils down to the worry that if Therion has somehow been infected with something magical - if it becomes obvious that he has been discovered he may be afflicted in the same way our stalker was.'

Primrose gasped at the implication. 'You mean it might kill him?'

Cyrus shrugged. 'In honesty, I don’t believe so - I am of the mind that he would have needed far more than a mere touch to transmit such an extreme a malady, but none of us are willing to risk that I am wrong.'

Primrose swore quite colourfully under her breath.  'So what are we doing?' she demanded.

'At the moment just keeping an eye on him.  It is becoming much more noticeable now.  Everyone has picked up on it save Tressa.' Alfyn said.  'We pretty much noticed different things at different times, but we've only just started realising it's more than his usual unique personality.'

'Luckily I had concerns about the incident before I sent off my letters to enquire about mind magic.'  Cyrus added.  'I am hoping that I may have some reply by the time we get to Rippletide.'

'Come now Professor.  You must have more of an inkling than your letting on.  I refuse to believe that mighty brain of yours has no theory.'  Primrose pressed determinedly.

Cyrus coughed and sent a rather distressed look at Alfyn and Ophilia.

'It's okay Cyrus.  I would be interested in your theory as well.'  Ophilia hugged his arm tight to her. 

'It's better to have an idea of what we might potentially be up against.'  Alfyn agreed.

Cyrus sighed and silently gathered his thoughts. 'You will have to excuse he lecture, but I think some explanation is relevant to underpin my thinking.' He looked at the three faces staring back at him. 'This group,' he indicated not only them but the others, H'aanit with Linde, Olberic walking along with Tressa and Therion stumbling along alone to the rear, 'It is interesting to note that there is one unique thing that we all appear to have in common.'

'Oh?' Alfyn looked startled.

'Everyone here is skilled in what they do - exceptionally so - in fact rather more than could normally be expected.'

'In what way?' Ophilia asked, intrigued.

'Well,' Cyrus rubbed his chin again. 'Let's take young Alfyn here.  Obviously he has studied hard and learned a great deal about medicine, plants and the concoction of remedy, and he pushes himself to learn more every day - travelling with the exact purpose of bettering his knowledge and skill.'

'That's right.'  Alfyn admitted.

'However it has to be said that his skill and his results are exceptional for a man so young.  At the university he would only be classed as an apprentice still for a good many years, and yet I know of few that could match his ability or his adaptability.'

'Shuck's Professor..'  Alfyn started to blush.

'It is not just down to innate skill or general talent however. Anything that anyone undertakes is directly affected by the will of the person doing it.  Alf's tonics are so effective because he holds nothing of himself back when he makes them.  He desires them to be the best he can do, he desires a positive result and he understands, intrinsically that in order to achieve it, he needs to give something of himself to the brew.  Also when one naturally uses their will, it becomes stronger and more focused over time leading to better and more diverse results'

'Like Primrose's dances.'  Ophilia said thoughtfully.  'Anyone could thread the dance-steps together, but when she dances to boost strength or power - or to protect - her dances become something else entirely.  It is spectacular and rather intimate.  It is the essence of Primrose in the dance!' she smiled beautifully.

'Exactly my dear!' Cyrus beamed.

'Then that means the warmth and the love that I feel every time you heal me is directly from you Ophilia.'  Primrose nodded.

'Ohh..well..no...I guess that's Aelfric,' Ophilia protested.

'No Ophilia.  It is your spirit guiding the light.  It can be almost overwhelming at times.'  Cyrus smiled gently at the flustered Cleric.

'Oh..sorry.'  Ophilia mumbled. 

Cyrus chuckled.  'So my belaboured point here is that each of us quite naturally give more and extend more of our will that would be required to achieve a basic result. Now - The same does apply to the individual that has concocted the magic that now afflicts our young thief. Mind magic is a whole breed apart from elemental skills or practical applications.'

'Because it cannot be achieved without will, '  Ophilia nodded her understanding.  'Other things can be done just by learning the steps - but to take over another person's mind means forcing your own mind, or will onto them.'

'Indeed!' Cyrus patted her back encouragingly.  'However I am not sure that whoever is doing this realises what they are up against. Our own abilities.'

'Is it that rare?  To have strong will?'  Primrose asked sounding doubtful.

'That is quite another lecture my dear.'  Cyrus admitted 'But I will say that generally those who possess that quality use it to further their own ends or to over-run the will of others - as mind magic does.'

'So in this case - what you think has happened to Therion - what's the deal Prof?'  Alfyn asked his brow furrowed in concentration.

'Firstly, the potion that contained the original spell would have been taken by our stalker when it was most potent.  That poor lad had no discernable magic of his own - he was merely a tool.  I assume was 'created' as a delivery method and it took longer to deliver because we were not going anywhere alone by that time.

'So he only got the chance once caught.'  Primrose mused 'And once he had grasped onto Therion and the magic transferred his part in the spell was over - so he died.'

'That was my second point.' Cyrus agreed.  'The third point is that what was passed on can only be secondary level potent at best.  Therion did not imbibe anything - just was passed something.  The will behind has been diluted by the first host.'

'So the chances are that whatever they want Therion for isn’t that far from what they assume his nature is, after all if it was very much against his nature the will to make him do it would have to be a lot stronger.'  Ophilia reasoned.

'Oh yes - very good my dearest.' Cyrus was bouncing in his enthusiasm. Now -   'Point five is possibly my favourite. Whatever they hope to get from Therion -   it's very unlikely that he can be bent fully to their will - Therion is strong and his will is ... err.. rather contrary.  It could not be captured without a fight!  Indeed I suspect even if the full concoction were given to any one of us - it would not be easy to subdue our instinctual minds. '

'Do you think he knows what's going on?'  Alfyn asked slowly.

'I am almost sure that he does in some way.'  Cyrus mused.  'He has kept himself away from the rest of us for the last few days effectively limiting our exposure to anything he may be carrying.  He isn’t sleeping - sleep would give the best chance for his mind to be overtaken since his consciousness would be the only barrier.  Oh,  and he appears to be constantly arguing with himself - I would say reminding himself who he is and keeping his head straight.'

'So what can we do to help?'  Ophilia asked eagerly.

Cyrus's face fell.  'Well, even if my assumptions are correct, I can't think of anything that would help.'  He admitted.  'I'm hoping to get some ideas of how to handle this from my correspondence.  Of course by then Therion may have already been able to cast off the compulsion on his own.  That's really the best we can hope for at the moment.  Talking to him directly about it may do more harm than good I fear since he is so intensely private a person.  I trust that if he needs it he will seek help from us himself.'

They were still two days out from Rippletide and Primrose was sure that it was going to be a difficult journey.  Whilst the camp tried to keep up appearances, everyone was on tenterhooks just waiting for something to happen.  Out of everyone  Ophilia was taking the situation the most hard, more than once reaching out subconsciously towards wherever Therion was only to eventually clench her fist and tear up in the futility.  Cyrus, Alfyn and H'aanit tried to keep her cheerful but her pain at being able to do nothing to help was drowning her.

The rest managed to treat Therion with some semblance of normality.  The next day when they were required twice to fight beasts that encountered them on the road, it was almost like everything was business as usual, everyone falling into the roles that were now becoming second nature to them - but during the evening  over the camp fire Therion sat with them, listening to the muted banter but seemingly a world away.  That night he took up his own post at the edge of the camp and stared out into the darkness. 

When Primrose woke in the early hours Ophilia and Olberic were on watch duty and Therion was still sat up - well away from them, head down staring at his feet.  Ophilia was sat in Olberic's lap, her face buried in his chest and her shoulders shaking with silent sobs, the Knight holding her in his huge arms and whispering gently to her.  When he saw Primrose looking at them, Olberic gave a helpless half shrug at her concern and nodded towards Therion.

Primrose got up silently and picked her way over to where the thief was sat.

'Can I join you Therion?'  Primrose asked quietly.

'I doubt I could stop you.'  The lad muttered.

Primrose sat and there was silence for a moment.

'I wonder what the matter is with Ophilia.'  She said.

Therion didn’t answer for a second.  'Looks like Olberic has it in hand.' He finally replied emotionlessly.

'Yes.  Surprising.' Primrose admitted.

'Hardly.  There is a huge soft heart under all that armour and muscle.  And it would take a heart of stone to deny Ophilia comfort.'  Therion had looked up briefly, but dropped his face back to his feet.

'What about your heart Therion?'  Primrose asked, a bit more sharply than she had intended.

'Lemons and gravel.'  Therion gave a humourless chuckle. 'Much like your own I suspect.'

Primrose sucked in an annoyed hiss.  'Be nice.' She said mildly.

'Why?'  Therion started kicking his foot in the dirt like a naughty child. 'You wanna to hold secrets Lady you can hardly be surprised if you get suspicion in return.  Always watching ain't you Primrose.'

There was an edge to his voice that caught Primrose's anger and squeezed it, any compassion she had felt melting away.

'Get over yourself.'  She advised him coldly.

Therion just snorted, and began to rock backwards and forwards very slightly.

'Honestly, I can't think why a dear soul like Ophilia would cry over a wretch like you.'  Primrose retorted, getting up and walking away from him.

'Neither can I.' Came his soft reply.

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

For the first time since they had originally left Atlasdam together several weeks ago, the companions were splitting the group and attending to differing tasks in different places. It was going to take some getting used to.

The journey to Stonegard and then back again had created a noticeable change amongst them. Before they'd left they had been eight people and a leopard loosely thrown together without much rhyme or reason - but the shared experiences, the battles and the more unusual events that had come about over their adventures had gelled them into something more.

They had spent several days in Rippletide in the end - there had been a lot to talk about and a number of plans were made for their way forward both in trying to keep safe and in achieving people's individual aims.

Therion told what he could remember about his occupation by the mind mage but also gave a little insight into the events that had lumbered him with the fool's bracelet on his wrist and his employment to retrieve the dragonstones in order to get it removed. He explained that the first stone needed to be retrieved from Noblecourt. He held much back of course, but nothing that he felt would or could have a negative impact on the group.

Primrose had hesitantly made a number of confessions as well. Motivated by revenge she sought the men who had killed her father - Lord of House Azelhart of Noblecourt. She had fled after his murder ten years ago and her long hunt had eventually led her to Sunshade, and now on to Stillsnow where the first of her targets was known to be located. She intended to end him she told them in no uncertain terms.

Cyrus and Olberic had very little to add to their stories. Olberic explained he had heard his erstwhile best friend and ultimately his betrayer - Erhardt - had surfaced, and that a man who may know of his whereabouts resided in Victors Hollow. Cyrus had only the idea of speaking with his old friend Odette in Quarrycrest in relation to a book that had been stolen fifteen years ago.

After some deliberation on their best way forward, it was agreed that they would make haste to Stillsnow - where H'aanit was also to meet with the seer Susanna - but that they would stop in Atlasdam first, while Therion took a side journey to Noblecourt to attend to his stone. From there, instead of following the safer roads, they would cut across country and take at least a week off the trip to Stillsnow.

At first they had all expressed a desire to help Therion in his task, but Primrose was very reluctant to go 'home' and Therion had stepped in to suggest that his job would be easier in a smaller group since he was effectively stealing the item (retrieving a previously stolen item was how Ophilia insisted on describing it) and Cyrus had admitted that he really could use some time with the library resource in Atlasdam. He felt there were many things that could help them all if he could just spend a little time in proper study. That he was in exile seemed to bother him not at all. He sent a letter off to Mercedes, the librarian and said that everything would be 'arranged' by the time they got there.

The last thing that they had discussed was Ophilia. She was upset but not particularly surprised that the attack on Therion may have been directly aimed at her. She had no idea who may be wishing her harm - she laughed as she admitted there were just so many options as to whom it could be.

As they were going to be close by, she was offered a trip into Flamesgrace to see her sister and her father - who by the latest reports that had arrived in Rippletide was now seriously ill and fading. She had struggled with that thought for a short time before eventually declining. She offered no particular reason as to why, just saying that all the enemies she did know she had resided at the Cathedral. When asked if she had a timetable in mind to get to her first Kindling at Saintsbridge, she had smiled gently and said that she would get to it when it was convenient to all.

So it was that just outside the gates to Atlasdam on a grey and rainy morning there was an odd and awkward parting of ways.

Primrose and Cyrus were going into the city, with Tressa who was in charge of getting the supplies and the warm clothing required for their journey into the Frostlands and Ophilia who was going to help Cyrus in his research.

'If you let anything happen to her Cyrus, I swear I will hurt you.' Therion told the Scholar quietly before they parted.

'Ahh, Therion.' Cyrus said with a chuckle. 'That is now all four of your team that has taken me aside and told me the same. I promise that I will guard the ladies with my life, for indeed if you return and any are hurt I doubt I'd have much time to go on living anyway.' He clapped the thief on the back. 'Good luck in your hunt friend. Hasten back safe and well.'

Therion huffed but his lips quirked as if stifling a smile.

The place that Mercedes has secured for them in Atlasdam was a tall house very close to the gates and well away from any of the busy parts of town. It wasn't huge, the ground floor housed a kitchen and dining area, the first floor a bedroom and the top floor an attic space that had a bed, a table and about thirty books all lined up.

'Ahh,' Cyrus had murmured appreciatively. 'Almost like home.' He immediately took off his cloak and gloves, flicked his fingers to light the fire in the hearth and picked up the first tome that came to hand.

The ladies took stock of the generous provisions that had been left to them and Tressa prepared a very passable meal that the three of them enjoyed in the warm kitchen whilst chatting and laughing companionably.

'So I think we will begin our examination of the market this afternoon Tressa.' Primrose told the Merchant. 'I'm sure we will only have four days or so before the others return, and I want my outfit made if possible. It will be unusual to wear restrictive clothing.'

'Yeah, I need to offload some of my stock to make room for tents.' Tressa laughed. 'I've never seen snow.' She admitted 'I'm looking forward to it!'

'Give it a day or two honey, and you will be regretting those words I promise you.' Primrose grouched.

'I love the snow.' Ophilia said 'I will make sure you experience your very first snowball fight Tressa. It will be such fun.' She grinned at the excited girl.

'Oh good heavens. Really?' Primrose rolled her eyes.

Before they left - Primrose asked Ophilia if there was anything she wanted from their shopping. In order to keep a low profile she had been asked to stay to the house with Cyrus, since he too could not be seen on the streets.

'There is one thing.' Ophilia whispered something in Primrose's ear. Primrose grinned back at the Cleric. 'I can't wait to see the outcome of that one.' She said laughing. 'I will do my very best for you.'

Once alone, Ophilia prepared a plate of food and some herb tea and set off to the attic. As expected, Cyrus was at the table with at least five open books surrounding him and he was writing furiously, his quill moving at a lightning pace.

'Cyrus. Food.' Ophilia tried to clear a space on the table with her elbow.

'Oh! ' Cyrus squinted up at her and hurriedly removed the largest book, placing it open on top of the others so that she could put the plate and mug down. 'Thank you dearest. I didn't realise so much time had passed.'

'Actually it's a little late, the rest of us finished a while ago and the girls have gone to market.' Ophilia smiled at him. 'Have you made any progress?'

'Some.' He nodded, warming his hands on his mug. 'I have some reports here that were published after Geoffrey Azelhart's murder. They make for interesting reading. I was unaware how much time he had spent here in Atlasdam consulting with academics. Of course I was only a student at the time.'

'And what else has Mercedes left you?' For lack of a second chair in the room, Ophilia settled herself by the fire.

'I have a few books on mythical beasts. They are mainly folk-tales - but I thought we could make a list of those that used petrifaction. Perhaps you would like to start with that Ophilia. I know that you like stories.'

'I'd love to.' Ophilia agreed.

Kicking off her boots, Ophilia settled onto her stomach with her head propped on a pillow. Cyrus passed her down seven or eight books which she stacked neatly by her side and she started to read.

The morning passed speedily. Eventually Ophilia took a break to go downstairs to make a hot drink and gather some snacks and she bullied Cyrus into accompanying her, telling him that returning to his books with a fresh mind would help rather than hinder.

'Right you are my dear.' He agreed. 'I confess I am unaccustomed to having someone look out for me when I'm lost in my work. It's rather nice.' He added with a soft smile.

With her mind not on a book Ophilia found it drifting to the distant echo of her awareness of her friends. She could feel Tressa and Primrose not too far away, and then the four souls that floated much further afield. And Linde. That was a slightly different feeling but marked all the same. Ophilia wondered if the distance would break the connection. For the first time since she had started to feel this phenomenon she hoped not.

While they were pottering around domestically in the kitchen, there was a knock on the door. Cyrus looked perturbed, and motioned for Ophilia to move to the back of the room while he went to look and see who it was.

Cautiously opening the door, Cyrus was met by a young man dressed in Apothecary green with an even younger girl peering shyly but curiously from behind him.

'Ah.. Professor Albright?.' The man asked.

Cyrus nodded.

'I'm Zeph, a friend of Alfyn ... and Mercedes. This is my sister, Nina.' He added gesturing to the girl.

'By the God's!' Cyrus exclaimed enthusiastically. 'Come in young man.. and you little lady' he threw the door open wide to admit them. 'Ophilia, dearheart! Look who has come to visit.'

Ophilia came forward with a beaming smile as Cyrus closed the door. She rushed up to Zeph and engulfed him in a huge hug, which he returned with a shy blush.

'Oh, I'm so sorry,' Ophilia apologised with a blush of her own upon seeing the lad's flustered expression. 'Alf speaks so much of you that it honestly feels like we are old friends!' she knelt down to embrace the girl. 'Miss Nina,' she beamed 'I am very glad to meet you at long last!'

Zeph chuckled. 'I understand Sister Ophilia. Alf's letters are so full of things about you that I feel the same way.' His look at her was a little speculative.

'But what are you doing here?' Ophilia asked. 'I hope there isn't a problem back home. Unfortunately Alf isn't with us at present - he has accompanied a few other of our companions to Noblecourt on a mission.'

Zeph rubbed at the back of his neck, looking so much like Alfyn in the gesture that Ophilia couldn't help but grin.

'Well, ain't that a shame.' Zeph put a hand on his sister's shoulder, who looked like she might burst into tears. 'Can't deny that we were hoping to see his miserable face. But no Sister, there ain't a problem at all. Just when I got the letter saying Mercedes had turned up in Atlasdam...' he trailed off, blushing.

'Ah.' Ophilia said kindly.

'Don't despair Miss Nina!' Cyrus stepped forward. 'In lieu of seeing Alfyn, I propose that I make a pile of my world famous pancakes - he would be happy that you got a chance to experience them! You do like pancakes do you not? Alfyn told me they were your favorite the first time I made them for him!'

'I do.' The girl whispered shyly.

'Aha!' Cyrus reached out a hand and took up her small one. 'Did you know that Princess Mary's favorite food is also pancakes. It's the choice of very wise people in my opinion.'

Nina was looking a bit dazzled. 'Really?' she asked.

'Indeed. Before I was lucky enough to get to travel with our friends, I was a tutor to the Princess, so I happen to know the truth of it!' He grinned at her.

'Can you teach me?' Nina asked a bit breathlessly. 'I want to learn to make pancakes from the tutor of the Princess!'

'Why, It would be an honour my lady.' Cyrus bowed and offered his arm to her all the time grinning broadly. 'Let us get straight to our lesson then.'

Zeph was rummaging through his satchel. 'Mercedes asked me to drop off your correspondence Professor, and a few other things that you requested. She was hoping to see you this evening but, when we turned up unexpected..'

'Quite alright dear boy.' Cyrus was pinning an apron onto Nina. 'Just leave them on the table.'

Ophilia made tea, while Cyrus and Nina made pancakes through what appeared to be a hurricane of flour and mess. She smiled fondly at his enthusiasm and complete lack of regard for the disaster he was making of his fine clothes. When she returned to Zeph at the table with his tea he was also grinning at the culinary display.

'Very kind of the Professor.' He noted. 'Nina's missed Alfyn a great deal I'm afraid. I'm truly sorry we have to leave before we see him.'

'Must you?' Ophilia asked gently. 'They will return in a few days time. I know he will be sad if you're gone.'

'I need to get back to Clearbrook. Duties and all that.' He sighed. 'I really shouldn't have taken off as sudden as I did - but my head went a bit crazy when I learned Mercedes was here.'

'And has your reunion gone well?' Ophilia asked.

The lad blushed again. 'Better than I could have hoped.' He said with a smile. 'She's gonna take some time off as soon as she can to come down to Clearbrook for a longer visit.'

'Oh, how wonderful.' Ophilia clapped her hands together.

'In honesty, that's one of the reasons I wanted to speak with Alfyn.' Zeph looked at his feet. 'I have a concern that...' he looked over to Cyrus and Nina who were still busy. He lowered his voice. 'Sister, has Alfyn mentioned anything about our previous.. relationship?'

'Not directly no.' Ophilia took one of Zeph's hands and squeezed it. 'I have deduced that it was more complex than mere friendship however.'

Zeph looked up from the ground to smile at the Cleric. 'You know, Alfyn is often over-enthusiastic about things, but I find that his praise of your kindness was surely warranted and I do not think he would mind me sharing this with you.' He paused for a second. 'Alfyn and I were together for a couple of years but our natures... well, we're very similar in a lot of ways. Desire to heal the ills of mankind and all that.' He grimaced, trying to find the right words. 'When you get two people driven about the same thing - well we egged each other on all the time. There was nothing that wasn't about healing. It came to it that we needed other people in the end. We couldn't find any downtime with each other. Alf took it all pretty hard.'

'I understand Zeph. There was something similar with my adopted sister and I, growing up in the confines of the Church. Not physically, but mentally - the places we pushed each other could be.. damaging.'

'It's just I'm hoping that with Mercedes - there might be a future and I worry that it might upset Alf...'

'Honestly..' Ophilia looked Zeph in the eye 'I was there when he discovered the Librarian was your old friend - he lit up with joy and the very first thing that he said was how happy you would be to be reunited. He may carry a little sadness in his heart - but his desire to see you achieve contentment will far outweigh that. That is just the man that he is.'

'Thank you Sister. That does ease my mind a little.' Zeph considered her closely. 'Could I request that you speak to him on his return? I think hearing the news from you would be a balm in itself.'

'Of course - if you wish it.' Ophilia grinned. ' I will need to steel myself since I expect such good news will foster an avalanche of hugs from him. He is so good at finding any excuse!'

Zeph chuckled. 'Ahh he never changes Sister. Is it so bad? Can't I hope that you might look kindly on my poor friend?'

'Not bad at all. Rather enjoyable in fact although I trust you with that secret!' Ophilia replied smiling, 'However your point in relation to similarities in spirit stands true to us too I think.'

'I see.' Zeph nodded.

Pancakes were served with much fanfare and were stunningly good. After they had eaten, Zeph said regretfully that they needed to go.

'We are meeting Mercedes when the library shuts and then we leave early tomorrow morning.' Suddenly he looked embarrassed. 'I am so sorry Ophilia - I completely forgot to thank you for the book that you sent to us. It was very kind.'

'And thanks for my ribbons.' Nina grinned - her mouth still full of leftover pancake.

'You are both very welcome. I hope we will get to visit with you soon!'

When the brother and sister had left Ophilia turned and looked over the devastation in the kitchen and the state of Cyrus.

'Well Professor,' she said, raising her eyebrow 'You are in a mess aren't you!'

He looked chastised. 'I'm going to clear it all up!' he promised. 'I started my career teaching children you know. I'd honestly forgotten how much I enjoyed it.'

'Don't worry Cyrus.' Ophilia beamed at him 'I will clear up down here. You get yourself sorted and get back to your books.'

'You are too good to me, my love.' he declared, then pure mischief suddenly flashed in his eyes. He looked at his flour covered clothing, then at Ophilia speculatively.

'Oh no you don't!' she immediately saw where his thoughts were heading.

'Oh, I'm afraid I think I must.' He grinned, then dashed to her, picking her up and swinging her around. Not yet content he placed her on the kitchen counter amongst the mess and flicked extra flour at her. They were both laughing and arguing at the same time, and didn't hear the door open.

'By the God's! What happened here?' Primrose's indignant voice rose above their fun squabbling.

Tressa came through the door following Primrose, her eyes wide and a huge grin on her face.

'Whatcha doing up on the counter Ophilia?' she giggled. 'Do we need to go out again for an extra hour or two?' she waggled her eyebrows suggestively.

Primrose suddenly grinned. 'An excellent idea Tressa.' She said significantly, putting her parcels down neatly in one corner of the room. 'I think maybe we will eat out this evening and give these miscreants the chance to tidy up properly.'

'But we have things to discuss Lady Primrose.' Cyrus objected.

'Mmm. They will keep till tomorrow. Do have fun children.' Primrose winked and ushered a laughing Tressa back out of the door.

Cyrus and Ophilia watched the girls retreating, then looked at each other rather guiltily.

'I must apologise...' Cyrus began, his cheeks suddenly flaring red.

'Don't you dare!' Ophilia cut across him. 'Honestly I haven't had so much fun in a long time.' She started to chuckle. 'Primrose's face was a picture when she walked in..'

Cyrus started to laugh. 'We are in SO much trouble..' he chortled.

'Get me down?' Ophilia pleaded, wrapping her arms around his neck. His eyes widened at her touch and he reached to wipe some flour from her cheek with his thumb..

'You know..' Cyrus murmured quietly. 'It occurs to me that we are not currently in the middle of camp with our friends watching us.' Intense violet eyes met hers for a moment before he bent to place a soft, lingering kiss on the cheek he had just wiped. Hearing the breath catch in her throat he ran his fingers slowly across her lips then cradled her face gently. He was unable to prevent his own slight shudder when she leaned into his touch, closing her eyes and making a small sound somewhere between a whimper and a sigh. Indecision rampaged his thoughts, until eventually with a ragged groan he pulled her closer, wrapping his arms around her, burying his face into her hair.

'It also occurs to me however..' he said regretfully after several minutes had gone by '..that we have a lot of rather important work to do.' He held her tighter to his chest for a second or two longer then gently lifted her down and set her on her feet. 'I guess we should get this mess sorted and get back to our duty.'

Ophilia smiled shyly at him and nodded her agreement.

Chapter Text

Olberic was feeling particularly uncomfortable with his current role.  He was supposed to be distracting the guards that were stationed at the entrance to the manse that Therion was scoping out but he really wasn’t made for all of this subterfuge business.  His opening gambit was to march up to them and offer to duel. 

'Get out of here.'  The older and grizzlier of the two guards warned him.

'I simply wish to demonstrate my prowess.'  Olberic muttered.  'I was hoping you might have a job available.  I hear that the gentleman of the house is recruiting the best..'

'You heard right.'  The younger guard said menacingly 'And that's us.  So hop it Mister.'

'Come now, young man.  Surely a challenge cannot be ignored?'  Olberic was getting desperate.

The older man snorted in amusement.  'You're full of yourself ain't ya.  Look.  Maybe meet up with our Captain.  He lodges in town.  He ain't an easy man to impress though, the wages for this little shindig are top drawer and the work is hardly pressing, ain't no way he wants to lose this contract with shoddy contractors.'

'So it's not a difficult position then?'  Olberic tried to look disappointed.  He flexed his arms.  'I like a physical role myself.' He boasted.

 The older man grimaced.  'Don't we all.'  He moaned.  'The Scholar never lets anyone in or out save a few delivery people bringing his supplies.  We haven’t even had a sniff of trouble.  My sword arm's getting mighty itchy.'

Olberic nodded his understanding.  'Perhaps you would like to meet up after your shift for some sparring.'  He offered genuinely.

The guard finally relaxed and offered a grin.  'Aye.  Might be interesting.  I'm tired of whipping these puppies repeatedly, some new blood is always appreciated.'

As Olberic was getting the details of where to meet with the Captain of the guards and their training area,  he spotted Therion in the distance walking away.

'Thanks gentlemen.'  Olberic said politely and hurried to catch up with the Thief.

'Well, that was bloody pointless.'  Therion grumbled to the Warrior when they fell into step together.  'House is sealed up tighter than a merchant's purse and there don’t even appear to be an entrance round the back.'

'Think we might be onto something though.'  Olberic mused.  'Chap's a scholar paying top leaf for quality protection and gets no visitors - just deliveries.  There has got to be something that he's protecting.'

Therion sighed.  'I guess we should check with Alf and H'aanit, see if they got anything.'

When they got to the Tavern, the bartender passed on that Alf had been called out to a medical emergency.  Following the directions, they found H'aanit outside a small house, leaning against the wall with Linde laid at her feet.

'What's going on?'  Therion asked the Huntress.

'Alfyn ist ministering to an elderly gentleman who hast taken ill.'  H'aanit told him.  'He wilt be a while yet, methinks.'

Therion shrugged.  'Did you get anything interesting before you had to come out here?' 

'Alfyn talketh with some men.'  H'aanit nodded.  'There ist a scholar who liveth in town now who used to liveth at the place thou art interested in.  There ist word of an argument.  I forget his name.'  H'aanit opened the front door of the house and poked her head in.  'Alf,'  she called 'How ist the scholar in town nameth'd?'

'Barham..'  Alf's voice drifted out.  'Has a place in the South-East of town.' He added helpfully.

'Guess we'll check him out then.'  Therion tsk'ed with impatience.  'I really weren't expecting this to take so long.'

'We only arrived this morning.'  Olberic noted, keeping pace with the thief as he strode quickly away.  'I admit I miss our other companions too.' He added wistfully.

'Pfft.  I just like a job to be done quick is all.'  Therion scowled.  'Although its bloody typical we end up with all these suspicious scholar's when we left our own one behind.'

They found Barham with no problem.  Gaining admittance was another matter.

'Look..'  Therion eventually huffed in agitation when the door was shut in their face by the plump, nervous looking academic a third time.  'I just want to steal the red gem your mate has hidden away.  I'm not looking to hurt him.'

'I'm not sure that's the way to win confidence Therion.'  Olberic murmured to the thief.

Surprisingly the door had opened again and the bespectacled scholar looked quizzically at them.  'Truly?'  he asked, 'You will take the damned Dragonstone away?'

'Love to mate.'  Therion said agreeably.

'Come in then.'  Barham stood to one side to finally allow them entrance.

Barham's place was tiny with academic accoutrements piled high on every available counter, chair and in tottering towers on the floor.  With Olberic inside too there was barely room to breathe.

'Excuse the mess.'  Barham muttered, 'Since Orlick threw me out of the manse, I've struggled to keep myself together.'

'Right - so what's the deal?'  Therion demanded impatiently.  'How do I get in and where does he keep the stone?'

'All in good time boy.'  The old man looked put out. 'Don't you want to know anything about the circumstances....?'

'I have orders to retrieve it.  I don't need to know anything else.'  Therion groaned.  'Why are Scholars so fond of the sound of their own voices?  Good job Cyrus isn’t here, you two would probably be at it for days.'

'Albright?'  Barham's eyes grew brighter behind his spectacles. 'Is he in town too?'

'Nope.'  Therion scowled.  'The details?' he asked again.

The Scholar sighed deeply.  'Fine.' He muttered. 'Orlick obtained the stone by some shady means..' he raised a hand as Therion tried to cut him off. 'This is relevant boy.' 

Therion snarled but allowed him to carry on. 'We had read of the Dragonstones of course,  Orlick always did have a fascination with Odin Crossford and his work - but to actually obtain a stone after years of research and no clue as to what had ever become of them...'

'And the point?'  Therion was becoming belligerent.

'The point  sir, is that the stone holds a lot of magic.  It sings with it.  Whoever has commissioned you to retrieve this gem could suffer the same affliction as Orlick.  You could yourself if you have any sensitivity to the magical spheres.  Despite how much I want to see the cursed thing gone, I am not immune to the concern that it's power can corrupt.'  Barham had grown red in the face.

'Okay.'  Therion finally calmed down.  'What kinda affliction are we talking then?'

'Obsession.'  Barham shook his head sadly. 'I admit even I was consumed by the it when I had access to the stone, before... Well.  But my affliction was nothing compared to Orlick's.  When I began to question his passion and preoccupation we argued.  As it became worse so did our disagreements.  We had spent thirty years living and working together and it took less than a week for the stone to cause a rift that saw me thrown out of my own home.' The older man's eyes started to glisten.

'Look, If it's any consolation, I understand that I'm retrieving the item for the people who had kept it safe for a very long time.'  Therion said softly.

'Well then.  That's good news!'

'So...'  Therion prompted more gently this time.

'Right.' Barham removed his spectacles, held them up to the light and started to polish them on his sleeve. 'You will need the password to get past the guards, and you will also need a key to Orlick's inner study, which is where he will be keeping the stone.'

'And..'  Therion's impatience was growing again.

'And in order to provide you with such you will need to procure a few items for me.'

Therion's face grew irritated but he managed to keep his tone level. 'What do you need?' he asked.

'Pure filtered water, a wyvern scale and some crystal ore.  You will be able to obtain it all from the market.  Costly though.'  Barham smiled brightly.

'Fine.  We'll be back shortly.'  Therion practically ran to the door and Olberic followed him.  Once outside Olberic asked if the thief actually had any leaf.

'It hardly matters.  I'll just steal what we need.' Therion shrugged.

Olberic looked like he was going to say something, then settled his mouth into a straight line with some effort . 'In that case I think you shall attend the task alone.  I know that is not how we are agreed to manage our situation - but if anyone is slippery enough to avoid danger it is you.  I assume that my presence would hinder you anyway.'

Therion grimaced.  'Get over it Olberic.  Stealing's what I do.'

'Indeed.'  The Knight sighed. 'It doesn’t mean that I don’t wish for something better for you lad.  I will keep company with H'aanit until you are ready to go back to the Scholar.'  Olberic walked away, his shoulders drooping noticeably.

Therion hissed in exasperation and made his way quickly to the market.

When Olberic met with H'aanit she was still lounged outside the home of Alfyn's patient.  'He hath been seeing others too.'  H'aanit explained when Olberic expressed surprise at how long the boy had been working. 

Olberic filled the Huntress in on the details they had discovered on their visit with Barham and H'aanit seemed fascinated by the power of the Dragonstone.

'I confess,' she said dreamily 'I hath an uncommon interest in dragons, I do wonder if this stone ist actually part of such a beast.  It mighteth explain some of its qualities.'

Olberic shrugged.  'If it doesn’t require hitting, I'm generally not that interested.' He admitted.

'Hoy! H'aanit!'  a woman's voice suddenly broke into their conversation.  Both companions looked up in surprise.  A tall, formidable looking woman was striding towards them dressed in the uniform of a Knight Ardante.

'Eliza?  Ist thou?'  H'aanit looked stunned.  Linde went straight to the woman, knocking her huge head against the woman's thigh for attention.

'It is good to see you Huntress.'  Eliza said as she scratched Linde behind the ears.  'I was in Flamesgrace attending the Archbishop when I got word that you had been spotted heading to Noblecourt.  I would speak with you.  And with your renowned companion.'  Eliza looked meaningfully at Olberic who raised a puzzled eyebrow.  'I know who you are Sir Knight.'  she said.  'I am honoured to finally meet you.'  She added.

Eliza motioned them to join her just off the road on the opposite side to the house and she lowered her voice.

'Is the Flamebearer with you?'  she asked quietly. 

A look passed from H'aanit to Olberic.  'She ist not.'  H'aanit replied cautiously.

'But you still travel with her?'  Eliza's tone was serious. Neither of the others replied.  Eliza sighed.  'It is good that you are cautious in this, but I am not your enemy.  I gather you have become aware that there are those that seek harm to Sister Ophilia.  No...'  Eliza held up a hand.  'I will ask no further questions in relation to the child, but I do have some information that may help.  And a request from the Archbishop.'

'Speak your piece.'  Olberic was frowning.

'As I said, I have been at Flamesgrace, I missed Ophilia's departure by a few days but when I heard that she was with you H'aanit, I admit my heart's worry was eased a great deal.  That your master speaks well of you and your ability is a fine testimony indeed.'

H'aanit bowed her head.  'Mine master hast fallen foul of the beast 'Redeye'.'  The Huntress looked up at Eliza with conviction. 'I am sworn to revive him from the stone form in which the beast hath left him, and if I fail to do such - I will continue his hunt in his place.'

Eliza nodded.  'I received word from Natalia about your discovery in Stonegard. The Knight's are still trying to track down the current location of the beast but  I will make sure that you receive word as soon as we have it.'

'Mine thanks.'  H'aanit put her hand on Eliza's arm.  'But what of Ophilia?'  she asked.

'Yes..'  Eliza's face became angry.  'The child should never have been allowed to leave Flamesgrace without a proper guard - but it is hard in this current situation to know whom to trust.'  The woman suddenly looked weary.  'I had planned to catch up to her and accompany her myself, but Josef advised that it would undermine her journey - to be led by someone so senior in the Knights.  Given the manner in which she has come to be undertaking the Kindling and the level of talk against her - he feels she needs to present a strong face.'

'Surely her safety is the more important concern.'  Olberic said still frowning.

'I agree, Sir Olberic - however it appears that she quickly managed to find herself companions the like of which has stunned me.'

'She has.'  The Knight agreed firmly.

'Then let me give you what I know, and it's not much.'  Eliza grimaced. 'I am sure that the main threat to the Kindling comes from the ranks of those that have turned their back on the Church.  It is an ever growing number,' she admitted uneasily. 'However there does appear to be someone with a great deal of funds looking to thwart it's successful completion.  There may also be a risk of someone trying to steal the ember, but that is only rumour and supposition.'

'We are aware.'  Olberic said mildly.

'The Archbishop is dying - he clings to life by sheer will alone - he is afraid that his death will leave Ophilia even more vulnerable in some way.  Whether he is correct I cannot say.'  Eliza shook her head in frustration.  'He has been more openly honest with me in the last few days, but I cannot fathom the root of this  fear he has.  What I can promise is that his natural daughter Lianna is being protected.  She has become close to Mattias, a very well respected gentleman who has taken great care and consideration of her since Ophilia has been gone.  Lianna is not always... of soundest mind, a fact that Josef has covered with Ophilia's help over the years.  It would be well if you could reassure the Flamebearer that her sister is coping.  I think that at least will ease some of her burden.'

Eliza fell silent, her eyes considering Olberic, who began to feel uncomfortable under her scrutiny.

'I cannot understand the machinations of fate that have brought you into Ophilia's life, Sir Olberic.'  Eliza said finally.  'I have something I wish you to undertake for me, and on behalf of Josef.'

Olberic shrugged.  'If I can help Ophilia in any way I will gladly do it.'

'Perhaps.'  Eliza reached into her pack and brought out two envelopes. The first she handed to Olberic.  'Josef wishes for Ophilia to read this upon his death.'  She said simply.  I understand that it contains things that are between them that he does not wish unkind eyes to see, which is why he entrusted it to me - and now I to you.'  Olberic nodded seriously.  Eliza then handed him the second, thicker envelope.  'This document was compiled by myself many years ago now.  Again it is something that Josef planned for Ophilia to know upon his death, however... in this instance I wish that you read it, and the decision of what to do with the information and the proper timing to share it I leave solely to you.'

'It will be as you say.'  Olberic looked confused but he took the envelope and added it to the first, putting them away safely in his own pack.

'Good.'  For the first time Eliza smiled.  'I cannot stay, the less contact we have is probably for the better - but I will keep you up to date with any information I receive.  May the Flame guide you all.'

Without another word - Eliza walked silently away into the afternoon sunlight.

H'aanit and Olberic watched her go in stunned silence.

'You know this woman well H'aanit?'  Olberic finally asked.

'Most of my life.'  H'aanit replied.  'She hast long been a trusted friend of mine Master.  I find no reason to doubt her words.'

Just then Therion sauntered up with a sarcastic smile on his face.  'Got the stuff.'  He said, not meeting Olberic's eye. 'Tell Alf to get wound up.  I want to be hitting the manse before it gets dark.'

Olberic accompanied Therion back to Barham's, where the Scholar admitted them immediately and set to work on... something.  After a little time he finally blew out a satisfied breath and presented Therion with a flat crystal key.

'This will open the secret study.'  He said with a flourish.

'And the password?'  Therion prompted.

'The truth of all things.'  Barham intoned seriously.

'Right.  Thanks.'  Therion made to leave but the scholar grabbed onto his arm.

'You promise you won't hurt him.' Barham looked worried suddenly.

'I promise that I only mean to take the stone.  I cannot give my word when I have no idea what may happen along the way.' Therion replied.

'That's... honest at least.'  Barham looked sad.  'I wish you success.' He added.

Gathering H'aanit and Alfyn, Therion insisted they make their way straight to Orlick's manse.  Olberic's reconnaissance with the guards earlier gave the reassurance that the shift would be changed by the time they arrived and that Orlick admitted people with deliveries into the manor, so that was the guise they were taking. 

'We are bringing Linde to him, a test subject I guess.'  Therion decided after trying to work out how to explain away the arrival of a snow leopard. 'We will need to put a rope or something on her, look like we are delivering her.'

H'aanit's face was like thunder.  'I understandeth.  I hope Linde doth too.'  She ground out from behind clenched teeth.

In the end it was easy.  The guards were obviously used to random things being delivered and the password cleared the way almost immediately.  It may also have had something to do with Linde's very unimpressed expression as well.

Once inside they were met with.. well no-one.  Long corridors and a number of staircases were all that they could see.  

'It's like its deserted.'  Alfyn said quietly, aware of how his voice echoed into the emptiness.

'Yeah, it's pretty weird.  I don’t like weird.'  Therion grumbled.

They made their way slowly and carefully along the route that Barham had advised, ever expecting something to challenge them.  Nothing.  Eventually they came to the large door that had been described.  There was no handle and no lock.

'Well,'  Therion said. 'Here goes nothing.'  He got the crystal key out from one of his pockets and he waved it in front of the door.  Almost immediately the key glowed blue in his hand and the door began to swing slowly open.  'That's a neat trick.'  The thief couldn’t help but be impressed.

Inside, the study was an explosion of stuff.  There was stuff everywhere.  Much like Barham's house it seemed like everything that could have been easily been spread tidily throughout the large house had been crammed into this one room.  The only place there was any order - in fact a startling austerity compared to the rest of the environment - was at the far end where a plinth sat with a glowing red stone on a cushion on the top.

'So, that's a Dragonstone.'  Therion murmured moving closer.  He just stared at the object for a few moments.  It was relatively small, probably the size of Olberic's thumb and oblong in shape.  It's inner fire was breathtaking, it looked like it would be hot to the touch.  Hesitantly Therion reached out his hand.  No heat was coming off the gem.  Just as he was about to close his fingers round the stone a polite cough behind him caused him to pause.

'Please desist.' A rich voice said.  Therion turned.

A large, well dressed man was peering at Therion, seemingly unperturbed by the Huntress who had her bow trained on him and the Warrior who had immediately unsheathed his blade. 

'I would be grateful if you would step away from the Dragonstone.'

'Can't do that Orlick.'  Therion said quietly. 'Need to return it to its rightful owner.'

'You are not a scholar sir.'  Orlick's manner continued in polite civility.  'This item can only be appreciated by one such as I.'

'Afraid it ain't up for discussion. Ain't got no reason to hurt you, but I won't be leaving without it.'  Therion asserted firmly.

'Very well young man.'  Orlick looked sad.  'Guards!' he called loudly.

The fight was always going to be messy.  The room was a death-trap of detritus making it hard to position or move.  Orlick planted himself firmly between the Dragonstone and the battle but made no attempt to join in physically, seeming content in giving his guards boosts in power and agility when they started to flag against the companions onslaught.

Olberic suffered the most from the confines the environment presented, his usual cold efficiency slipping along with his feet as he slashed his blade relentlessly.  H'aanit had an easier time of it taking a position halfway up a pile of broken furniture and letting fly with her bow at breakneck speed.  Alfyn abandoned using his axe and settled on his frost magic instead, like H'aanit planting himself firmly and conjuring ice bolts that peppered his foes.  Therion kept one eye keenly on the scholar, whilst letting his daggers sail. 

It was a long fight thanks to Orlick's enhancements, but the companions took no real damage in dispatching the guards to unconsciousness and when the second one fell under a well timed blow from the butt of Olberic's spear,  Therion once again moved towards the Dragonstone and reached out his hand.

Orlick's eyes had become glassy and he was breathing heavily.  He slapped the thief's hand away.  'No, No, No... You can't have it.' he exclaimed indignantly.  The large man started to mutter under his breath, his face becoming redder and redder as he did and his eyes glittering in anger.  Suddenly everyone felt a wave of hurt roll over them, felling Therion to his knees and causing shouts of surprise from the others.  There was nothing physical to see - no elemental blast,  just pain.

Olberic staggered forward, his blade swinging wildly, whilst Alfyn made his way to Therion.  He could find no wounds, but the thief was winded.

'Yer alright.' Alfyn told him, helping him to his feet. 'The pain will pass.. let's not let him do that again eh.'  He gave Therion a tight smile.  Alfyn pulled his axe and also started moving towards Orlick, trying to avoid getting in Olberic's way.

'I bloody hate magic users.'  Therion groaned to no-one in particular forcing himself to concentrate on the scholar, desperately looking for a weakness.

The companions were doing a pretty good job of preventing Orlick from casting until H'aanit gave a small scream as the pile of stuff she was standing on suddenly started to move, throwing her to the floor with a thud.  Linde was standing over her immediately and Alfyn dived over a pile of rubbish to minister to her.  What had appeared to have been a mound of broken furniture straightened itself out slowly into what loosely looked like a large human form.  It clanked and pulled itself heavily to its feet, picking up a huge halberd from the floor under its body.

'What in the name of the Gods is that?'  Alfyn stared up at the figure in front of him in terror-struck awe.

'Golem.. It's my golem!'  Orlick appeared to have lost all sense of sanity and was hopping heavily from one foot to the other in glee.  'Get this one!'  he commanded pointing at Olberic who had ceased his onslaught to stare wide eyed at the construct slowly moving towards him.

Alfyn just managed to push H'aanit and himself out of the path of the monster, and Linde threw herself at its back repeatedly but without any noticeable effect.  Olberic squared himself stoically ready to meet the creatures attack.

It was strong but it was very slow.  Each swing it took with its weapon caused the whole room to reverberate, then when it conjured up a lightening attack Olberic was stunned for a second, actually falling backwards under the force of the blast.  The warrior was starting to look bad. His movement had slowed down and the elemental attack seemed to have frazzled him. 

Therion noticed suddenly that Orlick was also winding up an attack of some kind.  He ran at the scholar knocking into him and interrupting his cast.  Orlick grabbed at the thief catching him by the wrists before Therion could loosen his daggers and grappled with him like they were dancing some crazy ballroom dance. 

'Watch out!'  Alfyn shouted as he, Linde and H'aanit all ran at the back of the construct in tandem, succeeding in toppling it as it tripped over the prone form of Olberic on the floor.  Orlick manic dance had pulled both him and Therion straight into the path of the falling creature.  Therion tried to twist himself and the scholar out of the way - but the man's bulk made it almost impossible.  It landed squarely on them with a sickening thud and everything went black.

~O~

'Did we win?'  Therion asked some time later when he finally came round.  'Oh, and ouch...' he added as the pain kicked in from pretty much every part of his body.

'Careful now Therion.'  Alfyn's voice came from very close to his face.  Therion tried opening his eyes, but closed them again quickly as dizziness washed over him.

'Ouch?' he said again weakly.

'Yeah I know.'  Alfyn said apologetically.  'You need to drink this.'  Therion felt something wet touch his lips and he gulped it down.  'It will take a few minutes.'  Alfyn added.

As the worst of the pain slowly started to ebb away Therion became aware of a few things that didn’t really make a lot of sense.  The first thing was the brightness of the sun that was hurting his eyes.  Then there was the jolting like he was moving somehow.  Then there was the realisation that Alfyn was carrying him.

'Whaaaaa?'  Therion opened his eye a slit again and noticed the scenery moving by like a blur.

'You been out of it nearly twelve hours.'  Alfyn told him gently.  'Not a lot more I can do for you - lots of broken bits, bud.  On the plus side you saved Orlick from any major damage, so he will be just fine.'

'The stone?' 

'Yeah course we didn’t forget that.  Olberic's got it.  We decided to get ourselves back to Atlasdam quick as possible.  Didn't want to go a second round with Orlick when he woke up and realised the stone was gone and we need Ophilia to get her hands on you... well all of us really.  By the God's I miss that girl.  Gotten used to her being there and definitely gotten used to her particular brand of putting us back together.'

'You do a wonderful job Alfyn.  Just wonderful.'  Therion said closing his eyes again.

'Um.. That's probably the drugs talking.  I needed to give you a pretty strong dose.  You will probably feel a bit out of it for a while.' 

'I'm good.'  Therion said dreamily. 

'Sure you are.'  Alfyn grinned 'That's why your massaging my neck huh?'

'Absolutely.'  Therion sighed happily.  'Collarbones are nice.'

'It would probably be a good idea to get back to sleep if you can.'  Alfyn said with a chuckle. 'Before you say something you regret!'

'Okay.'  There was a pause 'Alfyn...'

'What's up bud?'

'Please don’t let H'aanit carry me.  She's pretty scary.'  Therion opened his eye and tried to focus on Alfyn's face.  'Are you laughing at me?'  he asked, hurt.

'Never Therion.'  Alfyn brought his face closer to his friends and whispered conspiratorially  'To be honest she scares me quite a bit too.'

Chapter Text

'You'll make a hole in the floor if you keep pacing like that!'  Cyrus declared to the anxious Cleric, who had been unable to sit still for the last hour or so.

'I'm so sorry Cyrus.'  Ophilia mumbled,  'Am I disturbing you?'

'Not at all dearheart.'  He lied smoothly.  In truth the tapping of her heels on stone and his concern at her disquiet had completely prevented him from concentrating on his book since he had accompanied her downstairs.  'I am sure that everything is alright.'  he added consolingly.

Ophilia went to check on the soup bubbling away on the stove for about the hundredth time.  With a heavy sigh she flung herself in a chair at the table and laid her head down on her arms.

'How close do you think they are now?'  Cyrus asked mildly. 

When Ophilia had first approached him at just past midnight,  rushing up to his attic study where he was still engaged in research despite the late hour,  she had been frantic.  She had explained that their four companions had not made camp for the night and still seemed to be moving towards them, much closer and moving faster than they had been when she had retired to bed a few hours earlier.  She estimated that they would get to Atlasdam soon and she was extremely concerned that their continuation meant that something was wrong.

'Maybe another hour.  I don't know.  Not really.' Her voice was strained.

'Well, we will head out and see if we can meet up with them shortly, if that would ease your mind?'  Cyrus offered.

She looked up at him with a small, strained smile.  'Truly?'  she asked.

'Of course my love!  I admit I am finding it hard to see you frown, it honestly doesn’t suit you.'  Cyrus closed his book and laid it on the table.  'Your concern for our friends obviously distresses you a great deal.' He added.

Ophilia nodded.  She bit her lip and rested her chin thoughtfully back down on her arm.  'In truth,'  she said slowly, 'I never really had any friends before.  There was my sister of course, and the Archbishop,  but friends that I have made myself? No, never.  I am probably worrying too much - it's all such a new experience.'

Cyrus couldn’t hide the surprise that roused in him at her words.  'I confess I don't understand how that could be.'  He admitted.  'You are quite the easiest person to adore, my dear.'

She flushed red but considered his words seriously.  'I was adopted by the Archbishop..'  She said. '..and there is both power play and politic in the church just as there is in any large organisation.  Lianna and I experienced the effects of it but we had the shelter of our father and I guess that caused resentment in our peers.  Before I came to the Cathedral Lianna had no-one.  At least I was able to repay their kindness by providing her with a companion.'

'Hmm.'  Cyrus rubbed at his chin 'I suppose it is similar at the university although it could hardly be said that I am a favourite of our Headmaster.'  He chuckled at the thought. 'In truth I have likewise rarely fostered any true friendships.  Academic's can be selfish at protecting their knowledge - good for debating with - but anything more..not so much.   Add the long hours spent alone seeking the answers to mysteries.. well.  Mercedes is proving herself to be a good friend though, and my old mentor Odette of course..'  he lapsed into silence.

Ophilia went once again to stir her soup.  She paced back to the window by the front door.

'Speaking of Odette..'  Cyrus said, looking to continue to distract the Cleric from her worry. 'I received word from her agreeing to my visit and providing details of how to find her.  Her letter finished with some advice that honestly I am struggling to understand.  Can I ask for your input my dear? Your mind is often much clearer than mine when it comes to others.'

'Of course, I would be glad to help if I can.'  Ophilia agreed.

Cyrus reached into his waistcoat pocket and brought out his letter.  He scanned the pages again and found the sentence he was referring to.

'Ah here, yes.  It seems that she is trying to warn me about women.'  Cyrus frowned slightly 'Or rather since I am travelling with women I should take care of  how I act towards them, lest I give cause for misunderstanding.'

Ophilia stared at him.  'Perhaps you might be better speaking with Primrose.' She said faintly. 'I feel she may have more insight than me into... such matters.'

'None the less, I would appreciate any thoughts you may have.'  Cyrus's frown deepened.  'It is not the first time Odette has said this and yet she has never been able to explain to me the meaning behind her words.'

'Right.'  Ophilia turned back to the window resting her flaming cheek against the cold stone while she tried to gather her thoughts.  Eventually she turned back.  'You have a rather admirable intellect Cyrus, and that can be... extremely attractive...'

'Really Ophilia!'  Cyrus scolded gently 'A word such as 'attractive' should be held in reserve for those of great beauty like yourself.'

'Yes.  Hmm.  Well... you see.. I think you have just illustrated what Odette is trying to say to you.'

'I have?' He looked puzzled.  'I was merely speaking my mind dearheart.  Should I not tell a beautiful woman that she is just that?  Have I offended you?'  he suddenly looked worried.

'No Cyrus, I'm not offended.  It is not causing offence that you are being warned about.'  Ophilia wrapped her arms around her chest defensively.

'I am really finding this most difficult to understand.'  Cyrus said helplessly.

'Your words are given in kindness Cyrus, and are simply the truth as you see it rather than coming from the heart or in any attempt to flatter.'  Ophilia found herself unable to look at him. 'Yet they do flatter and evoke emotion, even though I know that there is no intent behind them to do so.'

'I see.  So I should not compliment a person then?'  he sounded sad.

'Oh no - of course you should, particularly if you truly wish to indicate that the person is special to you - but also consider the effect that your words might have on someone for whom you do not hold that special regard.  They can be misread ...'  she sighed.  '... Especially in your case.' 

He quirked an amused eyebrow at the Cleric.  'In my case?' he asked.

Ophilia was starting to feel irritated by her continual blush.  'Yes.'  She said tersely. 'In your case,... since you are so very annoyingly... handsome.'

'Really Sister?'  Cyrus was grinning now, which only served to fluster Ophilia even further.  'Handsome.. Huh.  I thought the words you used were 'pretty and aesthetic'..'

Ophilia gasped and her hands flew to her face.  'You heard that?' she cried.

'I have very astute hearing dearest.  I must admit I was incredibly flattered at the time - although I did assume that your words were simply kindness to a poor old academic.'

'I take it all back.'  She gulped breathlessly.  'You are really quite mean!'  Regardless of her embarrassment, Ophilia found herself unable to stop the wry smile that blossomed traitorously on her face at his teasing.

'That's my girl!..'  Cyrus was on his feet instantly and pulling her into an enthusiastic hug '..I am so relieved to see your smile Ophilia, I was quite bereft without it.'  He turned to pick up her cloak from where it was folded on the back of a chair and he settled it gently around her shoulders.  'Come on then.' He said, still grinning.  'Let us go find our friends so that we may finally ease your worries.'

They left the house together quietly so as not to wake Primrose and Tressa.  After he had closed the door, Cyrus turned and offered his hand to the Cleric.

'I believe you have explained things rather well my dear.'  He said entwining his fingers with hers as they moved out into the night.  'I will certainly try and appropriate my words to others more thoughtfully in the future.  Having said that..' his tone turned serious '..  'to you Ophilia,  I have only ever spoken what is on my mind and in my heart.'  He paused taking a deep breath.  'I would wish to continue to do so.  If that is acceptable to you of course.'  He added.

Ophilia said nothing.  Her head span, she couldn't formulate a reply.

'I mean..'  Cyrus ploughed on nervously at her lack of a response. 'I know that you carry a heavy burden of responsibility so it would distress me to distract you or cause you any undue concern.  Yet... I confess I have been finding it particularly difficult to withhold my admiration.. and my affection.. when it comes to..well, what I mean is.. oh dear. Please, forgive me.'  He fell silent, words defeating him.

'You are special to me too, Cyrus.'  Ophilia spoke so quietly it was hardly audible.

'Well.  Good then.'  Cyrus beamed.

They hadn’t travelled far from the gates to Atlasdam when they were assaulted by a very happy snow leopard.  Ophilia fell to her knee's to embrace the big cat and peered down the road to where she could just make out a huddled group striding forward towards them.  She scrabbled to her feet and took off towards them followed by Cyrus.

H'aanit was in the lead, and Ophilia threw herself at the Huntress with a cry, hugging her tightly.

'Hath thou missed us Ophilia?'  H'aanit asked in amusement at the effusive greeting.

'It has been quite painful to try and keep her occupied with you all gone.'  Cyrus grinned, gripping H'aanit's arm in welcome. 

Ophilia had moved on to Olberic, complaining loudly at the fact she could only manage to get her arms halfway around him.  The stoic Knight's embarrassment and pleasure lit his face despite the weariness that was apparent.

When she spied Alfyn, carrying the slight form of Therion in his arms, Ophilia's face fell.  She ran up to them and stopped dead in front of them, her hands on her hips.

'Oh crap.'  Therion said in a far-away voice. 'Everyone else gets hugs... I'm going to get a lecture.'

'Four days, Therion.'  The Cleric said 'I let you out of my sight for four days and just look at you!'

'It's not like I asked a golem to fall on my head.'  Therion moaned.  'Tell her Alf!'

'You're on your own mate, I don’t mess with angry Ophilia.  That way lies madness.'  Alfyn grinned.

'Here Alfyn, let me take him the rest of the way, you look exhausted.'  Cyrus offered as he came up beside them.

'Hang on.. don’t I get a say?'  Therion asked wild eyed.

'He's had heavy doses of pain meds,'  Alfyn explained to Cyrus as he handed the thief over.  'It's been quite enlightening to be honest.' He winked at Therion who groaned.

As soon as Alfyn was free, he immediately scooped up Ophilia instead and kissed her heartily.  'You ain't got any idea how much I missed you Li,  taking care of this lot on my own has been absolute hell.'

'Hey!'  Therion called 'I didn’t get kisses!  Where are my kisses?'

'I suppose that's my job now,'  Cyrus grinned planting a kiss on the top of the thief's head.

Therion's jaw dropped.  He tried to say something but the words wouldn't come out.

'Way to shut him up Prof!'  Alf congratulated with a cheer. 

'H...h...hardly.'  Therion stuttered.  'Hey Ophilia,' the lad managed a grin as he looked over at the Cleric.  'Has lover-boy here told you he wrote that book you and Prim go gaga over!'

'Oh you traitor!'  Cyrus declared, laughing.  'Anyone mind if I accidently drop him?'

'You did?'  Ophilia looked speculatively over Alfyn's shoulder at the Scholar.  'Interesting..'  she grinned when he became flustered.

Ophilia finally managed to get Alfyn to put her down when she threatened not to tell him about their meeting with Zeph and Nina.  'Later!'  she laughed when he demanded details.

The noise that ensued when they arrived back at the house in Atlasdam woke Primrose and Tressa immediately.  Tressa squealed her excitement as she bounded down the stairs, followed more demurely by Primrose who blushed to her roots when H'aanit wrapped her in a huge welcoming embrace.

Cyrus placed Therion gently in a chair by the fire and then went to start serving up the soup that Ophilia had prepared for them.

'I think we will need to have a good look over him again before I try anything.'  Ophilia noted to Alf.  'Being carried and jolted about may have dislodged something.'

Alfyn was listing the injuries, while Ophilia got Therion to lift his shirt and started to un-bandage his ribs.  She winced at both the old scars and the new bruising.  She ran a competent hand over his chest, apologising softly at the lad's painful wince. 

'Everything seems to be more or less in order.' Ophilia said to Alfyn, then she placed her hand delicately back on Therion's chest and closed her eyes.

She had intended only a minor healing, to allow his ravaged body the chance to recuperate a little before adding to it again the next day.  She was completely unprepared for what actually happened.  The very second that Ophilia opened her mind to the light and began to channel she was engulfed by something foreign ... a music... a power... it was like a tidal-wave of energy that flooded through her. 

Her eyes blazed golden, but she held control over the heal and directed it.  Everyone felt it.  There was silence. 

Calmly, Ophilia battled to close down the flow. She couldn’t.  The music swelled over her, her energy depleting by the second.  She stood and followed the source to Olberic.  'There,'  she said to the bemused Warrior.  'In your pack.  Something in there is singing.'

'Oh!'  he said, grabbing his pack and opening it. 'Must be that Dragonstone thing.'

'No!'  Therion was on his feet, and he dashed towards Ophilia.  'You mustn't.  The scholar chap warned that people with magic can be affected by it.  Become dangerously obsessed by it!'

'I have to close it down Therion.'  Ophilia said levelly 'It will burn me out completely if I don’t.  The song...It's the same song from when I took the ember.  I think it's Aelfric.  Look.'  Ophilia pointed at her lantern.  The flame had roared from a gentle pulsing ember to a raging inferno contained within the glass.

Olberic looked at the two of them stood in front of him.  'What do you think Prof?'  He asked Cyrus.

Cyrus looked half dazed.  He shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. 'It's power is immense.'  He said breathlessly.  'In honesty I would be scared to go near it, even though it's draw is hypnotic.'  He looked closely at Ophilia who gazed back at him peaceably. 

'I would give it to her Olberic, if anyone is the least likely to be corrupted by the power it is she.'

'I cannot heareth a thing.'  H'aanit said perplexed. 

'Me either,' Olberic agreed 'But I felt Ophilia... It was quite unlike her usual touch.  I can't say I cared for it much.'

He drew out the stone that he had wrapped in some cloth.  Pulling the cover off he gasped.  The red fiery stone was now blue and pulsing like a beating heart.  He warily put his hand out to Ophilia and she gently took the stone from his grasp.

'Pretty.' She said, then closed her hand into a fist obscuring the stone from view.  She sank gracefully to the floor cross-legged and closed her eyes.  With the Dragonstone in her hand, closing the flow was as simple as it usually was.  Within seconds she opened her fist back up and the stone was red again.

'Interesting.' she murmured.

'Indeed my love,  it's call is almost bearable again.'  Cyrus sat on the floor next to her and poked a wary finger at the stone.  He shuddered.  'Interesting though it is - I don’t think I would like to be exposed to it for too long even now.'

'It wasn’t purely Aelfric.'  Ophilia mused.  'I sensed other threads in the music.  This is called the Firestone?'

Therion nodded  'That's what I was told.  Think I should get hold of Heathcote and get him to come pick this up as soon as possible.  I was meant to go back to Bolderfall and return it - but we ain't gonna get there for a while.'

'We could try and procure a lead lined box for it Therion.'  Cyrus suggested.  'It should prevent a reoccurrence  of sparking it up again.  It's what crystal mages use to contain their spells.'

Primrose came and sat down on the other side of Ophilia. 'Can I see?' she asked.  Ophilia held it out to her.  'Oh.'  Primrose gasped, her eyes glittering as she touched the gem.  'This is marvellous.' She said holding it up to the light.  'Look Tressa, look how the flame burns inside.'  Tressa knelt by Primrose and admired the stone.

'Wonder what you could get for that.'  The Merchant mused.  'Properly loads if you woke it up again and made it sing like before.'

'You wouldn’t sell it!'  Primrose exclaimed snatching it back from Tressa.

Ophilia grimaced suddenly at Primrose's tone.  She put out her hand gently and took a hold of Primrose's, covering the stone at the same time.  'Let me take it Prim.' She said softly.  Primrose looked as if she was going to refuse.  Ophilia put her other arm around Primrose's shoulder.  'Please Prim.'  She gently caressed the hand holding the stone.

'Fine.'  Primrose said angrily, thrusting the gem at Ophilia.  She stood up abruptly and stormed upstairs.

'Oh dear.'  Therion said lightly.  Ophilia moved to get up and follow the Dancer - but H'aanit waved her back.

'I will see'eth to her Ophilia.  If I needeth thou I will call.'  H'aanit called to Linde and they both followed Primrose.

'So I think we are going to need to keep a very close eye on this thing.'  Cyrus mused.  'Olberic, you can't feel it at all?'

'I have absolutely no idea what you lot are talking about.'  Olberic looked quite cheerful about the fact.

'I can but just a tiny bit,'  Alfyn said.  'Ain't got no particular desire to hold it or nothing.

They lapsed into an uneasy silence.

'Well, I don’t know about the rest of you,'  Ophilia finally said  'But I don’t think I am going to be able to sleep for about a week.  Even though the channelling was draining my power - I feel wonderful.. awake.'  Ophilia handed the stone to Therion.  'What do you feel Therion and how do you feel?' she asked curiously.

'Pretty good.'  He admitted.   'I am tired though.  If you ain't gonna to sleep do you want to keep a hold of it?'  Ophilia shrugged and took it back from him.  'When you healed me I felt it quite overpoweringly, otherwise - it's just like a background noise.  Can't say I'm that interested either - it's just one of the things that will get this bracelet of my wrist.'

Ophilia grinned at the Thief .  'You are such a troublemaker Therion, ' she laughed. 'First you get mind mages rooting about in your head, then you pick up uber-powerful obsessive Dragonstones and try wrestling Golem's at the same time.  What the hell am I supposed to do with you?'

Tressa punched Therion on the shoulder.  'Yeah, you're a real pain in the arse,'  she started to giggle too.

'I concur.'  Olberic was grinning.

'Aww, leave the poor lad alone.'  Alfyn smirked 'He has the good taste to love my collarbones - he can't be all bad!'

'I agree,' Cyrus laughed 'He is rather pleasant to kiss too.' He winked at Therion.

'I actually hate you all.'  Therion moaned.

Chapter Text

'Breakfast incoming!'  Ophilia called as she banged loudly into the attic room with a tray almost as large as herself stacked with goodies.

Cyrus, as expected was already up and at his desk, quill in hand and several books opened in front of him.  He automatically cleared a space for the Cleric to set down her burden and murmured his thanks with a smile.  Therion looked up groggily from the bed.

'Morning already?  He groaned.

'Well, technically this is lunch, but you all went to bed so late last night.'  Ophilia shrugged.  She went over to examine him.  He tried to bat her hands away. 

'Alf's already done all the poking and prodding required.' He grumbled.

'Tough.'  Ophilia smiled encouragingly. 'Although to be honest you are looking really good compared to when we got you home and it's heartening to see you back to your normal, grouchy self.'

Therion muttered petulantly throughout Ophilia's rather thorough ministrations and it seemed the more he grumbled the more she poked him and the brighter her smile grew.

'Quite amazing.'  She eventually declared. 'It should have taken a good few days to achieve this result.  No need for a second blast at all!'

'Well thank the God's for that.  Are we done with all the touchy stuff now?'  Therion scowled.

'Touchy stuff is done.  Now it's time for the sappy stuff!'  Ophilia grinned.

'Absolutely not Ophilia - this ain't a special occasion.'  Therion protested sourly.

'Indeed it isn't!  It is way too frequent that I have to heal your sorry self for it to be a special occasion.'  she scolded good naturedly.  'However - I have bought you a gift, and you need to open it before we get to the Frostlands.'  She reached down and  took a brightly coloured package out from under the bed and handed it to the surprised thief.

'Oh.'  He said.  He turned the package over in his hands and his brow furrowed.

'Well, open it stupid.'  Ophilia urged.  'You see, I know how important your hands are to you and your... profession and so I ....Oh come on! Open it!'  she bouncing lightly on the side of the bed in her excitement.

'Okay.'  Therion was still staring at the gift.  He looked up Ophilia and then back at the parcel.  'I don’t think anyone has ever bought me a present before.'  He said, his expression unreadable.

'Do I have to unwrap if for you?'  Ophilia impatiently held out her hand as if to take it back.

'No,'  he squeaked.  'Mine!'  He moved out of her reach and started to carefully undo the ties.

'Oh.'  He said again as he took out the large pair of purple woollen mittens. 'They .. um.. look very warm.'   He pulled one onto his hand. 

Ophilia was trying hard to contain laughter.

He looked up at her again and noted her expression which just added to his flustered confusion.  Then he looked back at his hand.

'Ahh...'  He grimaced when he finally got it.  ' I can't actually steal anything while I wear these.  I see.  Very funny your Holiness.'

'Therion!  Are you suggesting I intended that?'  Ophilia looked hurt. 'I simply wished that you keep your hands warm on our arduous trek through the snow.'

'Are you trying to lie to me again Ophilia?'  Therion asked severely.

'Yes!'  she beamed.  'How did I do?'

Cyrus started to chuckle.

'Hmm.  You suck at it.'  Therion leaned forward and rapped her on the forehead with his mittened hand.  'Lesson two in being a rogue , my dumb apprentice - is to not actually admit when you are lying.'

'Got it!'  Ophilia agreed. 'Deny lying.'

'What's got you so cheerful anyway?'  Therion asked getting out of bed and putting his new mittens carefully in his rucksack.   He went over to the table to grab a plate and heap it with food.

'Think it's still that stone.'  Ophilia shrugged.  'I ended up giving it to Olberic when he got up a few hours ago.  I feel great, but I'm starting to get tired at last.  I was a bit worried I wouldn’t sleep before we set off tomorrow.'

'You were fine letting go of it?'  Cyrus asked.

Ophilia nodded.  'It was a relief really.  I spent some time after you all went to bed looking at it, trying to get a grip on the music, but apart from making me feel very awake and happy - I couldn’t discern anything else.  It's pretty, but isn’t at all like the ember.'

'You have another stone to get don’t you Therion?'  The Scholar asked.

'Two.'  The thief sat on the floor by the fire picking at the food on his plate.

'I do wonder if they will have the same effect.  How was Primrose this morning?'  Cyrus asked inquisitively.

'Fine.  A bit embarrassed at her reaction.'  Ophilia replied as she stretched herself out on the floor next to Therion.  'She's gone with Tressa and H'aanit to look for a box for it, like you suggested Professor.'

'Gotta say,'  Therion looked at Cyrus with a frown 'I thought you would be much more keen to study it.'

'I am interested obviously.'  Cyrus rubbed his chin.  'It's a rarity to get to observe a truly empowered object after all.  However, as I often remark to my students, you have to be correctly prepared to undertake a serious study, and this sort of artefact would require very focused time and attention - which in our current circumstance I simply don’t have.  It would be foolish in the extreme to attempt experimentation without the proper consideration.'

'Do you ever do anything spontaneously Cyrus?'  Therion asked with genuine curiosity.

The scholar considered for a moment.  'I don't know.'  He said finally. 'I have never really given much thought to it.  I will come back to you once I have had the chance to examine...'

'You've already answered the question Professor.'  Therion smirked.

Cyrus huffed. 'Well, I think accepting Ophilia's invite to accompany her on The Kindling was rather spontaneous.  Of course it's a wonderful opportunity for a very unique insight into the ritual itself and additionally it's allowed me to spend time with Sir Olberic and access his memories and accounts of Hornburg.'   Cyrus smiled.  'It has been quite the experience thus far - thank you for bringing me along Ophilia!'

'I think her Holiness is asleep.'  Therion noted, nudging the slumbering Cleric.

~0~

Primrose hated the cold and she wasn’t particularly enjoying the layers of extra clothing she was wearing either.  Added to the anxiety she was feeling about finally getting to Stillsnow and her lingering concern about how the next few days would turn out she was genuinely feeling out of sorts.

The journey had been unpleasant.  After the relaxed days they had spent in Atlasdam, the return to the road, particularly once they had entered the Frostlands had been a wrench.  Primrose would be the first to admit that she enjoyed her home comforts so camping in the snow was not high on her list of favourite things to do.

The other ladies had done their very best to keep her spirits up.  By some unspoken agreement, Primrose now found herself sandwiched between H'aanit and Ophilia when they retired at night to their tent, Tressa preferring to sleep a bit further away, although Linde snuggled her to keep the younger girl warm. 

It didn’t help Primrose's mood that Ophilia was obviously concerned about the fact that she was intent on killing the man she hunted.  Oddly, the Cleric's main concern was for how it would affect Primrose, rather than the death of the man himself.  Primrose had no such concerns, but the thought of the sweet-natured girl being so troubled by her attitude galled her.  She was half decided that when she located her target she would deal him alone and just get it over with. 

It was mid-afternoon when they finally reached Stillsnow.  H'aanit was eager to find the woman her master had directed her too, and Primrose felt guilt at that as well.  She wanted to support the Huntress, but it was as if a different part of her mind had come alive as soon as they had stepped into the town.  Her focus was razor-sharp, her heart seemed to be permanently racing in her chest. 

H'aanit's seer was well known in the small town.  She had been directed straight to where she needed to go as soon as they had secured rooms at the only Inn.  H'aanit had gone to seek her out along with Cyrus, who was sure that he had heard of the seer in some context and was interested to meet with her.

Olberic and Tressa were heading to the town centre for supplies and Alfyn tagged along with them, leaving Primrose with Ophilia and Therion to accompany her.  Primrose shrugged off her annoyance at their company, deciding that she would take Therion's advice and visit the Tavern to see if she could pick up any information about the crow marked man in the only drinking establishment in town.

They did not even get to the end of the street when fate twisted in Primrose's favour.

'Lady Primrose?'  a querulous voice asked, the shock evident in the tone.

Primrose looked closely at the older woman who had stopped dead at the sight of the dancer, with a hand clutched at her chest.

'Arianna? Is that you?'  Primrose was shocked.  The girl had only been five or so years older than Primrose herself when she had worked for the Azelhart family back in Noblecourt, but now.. she looked much older.

'Oh my Lady, we all thought you were dead!'  the woman looked on the verge of tears.  'Where did you disappear to for all of these years?'

Primrose shook off the question 'What are you doing in Stillsnow?'  she asked pointedly. 

Arianna suddenly paled.  'By the God's - it's not safe for you here Lady Primrose.  If Rufus learned who you are and that you are here...'  she took hold of Primroses arm and started to drag her away.

'Wait!'  Primrose's voice was imperious, every bit the noble daughter that she was. 'What's going on?'  she demanded.

'We can't talk here my Lady.'  Arianna looked fraught.  'Please.  Come to my house.'

Primrose nodded fell in beside the woman as she started to move forward.  Therion grabbed at her arm.

'You sure about this?' he asked harshly.  Primrose pulled her arm away and continued to follow.

It took very little time to get to the tiny building that Arianna hastily led Primrose too.  When they reached the door, Primrose turned to her companions and told them to wait outside.

Therion looked like he was about to object angrily - but Ophilia put out a gentle hand and took hold of his thumb in its purple mitten and pulled him away to the other side of the street where there was a bench under a tree that would protect them from the light flurry of snow that fell.  Therion was scowling deeply and he knocked the Cleric's hand away more forcefully than he had intended too.  He sat down on the cold, damp bench and glowered.

Ophilia sat beside him in silence.

'I don’t know why you let her get away with such rudeness.'  Therion mumbled after a while.

'She's hurting.'  Ophilia said simply. 

Eventually the door to Arianna's house opened and Primrose beckoned them in.

'One of the men who killed my father runs a ring of brothels.'  Primrose told them once inside.  'Rufus sends a coach to pick up girls from the villages and it will be here at six.  I intend to be on it.'

'Oren will not let you on the coach if you are not on the list.'  Arianna asserted obviously not for the first time.

'You can't go alone.'  Ophilia added firmly.

Primroses eyes flashed in anger.  'I will be on it.' she said to Arianna.  She turned to the Cleric. 'I have given you the courtesy of letting you know what I am doing.  That is the end of it.'

Ophilia's hands went to her hips.  'No.'  She said.

'You want to come Ophilia?'  Primrose said sarcastically.  'Should I take a church-girl virgin to a brothel?  What a fine idea, maybe some men will like the whole robes and halo thing you have going on.'

Ophilia physically stepped between Primrose and Therion.

'You may make all the assumptions you wish about my experience Primrose but they are only that.'  She said mildly. 'Obviously, I will look utterly ridiculous in the costume - but as long as it's enough to get me by then I'm coming.'

'Ophilia!'  Primrose chided, but without her previous edge.  'My now - aren't you surprising.'  She raised an eyebrow at the Cleric. 'All that kneeling not just for prayer.. how enlightening.' 

Ophilia looked at the dancer steadily.

'Alright, you pass.  Not a single blush, I'm impressed.'  Primrose rushed forwards and hugged her friend tightly.  'Why would you do this?'  she asked.  'No - don’t bother answering.'

Therion had gone white.  'We should wait for the others and formulate a plan.'  He said.

'Can we find Ophilia something to wear?'  Primrose was asking Arianna, almost merrily, taking the woman by the arm.  Arianna nodded silently leading her to the bedroom.

'Therion, find the others and let them know what's happening.'  Ophilia said quickly to him when Primrose's back was turned. 'But don’t let them ruin her chances if there is no other way.'  She added.

'You can't.'  Therion pleaded. 'This is stupid.'

'I know.'  Ophilia replied grimly.  'Go - and let's see if we can stop this.  It's very nearly six though so hurry.'

Therion went to the door, then turned back.  'You were lying to Primrose right?  About, you know..'

'I'm not allowed to admit to lies,' Ophilia smiled. 'I guess you'll never know!'

With a groan, Therion ran out of the door.

By the time Therion returned with Olberic, Tressa and Alfyn in tow, it was too late.  The snow marked where the coach had stopped to pick up its passengers, but it was long gone indicated by the freshly fallen powder half obscuring the ruts.

'What now?'  Therion scanned the ground.  'Follow the tracks?'  he suggested.

Olberic put a hand on the thief's shoulder.  'It's too dark and we have no idea of even the most basic direction. If we had Linde here - maybe.  Let's get to the tavern and see if we can find out where this brothel is or at least meet up with H'aanit and Cyrus.'  Therion looked torn - staring up the road that the tracks ran off too. 'I'm not giving up on this lad.  We can't just go out into the night though.  It would do nobody any good.' 

Alfyn slung an arm over Therion's shoulder.  He was angry, but he raised a smile.  'Primrose isn’t stupid.'  He consoled. 'She won't risk failure.  It will be fine.'  For once, Therion didn’t shrug out of the hug.

They went swiftly to the tavern and the first thing they saw when they entered was Primrose, a jug in her hand moving between the patrons filling glasses and mugs.  Therion searched the crowd for Ophilia but couldn’t see her.

Primrose sashayed over to the table that her companions grabbed.

'Coachman wouldn’t let us on.'  She said tersely but with a smile plastered to her face.  'Arianna said the Barkeeper is a friend of his so we came to see if we could get him to persuade the driver to take us.  He said he will get us on tomorrow night - if we work in here for him tonight.'

'Where's Ophilia?'  Olberic asked.

'You don’t recognise her?'  Primrose smirked, and gestured with her elbow to a table in the far corner.  'If she ever decided to leave the Church she definitely has a new career available to her.  Quite the surprise.'  Primrose moved away to continue with her serving.

'Oh, for the love of the Gods...'  Olberic swore, finally spotting their Cleric.  He looked around at his companions.  Tressa had a grin on her face, while Alfyn's eyes were huge and he was blushing to his roots.  Therion has slumped down into a seat with his head in his hands. 

Ophilia was serving a table, obviously concentrating hard on her task.  Her outfit was white and gold, every bit as revealing as Primrose's customary scarlet ensemble, or possibly even more so as the borrowed clothes were just a tad too tight in important areas .  Her hair was piled on her head with wisps framing her made up face, and her arms jangled with bracelets.   She wasn’t smiling.

Olberic went up to the bar to get in drinks.  Ophilia made her way over to refill her beer jug.

'Please don’t be mad at me.'  She muttered discreetly to him while they were waiting side by side. 'I couldn’t let her just run off alone.'

'Oh Ophilia...'  he shook his head slightly.

'I'm sorry...God's this is so hard!.. I'm not allowed to smile.. I am supposed to be looking sultry.'  She looked up at Olberic briefly.  'Do I look very stupid?' she asked sadly.

'Stupid isn’t the word.'  He said softly.  'You actually look quite stunning, but..' he shrugged.  'It takes some getting used to.'

'You're telling me.'  She sighed.

'We'll think of something girl.  Keep your head up.  We will be here if you need us.'  He promised as she moved off with her filled pitcher.  Her brief look of relief and gratitude nearly broke him.

Not long later H'aanit and Cyrus arrived.  They both looked serious.

'It seemeth that the only way to breaketh the curse on my master is to slay Redeye.'  H'aanit said as she sat down.  'Although Susanna wilt be able to make a potion that wilt preventeth us from being afflicted with the stone curse.  We just hath to get an ingredient for her to maketh the elixir.'  She looked around at her companions noting their expressions.  'Ist something wrong?'  she asked quizzically.

Nobody said anything.

'Where is Ophilia?'  Cyrus asked suddenly.  'I saw Primrose when we came in.  Who is with the Flamebearer?'

Olberic quietly explained the situation.  At the word brothel, Cyrus clenched his fist and anger flashed across his face but he patiently listened to the whole story.  H'aanit stood to seek out the Cleric in the crowd.

'Oh.  My.'  She said sitting down again rather abruptly.

'Um, Prof... you appear to be.. steaming..'  Alfyn said suddenly.  Cyrus opened his clenched hands, that were indeed puffing tendrils of smoke.  A small flame burned in both palms.

'Will you all excuse me.'  He said politely, pushing back his chair and standing up.  As he turned he nearly bumped straight into Ophilia who was directly behind him.  He took a long look up and down her, then he turned on his heel and he marched out of the door.

'I've got this.'  Therion said to everyone's surprise, and he followed the Scholar out into the night.

When finally Therion caught up to Cyrus it only because the man had stopped in a secluded area and was taking pot-shots at a tree with huge bolts of ice.

'What did that tree ever do to you?'  The thief asked mildly.

'Go away Therion.'  Cyrus growled.

'Can't.'  Therion said 'We ain't supposed to be alone remember.'

Cyrus sucked in an irritated breath.  'I am perfectly able to take care of myself.' He said darkly shooting another volley of ice at the tree.

'You look capable of taking on an army at the moment to be honest.'  Therion replied.

There was silence for a long time, punctuated only by the crackling ice hitting the tree.

'She looked like a whore.'  Cyrus finally said sitting down in the snow as if all of the energy had been sucked from his body. 

'I think that was the general idea.'  Therion agreed, shivering, but gamely sitting down next to the Scholar.

'My.. mother was a whore.'  Cyrus said conversationally.

'Right.  I had you down as a noble if I'm honest.'  Therion replied carefully.

Cyrus snorted.  'Honestly Therion? I doubt our backgrounds are all that different.'  He fell silent for a short while.  'When I was very young my home was in a brothel - it was okay then and most of the working girls were kind to me - but once I got a little older.. God's I hated the place.'  His tone was empty.  'There were some clients who were interested in.. well, lets just say I kept well away as soon as I could.'  He looked up at Therion for the first time. 'The streets didnt come easy to me though.  I wasn’t like you.  I had no street smarts, and I certainly wasn’t strong or skilled.  All I had was my brain, but nobody wanted to share knowledge with a whores brat -  got no education except in simply surviving. '

'Yeah.'  Therion said bitterly.  'Now that I understand.'

'Yet we both did survive..'  Cyrus put a hand on the Thief's shoulder.  'Came down to working hard, studying where I could and fighting for every opportunity.'  Cyrus' face relaxed slightly.  'I was lucky that the Scholar's library that I was slipping into each night to study was Odette's.. she ended up taking a chance on a half formed mind and gave me an opportunity.  Despite that, fitting into the world of academia required changing almost totally from what I was to what I am now.'

'Well, I'd never of guessed Prof, and I ain't a slouch at reading a person.'  Therion said with genuine admiration.

'Thank you.'  Cyrus inclined his head slightly.

'So I get it right,'  Therion mused.. 'You don't like brothel's, but why all the fire and ice show?  I mean I haven't noticed you having a problem with Primrose or anything.'

'There has been very little in life that I have had much time for - save for knowledge.'  Cyrus admitted.  'Yet Ophilia.. the way she is, the way she looks at the world.. I find her compelling, almost mesmerising.  Her outlook is so simple and yet profound.  Everyone's equal, she gives compassion and care to anyone in need with no guile or falsity.  And she has such a desire to learn.  I just can't stand the thought of her heading off into a damned brothel.. especially dressed like that..  '

Therion quirked an eyebrow.  'Seriously? Did you even look properly?'

'Therion!'

'I mean she looks amazing - don't deny it!  Hell Cyrus, it's just a costume.'  Therion shook his head.  'It's not like I'm happy with the thought of her going to that kinda place either, but she would crawl naked through fire to help someone if she had to.  Thankfully, to help Primrose, she doesn't have to go that far.'

Cyrus started to chuckle darkly.

'Look Prof, we both know that in general life can be pretty shit right - but honest word, she isn’t.'  Therion quirked a grin at the Scholar.  'Unfortunately she don’t realise how special she is, so she happily puts herself at risk for others and thinks that's okay.  I figure it's the job of the rest of us idiots to make sure she don’t get herself killed along the way.'

'She does seem to have an unhealthy disregard for her own self-preservation.'  Cyrus agreed.

'I'd much prefer not caring in the slightest.'  Therion said honestly with a sigh. 'Trouble is she's sneaky.  So bloody kind and sweet, then suddenly your guard is down and bam - you find yourself caring about all kinds of shit you'd rather not - and she's crazy as hell to boot.'

'You're a good friend you know Therion.'  Cyrus said, finally smiling. 

Therion looked horrified  'I'm a bloody terrible friend and don’t you forget it.'  He grimaced.  'I can do without all the sap, thanks.'

'Apologies.  You are a true horror.'  Cyrus stood up and offered a hand to the thief, dragging him to his feet.

'So can we get back now? We're missing the show.'  Therion said with a rakish smirk.

'Keep that up and I will roast you with fireballs.'

'You'd have to catch me first!'  Therion laughed running into the night.

Chapter Text

By the time they got back to the tavern, Cyrus was almost back to his normal amiable self - consciously aware that it had been a very long time since his self-restraint had abandoned him so completely. 

He had honestly believed that thanks to the passage of time, his committed routine of teaching and study and his ever-growing list of achievements - he had finally snuffed out the last remnants of the passionate and mercurial youth he had once been.  He was much more comfortable being the enthusiastic, confident and accomplished academic instead.  Apparently though he hadn’t been entirely successful in exorcising his past self.

Cyrus felt an uncommon anxiety when he returned to his companions in the taproom, not really knowing what reception to expect or whether awkward interrogation might following his sudden departure - however it turned out he needn't have worried.  Alfyn got straight up and grabbed beers for both Cyrus and Therion then sat between them smacking the frothing mugs down and putting a consoling arm around both of their shoulders.

'Your Apothecary prescribes beer.  Lots and lots of beer.' The boy said sadly.

'Amen.'  Olberic added with a scowl, raising his own mug in salute.

'Your such a bunch of idiots.'  Tressa piped up from the other end of the table where she and H'aanit had been deep in conversation.

'Takes one to know one!'  Therion span back at her.

'Seriously..'  Tressa poked her tongue out at the thief but continued unabashed '..I don’t see what all the frowns are for guys.'

Olberic looked at her incredulously.  'You think Ophilia planning to attend a brothel looking like that is okay?'  he asked.

'Well duh.'  Tressa said sarcastically 'Obviously it's not okay - not for anyone - but frankly, if anyone can handle it, it's her and Primrose.'

'She is a Cleric.'  Olberic said slowly, enunciating every word to make his point.

'Yeah.'  Tressa nodded.  'And when Prim told us girls about her time in Sunshade and I had to ask what a brothel was - it was Phili that explained the most of it. Prim covered the basic's but then clammed up and left.'

'It ist true.'  H'aanit agreed.  'Ophilia told how she hast spent much time ministering to those whom hath suffered injury or malady in that line of work.  She ist certainly not innocent of the horrors which the profession can entail and hath the greatest of compassion for those that are caughteth in it.'

'She  also made her opinion about those who seek to profit from the misery and trading of others pretty clear..'  Tressa added.  '..So if this bloke that Prim's intent on taking down is a brothel master, then I doubt that Phili's gonna mourn his passing - regardless of her views on killing people.'

'I wouldst not have thou all making the situation any harder for her.'  H'aanit stated firmly.  'Any fool can see'eth she ist not particularly comfortable playing this charade.  It ist only her strength and belief that it ist the right thing to do that sustains her.'

'Yeah.'  Tressa nodded emphatically.  'So stop the pained expressions guys.  Seriously, it's not helping anyone.'

Cyrus listened to the ladies words thoughtfully as his eyes followed Ophilia around the bar.  They were right, he realised.  Ophilia was not comfortable but the tension in her would only be obvious to those who really knew her. 

Unlike Primrose whose strut and confident allure challenged everyone in the room, Ophilia moved with humble grace and although she did not smile, her manner was calm and unabashed.  He noted that she reached out and touched people just as she did with strangers in the towns and villages that they travelled through - those that had sought a blessing and those that she stopped to give a gentle word or a leaf too - a very simple act of comfort and kindness that was second nature to her.  In this completely different context it seemed to none the less have a similar effect.  Despite her obvious appeal, the patron's that she served were respectful and solicitous.

Cyrus looked down at his beer with a deep frown, unable to contain the torrent of remorse that flooded through him at his earlier behaviour.  He mentally shook himself.  He would not continue to let her down.

When he finally looked up from his contemplation he found that Ophilia was stood by the bar waiting for her next order and surreptitiously staring at him with a watchful, sad expression drowned in uncertainty. 

When their eyes locked, Cyrus couldn’t help but be moved by the fact that it was concern for him that was her most evident emotion.  Then her face rippled with the gentlest touch of an apology. 

He responded with an unreservedly tender and heartfelt smile.

Immediately Ophilia's lips twitched upwards and her cheeks flushed in joyful relief.  She beamed at him brighter than the sun.

Suddenly feeling rather light headed, Cyrus purposefully raised an elegant eyebrow at her and whilst maintaining his smile he allowed his gaze to glide slowly and appreciatively from her head to her feet and then back up to her face. 

Ophilia's eyes widened comically at his blatant scrutiny and he couldn’t help the grin that bloomed at her response -she looked up heavenward, shaking her head in mock reproach at his boldness - but her face shone and she had to  bite her lip to prevent a laugh from breaking free.

When the barkeeper called to her to take out her next service, she turned with a rather exaggerated swish of her hips and scurried off - but not before allowing herself one final very amused glance back at him.

Cyrus was genuinely surprised that his palms didn't ignited in flames again given the fierce heat that roared through him at her unexpectedly playful last look.

'That was either very brave or very stupid my friend.'  Therion whispered coming up and leaning on the Scholar's shoulder, chuckling merrily.

'I guess I'll have to get back to you on that one.' Cyrus agreed breathlessly.

~0~

It was late when Ophilia and Primrose were finally allowed off work.  Primrose had danced several times during the long evening and both girls looked dead on their feet.  None the less when they all got back to the Inn, everyone was ready for a war meeting.

Ophilia slipped to the room she was sharing with the other ladies to change and scrub her face.  When she rejoined the others she immediately knelt in front of Primrose and looked up at her friend with honest respect.

'There are many things about you Primrose that I admire, but after this evening the very top of the list is reserved for your ability to wear that damned footwear and not complain!  How do you do it?  There are torture methods that are less painful!'

Primrose chuckled and leaned to kiss the Cleric.  'Poor baby,' she crooned.  'Although it's probably harder on you since you have missing toes - nothing fit quite right.

'Shucks!  Well I never noticed that!'  Alfyn said grabbing Ophilia's foot and toppling her over.  'How'd you lose them?'

'Therion stole them.'  Ophilia grinned at the thief then laughed at his outraged expression.

Alfyn had started to massage Ophilia's battered feet.  'Please..don't ever stop...'  She ordered him with a happy groan.

'So,'  Primrose said lightly looking around her.  'Shall we get the telling off out the way first so that we can concentrate on plans?'  She had a gemmed dagger in her hand, which she was spinning ominously as she said it.

'Ahem.'  Olberic coughed. 'Let's just get to the plans.'

'Oh...'  Primrose suddenly looked embarrassed, 'H'aanit, I haven’t even asked how your meeting with the seer went.  I am so sorry!'

'Tis fine Primrose.'  H'aanit said softly 'I needeth to kill Redeye to free my Master and since he ist currently in stone and the location of the beast ist unknown, your need taketh precedent.'

'Thank you darling.'  Primrose  smiled at the Huntress.  'Well, as you know, Ophilia and I should have secured transport to the location tomorrow night at six.  The bind will be getting any of the rest of you there that wishes to come.  Frankly I fail to see how that can work.'  Primrose shrugged helplessly.

'I was able to gather a little information Lady Primrose,'  Cyrus spoke up.  'I expressed an interest in you ladies to the barkeep..'  He couldn’t help the blush that rose when Therion smirked at him.  '..Anyway..' he continued '..I discovered from him that coaches are also provided for the clientele.  No-one is allowed to know the exact location of the establishment apparently.  Three of the coaches have stop's just outside Stillsnow - the one from the coast, one from Atlasdam and one from Flamesgrace.  I have the times and the locations for them but it's men only so we need a plan for  H'aanit and Tressa...'

'I thinketh that I saw that Alaic had a horse.'  H'aanit mused.  'He ist the protector of the seer, Susanna.'  She explained.  'If I can borrow the mount, I have confidence we could trail the coaches with Linde's help.'

'I happened to overhear that there are special guests that attend these shindigs,'  Therion grinned at the group  '..and since their attendance can be sensitive there is a special entrance that they use.  All I know is that it is through a cave - but hell, I'm sure we all know a thief who is exceptionally skilled at finding out stuff that's useful, who would have no problem scoping out a secret entrance.'  He took an ironic bow.

'Does anyone know someone like that?'  Tressa asked with a smirk.

'Superb.'  Primrose looked flushed. 'Thank you all.  I mean it.'

'Aww shucks Prim.  Did yer really think we would be okay letting you do this all on your own?'  Alfyn grinned at the dancer.  'Hate to tell you this but your one of us reprobates now.'  He held out his arms hopefully.  Primrose raised an eyebrow, but fell into his hug all the same.

'I think it's my turn for the foot massage now.'  Primrose said smugly to Ophilia who laughed and made way for her friend.

~0~

At six the next evening Primrose and Ophilia were waiting with Arianna for the coach to take them to what they had learned was called The Obsidian.   The ladies were quiet.  Reflective.

Ophilia's hand kept moving to her hair.  Cyrus had insisted on styling it for her this evening, bringing along a variety of brushes and rather expertly doing something the left her with an elegant cascade piled high on her head softened by curls that fell down her neck.  Primrose had been most amused and very vocal in her ribbing of them both.  Even that hadn’t been able to prevent the overwhelmingly emotional response Ophilia felt at the Professor's fingers teasing gently at her scalp and then the sudden and unexpected soft touch of his lips connecting briefly to her shoulder when he was finished.

Primrose was toying with her dagger again.  It was her father's.  Her finger's ran lightly over the deeply engraved blade.  'Faith shall be my shield.'  She muttered the motto to herself, steeling her reserve.  She glanced at Ophilia, heartened by the warmth that her friend's dedication gave to her heart.  How long had it been since she had truly believed that she was not alone?

When the coach arrived, true to his word the tavern keeper had told Oren to expect them.  They were admitted to the coach without complaint, and they found themselves speeding along through the darkness in the company of six other girls all huddled together miserably.  They travelled for some time, although it did not appear that they took a direct route.  It was obvious that the exclusivity of this club was very well protected.

When they eventually arrived at the large and impressive manse, all of the girls were hurried inside to join around twenty others that were already there.  They were relieved of cloaks and coats and ushered into a waiting room where they were told to freshen up.

Arianna was to be taken to Rufus, Primrose's target that evening, she had been told she had a special commission.

'When they come for me, follow along at a safe distance.'  Arianna had told them quietly.  'There are guards at various points - but they are specifically directed not to interfere with the girls unless one of the guests is causing a problem.  The alternative entrance is up on the second floor, same as Rufus's quarters so it should be simple to meet up with your friends.'

'We will come and find you when our work is done.'  Primrose promised.

'Don't.'  Arianna said.  'I will help the other girls get to safety.  Just make sure that you get away as quickly as you can.  Please.  You may be able to take down the Master, but not all of his guards and guests as well.  I honestly don’t think there is much risk to the girls but I would like to make sure.'

Primrose looked unhappy but she agreed.

The wait for the guests to arrive seemed to take forever.  Primrose's heart was beating wildly in her chest.  Ophilia had taken her hand and was stroking it softly whilst murmuring gentle words into her ear.  If the Cleric was nervous at all she did not show it.

Eventually, the girls were told to go and mingle.

The reception rooms were opulent and filled with people.  Servers with silver trays loaded with drinks and rich foods weaved in and out of the crowd of gentlemen, whose faces lit up when the women started to appear.  Primrose was accosted almost immediately by a very eager young man whom she succinctly managed to detract with the silky promise that she was going to dance before she was able to provide any more intimate services. 

Whilst Primrose was distracted Ophilia kept a close eye on where Arianna was being led by a burly guard in a scarlet tunic.  Thankfully his colourful uniform made keeping track of them easy despite the number of bodies pressed together in the room.

The staircase that Arianna was ushered up was guarded, but with a coy smile at the guards, Ophilia and Primrose, their arms around each other's waists were able to move passed them and up the stairs.  It was useful that a gentleman who had spotted them was following a small way behind with an interested smirk on his face.

'This may need to get a bit intimate in a moment.'  Primrose whispered to Ophilia.  'He looks the sort that likes to watch.' 

'I'm sure that won't be totally unpleasant.'  Ophilia said with a small smile and was pleased when Primrose chuckled, the first time the anxious woman had relaxed all evening.

They reached the top of the second flight of stairs and both noted Arianna being taken through a thick set of doors at the far end of the corridor that stretched both sides of where they stood.  Their gentleman admirer was halfway up the last staircase and had also stopped.

'Our friends aren’t too far away.'  Ophilia murmured, as Primrose pulled her into her arms and peered slyly over her shoulder at the man below.  'Opposite end of the corridor to where Arianna went but I don’t think they are quite here yet.' 

'Are you looking to join us?'  Primrose purred to the gentleman, beckoning a finger at him.  He gulped but didn’t move.

'We will have to deal with him.  If the others get here he might raise the alarm.'  Primrose whispered.  'If we can get him into a room we can incapacitate him.'

'Don't you want to watch?'  Primrose taunted him running her hand slowly down Ophilia's face, and pressing her lips against her neck.  The man came up another few steps.  Primrose took hold of Ophilia's hand and led her to a door opposite them.  It opened onto a grand bedroom.  Leaving the door opened, Primrose led Ophilia to the bed and pushed her down gently, running a light hand down the girl's body and looking up to beckon the admirer in.

'Don't forget to close the door honey.' She said with a feral grin as the man followed and did as he was told.

It was over for him in just a few minutes.  Rendering him unconscious, they tied him firmly in bed-sheets, giggling a bit as they did so. 

Once they were done they went together back to the doorway.  As Primrose opened the door they heard footsteps coming along the corridor and they saw  Arianna being pulled along the corridor by a man in robes.  Ophilia suddenly grabbed at Primrose and turning her back to the open door pulled the startled girl into a rather intimate kiss.

Arianna and the man passed by them and eventually Ophilia moved back and peered out at them as they entered a room further down the corridor.

'Well.. my word..'  Primrose actually looked flustered.

'T..t..that man with Arianna, that was Father Eschard, he's a Bishop!'  Ophilia stuttered.  They both heard a muffled cry of distress.

Running along the corridor towards the sound and the room that Arianna had been taken too, Ophilia put a hand on Primroses arm.

'Our friends are nearby.. just down the corridor and turn right.  This one is MY battle.'  Her eyes had gone steely.  Primrose nodded her understanding and squeezed Ophilia's waist.

'Be careful.'  She murmured before racing down the hall in the direction Ophilia had prompted.

With a deep breath, Ophilia firmly pushed her way into the room in front of her and closed the door behind her.

Father Eschard was standing over Arianna who was on the ground at his feet - her clothing torn.  His hand was roughly wound in the girls hair pulling it hard and her face showed the markings of having been hit.  The Bishop was looking at Ophilia in confusion.

'What in the name of the God's do you think you are doing?'  Ophilia asked - her voice furious.  The man looked at her closer.

'Ophilia Clement?'  he dropped his hold on Arianna and the woman scuttled into the corner of the room, holding her clothing to her protectively.

'I repeat Father.  What are you doing?'

'What in the Hell are you doing here dressed like that!'  he countered, then he suddenly leapt forward and grabbed a hold of Ophilia by the hair with one hand and slapping a ringing blow across her cheek with the other. 

'By the light!'  Ophilia shouted, encasing the both of them in a blinding blast that knocked the Father away from her and left her on her knees on the floor.

'No more of that!' The Bishop growled, bringing his hand down on the floor with a loud bang, then reaching out to grab her wrist.

They wrestled briefly, but Ophilia could feel her energy leaching out of her through the contact that the Bishop had on her skin.  She tried to counter with her magic but found she was blocked.

'You are a whore, just like my daughter.'  The Bishop was saying, now pinning her down with his hands twisting painfully on her chest.  In one swift move, Ophilia brought her knees up sharply twining her right leg under the Bishop's and managed to topple him off of her and winding him with the knee she managed to connect to his stomach as he was thrown.  She shoved herself on top of him to try and keep him down just as the last of her energy deserted her and she collapsed.

The door to the room banged open.  Therion was the first in, daggers in his hands.  Cyrus followed.  Primroses face peered round the frame, saw that Ophilia was okay and then closed the door on them.

'Your timing is impeccable.'  Ophilia gasped at them.  Cyrus, stony-faced moved to help her up while Therion kept his daggers trained on the Bishop.  Ophilia was unable to stand, her energy completely gone.

'What did he do to you?'  Cyrus asked gently.

'Blocked my magic, then he drained me.'  Ophilia explained breathlessly.

'He hit you.'  Cyrus murmured, noting the livid mark on her face. 'What needs to be done Ophilia?'  he asked 'Primrose said he was a Bishop?  Is he a risk to you dearheart?'

Ophilia looked distraught.  'I can't... end him.'  She shook her head.  'There must be another way.'

'Leave it with me.'  Cyrus squeezed her hand and turned to face the man that Therion had already efficiently tied to a chair.  The thief was now in the corner helping Arianna to her feet.

'It would appear that we are at an impasse here Father.'  Cyrus said to the Bishop coldly.  'I am quite sure that you do not wish your visit here to be general knowledge, any more that Ophilia wishes for our job tonight to be ascribed to her.  Will you agree to terms?'

The Bishop remained obstinately silent.

'You are a lucky man thus far Father.'  Cyrus warned.  'That you struck Ophilia and I am letting you live is only down to her gentle heart which I will always honour if I can - but heed me well.  Should you ever hurt her again in any way, whether it be through violence or word or rumour I will hunt you down and I will kill you.'

'Your threats are like wind.'  The Bishop sneered.  'I have friends..'

'I will kill you.'  Cyrus repeated, pulling himself to his full height, eyes flaring in anger and his fingertips cracking with lightning.  The blast that he sent - though not a strong one  - shocked the Bishop hard and his head dropped.  With a growl he quickly recovered and raised his head again, this time mumbling a spell.

'Therion.  Would you cut him please.'  Cyrus requested.

His face blank, Therion moved forward and sliced the Father quickly on the cheek.  The casting stopped abruptly.

'Once again Father - and this is your last chance.  Can we come to an agreement, or must I go against my beloved's wishes?  It is your choice.' Cyrus said.

'Go to hell.'  The Bishop taunted.  'Who do you think you are to tell me what to do?  You are nothing.'

'If it is of any consequence..' Arianna said quietly 'When this man was talking to my master he was taking a contract out on his daughter's lover.  His daughter who is now dead.  I don’t know the truth of this situation but I do know that our girls talk of this man as one of violence in his treatment to those he feels superior to.'

'Therion, will you take the ladies outside please.'  Cyrus asked quietly.

'Do you want me too..'

'No.'

Therion picked up Ophilia and beckoned Arianna to follow them.

They waited in silence a way down the corridor.  Cyrus joined them very shortly later.

'We should check how Primrose and the other's are doing.'  Cyrus said quietly, putting out his arms to take Ophilia.  'I am so sorry my dear.'  He told her honestly.

'You shouldn’t have had to do that.  I'm sorry too.'  Ophilia reached up and brushed his cheek, all that she could manage to reassure him in her weakened state.

'I might be able to help you.'  Therion suddenly said looking at the Cleric speculatively.  'I ain't tried it in forever so it might not work, and it won't be much anyway but I'll give it a go.'

Ophilia looked at him quizzically.  Therion put out his hand tentatively and took hold of Ophilia's.  He screwed up his eyes in concentration.  There was a strange fuzziness and both of their hands grew warm.

'Oh!'  Ophilia's eyes grew wide, as Therion opened his eyes and grinned.

'Now you know how I feel when you do your healing your Holiness.' He smirked.

'Oh.. that was wonderful!  How..?'

'You transferred energy?'  Cyrus looked stunned.  'Well, my friend, you are a dark horse no?'  he started to chuckle, put Ophilia down gently on her feet and clapped the thief on the back.

'Amazed it worked in all honesty.'  Therion grunted, embarrassed by the praise.  'Let's get moving then.'  He said gruffly.

When they entered the obsidian parlour, carnage was the only word that applied.  Six guards lay defeated,  Alfyn was diligently working on a rending tear on H'aanit's arm,  Tressa was streaming wind in a ferocious assault her eyes blazing and Olberic was very calmly in face to face combat with a large heavily muscled blonde man.  Olberic was obviously tiring.

Ophilia sent out a heal, aiding her friends, then moved to H'aanit to relieve Alfyn.

Cyrus started calling up lightning, effectively melding his attack along with Tressa's biting wind.  Primrose was stood at the back, dagger in hand preparing herself to throw herself into a dance to bolster Olberic but it wasn’t needed.

The addition of Cyrus's magic turned the tide swiftly.  Olberic got a heavy slash to Rufus's stomach and the man went down hard.  Tressa and Cyrus stopped their casts as Therion went forward to get a restraint on the fallen Master.

'Primrose?'  the thief called.

Primrose went forward with her dagger in her hand.

'Why?'  She asked the man 'Why did you kill my father?'

'Ah, little Primrose..'  the man leered at her.  'You only cut off the left hand of the crow my darling.  I cannot give you the truth.  Your victory here means nothing.'

Primrose brought her father's dagger up to the man's throat.  'Tell me what you know.'  She demanded imperiously.

The man shrugged.  'I have no reason to little one,  I am done for.  I tell you what Primrose Azelhart - ask me nicely.  Say please.'

Therion pulled on the man's hair tugging his head back further.

'Have some bloody respect.'  He threatened.

'It's alright Therion.  I have given far worse things than polite words in my pursuit of revenge.  It is all I have left.'  She knelt in front of Rufus.  'I beg you Master please tell me,'  she said meekly.  'Why was my father killed?'

'Well done lady.'  Rufus sounded amused.  'Your father had too many enemies that wanted him gone -he poked and prodded into matters that were far beyond him and sought knowledge that he should not have.  He caused his own demise child.'

'What of the others?'  Primrose asked.

'Ahh the others.'  Rufus chuckled weakly.  'If you want the truth Lady Azelhart, you simply need to go home.  Go back to Noblecourt and face your past for all your answers lie there.'

Ophilia came up behind Primrose and put a hand on her shoulder but turned her face away when Primrose landed her final blow.  Primrose fell back into the Cleric's embrace and sobbed.

~0~

It was Tressa that found the chests, and Therion that managed to get them open.  A fortune in gems and leaf was contained within.  They looked at each other with sparkling eyes.  Then Therion looked over at Ophilia and Primrose and sighed.

'You know what's going to happen to this don’t you.'  He moaned to the Merchant.

'It's going to be shared out for the girls that worked here to start anew I reckon.'  Tressa nodded.

'Wouldn't it be nice to just have no morals again.'  Therion said sadly.

'Where did you get morals from you moron?'  Tressa smirked at him.  'No don’t tell me - you stole them didn’t you.'

Chapter Text

Spirit's over breakfast were subdued.  The meal came late as the companions hadn’t returned to their lodging until early in the morning, and despite the long trek they had made from the Obsidian back to Stillsnow, restful sleep eluded many of them. 

After an almost silent hour broken infrequently by the odd pocket of muted conversation - Primrose finally put down her mug of tea with a loud bump, making the others jump.

'Well...'  she said with exaggerated cheer '.. An interesting evening all round I think.  At least I now know where I need to go.'

'I'm sorry that you were unable to get the answers that you sought, Lady Primrose.'  Olberic spoke up.  'But be assured that we will continue in your quest until you do.'  There was a general murmur of agreement from the others.

'Thank you darling.'  Primrose patted the hand of the Knight sat next to her.  'However..'  she continued with a wicked glint in her eye '..I must say that some of the evening was rather enjoyable at least...' 

She turned to the Cleric sat on her other side and wound an arm around the girl's waist,  'You really are quite the exceptional kisser, Ophilia.'  she purred  'I don't recall ever having been so satisfyingly assailed before.' 

Alfyn choked and sprayed a mouthful of tea over the table.

'Thanks Prim.'  Ophilia smiled at her with absolute sincerity. 'I'm glad it didn't offend and should we ever be required to present such a diversion again, I would be most happy to step up to the task.'

'Oh my..well... of course darling.. '  Primrose blushed.  

'That's going to be a hard image to wipe from my mind..' Olberic shook his head, grinning to himself, then noticed the shocked expressions on a number of his fellow's faces.  'What?'  he asked. 'I know you were all thinking the same..'

Primrose 's cheeks flamed brighter.  'Well my attempts to elicit other peoples blushes really backfired...' she moaned,  secretly pleased that the mood around the table had lifted.

'Shucks..I would happily volunteer as a 'distraction' too..'  Alfyn beamed at Ophilia only to get a cuff round the head from Therion.

Olberic chuckled.  'Well, pleasing thoughts aside, I think we need to gather ourselves together for  a moment and settle our plans to provide aid to Mistress H'aanit.  I believe you are required to gather a particular ingredient?  Where is it that we need to go Huntress?'

'Tis a plant that ist needed that ist said to groweth in the Whitewood.  Cyrus, what was it that Susanna sayeth about it?'  H'aanit replied still grinning broadly at Primrose.  'I wanteth all of the details later..'  she mouthed at the Dancer.

'Oh,  ahh ..' Cyrus looked up rather red faced from the book he was intently reading.  '..It's called the herb of grace.  I had no idea that there were any still in existence.  It will be remarkable if we actually find one still growing in this icy land.'  His attention returned immediately to his tome.

'Your book is upside down Professor.'  Therion whispered to him delicately.

Cyrus gave the Thief a rueful glance. 'Right.  Thanks.' He gulped.

'I needeth to return the horse to Alaic.'  H'aanit continued.  'Wouldst thou all be prepared to seek this herb this afternoon?  Alaic hath offered to guide us to the correct spot - he sayeth that the woods can be the most dangerous of places and we might requireth his strength.  He ist a well-made man.'

'Oh?'  Primrose enquired lightly.

H'aanit shrugged.  'He almost bested Linde and I when we did challenge him.  It was an impressive display.'

'I don’t have a problem with heading out this afternoon.'  Olberic looked at his companions.

'It's good for me and Ophilia,'  Alfyn agreed 'Arianna is getting some of the ladies that require help or medical attention together tomorrow morning so we have no obligation until then.'

'Dangerous forest...  Just point me at it!'  Tressa chirped enthusiastically.

The companions set out after lunch and made their way to Susanna's house - leading the horse that Alaic had lent to H'aanit.  As they reached the home of the seer a tall, well built man came outside, impassively watching them as they made their way towards him.  Suddenly his eyes grew round and he jumped forward.

'Ophilia?'  he pushed his way past Olberic and H'aanit who were leading the horse and stopped in front of the Cleric.  Cyrus's arm went warily around her shoulders and he drew her back slightly behind himself.

'I'm sorry, do I... Al?'  Ophilia looked completely stunned.

'You're all grown up!'  he was staring at her in identical amazement.  Alaic became aware of the others staring at him.  He mentally shrugged himself and added formally  'It is good to see you again, ahh.. Sister.'  His face became an emotionless mask.

Ophilia gently extracted herself from Cyrus's protection and threw herself at the large man - hitting him with such force he nearly stumbled and wrapping her arms as far as they would go around him.  Alaic tolerated her hug for a few seconds, then took her by the arms - pushing her gently away from the embrace but kept a hold of her.

'You're not going to sing at me are you?' he asked, raising an eyebrow.

'Don't be mean.'  She retorted with a smile.

That raised a chuckle from him.  'Go on inside,'  he said to the group 'Susanna has been waiting for you.'  He patted Ophilia on the arm, then took the reins of the horse and disappeared round the side of the house.

Ophilia was looking quizzical.  'Then Susanna must be... surely...'  the Cleric opened the door and went through curiously. 'Mistress Grotoff!'  she exclaimed rushing towards the elderly seer - her hands held out to grasp the frail ones of the old woman.

'Ophilia?'  the seer looked every bit as astounded as Alaic had.  'What in the seven hells are you doing here child.  You should be on your way to Saintsbridge!'

'Susanna Grotoff?'  It was Cyrus's turn to be startled.  'The Scholar?  But you're dead - you were assassinated!'

Susanna looked up at the other's who had filed into the room and her breath seemed to catch.

'Well.  This is unexpected.'  The seer beckoned everyone in and waved them towards seats.  'H'aanit dear, will you look to the tea things please.  We may be here a while.'

Ophilia moved to go and help H'aanit but the old woman grasped her arm.  'Sit.'  She ordered in a voice that did not brook argument.  Ophilia sank to the floor at the seer's feet.

Alaic returned, knocking the snow off his boots and then crossing his arms and leaning against the doorpost, sending an appraising look over the gathered companions.

'Thank you dear.'  Susanna murmured as H'aanit began to hand out hot drinks to everyone.  The old woman was evidently thinking hard as she examined each companion at length in silence.  Eventually she put down her tea-cup.

'It happens that I know, or have met many of you although it may well be that you do not remember it.'  The old woman mused.  'I find such synchronicity to rarely be by chance.  Let me see...'

'Well, I remember you.'  Ophilia said with a smile.  'You have long been a friend of the Archbishop.'

'Yes child.  I met Josef when he was the Flamebearer - just as you are now.  And of course you remember when I brought Alaic to Flamesgrace for healing, since we could not keep you away from him.'  Susanna smile wryly.  'Although I know you irritated the hell out of the poor man.'  She added.

'It was the singing.  Every damned morning.'  Alaic muttered.  'She can't hold a tune if her life depended on it.'

'I don’t even try anymore.'  Ophilia assured him.

'Praise the Gods.' He replied.

'I believe you worked quite extensively with my mentor Odette.'  Cyrus said thoughtfully to Susanna.  'Does she even know you are still alive?'  he asked curiously.

'Of course she does.  We keep in touch.  We have met a few times Professor Albright, back when you were a student - quite brilliant even then, but rather focused so I forgive you for not remembering.'

'My apologies, Mistress Grotoff.  I am truly vexed that we met and I was not aware that I was in the presence of such a regarded luminary.'  Cyrus bowed his head towards her.

'And you were quite correct Professor, I was targeted for assassination but it was H'aanit's master who saved my life and who helped me to disappear after the event.  He has been a true friend for a very long time.  One that I would almost count as a son.'  She smiled at H'aanit.  'And his student is so like the best part of the man ...'

The old woman turned to Olberic.  'Now you Sir Knight.  I spent much time in Hornburg, and much time with King Alfred.  We too have met on several occasions - however I feel that you and Erhardt were so busy working your way through the ranks of the Hornburg ladies that you most likely failed to take note of an old woman like myself.'  Susanna smiled. 'Indeed, the King often bemoaned that the pair of you were as notorious for your conquests of the heart as you were for your conquests on the field of battle.'

'Really?'  Primrose said raising an eyebrow at the Knight.  'How very interesting.'

'Ah, I'm sure he was referring to Erhardt, Mistress.  Alas my own tally paled into insignificance when measured by his.' Olberic said blushing.

'Maybe.'  Susanna smiled again.

She finally turned to Primrose.  'Now then Primrose Azelhart.  Not only did I know your father, but he also spent time in Hornburg and knew the King well,  he studied for a time with Odette and was also granted access to the Cathedral archive in Flamesgrace by Josef.  We have also met - but you were a very young child at the time.'

Susanna finally sat back.  'I do not immediately know you others,'  she said to Alfyn, Tressa and Therion. 'But if we had the time I think it likely that we would find a commonality.'

'With all respect,'  Primrose said delicately.  'My father met with many people during the course of his studies.  Is it really so odd that there is a rather tenuous link between some of us?'

'I think with age you become more aware of the patterns that time creates.'  The seer said thoughtfully. 'I do not know it's full meaning, but I am inclined to believe that there is a design to it.'

Silence fell.  Finally Susanna sighed.  'You should get on to your mission.  I am holding you up.  I will think on this all, Perhaps I can provide an answer - or at least the start of an understanding.  Alaic - you will show our guests to the Whitewood please.'

Alaic nodded and opened the door and the companions started to gather their things.  Ophilia stood and pressed a kiss to the old woman's brow.

'It has been good to see you again Mistress.'  The Cleric said gently.

'Ophilia.'  The old lady grasped at the Cleric's wrist and pulled her closer conspiratorially.   'Tell me child, are you at all troubled by Josef's vision?'  she asked quietly.  She saw the girl's subtle flinch.  'He told me of it many years ago when he first dreamed of Aelfric - and I know that he told you when you took up the ember.  When you are marked by the flame during the kindling you may also find that you are afflicted by such dreams - it is common among those who have  carried the flame.'

'If father's vision is true then I shall not live long enough to experience such.'  Ophilia breathed gently. 'His dream saw me carrying the flame, his own death and mine following shortly after.  That he is dying now is no longer in question.'

'It is not.  But I am literal proof that one can be marked for death and yet survive.'

'It does not unduly concern me.'  Ophilia admitted honestly.  'I will neither rush in my duty or look to escape fate.'

'Well said child.'  The seer sighed and let go of the Cleric, patting her hand.

It was no great distance to the Whitewood.  Alaic and H'aanit led the team as they approached  the tree line, with Olberic and Primrose bringing up the rear.  Everyone could hear Primrose's rather merciless teasing of the warrior's romantic past.

'Why ist called the Whitewood?'  H'aanit was asking Alaic in interest.  'Ist because of the snow and frost?'

'I am unsure Mistress H'aanit, you are likely right in your assumption.'  The man replied.

'And thou hast not been to the place that we travel?'  she pushed on.  

'Susanna has never asked for this particular herb.'  The man shrugged.  'I am not generally interested in carrying out more than my duties in relation to exploring this woodland..'  

They walked in silence a bit further.

'Your skills were very impressive Huntress.  Not unlike Z'aanta's in fact.'  Alaic stole a glance at the woman.  'It is few men that have come near to me in a fight, and never before a woman.'

'I wouldst be interested to see'eth thou challenge Sir Olberic.'  H'aanit admitted.

He chuckled, a deep amused rumble.  'I may be skilled H'aanit, but I am not stupid enough to take on the unbending blade himself.  I admit I look forward to an opportunity to see him fight.  However with the size of our party, I much anticipate that most beasts will not challenge us, despite their number and ferocity.'

Making their way deep into the wood was hard going.  There was very little that could be called an actual trail of any kind.  Alaic explained that the townsfolk actively avoided the place, it was too dangerous for any man to enter too deeply.

Alfyn was in his absolute element.  There were literally dozens of plants that he had never seen before and he quickly had all of the other's gathering whatever they could, Alaic being able to name at least some of them and promising that Susanna could fill him in on their properties.

'If only I could draw.'  Alfyn muttered.  Times like this would be a perfect opportunity to begin my own book of herbs and plants.

'I'll draw 'em for you if you like.'  Therion shocked everyone by offering.

'You draw?'  Alfyn looked a little bemused.  'Never seen you do it.'  He added.

'Good hand exercise.'  Therion shrugged.

Ophilia handed Therion her notebook and pencil.  After a few minutes he handed  the book back to Alfyn with a copy of the plant that the Apothecary was currently harvesting.

'Wow.'  Alf said with a grin and a delighted hug for the thief.  'You can draw!' 

The companions finally came to a large clearing in the forest.  They had travelled so far north west that one side of the glade was rocky mountain towering up to the sky and the snow was falling thick and heavy - their feet made heavy impressions on the fallen powder and drifts from the stiff wind that came from the North piled high.

'I believe that this is where we will find what we look for.  We cannot travel any further.'  Alaic said.  'We should search for the herb here.

The travellers split up to see if they could find any trace of the blue flower that Alaic described to them. 

'I seriously doubt anything so delicate could survive in these conditions.'  Cyrus commented to Ophilia as he pushed back some tangled thorns so that she could examine the ground beneath.

'Nature always has a way of always surprising me.'  Ophilia noted with a smile up at him.  She quickly scanned the area and then took hold of the hand Cyrus offered to get to her feet.

'You are right of course dearest.' He said earnestly, his eyes searching her face.  'It is mesmerising that strength and resilience can exist so closely with such compassion and beauty.'

'Are you flirting Professor?'  Ophilia asked shaking her head and fighting a grin.

'Not at all my dear.'  He said with mock exasperation.  'I was simply making an honest observation.  If I wished to flirt I would instead remark upon how captivatingly pink the chill has made your cheeks and how much I would wish to warm them with kisses.

'Hmm,  I believe you are just preparing pretty lines for your next romantic novel.'  She accused, her blush causing her cheeks to turn a much deeper hue.

'Well,'  he said archly.  'I can't help but notice that you are taking rather too much influence from 'The Cleric and the Dancer' so perhaps I should work on a new focus.

'The Cleric and the Huntress?'  she asked sweetly.

'I give up.'  Cyrus groaned.  'It is thoroughly unfair that you manage to be adorable even whilst teasing me mercilessly.'

'It's your own fault for being so charmingly pleasing to tease.'  Ophilia looked abashed and put her gloved hand over her mouth.  'I can't seem to help it.. the words just keep coming out.'  She admitted.

'Hey!  I think I found it!'  Tressa shouted out from where she had scrambled up a portion of the rocky cliff-face.

They all started to make their way over to where Tressa was perched precariously, beaming at her companions.  Alfyn had almost reached her when there was an almighty roar and the entire area was suddenly awash with flame.

Ophilia managed a headlong dive into a snow flurry, pulling Cyrus with her - extinguishing the flames that had caught onto their clothing.  In the same rolling move she rose to her knees and saw her companions likewise dampening themselves down, all save Tressa whose position had kept her out of the fire.  She shot off a heal, and methodically started working on shields around her companions.

'Bloody hell.'  She heard Cyrus unusually curse, 'It's a dragon!'

Olberic already had his spear in his hand and was shaking H'aanit who was looking at the mighty beast in the air above them with stricken awe.  Alfyn was trying to help Tressa down from where she was perched.

The dragon, it's huge wings expanded and screeching a terrible war-cry was coming in to land.  As it descended it let off a pulse of energy that tore at them all, but caught up Tressa fully and carried her with it like on a wind.  She disappeared over their heads and back out into the forest behind them. 

Ophilia was immediately on her feet.  'I can track her!'  she shouted to her other friends making for the exit of the clearing.  'No..'  she yelled at Cyrus who was running apace with her.  'Your magic will be needed here!'

'Therion!'  Cyrus indicated for him to go with Ophilia and the lad nodded taking off after her at breakneck speed.  'I will aid you.'  Alaic added - following after the Cleric and the Thief.

Olberic was staring down the descending beast as it came lower and lower, planting himself firm and preparing to strike.  H'aanit likewise had taken a position behind him to his right and Alfyn to his left.  Cyrus maintained his distance, going through his pack looking for a tome of spells that he had recently acquired.  Finding the book, he took it out and flicked through to the spell he was looking for.

The Dragon finally landed with a heavy thud on the ground.  Nobody moved.  The beast raised its scaled snout into the air as if sniffing at the companions.

Olberic exchanged his spear for his sword and took a step forward, raising his weapon in a defensive stance and moving with exaggerated care.  Primrose whirled into a dance taking the eye of the dragon momentarily allowing Olberic the opportunity to get in one precise strike.  His sword barely dented the soft scales.  The dragon fixed an eye on the warrior and raise one heavily taloned foot to take a swipe.

Cyrus was moving forward, his eyes fixed to his book, chanting a complex invocation in a language nobody could recognise.  When he slammed the book shut with one hand and released the spell with the other a huge flurry of icy shards appeared around the dragon, swirling almost like a shield.  Diverted from its intended strike at Olberic the beast instead swiped at the shards that cut painfully at its limb and the ice itself focused in a fierce attack. The Dragon bellowed in rage and once again took a deep breath to stream fire at its attackers.

This time the fire was thrown back at the beast by the shields that Ophilia had constructed before leaving to find Tressa.

H'aanit had sprung into action at last.  She was firing arrow after arrow at the beast at a breakneck speed until finally she had gathered rampant momentum and arrows fell like rain from multiple angles.

The dragon's ire was at fever pitch.  It screeched out a second energy blast, this time picking up Primrose and slamming her hard against a sturdy oak at the entrance of the glade.  Alfyn was to her almost before she hit the floor, covering the unconscious dancer with his body as the dragon followed up with a second fiery sweep, and then an almighty swipe at Olberic.  The warrior fell, under a heavy wound to his abdomen.

Before the Dragon had time to fully raise its leg and stamp on the stricken Knight,  Cyrus constructed a hasty wall of ice between his companion and the beast.  Both he and H'aanit rushed forward to drag Olberic over to where Alfyn was still working on Primrose, completely ignoring the burns that had eaten away at his cloak and shirt and left his back a vivid scarlet.

'This isn’t going terribly well.'  Cyrus noted breathlessly, raising to fire off more ice at the dragon that was moving slowly towards them.  Linde placed herself in front of the group while Olberic struggled trying to stand. 

The dragon was almost upon them when Therion and Ophilia returned, followed by Alaic, with a battered Tressa thrown over his shoulder.

'Olberic.'  Ophilia said calmly, despite the huge beast lumbering towards them. 'Do you have the Dragonstone on you?'

Olberic nodded and reached into his pocket.

'Give it to H'aanit please and get her to take it from its box.  This beast's song was mixed up in the song of the stone.  I am sure of it.' She explained quickly.

Turning to face the dragon, Ophilia banged her staff to the ground and her holy light shone forth.  The dragon stopped in its tracks and retreated a step.

Ophilia felt the muted song of the Dragonstone as soon as H'aanit opened the box.  Taking a deep breath she brought the light into herself and focused a heal.  The power tore through her and her friends and the gem in its box flared brilliantly blue, whilst the song of the stone amplified.

The dragon reared up on its hind legs, towering over the tiny Cleric who stood calmly before it.  The dragon exploded lights of red and white and blue, swirling dots of brilliant colour in a breathtaking display as it opened its maw and added its own physical song to the song of the stone.  Gradually following it's magnificent crescendo, the song and the lights began to temper down, the stone slowly becoming quieter its hue turning back to red and the dragon consolidating into a beast of pure white.  Ophilia was able to stop the flow of healing and sank to her knees.

'You are so beautiful.'  She whispered at the dragon in awe.  She was aware of the others coming up behind her, weapons ready - then Cyrus's hand on her shoulder.

'It is good to hear the song of Aelfric and The White Dragon once more.  It is a balm to this ancient soul.'  The Dragon's voice was deep and resonate.  'I have not seen that stone since its creation.  Tell me - what is your purpose here Child of the Flame?'

Ophilia pushed H'aanit forward to explain their need for the herb.

'The herb of grace is grown only under my care.'  The dragon mused.  'I will allow you to take one - for I believe that the beast of which you speak is an unholy aberration born from what the song and the stone were created to prevent.  In return, you will - in time - visit with me again, here at my sanctum and ensure that you bring me a gift.'

H'aanit nodded her agreement.

'I grow impatient of company.'  The dragon looked imperiously at the group before it. 'But return whence you may.  Don't forget the gifts.' It added with a gleam in its golden eyes.

H'aanit and Alfyn went to pick the herb they needed.  Once they had harvested the blue flower H'aanit bowed respectfully to the beast.

'I allow you to leave now.'  The dragon dismissed them.

The walk back to Susanna's house was a quiet one.

'I see you are still causing all sorts of trouble.'  Alaic had smirked at Ophelia once they had left the dragon's glade.

'It's what I'm best at.'  She agreed with a smile.

'Can't believe you actually took holy orders girl.  What were you thinking?'  he suddenly asked fiercely.

'It was the will of my father.. and mine.'  Ophilia put her hand out to him.  'I know both you and Mistress Grotoff counselled my father against it - but I do manage far better restraint now than I did back then.  Mostly.' She added with a wry smile.

'You're no less irritating though.' Alaic admonished - turning away from her to go and walk aside H'aanit again.

Chapter Text

Slash.

Olberic overbalanced slightly with the sheer force of his forward momentum. 'Don't fight angry.' He chided himself.

Slice, thrust, thrust.

Couldn't help it. He was angry.

Breach, slash, rupture.

Frustration. The tournament hadn't even begun yet. Was still two days away.

'Sir Olberic, might I suggest a more relaxed posture?' Cyrus interceded on behalf of the target dummy that the Knight was currently decimating with a cold and calculated onslaught. 'Far be it for me to criticise your technique, but you will have a number of bouts to get through and if you attempt to keep up this kind of velocity, I fear fatigue may be unkind to your chances.'

Olberic pulled up and wound down his attack. He came over to where the Cyrus was standing and took the towel that the man held out to him, wiping his brow and neck whilst placing his sword on the weapon rack.

'Apologies Professor,' Olberic panted. 'I fear I allowed myself to get carried away with my thoughts - and please, don't be afraid to freely voice your concerns - for that is your purpose in this endeavour.' Olberic clasped the Scholar on the shoulder. ' Your time and dedication in analysis of both mine and my opponents fighting style is greatly appreciated Cyrus and I feel it will go a long way towards the success of my venture. It has been an age since I fought in any kind of tournament and the last time I did such I was a much younger and more confident man.'

Cyrus chuckled, enthusiasm burning brightly

'If I had even thought three months ago that I would be assisting Sir Olberic Eisenberg in preparation for a tournament in Victor's Hollow Arena no less - I would have believed it to be just an idle daydream!' the Scholar exclaimed. 'Well, especially since at that time I thought you were dead! Ahh, Olberic - the things that we have experienced on this journey thus far...' Cyrus shook his head in wonderment.

'Ain't that the honest truth.' Alfyn agreed, coming forward with a salve that he spread liberally over the warrior's biceps. 'I'm still reeling over the talking dragon myself... shucks... even though I was so scared I nearly soiled myself..' he added rather too honestly.

'Indeed my young friend.' Cyrus nodded vehemently. 'Take heart, Sir Knight...' The scholar turned back to Olberic with a grin. '..Remember that you have most recently stood and faced one of the Elder Dragons - so the challenge of a few arena fighters will be nothing in comparison!'

'Well, as I recall the dragon thing wasn't going so well until Ophilia turned up.' Olberic replied solemnly.

At the mention of their little Cleric, each of them fell silent, all reflecting on what Susanna and Alaic had shared with them before they had left Stillsnow.

'Ain't fair.' Alfyn finally said angrily into the introspective lull. 'I mean, I'm glad Susanna told us about it and all, but shucks, what sort of crap is that to put on Ophilia in the first place? Here, you gotta do this mighty important spiritual thing but it's gonna get you killed... off you go!' Alfyn's fists clenched in frustration. 'Why did her Da' even tell her at all? Just seems mighty unkind to me.

'Well, she won't be dying on my watch.' Olberic replied with a growl. 'Which is why the seer told us I think - keep us alert. She doesn't seem to believe that death is set in stone - vision or no vision.'

Alfyn fumed silently for a few minutes. 'Oh..then Alaic goes and says how Li ain't bothered about dying since she figures that with her Da' dead and her sister married off to that Mattias bloke - there won't be anything for her to go back to anyway. Well excuse me - what?  Don't she think that we might care if she ended up dead?'

'Honestly - no I don't think she does realise that.' Olberic grimaced and picked his sword back up. He went back to his dummy and started taking vicious swipes at it again. Eventually he turned and came back to his companions.

Alfyn's anger had melted into distress.

'When we held our clinic for all those brothel girls at Arianna's, it was the first time I ever properly understood what life of that kind is all about.' The apothecary's mouth set in a grim line. 'It weren't just the physical injuries - there was that look in those girls eyes.' He shuddered. 'I didn't handle it well - it broke me into just about a million pieces and that's no lie.'

Olberic laid a steady hand on the young man's shoulder.

'But you know what?' Alfyn continued fiercely. 'Regardless that Ophilia had spent hours bringing comfort to them girls - she saw the second I started struggling and took me outside to have a good cry before stitching me back together with hugs and kisses and all the right words I needed to hear. How can she possibly know me that well and yet not realise that I care about her too?'

Olberic gave the apothecary's shoulder a quick squeeze and sat down. 'You've been quiet Cyrus.' He said gently to the Scholar. 'Have any thoughts to share?'

Cyrus had been studying the floor in front of him for the duration of the conversation. He looked up at Olberic with a blank expression.

'I hardly think I can comment.' The Scholar said. 'I tried my damndest to impart to Ophilia the depth of my feeling for her. Obviously I have failed miserably if she doesn't understand that her demise would devastate me. Or perhaps it's just that my affection is unwelcome to her. I shouldn't be surprised of course. As Odette would no doubt tell you - in relation to affairs of the heart I am simply clueless.'

Alfyn suddenly laughed.

'Seriously Professor? You actually think your affection might be unwelcome? Shucks mate - you really are clueless aren't ya?' he chucked an arm around the Scholar's shoulder. 'Ahh, Cyrus.. I can only hope that one day someone may look at me with even half the amount of doe-eyed tenderness that our lovely Cleric radiates every time she looks at you.'

'I concur.' Olberic agreed with a chuckle. 'I must admit that early in our travels I did wonder if I should step in and warn you off taking advantage of Ophilia's rather obvious appreciation - until Primrose pointed out that your own attachment to her appeared genuine in its sentiment too.'

Cyrus looked at his two friends in confounded amazement.

'Oh.' He said.

'Really you're are as bad as each other you know.' Alf chided. 'Neither of you realising just how much you care about each other. Quite hopeless. Funny though.' He smirked.

Olberic turned serious again. 'Despite the fact she gets up every day with a smile on her lips, enjoys mercilessly teasing us all and shows compassion and affection in spades - it has to be expected that somewhere inside she must be scared of allowing attachments to form given her situation.'

'Talk to Primrose, Cyrus. Get some advice.' Alf suggested 'Because if anyone can get through to Li - persuade her that we do all love her - well, I reckon it will be you.'

'Oh... Right.' Cyrus agreed furiously blushing.

'By the God's Sir Olberic - what are you doing sitting around! We have a tournament to win!' A strong and strident voice cut across the training ground. 'Good heavens man - get up! We don't want our investors to see you lounging like a lizard!'

'Aww crap.' Olberic muttered as Cecily, his promoter strode towards him - her assistant Ned in tow a few steps behind.

'Good news!' she declared loudly as he picked up his sword and went out to his target dummy. 'I have the official notification that you are taking the place of Victorino, The Buccaneers Bane in the final of the tournament in the arena in two days time.' The woman was clearly playing to the audience that were observing the training grounds in the spectators area. 'Following your emphatic display of prowess against Victorino yesterday in the plaza - I am pleased to note that wagering in your favour is second only to Conrad the Impaler in this morning's reckoning. I am confident that you, Sir Olberic Eisenberg, the unbending blade of Hornburg, will soon overtake even the unbeaten champion in the takings ere the day of the battle!

There was spontaneous cheering in the spectator's area. Olberic tried not to scowl.

'I'm glad it is going well.' He told his promoter through gritted teeth.

She grinned at him. 'Well at least you will be happy to hear that The Black Knight has been sending his men out to gather information on you.' She said quietly. 'I have made sure that they have heard that you are particularly interested in meeting with him as you wished.'

'Thanks lass.' The Knight replied gratefully.

'Just keep up the good work and that will be thanks enough.' Her grin brightened. 'Actually win this thing and we will be swimming in leaf.' she winked at him as she walked away again, over to the spectators to take any questions they might have.

'A formidable woman.' Cyrus noted.

'Who is?' Therion asked appearing behind them with a huge covered basket in his hands.

Alfyn pointed to where Cecily was working her crowd.

'Oh her. Loud ain't she.' Therion noted, putting his basket down. 'Anyway, her Holiness insisted I bring you 'real' food to keep Olberic's energy up.' He whipped the cover off the basket and a rich aroma rose from the contents. Olberic groaned in appreciation. 'I also brought you our morning reports.' Therion produced a pile of papers which he thrust at Cyrus.

'Ah, wonderful!' The Scholar sat and started going through the information.

'Prim's done a great job seducing half the fighters, and H'aanit has obtained her own fan club among the other half.' Therion was grinning broadly. 'Tressa is interrogating the merchants and hawkers and I've been making friends with the lowlife. If there is a single secret left in town by tonight that one of us ain't discovered I swear I will eat Tressa's hat!'

'You're in a good mood.' Alfyn noted pointing at the thief with his half eaten chicken leg.

'I love this place!' Therion exclaimed. 'There is leaf and beer running as thick as blood through the streets.' He sighed heartily. 'Thief's paradise.'

'Ophilia's letting you steal?' Alfyn looked shocked.

'Don't be daft.' Therion's grin became a softer smile. 'She has threatened me any number of times this morning to make me wear my mittens.'

Alfyn snickered in amusement and got a cuff round the head from the thief.

'She's in an evil mood to be honest..' Therion grinned again. '.. Every time a challenge starts in the streets she scowls - she really doesn't approve of fighting as a sport. Honest word - I don't think I have ever laughed so much in my life - her language has been entertainingly colourful under her breath and the tetchy lectures she's heaped on the young men who've needed healing have been hilarious. I'm gonna take her back to the Inn this afternoon though - give her a break from her displeasure.'

'Good idea.' Olberic approved.

'By the way Prof, you got any more paper? I ran out. Or should I just steal some when her Holiness ain't looking?' Therion waggled his eyebrows.

'There's a ream in my pack. It's in our room at the Inn, help yourself.' Cyrus was still intent on his reports.

'Why thank you Cyrus. What a kind offer.' Therion smirked and ran back off the way he had come.

The tavern that the companions met at that evening was rowdy and packed, as were the majority of the drinking places in the lively town. When Olberic, Cyrus and Alfyn arrived, both Primrose and H'aanit were surrounded by crowds of adoring men clinging on their every word with Tressa thoroughly enjoying herself watching the increasingly desperate display's of manliness that were being presented in order to win the ladies attention. Olberic soon dispersed all of the bystanders with a growl.

'Mine thanks. Sir Olberic.' H'aanit said once their table was cleared. 'You wouldst think that they hast never seen a woman fight before.' She grumbled.

'It is rather tiring to be so adored.' Primrose added with a teasing toss of her hair.

'I had forgotten how much I dislike this place.' H'aanit scowled. 'The last time I was here mine Master wagered all of the leaf we had saveth for the winter months in unwise gambles and we near as like starved that year.'

Therion and Ophilia were the last of the group to arrive. Therion's cheeriness from earlier that day seemed to have disappeared. Once all were seated, they ordered food.

'Tonight is the last night that I'm letting you drink alcohol Olberic.' Alfyn told the warrior as their meals came. 'You best make the most of it. I say we make tonight a celebration of your entrance into the tourney!'

The beer started to flow copiously from there on in. In the spirit of the evening even Ophilia accepted a few glasses of mulled wine and Cyrus kept his book in his pocket instead of pulling it out at the earliest convenience.

'So Olberic.' Therion called over the general conversation once the first few of their drinks had settled in. 'Tell us more about the chap your looking for. Not all of us know the history of Hornburg.'

'Oh yes!' Primrose agreed, 'And do tell us how you came to be a Knight as well!'

Olberic looked a bit startled at the sudden interest.

'Well, for myself it is not much of a tale.' He said thoughtfully, taking a huge mouthful of beer. 'My father was a Knight, and his father and so on. I learned to fight before I was even walking on account that my mother passed at my birth and I was raised in the barracks. When my father died in battle, I was eleven or so and King Alfred looked out for me, as he did for many of the sons of those who died in his service.'

Olberic took another mouthful of ale.

'I was pretty good with sword and spear - best among the squires and I was mightily proud of it as well. Then Erhardt came along.' Olberic chuckled to himself, finishing his drink and rising from his seat to get another round.

'So where did Erhardt appear from?' Therion pushed when Olberic was finally seated again.

'One of the border towns in Hornburg, best I know. One that was decimated during the border wars. He was fourteen or so when it happened and he lost his entire family. He was taken in by a band of sellswords then spotted by one of our recruiters. Must have been eighteen by that stage, and a passionate and skilled fighter.'

'And he was good looking right?' Tressa said eagerly.

Olberic chuckled again. 'Yes Tressa, he was a fair youth with his blonde locks and his ready smile. Women swooned at his feet and he was most charming with them all. I detested him intensely when he joined us.'

'Oh..' Ophilia said, puzzled, 'I thought you were the best of friends, Sir Olberic.'

'That came later.' Olberic agreed. 'But to begin with he was a royal pain to my ego. He was as good as me at everything, better at somethings - and cocky with it. But the more we sparred and the more we fought, the more we learned from each other. I suppose we were different as night from day but in the end that only made us closer.'

'So what did happen in the end?' Alfyn asked. 'I mean I knew about the twin blades and all that, but when Hornburg fell, there weren't no real word about how it happened that came as far as Clearbrook.'

'Erhardt abused the trust that the King had in him - murdered him right in front of me. That was the only day I ever properly lost a fight to him - he had been secretly training a new technique and used it against me. He should have killed me like he did everyone else. Instead he stayed his hand and left me in the mud.'

'But why? Why did he do it?' Tressa's asked breathlessly.

'I don't know.' Olberic drained yet another mug of ale and slammed it down. 'I didn't even allow myself to question 'why' for eight years.' He admitted. 'I settled in a small town, took an assumed name and did little other than help out the guards in training and the such. It was pure happenstance that one day Erhardt's name issued from the lips of a bandit I had tracked. It was like a touch paper to a flame. I suddenly burned to understand the motivation of the man I once called friend.'

Ophilia wordlessly handed Olberic the full drink she had sat in front of her, and he raised it to his lips with thanks.

'This Gustav, the Black Knight I seek here was named by the bandit as one who knows where Erhardt is - has been a companion of him since the fall. Perhaps in seeing my old friend again, I can finally understand why I still wield my blade. Is it to avenge my king? Maybe I need to finally beat him after failing so completely.' Olberic shrugged. 'Who knows.' He lapsed into silence.

'But first - here's to the next champion of Victor's Hollow!' Alfyn raised his glass.

'Bring it on!' Olberic bellowed with a grin.

Olberic was completely primed by the time the tournament rolled round. He sat in the competitor's chambers with Alfyn awaiting his first bout calmer than he had ever been before an contest. The support of his companions during the whole process had touched him deeply, they had thrown themselves into making sure that he was the best prepared and the best informed competitor by a mile.

Despite his protestations that he knew very little about competitive fighting, Cyrus had attacked all available information with razor precision and had presented full and detailed assessment of his opponents strategy and weakness as well as guiding Olberic in his mental and physical preparations. Alfyn and Ophilia had taken his health and fitness into hand, what he ate, how much he slept, repairing any aches and pains. In all Olberic felt better than he had in many years.

Now he felt he really had to win this thing. Not for himself - he no longer had the ego that his younger self had revelled in - but for his friends who had given so much time, effort and belief to get him to this point. Olberic had led many men into battle - had led brave men to numerous victories - but he didn't think he had ever been more proud or humbled then he was of this ragtag, odd little band.

Everyone came down from the stands to wish him luck before the fighting started. Ophilia had suddenly remembered that it was customary for a knight to receive a ladies token before a tournament and she had taken her cloak and removed the brooch that held it together.

'The last act my mother made was to pin this to me.' She had told him seriously. 'And I truly believe that it kept me safe on the long days and nights that I waited alone for rescue. I pray that it keeps you safe now Sir Olberic, for I will be mightily vexed if allow yourself to be harmed in any way.' She pinned it to him and flung her arms around the Knight who - unable to form an actual response had to bend almost double to gently kiss her on the top of her head.

'Cyrus, I ask that you take care of this lady in my absence.' Olberic said formally bowing to Ophilia. He took her tiny hand and placed it softly into the Scholar's.

'It would be my honour Sir Knight. I swear I will never neglect in this duty.' Cyrus also bowed.

'I like this part of the tournament at least.' Ophilia said, beaming at them both.

Olberic's first battle against Archibald the Crusher was over relatively quickly. The competitor who fought in memory of his father was skilled but slow, and he signalled his intentions glaringly to Olberic's trained eye. When the man yielded, Olberic helped him to his feet to the roar of the crowd - neither of them wounded.

The second fight was much tougher. Joshua Frostblade was a passionate man fighting for the love of a woman. He was smaller, fast and dextrous - his rapier scraping Olberic many times during their bout. Olberic took close note of the advice that Cyrus had put together and had stoically defended, conserving his energy while letting the cavalier wear himself out. Eventually it was a massive thrust with his swords pommel that took his opponent from his feet and allowed Olberic the victory. The roar of the crowd was much larger this time.

Olberic's third match was against the crowd favourite and the reigning champion Conrad the Impaler. He was prepared for a long fight. The man was skilled and patient and oozed the confidence of a champion. In the end it was his confidence that let him down. Again, taking heed of the idea's that Cyrus had put together, after a time Olberic began to feign fatigue, allowing the odd strike to hit him, reacting slower on a few counters. At this, his opponent grew in confidence and his own precision started to slip in his certainty that he now held the upper hand. Olberic suddenly commenced a whirlwind of assault that completely astounded his foe, who went down heavily and did not rise again until he was offered Olberic's hand. The crowd went wild.

Finally, Olberic was to come face to face with Gustav, the Black Knight. As they stood side by side in the tunnel out into the arena, Gustav gripped Olberic's arm.

'You are as skilled as Erhardt, Sir Olberic and I have never beaten the man. I am sure of your victory here - although I am pleased that I get the chance to fight you.

'I would talk to you of Erhardt if I may.' Olberic responded softly.

'Eh, well that much I realised.' The Black Knight chuckled. 'Erhardt talked of you so often - I would have been shocked if you did not know of our association. I will speak to you after the tournament Sir Knight. Indeed I look forward to it.'

'My thanks.' Olberic murmured.

To Olberic it was obvious that Gustav had trained extensively under Erhardt. He could name a hundred of the mannerisms that only such a close association could teach. The fight was elegant, brutal and very evenly matched. The silence in the arena as the battle raged was unprecedented. Both men took heavy damage, but would rise again, grinning at each other with the certain pleasure of one truly enjoying the heat of the fight. In the end the outcome was as Gustav predicted. A late block finished the Black Knight and he sank to his knees and cried his yield.

The next few hours were a blur. There were celebrations, and the fun of watching Tressa nearly faint when Cecily whispered to her the speculated amount of Leaf they would be receiving after the accounting was settled. Olberic suffered the healing and chastisement for his wounds from his little cleric with good humour, then faced the adulation of the crowds of fans with aplomb. Finally he was able to slip away to have his talk with Gustav, the revelations of which left him thoughtful and reflective.

It was just after darkness had fallen that Olberic started making his way to the tavern to meet up with his companions for food and revelry. His hand reached for his weapon when he was accosted suddenly- then relaxed when he realised it was Therion.

'We need to talk.' The thief told him tersely.

At the boy's serious tone, Olberic grabbed him.

'What's happened?' he demanded.

'We need to talk.' Therion repeated - drawing the Knight to a bench away from the main thoroughfare.

Once they were seated Therion asked what Olberic had learned from Gustav. Olberic raised an eyebrow at the thief's unusual interest but answered his query.

'Erhardt is in Wellspring. He helps the city's defence against lizard men. I also learned that he blamed my King for the destruction of his home and his family and that his entire time as a Knight with us in Hornburg was spent as a spy against the Crown. I guess I never truly knew the man who was my best friend.'

'So what's your intention now?' Therion pressed urgently.

'I will go find him. More than that I don't know. I will ask for his own accounting. I will probably kill him. Olberic shrugged. 'Why this interest Therion? What's your angle?'

Therion chuckled darkly. 'Honestly - I don't care what you do.' He replied. 'But I think you need to read this.' The thief pulled a thick letter out from under his shirt.

'Hey!' Olberic was on his feet. 'You stole that from me?'

'Peace Olberic.' The lad put his hands up. 'In truth I only found it when I was looking for Cyrus's bag for spare paper and I open yours in error. Truly it was in error,' he repeated seeing the look of disbelief on the warrior's angry face.

'All the same...' Olberic fumed.

'Okay - I can't say that it was an error that I opened both the letters I found in your pack that were addressed to Ophilia.' Therion admitted belligerently. 'And nor can I say it was altogether in her defence that I did it. I was curious.' He thrust the papers at Olberic. 'You need to read this Olberic. I know you haven't because if you had we wouldn't be here now.'

'Since you're so well acquainted with it why don't you just tell me what's so important.' The knight said sarcastically.

'Fine.' Therion also stood and looked up at his companion. 'Whoever wrote that report details the full story of Erhardt's past and his betrayal - even that he is currently in Wellspring.'

Olberic swore loudly. 'Why the hell didn't Eliza just tell me?' he muttered.

'I expect it was assumed you would actually read it yourself.' Therion sniped.

'I don't get what that has to do with Ophilia though?' Olberic's frown turned to puzzlement.

'Well, Sir Knight - the actual main thrust of the investigation that this 'Eliza' undertook was in looking for Ophilia's true parentage.'

'And that relates to Erhardt how?' Olberic suddenly looked anxious.

'Don't get your pants in a twist Olberic.' Therion snorted. 'Erhardt ain't her daddy.'

'Well of course not.' Olberic released a sigh of relief none the less. 'He is my age - way too young. Well possible I suppose...'

'He ain't.' Therion repeated. 'The investigation shows that Erhardt survived the massacre of his home town because he'd snuck out to visit with a girl in the nearby forest instead of seeing to his chores.'

Olberic scowled. 'Well that figures.' He said

'But turns out that his mother also survived - she had gone to a village a few miles away to consult with an apothecary. Seems neither mother or son knew the other lived. Wasn't until nearly six years later that his mother heard tell of a Knight in Hornburg by his name and she decided to set out to see if it was indeed her lost son.'

Olberic's face had turned white.

'Unfortunately..' Therion continued 'The caravan she travelled with was attacked so she never made it. Her daughter did survive though, the one she was pregnant with on the day she went to the apothecary and escaped the destruction of her home. So it turns out that somehow...'

Olberic swallowed hard. 'Erhardt is Ophilia's brother.'

Chapter Text

'I am SO bored of tree's.' Tressa moaned within hours of the companions leaving Victor's Hollow to get back onto the road.

'And thou will'st be SO bored of rocks too as soon as we enter the Cliftlands.' H'aanit pointed out. 'At least tree's are nicen to look at. Rocks not so much.'

'But...' Tressa's eyes went wide '...Rocks have gems in them. Mines contain gold and silver. What good are tree's?'

Therion snickered and pointedly chucked an apple at her.

'And what about books?' Cyrus demanded, wagging a horrified finger at the Merchant. 'Although of course knowledge had never just been stored on paper. There are many different ways in which man has chosen to inscribe their wisdom - indeed some cultures actually used stone or walls.' The Scholar rubbed his chin thoughtfully. 'There are also the many kinds of animal skin and fabrics that are wonderful for recording on. In some cases they hold their illuminations far better over time than paper.'

Tressa was rolling her eyes at the lecture. Cyrus noted her expression and grinned at her.

'Of particular interest is the use of human skin, Tressa - usually used in works of dark magic or medical journals.' I have to wonder if the tome I am looking for will be produced on such. It is named 'From the far reaches of Hell' after all...'

'Urgghh gross.' Tressa punched the Professor on the arm. 'I hope you're kidding.'

Cyrus just chuckled.

'There is some anthropodermic bibliopegyin the Cathedral archives.' Ophilia said reflectively. 'Anna and I used to dare each other to touch it when we were children.'

'There is some what now?' Tressa scowled at the Cleric .. 'I swear Phili, your just as bad as him sometimes.' - she jerked her thumb at Cyrus.

'Books bound in human skin.' Ophilia clarified happily.

'There is?' Cyrus looked thoughtfully at Ophilia. 'Do you happen to remember what any of them were my dear?'

'Oh, not really, Sorry Professor.. they were mainly written in languages that were totally foreign to us.' Ophilia apologised.

'Ah, of course.' Cyrus gave a heavy sigh. ' I can only imagine that the collection of knowledge stored in the church stacks must be extraordinary indeed. Sadly it is very rare for any other than ecclesiastical historians to get the chance to access it.'

'Actually, I think something could be arranged for you Cyrus ..' Ophilia smiled shyly at the Scholar. '..I know Bishop Bartolo at Saintsbridge very well - and you are my official scribe after all.'

'Oh my, that would be... well ... quite a coup .' Cyrus beamed and reached down to take her hand in his. 'If such were ever possible dearheart, I hope you would extend me the pleasure of your company for the experience - for only that would make it truly complete.'

'Yeah, so.. tree's are great huh.' Tressa said to H'aanit, shaking her head at the Scholar and the Cleric as they fell into an animated conversation about just how much fun church libraries were. As if..

The second watch of the night had fallen to Olberic and Ophilia. As was their usual routine Olberic banked their fire whilst Ophilia boiled water for a hot drink, then they settled themselves together wherever Olberic decided was the best vantage point to watch over the camp.

'You look tired.' Olberic said quietly once they were properly established in position, the light from Aelfric's lantern bathing both their faces in its soft blue glow.

'It always takes a couple of days to get back into the routine.' Ophilia admitted, warming both her hands on her mug. 'While Victor's Hollow was interesting, I did enjoy having a regular bed for so many nights.'

They fell into an easy silence. Olberic couldn't help but take furtive glances at his companion, the recent revelation of her unexpected kinship never far from his mind at the sight of her. He couldn't believe he had never seen the likeness before. Now he knew - it felt glaringly obvious. Eventually feeling the weight of his stare, Ophilia looked up at him with a quizzical smile.

'You seem pensive Sir Knight.' She said gently. 'Is something bothering you?'

'I expect it's just the comedown from the tournament.' He said lightly. 'Speaking of which, I should return this now..' he moved his hand to unclip the brooch that she had pinned to him.

'Oh, no please. Keep it.' Ophilia said, patting him softly.

'But it was your mothers.' Olberic protested uncertainly. 'You really should take it back.'

The cleric smiled at him. 'I meant what I said when I gave it to you Sir Olberic. ' She rested her hand on his arm.

'Ophilia...'

She shook her head. 'It's pure selfishness on my part admittedly.' She confessed. 'I believe in the power of its protection and I wish to keep you safe. Because you make me feel safe. You're just so big and... ' she struggled to find the right word. '...Wall-like.'

He snorted with laughter. 'Well.. um.. thanks. Wall-like eh. A glowing recommendation!'

Ophilia chuckled back at him. 'Maybe not the most eloquent description.' She agreed.

'Do you remember much about your mother?' Olberic asked carefully after a few minutes. 'Forgive me, If you don't want to talk about it...'

She waved off his concern. 'I remember very little unfortunately.' She replied. 'The actual attack and being alone for so long as the only survivor - well that aftermath left me in a very poor state, unable to speak or deal with any of it. Any memory I had of before that time just disappeared. I do remember her face because I had a locket containing a portrait of her and my father for a number of years.'

'Oh?' Olberic raised an eyebrow 'What happened to it?' he asked.

'Someone else needed it more than I did.' She shrugged and laid her head against his arm. 'In truth while I hold the idea of them in my heart, I really know nothing of them so I am not overly sentimental. You and the others are more a real family to me than they could ever be.'

'Doesn't it make you angry though? Upset? You lost everything that you once were. Have you never felt a desire for retribution or answers?' Olberic asked, his manner suddenly intense.

Ophilia looked up to regard him closely. 'Are you asking about me - or about your friend, Erhardt?' she said gently.

Olberic twitched and stiffened. The Cleric regarded him directly, but her eyes were full of compassion.

'Erhardt?' He asked warily, then sighed. 'I guess in a way, I see a similarity in the manner of your losses. But I cannot understand how he came to do what he did and you... are you!' Olberic was unable to keep ragged emotion from his voice.

'My own experience of such depth of misery was always overridden by fear and confusion. Ophilia said simply.

Olberic's arm wound around the Cleric's shoulder and pulled her closer.

'I admit..' she continued '..that through my despair I did feel some anger, but mainly I was just afraid - even after I was given a new home and a new life - the overwhelming fear of being alone and forgotten in the darkness remained.'

'How in the world do you cope with that?' he asked seriously.

'Why Olberic, surely you know that we Clerics are paragons of duty and repression!' Ophilia suddenly flashed him an impish grin. 'I thought, when I left Flamesgrace to undertake the Kindling that I would surely fail in my journey because regardless of my desire to be strong - I was afraid of just about everything. But there was H'aanit, so strong and so kind - and then the rest of you came along. You know - it's pretty hard to maintain fear when surrounded by so much... um, how should I describe it?... heh..madness and mayhem!.'

Olberic looked slightly dazed for a second, and then he started to chuckle softly.

'Now your friend - I'd guess that his despair left him mainly with anger.' She shrugged. 'I had the kindness of the Archbishop and Anna following my trauma, but who knows who or what influenced him. Perhaps his experiences following his loss fuelled his anger further or maybe he vowed revenge simply as a way to cope with the pain. I can understand that - such despair is a deep and dark pit - difficult to cope with, especially alone. Honestly though - when it comes to his motivation - only he truly knows the answer to that.'

'I guess so, Sister.' Olberic agreed.

'It is quite obvious that you cared for him...' It was very gently stated. '..And you know he could have killed you - yet he did not. If it was esteem that stayed his hand then the real man may not be so different from the one you thought you knew despite his duplicity.' She paused and hugged the Knight close. 'I am so grateful that he allowed you to live.' She whispered.

They sat together in silence for a long while, Olberic lost in his thoughts and Ophilia gazing at the fire. Finally Olberic said it was time to wake H'aanit and Therion for their watch. As they got to their feet, Olberic touched the Cleric's shoulder for a second.

'Lass, if you could find out more about your real family is it something you would pursue?' The knights face was unreadable.

Ophilia thought about it for less than a second. 'I fail to see what could be gained by such Sir Olberic.' she replied. 'I have a duty to complete the Kindling and my personal commitment to aid you all in achieving your goals. I intend to continue in this - for as long as I am able. I have neither the time or inclination for anything more.'

Olberic nodded his understanding. 'Sleep well Ophilia.' he said.

The first destination for the companions was Bolderfall, where Therion was to finally hand over the Dragonstone. Cyrus insisted in accompanying him to Ravus Manor.

'I know that these people say that they have long been the guardians of the Dragonstones, Therion, but I feel it prudent, given the enormous power that the stone holds to check them out at least before we just hand the stone over to them.

Therion wordlessly held up his wrist to display the bracelet bound around it.

'Well quite, my friend. But still...'

Therion scowled but eventually nodded his agreement.

'I also think that perhaps Ophilia and H'aanit should accompany us too.' Cyrus went on ignoring Therion's scowl. 'They can explain more about Aelfric's song and the white dragon respectively if it is required.'

'It's just a job Cyrus.' Therion said exasperated. 'We don't have to explain anything.'

'All the same it would be prudent to have the option if we need it.' Cyrus determined.

'It's just meant to be a quick in and out of town darling.' Primrose pointed out delicately. 'It's not far to Quarrycrest, but we do want to be out as soon as we can.'

'Let's get to the Market.' Tressa grumbled, bouncing on her toes. 'If we aren't staying long I need to get an eye in quick!'

Cyrus and Therion led the way up to the Ravus estate, with Ophilia and H'aanit trailing a little way behind. The magnificent view over the rest of the town from the manse's land was breathtakingly beautiful and made the climb up to such a high position worth the effort. As they came to the top, H'aanit pointed out the stunning, dark haired woman gazing out over the view - a far-away look in her eyes.

As the companions passed the woman they heard her speak, although her words were indistinct - blowing away like leaves on the gentle breeze.

'I apologise, dear Lady. Did you wish to speak with us?' Cyrus asked politely, moving closer to her.

The woman jumped at the interruption then took a startlingly frank appraisal of the Scholar's face.

'I search for someone, for him - my one true love. Ah.. but you are not he, although fair you are.' Her voice was deep and resonate but her words seemed distant. Her gazed moved to Therion who scowled magnificently at her.

'Such interesting eyes, and yet still not the one I seek.' The woman dismissed the thief and turned her unwavering gaze back to the view.

'Damn right I'm not.' Therion smirked.

H'aanit had made her way over to a Soldier who was stood with rapt expression staring at the strange woman.

'Every day she stands there.' The man whispered to the Huntress. 'Her beauty is beguiling and yet I cannot get her to notice me. Not even a glance.'

'I do noteth that the path of love ist rarely an easy one.' H'aanit observed with a sigh. 'Hast thou tried impressing thy lady with thy skill with thy weapons?' she asked. 'I hath found that such can be appealing to my own heart.'

'Do you think so?' the man looked at H'aanit with hope in his eyes. 'I would try anything to win her adoration!'

'Ah Sir, thou dost have a fire about thee that ist warming to see!' H'aanit smiled at him.

'You are quite the romantic yourself H'aanit.' Ophilia smiled at her friend.

'Indeed, I admit that I do find affairs of the heart to be most interesting.' H'aanit agreed.

'Could you help me Huntress?' The man asked desperately. 'Perhaps you could challenge me so that I may show off my prowess as you suggest.'

H'aanit's eyes gleamed. 'Of course!' she said happily 'May I knowst thy name Sir?'

'Alphas.' He said as he drew his sword.

'Sir Alphas!' H'aanit declared loudly. 'I challenge thou to battle, stand ready!'

The battle wasn't actually very long or very impressive. H'aanit, in the spirit of the purpose of the display, allowed herself to be beaten soundly, all the time spiritedly congratulating the warrior on his skill. The dark haired woman watched the proceedings with interest - and on the conclusion of the spectacle she went forward to Alphas and cast her deep, penetrating gaze over him.

'A capable man, and so very passionate.' She concluded in her husky voice. 'A man worthy of a woman's love - and yet..'

Alphas had puffed out his chest at the woman's words, and took to one knee.

'My own true love, my perfect mate with golden hair and eyes of blue - he would give me everything, his whole life and every drop of his blood. He would never dare cross me, and when I meet him - everything will change.'

Alphas was trembling at the impassioned words.

'And yet..' the woman reiterated. 'He is not you.' With a cold laugh the woman turned away and walked down the path back to the town without a second glance.

'Wait!' Alphas was on his feet in an instant. 'Come back...' he shouted starting after the woman. 'I will not give up that easily my love!' he disappeared down the path as well.

'That was ... different.' Ophilia looked a bit stunned.

'That's what love will do to you.' Therion chided sourly.

It appeared that the Ravus guards had been alerted to look out for Therion for as soon as the companions made towards the door of the manse - an older man in finely tailored house colours and with impeccably styled and elegant greying hair was on the step and awaiting them.

'Who are these people?' the man demanded of Therion as soon as they alighted the steps. His eyes were cold but he drew back instinctively when Linde issued a gentle growl.

'Hello Heathcote, good to see you too.' Therion replied sarcastically.

'Allow me to introduce myself.' Cyrus bounded forward holding out a friendly hand. Heathcote recoiled from him.

'Did you bring the stone.' The retainer blatantly ignored Cyrus and asked Therion.

'Yeah. I got it for you. And a load of trouble it was too.' Therion scowled.

At that moment a young blonde woman appeared in the doorway of the manse.

'Mister Therion!' she said, 'I am so glad you have returned to us in good health.' She blinked, taking in the others that were gathered on the steps of the house. 'Oh!' she said her eyes growing wide as she spotted Linde. 'How beautiful!' she took a few steps towards the snow leopard, but the old man reached out and grabbed her elbow before she could get any closer.

'Be wary Lady Cordelia!' Heathcote warned trying to pull her back respectfully.

'Tis fine, Lady.' H'aanit assured noting the wonder on the girls face. 'Linde wilt not harmeth thou. She wouldst enjoy a scratch if thou wished to giveth it.'

'Oh may I?' The young woman gentle shook her arm out of her retainer's grasp and slowly approached the big cat. Linde looked up at her with curiosity as she got closer. With slow and unthreatening movements, Cordelia reached out a hand to place it softly on Linde's head and give a cautious, exploratory scratch. The cat rumbled her pleasure and shut her eyes, pressing into the touch.

H'aanit and Ophilia crouched down to join in, encouraging the girl and petting Linde who was ecstatic with the attention.

'Ahem. As I was saying...' Cyrus tried again with Heathcote who was keeping a very wary eye on the young woman.

'Well, thief.' Heathcote addressed Therion again. 'Give me the stone and we can get this meeting concluded.'

'Heathcote!' Cordelia chided looking up from her own conversation with the other ladies, 'Please be a little kinder to our guests!'

'Ain't your guest.' Therion mumbled.

'Sister Ophilia had just mentioned to me that there was some issue with the Dragonstone, Sir?' Cordelia said politely to Cyrus. 'Since their safe-keeping is my responsibility I would greatly appreciate any information that you gleaned concerning any problems it may have caused.'

'Of course, Lady Ravus.' Cyrus bowed elegantly. 'You are their keeper?' he enquired pointedly.

'Why, yes.' The girl smiled. 'It has been the duty of our family since..'

'My lady!' Heathcote cut her off firmly. 'We do not know these people. I strongly urge you to keep your own council.'

Cordelia blushed gracefully.

'I am sorry.' She said to everyone. 'Heathcote has a point. I allowed the stones to be stolen after all - through my own inexperience and gullibility.'

'It is fine Lady Cordelia.' Ophilia came forward and put a gentle hand on the girls shoulder. 'The stone sings with the song on Aelfric himself. I recognised it immediately because I have the honour of carrying his ember.' She brought forth her lantern to show it to the young woman.

'Oh!' Cordelia gasped. 'You are the Flamebearer! I am hoping to travel to Saintsbridge to observe the Kindling ceremony myself Sister.'

'We also discovereth that the stone also hath the song of the White Dragon of Stillsnow.' H'aanit added. 'A moste fearsome and beautiful beast!'

'Indeed!' Cordelia looked a bit breathless. 'Our own records have no real information about the nature of the stones. We have merely been their keeper since the time of King Beowulf. My failure to keep them safe was the first time they have been compromised.'

'Not your fault.' Heathcote murmured sourly.

'Anyway!' Cordelia pulled herself together. 'Mister Therion has successfully managed to restore the Ruby firestone to us, so it's a start!'

'Therion wordlessly took the Dragonstone from his pocket and handed it to Heathcote.

'I believe that we can remove that bracelet now Heathcote.' Lady Cordelia added.

'No!' Heathcote said.

'That would be a bit dumb your ladyship.' Therion said at the same time.

Cordelia looked at the two of them, speechless.

'You cannot trust this thief to fulfil his word without incentive.' Heathcote sniffed dismissively.

'Right.' Therion added. 'Why would I bother finding the others if there was nothing in for me?'

'I believe you to be a man of your word Mister Therion,' Cordelia retorted. 'I would trust in you to complete the job.'

Therion snorted. 'Then you are indeed a gullible fool. You should put your trust in nobody Lady - for no matter how much you think you know someone or you trust in someone - they will betray you.'

'As you wish.' Cordelia took the stone from Heathcote, politely bade goodbye to the others and returned to her house, shutting the door after her.

'I should thrash you for speaking to Lady Ravus in that manner boy.' Heathcote had grabbed hold of Therion's wrist and tugged dismissively at the fool's bracelet as if to remind him of his station.

'Like to see you try.' The thief sniped. 'Just tell me where I've got to go next old man - so I can do us all a favour and get out of here.'

'Wellspring.' Heathcote dropped Therion's wrist. 'I received word that the Emerald stone is going up for auction at the black market there.'

'How the hell do you know about the black market?' Therion spluttered.

'None of your business.' Heathcote spat. 'Return when you have the stone.' he added.

As they made their way back down the path to the town below, Ophilia moved to walk in step with Therion who was a short way behind the others, his head bowed and a scowl on his face.

'Alright?' she asked him quietly.

'Not now Ophilia.'

'I know you're angry Therion. You have every right to be. That man treated you appallingly.' She smiled at him tentatively.

'Used to it.' The thief mumbled. 'Just leave me alone.'

'Okay.'

There was silence for a short distance.

'Do you really believe that? What you said to Lady Ravus?' Ophilia sounded sad.

'Oh, by the God's. What part of 'leave me alone' did you not understand your Holiness?' Therion scowled.

'Sorry. But Therion really? Is that how you feel?'

'Feel? What?'

'That everyone will betray you of course.' The Cleric replied.

Therion's scowl deepened. 'It's the truth, and the sooner that girl learns it the better. Trusting in people is for fools and imbeciles.' he replied harshly.

'That's a very tough way to look at the world Therion.' She said mildly

Therion gave Ophilia a hard look. 'I suppose you think that I should trust you don't you.' He sneered.

Ophilia looked startled. 'I've never asked for or expected your trust Therion.' Her voice was almost a whisper. 'But I would never betray you, or anyone knowingly.' She added.

Therion was silent. He kicked at the pavement as he walked and started rubbing at his chest as if it itched him. He started to speak, then closed his mouth.

'You can say whatever you need to.' Ophilia prompted gently.

Oh is that so, your Holiness?' sarcasm dripped from every word.

'Always.' She promised.

'Well okay then. You want to know what I think?' he shook his head angrily then fell silent again.

'Please?'

Therion looked up and his face was a mask.

'You think it's okay to ask someone for friendship, knowing full well that you're intending to just give up and Martyr yourself without any kind of fight and hurt the people that you made care about you?' He chuckled humourlessly. 'Well, I think that is a perfect definition of betrayal personally.'

Ophilia went white. 'How do you know about the vision?' she asked breathlessly.

'Certainly not from you - and that's another point I reckon.' Therion turned his face away from her. 'Forget your lectures, Ophilia. You proved me right. I didn't expect anything less though so it hardly changes anything.'

'Yes. You are right.' Ophilia said. 'I have also been considering the same lately. Thank you for your honesty Therion.' She slowed her step so that she fell behind away from his side.

Once they reached the town, the crowds and the noise grew. It did not take them long to find the others - H'aanit immediately spotted Olberic towering a head above most of the crowd and waved to him enthusiastically.

'All done?' Primrose asked when they got together.

'Indeed, Cyrus beamed. 'And Therion's next stop is Wellspring as well Olberic, a happy coincidence to my mind.'

'I got a letter from my Da.' Tressa was beaming happily. 'The Kindling trinkets I ordered are being sent to Quarrycrest - so we will be all ready for when we get to Saintsbridge, Ophilia.' Tressa suddenly looked puzzled. 'Where's Ophilia?' she asked.

Everyone looked around.

Ophilia was nowhere to be seen.

Chapter Text

Ophilia had fallen behind her companions as they continued on their way to the market, shamed by Therion's words and anxious about how to resolve the mess she'd made of everything. 

She had been struggling with how to bring up the whole vision thing with her friends - ever since her conversation with Susanna.  At the time she had gloomily told the Seer and Alaic that she had no reason to care what happened to her once her duty was done - but afterwards she realised that actually she did.  She had lately been finding herself astonished and touched by all of her companion's affection and friendship and she really wanted to help them complete their own quests.

It had to have been Susanna that had told them about her father's vision.  Ophilia shook her head sadly.  'What must they be thinking of me.'  she mused.  Well Therion had succinctly pointed out the answer to that. 

With a heavy sigh, Ophilia reached to her side and unhooked the strap that secured Aelfric's Lantern to her pack - bringing the vessel forward and removing it's cover so that she could stare at the ember as she often did when her courage deserted her or she needed reassurance.

'Oh!'  she exclaimed, literally stopping dead in her sudden surprise.  The normally gentle blue flame was roaring in its glass casing - intense and almost violet in colour.

'By the God's woman,  cover it up!'  a low voice came out of nowhere and a hand grabbed onto her arm, pulling her away from the road.

~0~

'Well.. where was the last place you saw her?  Actually saw her?'  Olberic was asking tensely, his eyes scanning over the crowded streets.

'She was walking with Therion as we were coming down from the Ravus Manse.'  Cyrus's tone was calm and unflustered.  He too was scrutinising the area closely.

Therion was frozen, his face whiter than his hair.

'Should we spliteth up and search?'  H'aanit said.  'I am not sure that Linde wilst be able to get a scent in such a busy place, but we can try.'

'It's my fault.'  Therion blurted unexpectedly.  'I accused her of betrayal.'

Primrose was suddenly on him, grabbing him by the shoulders and literally shaking him.  'You did what?' she demanded fiercely.

Everyone stopped.  All eyes were on Therion.

'Hey!'  Alfyn gently prised Primrose's hands off the thief and moved protectively in front of him.  'Let's keep our head's Prim.'  She sniffed loudly but moved a step or two back.

Alf put a hand on Therion's shoulder.  'What happened bud?'  he asked softly.

'She was being bloody irritating is what.'  Therion's face was blank.  'I told her making people care when she was hell-bent on being a martyr was ...'  he fell silent and his shoulders slumped.

'You think she took off?'  Tressa said quietly.

'If she has, we ain't gonna find her easy.'  Alfyn looked grim.  'She knows where we are - in her head.  Easy to avoid us if she wants to.'

'I really don't think she would do that.'  Cyrus said thoughtfully.  He went to the other side of the thief and rested a hand on his other shoulder.  'Therion - what did she do, after you'd said your piece?'

Therion looked up at Cyrus.  'Thanked me for my honesty.'  He replied bitterly.  'Said I was right.  Something about her thinking the same way.  Then she kind of dropped back behind me.  I was too angry to even look back or check she was okay.'

'Can you show us where we were when she dropped back?'  Cyrus squeezed Therion's shoulder encouragingly.  The thief nodded.

'Okay.'  Cyrus looked up at the others. 'There is only one gate out of town, I propose two of us cover that - Primrose and Olberic if you will?  Alfyn, Tressa.. start asking around but stay together.  H'aanit - come with Therion and I - and we will see if we can pick up her scent or find any sort of clue as to what might have happened.' 

'You're mighty calm Cyrus, if you don’t mind me saying.'  Alf noted.

'You want me to start raining fire and ice down on the town?'  Cyrus's face clouded and suddenly the strain was a lot more obvious.  He shook his head and pulled his focus carefully back again. 'If any of us find her - send up a magic bolt.  Send up two if you need assistance.' 

'Wait!'  H'aanit stepped forward.  'Linde just giveth me this.'  The Huntress had a small roll of paper in her hand.  'It sayeth to go to the tavern 'The Red Gryphon' by the gates of the town and to seeketh a private dining room.  It is signeth 'Al'.  That ist what Ophilia doth call Alaic I believe.'

Olberic grabbed the note and read it through then passed it onto Cyrus.

'Should we do what the message asks?'  he asked.

'We can get the room ordered and just a couple of us wait.'  Primrose said, her face still angry.  'I don’t like the idea of abandoning our own search, we have no idea who this is actually from or how Linde got it.'

'Right.'  Cyrus was rubbing his chin thoughtfully.   'I think we three should go ahead as planned and try and pick up Ophilia's trail.  The rest of you get the room as the note requests and cover observance of the gates.'  Cyrus and Alfyn were still propping up Therion who looked as if he might fall if they let go of him.  'Alright lad?'  Cyrus asked him gently.  'You ready to move out?'

Therion nodded wordlessly.  Alfyn gave the thief a quick hug then joined the others who turned to make their way to the tavern.

Therion led Cyrus, Linde and H'aanit back they way they had come.  After a few minutes he eventually told them to stop.

'It was somewhere here.'  The thief started to look around, animated for the first time.  'I can get to the roof-tops,'  he added 'Have a better look round.' - without waiting for a reply he had scaled the side of the building next to him as easy as if he were climbing a ladder and disappeared from view, scrabbling sure-footed over the tiles.

'Wait?'  Cyrus murmured pointlessly, then turned to H'aanit.  'Linde?' he asked.

H'aanit got down on her knees in front of the snow leopard. 

'Where is Ophilia, Linde?  Canst thou find Ophilia?'  Linde looked back at H'aanit with interest in her liquid eyes.  The cat started to snuffle at the ground, then in the air.  She moved a few paces around in almost a circle, then started to saunter off to back down the road they had just come.

Cyrus looked upwards to see if he could spot Therion but there was no sign.  H'aanit followed the cat as she moved carefully forward.  Eventually Linde moved off the path and started prowling into a back street that was lined by what looked like home dwellings.

Cyrus's face was still in the air and he had a deeply concentrated frown, his eyes almost closed as if blocking out as many stimuli as he could.  He moved further away from H'aanit and Linde, in almost the opposite direction, one hand up - his elegant fingers looking like they were tasting the air around him.

'Nothing.'  Therion suddenly dropped out of nowhere behind the Professor.   The Scholar's hand raised to quiet the thief who fell in beside him - alert.  After a few minutes of slowly moving forward Cyrus stopped and fully opened his eyes.  The strained look remained on his face.

'I sense some sort of dark magic.'  Cyrus murmured to the Thief.  'It's very faint but it is spread over a large area here.  It tingles.'

'Ho!'  H'aanit was calling, trying to get the men's attention from a way down the path.  She was indicating the back street and motioning them to follow.

Cyrus and Therion jogged up to the Huntress.

'Linde hath tracked the scent to here, but seemeth confused now.'  H'aanit walked her companions down the narrow passage.  Seemingly out of nowhere a figure was suddenly stood directly in their path.

'For the love of the Gods.  Will you get away from here.'  Heathcote hissed under his breath.  'Your friend is safe, but your putting her at risk with your nosing around.  Get to the tavern as you were told will you.'  The old man pushed past the others as if they had simply been standing in his way and moved off up the street muttering to himself.

Therion was scowling.  'What now?' he asked, exasperated.

'I think we get to the tavern.'  Cyrus replied unhappily.

'The Red Gryphon'  was situated literally just inside the town gates, and the room that the companions had been able to hire afforded a view that allowed them to observe all of the coming's and going's without having to loiter outside.  When Cyrus and the others arrived, there was already food on the table that had been barely touched and an anxious atmosphere settled over the room like a cloud.

'Any news?'  Alfyn probed when they first came in. 

'Found a hint of black magic resonance in the air near where Ophilia was last seen, and Linde followed a trail to a side street not far off the main path.'  Cyrus filled them in as he moved to the window to look out at the gate.  'Then the old Butler from the Ravus estate showed up and told us to get ourselves here, that Ophilia was safe but we were risking her safety by prying.'  The scholar banged his fist on the wall by the window in sheer frustration.  'I have no idea in the slightest what is going on - or if we are doing the right thing.'  He added helplessly.

'He ain't no butler.'  Therion growled as he flung himself down on the bench at the table and put his head down on his arms.  Alfyn took a seat next to him, rubbing his back consolingly. 

'He is not simply a butler.'  Alaic said, suddenly appearing through a wooden panel at the back of the room that had swung open silently.

Olberic was immediately on his feet, his sword in hand and at the man's chest in one sweeping movement.

'Peace, Sir Olberic.'  Alaic said respectfully putting his hands out carefully in front of him.  Olberic stepped back slightly but kept his sword raised and ready.

'What are thou doing here Alaic?'  H'aanit challenged, her tone stiff.

'Susanna charged me with following you.'  Alaic replied.

Silence.  Alaic sighed.  'I can tell you very little.  Susanna's secrets are her own.  Suffice it to say that what she did tell you - about how patterns appear over time seems to be borne out and she wanted further information as to your journey.'

'I'm sorry.'  Therion looked up.  'I am pretty sure that I would have known if we were being followed.  If not me, Cyrus, H'aanit, Olberic.. not an easy crowd to mislead...'

'Indeed.'  Alaic smiled his slight half smile.  'May I sit?'  he asked formally of Olberic.  Olberic still looked troubled but inclined his head just a little.

'You know where Ophilia is?'  Cyrus asked in a deceptively mild tone while opening and clenching his fist tensely.

'I do.  And I will be taking her to safety as soon as we are done here.'  The man replied solemnly.

'I think we are quite capable of looking after our own.'  Primrose was scowling fiercely at him.

'Really?'  Alaic quirked an eyebrow at the dancer.  'That's why she was all alone in the street, gawping at her ember's rather obvious response to the magic that had been cast somewhere close by?'

There was a stony silence.

'Look.'  Alaic shrugged.  'I don't know if anything that happened out there was directed at her, but I'm not taking any chances. I got her off the street as quick as I could.  In response to you Master Thief, I was able to follow you because I was exceptionally skilled at my former profession.  And the same skills will be used to remove Ophilia from this town safely.  It would do appearances well to see you all leave without her too.'

'What profession wouldst that be Alaic?'  H'aanit asked curiously.

He looked at her, his eyes veiled. Finally he looked away.  'This at least I can tell you.  As a gesture of good faith.'  He murmured.

'Some good faith might go a way to allaying our fears.'  Cyrus agreed.

Alaic drew himself up defensively.  'I was an assassin.'  He said simply.  More than one weapon was instantly unsheathed and Alfyn swore colourfully.

Alaic raised his hands again.  'Peace!'  he repeated.

'I would say you have approximately one minute to explain yourself.'  Primrose said - the menace literally dripping from her words.

'In point of fact I was the assassin who was given the contract on Susanna.'  Alaic continued.  'When Z'aanta foiled my attempted kill so completely I was bound to take my own life rather than face capture.  Indeed my mission was such a thorough failure that I was relieved by the requirement rather than having to face my masters.  Do not mistake me.  I was the best at my trade.  But Z'aanta...'  Alaic shook his head.

'So you failed to take your own life too then.'  Therion said sarcastically.

'Susanna had use of me.'  Alaic shrugged.  'She wanted the information that I carried on our organisation and on her own contract so she stabilized my condition then took me to Flamesgrace, where Archbishop Josef saved my life.'  Alaic looked up and met the gaze of every set of eyes that were fixed on him.  'He saved my life physically, that is.  It was Ophilia that saved my soul,  at barely ten years old she took me apart like I was  a broken toy and reassembled me as something more than I had ever been before.'  He flashed his half smile.'   So much so that I not only got a second chance - but I have been able to work for Susanna and her associates in their endeavours and gain purpose.  Make a difference.  I swear to you that Ophilia will be safe in my care.  As long as she doesn’t sing....'   he chuckled suddenly and his whole face changed.

'Are you taking her to Saintsbridge then?'  Cyrus asked into the silence that followed.  Alaic looked surprised. 

'Oh.  No.  I'm taking her to Odette.  You can meet up with her there.  We will leave the town via a smugglers route and I have a horse arranged to speed our travel.  Heathcote seems to believe that the threat here will not follow you onwards, but honestly that man keeps his council close to his chest.  If Susanna did not trust him so completely I would doubt him - but her respect for him is unwavering.  They have been accomplices in their pursuit for many years.  I believe it was she that got him his placement with the Ravus family, although I know that he also worked for your King in Hornburg at some time.'  Alaic nodded at Olberic.

'I've not seen him and the name means nothing.'  The Knight said, surprised.

'I urge you to get yourself to Quarrycrest as soon as you can.  It may be that Odette will fill you in on more than I have been able too - or maybe not.  I do know that she will take over from Susanna when the time comes - so I expect there are few questions she could not answer if she chooses too.'

Cyrus was looking very thoughtful.  'Yes.  He agreed 'We will make our way there with the greatest of haste.'

It took two days to get to Quarrycrest.  The roads to the mining town were all busy and bustling with workers and trading carts so the companions were not held up by any encounters with random beast or monster and the prospect of regaining their Cleric hurried their passage as well.

Despite the late hour that they arrived in the town it was decided that Cyrus would go straight to Odette's home to reassure of Ophilia's safe passage, and so that he could get some measure of his mentor's involvement in Susanna's scheme. 

'She will more likely speak to me if we are alone.'  Cyrus told his friends.  'Of course, I will make sure that whatever is disclosed will be shared by her to the rest of you too.  I will need to work on that though.'  He added thoughtfully.

 Olberic and Therion walked with Cyrus, following the direction in the letter that Odette has sent him to get to her home.  At the door, Cyrus knocked loudly.  There was some cursing, a loud thump and some more cursing before the door was opened just a crack and a mature woman wearing spectacles peered out at them.  Seeing Cyrus, the door slammed shut.

'Okay?'  Therion said, bemused.

The door opened again and the whole woman pushed out through the gap this time.

'Well,'  she said in a confident and precise voice.  'It can't possibly be Cyrus Albright come knocking on a woman's door at this sort of late hour.  No, he has far more manners than that.'

Olberic had pushed his way forward.  'Just tell us that Ophilia is here and is well, and we will be on our way.'  He said urgently.

'Steady your horses, Sir Eisenberg.'  The woman grinned tightly up at him.  'Your little package arrived safe and sound yesterday.  She is abed.  I will not have her disturbed.'

'We will be back in the morning.'  Olberic bowed slightly at the waist, then looked a bit surprised at his own behaviour.  He put a hand on Therion's shoulder and led him away.

'Not going too?'  Odette's smile grew as she took a long look at her former student.

'I think we need to talk.'  Cyrus said coolly, pushing his way past her into her house.

'Manner's boy!'  the older woman was still smiling.

As soon as he got inside, Cyrus looked around taking note of his bearings. 'Ophilia?'  he shouted. 'Are you here?'

He heard a thud and footsteps running down the hall above his head.

'Bloody hell Albright - what did I tell you?'  Odette's smile turned to a frown as she closed the front door.

Ophilia came bounding down the stairs in bare feet and nightdress.  She stopped dead a few steps up as she saw Cyrus.  She blushed red and her eyes lowered to the floor.

'Professor.'  She said a little breathlessly.

'Huh, well that's not a surprise.'  Odette remarked ironically from the doorway.

Cyrus stopped only long enough to throw the cloak that he had already removed unceremoniously over the back of a chair before he bounded across the distance between them and took Ophilia clean off her feet, hugging her close, her face pressed roughly against the soft brocade of his waistcoat.  He kissed the top of her head burying his face into her hair.

'But that is a surprise.'  Odette mused.

'Oh Ophilia, I was so worried.'  Cyrus whispered hoarsely before setting her gently on her feet and bringing his hand to her face to tilt it up so he could look into her eyes, his thumb caressing her cheek.  'Are you well dearest?'

She smiled up at him and nodded.

'Ahem.'  Odette interjected after a few moments of silence had passed.  'Get yourself back to bed Ophilia, you will catch your death standing around like that.'

'Yes Ma'am.'  Ophilia agreed obediently not actually moving.

'Ophilia!'  Odette repeated.

Cyrus pulled the Cleric back into a hug.  'You had best go dearheart.'  He murmured to her. 'Odette can be terribly cranky when she doesn’t get her way.'  He stroked her hair and let her go.  With a last smile at him Ophilia turned and scurried back up the stairs.  Cyrus steeled himself and turned to face his mentor.  'What?'  he asked tetchily at her raised eyebrow.

'Cyrus, are you dallying with a member of the Clergy?'  Her lips quirked into an amused smile.  'Must be a bit of a comedown after a Princess though I suppose.'  She went over to the fire and poured some tea.

Cyrus's face had turned red, although whether it was anger or embarrassment he wasn't sure.

'I am not dallying Odette, with either a Cleric or a Princess, and I think you know me better than...'

'It sure looked like dallying to me boy.'  Odette thumped a mug in front of the Scholar where he had seated himself at her table.

'I can assure you that...'

'You aren’t in love with the girl surely Cyrus?  I suppose she is pretty enough, but all the same... you're not exactly the sharpest tool in the box when it comes to the fairer sex.'  Odette was grinning now.

Cyrus opened his mouth to speak.  Then shut it.  His brow furrowed in confusion and he tried again.. 'Well, I mean .. I...my feelings for her... well.. I suppose....'

'Shit on a stick!'  it was Odette's turn to look confused. 'Oh by the God's Cyrus - you are aren't you?  Bloody hell.. well .. this is a fine mess..'

Cyrus settled on angry.  'Quiet honestly Odette, I don’t see that it's any of your business.'  He said firmly.

Odette had fallen silent, stirring her tea absently as she regarded him seriously.  The silence went on for such a long time that eventually Cyrus's anger drained and he looked with genuine concern at his mentor and her pained expression.

'What is it Odette.  What is worrying you so?'  he asked gently.

'So clearly I remember the boy you were Cyrus.'  Odette's eyes were distant. 'Your brilliant mind, your passion and enthusiasm for knowledge and you almost magical ability to reason.  With no formal education, you amazed me when you turned up, breaking into my home to study.  I have never regretted taking you on and sponsoring you boy.  I admit, I am proud of the man you've become and the achievements you have already managed.'

Cyrus was outright worried now.  'Odette, are you ill?'  He asked seriously.

She smirked at him. 'Are you saying I never compliment you enough?' she asked.

'Well, hardly ever to my memory,'  He admitted.

'I guess I am feeling my age.  And tired.'  She pushed her spectacles firmly up her nose and sat up straighter.  'I want you to seriously consider my words now Cyrus.'

He nodded wordlessly.

'I want nothing more than to see you go back to your old life and fulfil your potential as a professor and a scholar.  I want to see you become Headmaster of the University, find a pretty wife, have lots of plump adorable babies and be happy.'

Cyrus looked even more confused.  'Okay.'  He said.

'However if you carry on the way you are heading, I can only fear for you.  For some - the path has already been set.  Your little Cleric for example.  Susanna begged her father not to allow her to become a Cleric, for if she did not - then the vision that he had could never come to pass - she could never have carried the flame.  But Josef is stubborn in his belief and he refused to go against what he believed was Aelfric's will.'

'I see.'  Cyrus still looked confused.

'I do not have the same restrictions on myself.  I do not want you to get involved.  I want you to walk away Cyrus.  Susanna has been following signs and portends for nearly fifty years, I have been dedicated to our cause for the last twenty.  It eats our life, it has brought death and destruction to our ranks and yet still we are no closer to finding the truth of matters.  I do not wish this future for you.

'You are not speaking very plainly Odette.  What is it that you are dedicated too?'  Cyrus asked perplexed.

'Rumours and suppositions, the rise of dark magic and the falling of the church.  I know how much investigation appeals to you Cyrus, but leave it be.  Leave these people that you travel with be.  Remember how hard you have worked to become what and who you are now.  Don't let it go to waste.'

'You have never spoken like this before.'  Cyrus rubbed at his chin.

'I've never had to boy -  have always been able to indulge you and enjoy you.  But I do think I know you and if you have formed an attachment.....  Will you please at least consider my words?'

'Of course I will.'  Cyrus brought up a grin.  'You will be mightily vexed with me if I don’t and I avoid that at all costs.'

'Wise child.'  Odette smiled back.  'So I take it your staying the night?'  she raised an eyebrow. 

'If I may.'  He replied politely.

'Hmm.  Spare room is at the back.  Help yourself.'  She went to make herself another mug of tea.

'Are we done talking?'  Cyrus asked.

'I need to think some more.'  She told him.  'Get yourself some sleep.'

'Still I would like to talk about....'

'Bed Cyrus.'

'Yes Ma'am.'

Cyrus heard Ophilia as soon as he reached the corridor upstairs.  The moaning and thrashing of her nightmare was audible even through the closed door of her room.  Letting himself in quietly, he sat on the edge of her bed in the darkness, her face only dimly visible from the dull glow of the embers of the fire in the fireplace.  He put a hand to her shoulder but it did not ease her fears. 

'You are going to cause me so much trouble if Odette catches me.' He whispered into the silence removing his boots and his waistcoat, then laying down and gathering her to him as he has seen H'aanit do numerous times on their travels.  She snuggled reflexively into him and after a few minutes her moaning ceased and she slept easy.

'I can't help but think it's worth her ire though.' He decided with a smile as he closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Text

When Cyrus woke in the morning he was momentarily confused.  He was laying on his back, his left arm wrapped tight around something soft - the whole length of his body deliciously warm.  Suddenly memory flooded back.  It was Ophilia cuddled up by his side, her head resting against his chest and her hand placed lightly over his heart as if measuring it's beat.  At some stage during the night it appeared she had covered them both in her blanket.

'Are you awake?'  the Cleric murmured quietly.

'I think I may still be dreaming.'  Cyrus whispered, bringing his right hand up to cover the tiny one on his chest.

There was a small snort of amusement and a delicate dig in his ribs.  'Flatterer!'  She accused good naturedly.  'But I do thank you for your care Cyrus ..'  She added softly  '.. I must assume I have been having nightmares again.  I think I scared Odette on my first night here - she kept coming to wake me up and ask if anything was wrong.'

'It's been a while since you have been so harshly afflicted, dearheart.'  He agreed gently.  'Is there something bothering you?'

Ophilia considered his question.  'I think it's mainly the shock of being torn away from you all so suddenly.'  She replied. 'I said to Olberic only recently that it is quite impossible to be afraid with you all around.  I have perhaps become complacent in that lack of fear.'

She felt his arm tighten around her and a soft caress on the hand that he was holding.  She nuzzled her face into his side and they lay quietly together for a few serene moments.

'I also need to apologise Cyrus.'  Ophilia raised herself up slightly so that she could look at him.  Her face was serious and a tiny frown creased her brow.

'Apologise for what dearest?'  The scholar asked with obvious confusion.

 'Therion pointed out that because of my deep regard for you - all of you - affections have arisen that I have no right to expect,  given my situation.' The Cleric's words were impassioned.  'In truth, since our visit with Susanna, I have been troubled by this very thing and I need to make it right somehow.'

'No!'  Cyrus said firmly, gripping her hand tighter.  'Oh, sweetheart - please believe me when I say that all of the feelings I have for you are of my own - none were ever coerced. There is no need to apologise Ophilia.  Not ever.  Indeed, my fond regard can be traced right back to our very first meeting in Atlasdam when..'

There was an unexpectedly loud bang on the bedroom door.

'Will you two quit your damned smooching and get up already!'  Odette called tetchily from the hallway. 

'Oh crap.'  Cyrus muttered closing his eyes for a moment.  Irritation turned to rebellion and he sat up, glaring at the closed door.  'I am a grown man, Odette..' He called loudly to his mentor.  '.. If I wish to smooch -  then so help me - I will smooch..'

'I'll have less of your sass Albright. Just get yourself downstairs - NOW!'  They both heard an amused chuckle as she walked away.

'I am in so much trouble..'  Cyrus shook his head as he gently disengaged himself from Ophilia and swung his legs out of the bed to sit on its edge.  The Cleric gave him a consoling pat on the shoulder then noticing the ribbon that had fallen from his hair onto the pillow, she picked it up and knelt behind him - gathering his loose locks back into their customary tail and binding it neatly in a bow.  He turned to face her - completely catching her by surprise and he swiftly cupped her face with his hands.

'I guess, since I am going to face the punishment anyway, it's only fair I actually get to commit the crime..'  He declared with a reckless grin, then his expression softened as he met her startled gaze. 'That is.. If I may, dearest..' He added softly, noting the slight tremble in her shoulders.

She blushed at his request but quickly nodded her permission.

With a brilliant smile, he trailed his fingers slowly down to her chin, tilting her face upwards gently.  'As I was trying to tell you before Odette so rudely interrupted..'  He breathed.  'I do not wish for you to ever doubt or misunderstand the depth of my feelings for you Ophilia, for I have no doubt in them whatsoever.  I truly..'

The floor underfoot shuddered under a huge thump.  They sprang apart in surprised alarm.

'Damn Odette!'  Cyrus swore. 'I think she just hit the ceiling with her broom, bloody woman!' 

Ophilia couldn’t help but start to giggle.  She patted Cyrus's cheek, then sighed comically and stood to retrieve his waistcoat and help him shrug into it.  He pulled on his boots without waiting to lace them.

As he made for the door, Ophilia sat back down on the bed still smiling.  'Cyrus.'  She called just as he was disappearing.  'You now owe me a kiss.  I'm not going to forget..'

He turned back, heat colouring his cheeks, eyes burning intensely as he looked at her.  Indecision raged - his feet began to move of their own accord towards her, drawn like a moth to a flame.

The floor banged a second, louder time.

'Goddamn it Odette...'  He cursed, stamping his own foot down in a petulant reply to her summons.  With a rather frustrated and apologetic glance at Ophilia, he bounded out the door before he could change his mind again.

When Ophilia had finally readied herself and made her own way downstairs, Cyrus was sat at the large kitchen table, book in hand - conspicuously ignoring Odette who was grinning in obvious enjoyment at his discomfort.

'Well Ophilia,'  Odette swung her attention to the Cleric.  'Do you have anything to say?'

'Yes indeed Mistress Odette.'  Ophilia smiled calmly at the older woman.  'I do hope that your sleep was much better than the previous night's restlessness.  I can only apologise that my night-fears caused such worry.  Thankfully Cyrus has had experience on the road in dealing with my problem and was kind enough to take it in hand last night.'  She went to the scholar and touched his shoulder.  'Thank you Professor.'  She said winsomely. 'I was much in need of a relaxed night's sleep as I'm sure Mistress Odette was too.'

'You are most welcome Sister.  I am glad that I was able to help ease your trouble.'  Cyrus looked up from his book with a grin for her.  'Ahh..'  he added noting the simple skirt and blouse that the Cleric wore instead of her usual robes - her hair pulled tight in a bun at the back of her head. 'Are you in disguise dearheart?  You look as lovely as ever of course.'

'I have been dressed thus since Alaic was kind enough to extract me from Bolderfall.'  Ophilia nodded.  She looked over at Odette.  'May I make breakfast for us all Mistress Odette,'  She asked politely.

'Eh, go ahead girl.  And don't think I believed your pretty words one bit either!'  Susanna warned me about you!  Who would have believed Josef could raise such a naughty child!'

'Odette!'  Cyrus objected.

Ophilia was laughing.  'Oh yes - my poor father!  I must have been such a trial to him, it's true!'  She admitted genially as she set about putting water on to boil.

It was not long after they had finished eating that the door to Odette's home knocked.  Ophilia was straight to her feet - beaming excitedly, but she restrained herself as Cyrus went to admit their friends.

Olberic was in first.  He scooped up Ophilia, planting a kiss on her head and squeezing her till she thought she might pass out, break a rib or maybe both.  H'aanit was next and between her and Linde, Ophilia was again almost broken in two.  Laughing she begged Tressa to be gentle but even her hug was so energetic that the merchants cap came clean off and got trampled by Linde who was still trying to get as close to the Cleric as she could.  Primrose's enthusiastic kiss caused blushes from both Olberic and Alfyn who'd followed in behind Primrose, patiently waiting his turn.  As Primrose released her,  Ophilia tried to hide behind the girl shrieking in mock alarm at the glint in Alfyn's eyes. 

'Sorry darling.'  Primrose told her.  'You're only delaying the inevitable.'  She moved gracefully out the way so that Alfyn could catch his prey with a loud whoop and who then spent an embarrassing amount of time kissing her thoroughly all the while punctuating it with telling her off.

'Help?'   Ophilia appealed to everyone.

'Fraid not.'  Primrose smirked 'Alfyn is under orders to muss you until you finally accept that we all love you.  The boy is obviously suffering for his art.'  She added with a grin.

'I think I just puked a bit in my mouth.'  Odette observed sourly to no one in particular.

Ophilia finally admitted defeat.  She looked over the crowded room for Therion but there was no sign of the thief.  Alfyn saw her look and whispered.  'He took you going missing pretty hard Li, especially after what he'd said to you.  Give him some time eh?'  She nodded sadly - reaching out instinctively to feel for the signature of her absent friend in her mind.  He wasn’t all that far away, but he wasn’t coming any closer either.

'Well then - if you have all quite finished manhandling the Flamebearer I think it's time we had a little chat.'  Odette pushed her glasses up to the bridge of her nose and glowered at the companions.

'Sorry.'  Tressa said sounding anything but.  'But I gotta get to market.  My trinkets are here Ophilia!'  she grinned at the Cleric who clapped her hands excitedly.  'I will probably keep a box or two but arrange the bulk to be delivered to Saintsbridge.  Unless we want to travel with a horse and cart of course?'  She looked enquiringly at Olberic.

Olberic looked at the others.  'Might not be a bad idea to masquerade as a merchant caravan.  If plans are afoot to stop Ophilia from completing the Kindling, there has to be greater danger the closer we get to Saintsbridge.  Aside from a visit to Alf's home - that is our next destination.'

'I don’t think anyone with a set of eyes would mistake a man of your fine physique as anything but a warrior.'  Odette winked at Olberic and reached out to pat his muscled arm.

'Oh!.. well.. of course I would be the hired guard... a suitable role.'  Olberic blushed, making the older Scholar chuckle happily.

'I think it's a good scheme.'  Cyrus added thoughtfully.  'How long do you think it would take to get what we need in order Tressa?'

'Probably no more than a couple of days.  We have plenty of leaf still available courtesy of our victorious champion of the arena - so the cost isn’t going to be a problem.'  Tressa grinned.  'You can all be my apprentices.  Reckon I'll enjoy lecturing you for a change Prof!'  She punched at his arm playfully.

'Oh!  I gladly look forward to learning from you Tressa!'  Cyrus beamed.  'Your skill is quite prodigious after all.'

'A word to the wise little Merchant.'  Odette sat forward seriously.  'While in town be wary of our self proclaimed 'Mayor' - goes by the name of Morlock.  I've been hearing reports of bullying tactics towards the miners and merchants in town.  Unfortunately I have been rather busy of late with my other concerns so town business has fallen under my notice somewhat.'  She looked a bit angry at herself.  'If you do have any run in with this man I would appreciate a full report.'  She added.

'Hey, no problem.'  Tressa agreed easily.

'I will keep my ear to the ground for ya' as well Mistress Odette.'  Alfyn grinned at her.  'I noticed a number of the miner's have the cough.  I'm planning to head into town and see if I can't help em out with that.  If I hear anything I'll report in too.'

'Well and good.  My thanks the both of you.'  Odette looked surprised.

'If you wouldn’t mind..'  Alfyn added.  'Therion's been busy drawing the local plants we encountered on our way here for my book.  There's a few I ain't familiar with.  Would you mind taking a look and seeing if you know anything about any of 'em ?'

'Well I can't pretend I am any sort of botanical expert, but I do know a thing or two.  Leave your drawings with me and I will take a look.'  Odette seemed to be becoming thoroughly enchanted.  She smiled at the apothecary.

'Aww shucks, you Scholars are great y'know.'  Alfyn beamed.

'I too hath business this morning.'  H'aanit winked at Ophilia.  'Alaic hath asked to join me in a hunt before he doth fade back into the background.'

'I need details!'  Ophilia declared, huddling with H'aanit and Primrose - their whispered conversation punctuated with a number of giggles and blushes.

'So is anyone actually staying to hear what I have to say?'  Odette was looking a bit overwhelmed.

'Well, I will of course my dear!'  Cyrus reassured her.  'Ophilia will you be attending with Alfyn?'

The Cleric looked quizzically at the Apothecary.

'Always welcome Li, but I can just grab you if something complex comes up.  Was gonna make up some mixture before I set out so we can do that together now if you like.'

'Can we borrow your kitchen Mistress Odette?'  Ophilia asked.

The woman waved her hand.

'Err.  I don't have anything pressing to attend too.'  Olberic admitted.  'I would be happy to speak with you Mistress.'

H'aanit set out first, when Alaic called, then Tressa, accompanied by Primrose left for the Market.  Cyrus and Olberic sat at the table with Odette, whilst Alfyn gave tuition in the compound he was preparing to Ophilia.

'Therion's waiting for me.'  Alf told the Cleric, once his lesson was over and they had begun grinding up ingredients.

'Will you tell him I am truly sorry?'  Ophilia asked with a sigh.

'Don't figure you really got anything to be sorry about.'  Alf replied seriously.  'I mean we were all a bit upset that you didn’t realise that we care, but it's not like you was trying to hurt our feelings.  Your just a bit dense is all!'

'Thanks for that!'  Ophilia grinned at her friend.

~0~

Tressa's first port of call after Odette's house was the merchant that was storing the delivery of her trinkets.  She took possession a box of both her wooden and her jewelled merchandise, a letter from home and intriguingly a letter in her father's hand addressed to Therion.  She burned to know what it contained - but unlike the thief himself she had morals about nosing into people's private stuff.

By mid-morning, they had secured the sale of a cart that was big enough for the stock Tressa had stored.  It was going to be the horse that presented the challenge.  

'Maybe we could get H'aanit to ask if Alaic knows anyone.'  Primrose suggested, when the last suggested merchant on their short list had told them it would take at least five days to get in what they needed.

'Yeah, perhaps.'  Tressa looked doubtful.

'EUUURRREEKKAAAAAAAAAAAAA'  a sudden shout went up out of nowhere. 

People started to mill round excitedly.

'Eh?  What's going on?'  Tressa asked a passer-by.

'Gold!'  the man said excitedly.  'Someone found some gold!'

Tressa and Primrose exchanged a look and both started to follow after the mass of people that had suddenly appeared.  By the time they reached the top of the mine, a large crowd had already gathered.

The happy miner was deep in conversation with a rotund man who was pumping his hand enthusiastically.  A second man, much larger and heavy with muscle was scowling at the crowd.

'Just remember that Mr Morlock owns not only all of the land hereabouts but also the mine in which you labour.'  The large man rumbled, as some people tried to push their way past him to see the nugget that the miner had brought up.  'Luckily for you, Mr Morlock is a kind man - who is more than willing to compensate generously anyone who finds gold or gems on his property.  But make no mistake - it is just his kindness that affords you this.'

'Let us see what's been found!'  one of the men in the crowd was begging.

'Stay back!'  there was an air of menace about the large man - like he could erupt into violence at any time.

'Reckon them two must be who Odette was talking about.'  Tressa said with a scowl to Primrose.

'Would seem to be.'  Primrose agreed.

The ladies had managed to edge their way to the front of the crowd, right up close to where the business negotiation was happening.

'Wow!'  Tressa breathed quietly.  'That Morlock bloke really underpaid for a nugget of that size.  You reckon he really does own the land?'

'Whether he does or not, this is probably just the kind of thing Odette was looking to hear about.  We should pop back and have a quick word.'  Primrose took Tressa's arm and started to lead her away. 

They hadn’t got very far when they were stopped by a man in ragged clothes with a pick and a heavy sack slung across his shoulder.

'Did you ladies happen to see what occurred just now?' he asked then politely.

'One of the miners found gold.'  Tressa told him.

'Ah.'  The man got a rather far-away look in his eyes. 'I suppose it's nice to know that there is actually some here to be had.  I confess, when I started out in my venture, I was sure I would be making my fortune.  As you can probably see - that has yet to happen.  All I seem to be able to find is rocks.'  He sighed heavily.

'Well, let's have a look at 'em.'  Tressa said kindly.  'I'm a merchant.  You never know - I might be interested.'

'I doubt it Miss.'  The man smiled sadly. 'They really are just rocks.'  None the less he opened his sack and poured a handful of stones out onto the floor at the Merchant's feet.

'Hmm.'  Tressa picked one of the muddy lumps up and weighed it in her hand speculatively.  'It's really quite light for its size you know.'  Her enthusiasm took an adrenaline spike.  'I think I would like to buy them off of you - if they are for sale that is sir.'  She told him.

'Really?  No Miss.  I would feel bad taking leaf off you for a pile of rubbish.  Surely you don't really want to purchase them?'

'I have a Merchants intuition Sir, and I always follow where it leads me!'  she said cheerfully.  'What do you want for them?'  she asked.

They quickly settled on a price.

'Thanks.'  The man said beaming.  'If you want any more just look me up.  I know exactly where to find them!'

'Will do!'  Tressa smiled as she packed her purchase back into the sack.

'Really?'  Primrose asked with a smirk, when the man had moved on.  'Did you really just buy a pile of crap?'

'I just got a feeling Prim.'  The girl replied, taking out a rag from her pack and giving one of the stone's a good wipe.   She continued to pay attention to it as they walked on.

'Heeeey.. Princess, wait up!  Yeah you!'  an unknown voice called out behind the ladies suddenly.  Both turned round.  A young man dressed rather a bit too  colourfully, rushed up to them and skidded to a halt in front of Tressa.

'Hey there!'  he said giving her an open lopsided grin.

'Er, hi?' Tressa looked confused.

'I hear your looking for an animal to pull a cart!'  the lad's grinned brighter still.

'We are.'  Tressa said cautiously.  'You know where we could find one?'

'As it happens - I am just the man for the job.  Names Ali.'  The boy extended a hand and shook Tressa's vigorously .

'So are you a livestock trader Mr Ali?'  Tressa asked dubiously looking him up and down.

'Not specifically Princess, and please it's just Ali to you lovely ladies.  I am a travelling merchant, but I do have word on a beast that will most definitely meet your requirements.  I would be happy to broker a trade for you!'  he bowed slightly, his dark hair flopping forward.

'Hmm.'  Tressa still looked unsure.  'What manner of beast are you proposing Mr Ali?  And my name is Tressa, not Princess.'  She added firmly.

'Finest pony you ever did see.  I can have her ready for you two days hence, harness and feed included.  The lad noticed the rock that Tressa was still carrying and he raised an eyebrow.

'Ho!'  he exclaimed.  'You a trader too then?'  He took in her hat and her backpack on his second glance.  'Strike me down - so you are!'  he answered his own question.  'In that case Princess, let me offer you a word as goodwill, to secure your faith in me so we might negotiate!'

'I'm listening.'  Tressa frowned at the continued use of princess, but she kept her temper admirably.  She really was interested in the pony.

'That there rock you're polishing away.  You know what that is?'  Ali raised a quizzical eyebrow at her.

Despite not wanting to appear clueless, Tressa had to admit to him that she didn’t.

'Yet you bought it anyway?  You got the eye Princess, and that's no word of a lie!'

'Are you going to tell me what it is or not?'  Tressa's temper was really starting to wear a bit thin.

'They call it a Skystone.  It looks just like a normal rock when its mined but give it a load of elbow grease and boom - you got yourself a really pretty gem.  They aren’t exactly rare - but since you have to know where to find them - they aren’t exactly common either, if you catch my drift.' 

'Hmm.  Well thanks for that.'  Tressa said grudgingly.  'So about this pony.  You got a price in mind?'

The two merchants settled in for an extended haggle session.  They sallied back and forth, both obviously caught up in the game and both enjoying it immensely.  Primrose watched them playing with amusement.  Tressa's eyes were shining brightly and Ali's hands started to fly in a most expressive way.  Eventually they appeared to come to an agreement. 

'So I will see you in two days time Princess.'  Ali grabbed Tressa's hand and before she could whip it away he brought it to his lips and kissed it extravagantly.  'I have had enormous fun.  I look forward to seeing you again.'  He smiled winningly at her sudden blush.

~0~

Once Alfyn had left to meet up with Therion,  Ophilia joined Odette, Cyrus and Olberic at the table where they were deep in discussion.

'There just seems to be such a huge spike in the use of dark magic.'  Odette was saying seriously, a deep frown on her face.

'Hmm.  I do wonder if the book I am looking for might have anything in common with this problem.'  Cyrus stroked his chin, as he always did when deep in thought.  'Have you heard of it Odette?  'From the far reaches of Hell.'  Mercedes said that it went missing fifteen years ago so it would have been in the restricted section of the Library while you were still in residence.'

'I'd heard of it certainly.  Can't say I'd read it.'  Odette also looked thoughtful  'I was spending most of my time back then working alongside Geoffrey Azelhart on his enquiries, and in truth I never had as great an interest as you did in the darker side of magic.  Nor the same level of competence in any kind of magic.'  She tapped her fingertips on the table in front of her.  'It would have gone missing about the same time that the old headmaster died and Yvon took his place.  That being the case it might be worth me having a chat with Gillan.  Remember him?  He's living in the next village along since his retirement.  He was the librarian at the time it would have happened.  If any information is to be forthcoming I reckon it would be from him.'

'Interesting.  If you could my dear, it would be very helpful.' 

'Wonder if you could do a little something for me then.'  Odette peered over the top of her glasses at her former student.'

'Of course Odette!'  Cyrus said immediately.

'The other town business I haven’t got round to dealing with yet.'  The older Scholar sighed. 'Been hearing some reports of people going missing.  Not the migrant workers, it would be impossible to keep track of them - but at least three or four of the actual residents.  Do you think you could have a look into it.  Right up your street Cyrus.'

'Indeed!'  he said enthusiastically.  'I will get on it this very afternoon!  I shall track down the family's and question them rigorously and see where we go from there!'

'Um.. Cyrus..'  Ophilia spoke up gently.  'If you are dealing with the families of missing people it might be wise to be gentle with them.  After all, they will be out of their minds with worry, so it could be hard to get information if they get any more upset.'

Cyrus blinked and thought about it. 'You are right as usual dearheart.'  He agreed, putting an arm round her shoulder.  'Perhaps you would you be willing to come along too?  There is no-one who can match your compassion and kindness after all.'

'Well of course!'  She beamed at him.  'I'm sure that between us we can get some answers.'

Odette was smiling gently at the pair but when Cyrus looked up at her she hastily rearranged her face into a frown.  'I wonder Sir Olberic,'  she turned to the warrior. ..'Would do me the honour of an escort to meet with Gillan, the roads are hardly safe these days.'  She raised a questioning eyebrow at him.

'Oh!.'  The Knight looked a bit lost.  'Well, of course it would be my honour to assist Mistress Odette.' 

'Wonderful!'  Odette grinned at everyone happily. 'Let's have some lunch then and we can all get about our tasks.'

Chapter Text

'This does feel rather odd.'  Ophilia said thoughtfully looking down at her clothing as she and Cyrus made their way down to the town in Quarrycrest.  'Prior to setting out with Alaic, I honestly can't remember the last time I was in public dressed in anything other than my clerical robes.'

'Err, well there was the dancer's outfit dearheart.'  Cyrus felt a traitorous heat flood his veins.

'Well yes - but that wasn’t out in the streets and that was for a specific purpose.'  Ophilia mused.  'Arianna let me keep it.'  She added.  Primrose has offered to teach me to dance, so I thought maybe I could wear it for lessons.'

'Oh!  Well that's um..'

'Some of our friends are coming!'  Ophilia suddenly smiled and moved quickly to the right hand side of the road staring down the next avenue, eyes searching.  Her face lit up and she waved.

'Alfyn... and Therion.'  She told Cyrus happily.

Alfyn came bounding up towards them, a half eaten pie in one hand and a big grin on his face.

'Oh man,' he said through a mouthful of masticated meat.  'This pie is so damn good!'

Therion stopped a few paces behind his companions and focused intently at the patch of ground that he was idly kicking.  He took a quick, furtive glance upwards but seeing Ophilia peering back at him he hurriedly averted his gaze.

'How did your morning go my young friend?'  Cyrus was asking the Apothecary.  'Did you learn anything of interest on your travels?'

'Only that this town is pretty darned weird!' Alfyn shook his head, and popped the rest of his pie into his mouth. 

'Oh really?'  Cyrus looked intrigued.  'What makes you say that?'

Alfyn wiped his mouth on his sleeve.  'Well firstly...' he replied '...We spoke to this guy who had a mighty strange tale to tell.  Said he was out walking with his friend, got distracted for a minute or two talking to someone he knew who was coming out of the Inn - then when he turned back, his friend had disappeared.  Like he just vanished.'

'I see. Very odd.'  Cyrus rubbed his chin thoughtfully. 

'You know what was extra weird? - it was right in the middle of the day it happened - I mean how?  Could it be a spell or something?'  Alfyn looked perplexed.

'Hmm.'  Cyrus pondered. 'I don’t think there are spells that can make another person vanish against their will.  There are some that can make you blend into the background - but that's a whole different thing.'

'That wasn’t the only disappearance either.' Alfyn added his expression turning sad.   'I was asked to take a look at a little kid who was totally in pieces - not eating, drinking or talking.   Turns out his Mam just popped out to get food for them a couple of days ago and never returned.  Tragedy really.' 

'Oh my.'  Ophilia's eyes misted over.  'Could you do anything to help him Alf?'  she asked.

He shook his head.  'Not that would make much difference.'  He admitted unhappily.   'Maybe you could come with me tomorrow when I go back.'

'Of course I will.'  The Cleric promised.

'Also heard some gossip about a young man who went to meet up with his sweetheart.' Alfyn added.  ' Meant to be walking his girl home after she finished work since it was dark.  He was seen arriving to wait for her, then 'poof'  - gone like the others.'  Alfyn looked at his friends quizzically.  'I mean, what the hell right?  It's all just a bit creepy to my mind.'

'And rather interesting too'  Cyrus mused.  'Might be just the kind of  information I was looking for.  Let me think on this for a moment.' 

'Odette asked Cyrus to look into these disappearances.'  Ophilia explained to Alfyn, watching the scholar fondly as he started pacing, absently rubbing at his chin and mumbling to himself under his breath.

'We were heading back to Odette's to report in.'  Alfyn was grinning at Cyrus's deep rumination.  'Guess we don’t need to now!'

'Did you bump into Primrose and Tressa at all?'  Ophilia enquired.  'I was wondering if they had any luck with getting the horse and cart -  they seem to still be in town.'

'Yeah, they got it sorted.'  Alfyn affirmed. 'They were going to head back to Odette's too - tell her about an incident with that Mayor fellow - but then Tressa bought some rocks and bullied us into helping clean them up for her.  Honest word - they sparkle like nothing you've ever seen!  So anyway, she decided to set up shop immediately and get them sold 'cause apparently the bloke she bought 'em off knows where to get more.'

'Odette isn’t home anyway.'  Ophilia laughed.  'She commandeered Olberic to escort her to meet with someone about that book Cyrus is looking for.  Poor Olberic, I don’t think he quite knows what to make of her!'

Alfyn chuckled.  'She's a mighty direct lady that's for sure.  If all Scholar's were like her and our Professor here, I might have wished to get myself a whole lot more book learning than I ever did.'

'Yes, she is simply wonderful.'  Ophilia agreed with a smile.  'She took finding Cyrus and I in bed together exceptionally well I think, all things considered.'

Alfyn choked.  'I beg your pardon!  She found what?'

'Hey!  It was only because I was having nightmares again!'  Ophilia protested, smiling at her friends incredulous expression.  'Oh Alf, get your mind out of the gutter for a change!' she giggled.

'You mean nothing happened? - oh for goodness sake!'  Alfyn shook his head woefully.  'Do we have to physically lock you two in a room together till you finally get yourselves sorted?'

'Oh my, what a shocking suggestion!'  Ophilia smile grew.

'Well Sister,' Alfyn looked at her mischievously  'If the Prof is kicking his heels and you fancy some practise or inspiration in the meantime..'  the lad wiggled his eyebrows suggestively at the Cleric.

'Hey!  Are you hitting on my girl Alfyn?  I'm standing right here you know!'  Cyrus waved an accusing finger at the Apothecary whilst grinning boyishly at the flush that suddenly burned Ophilia's cheeks.  He bounced towards them both, put an arm around each of their shoulders then started to usher them along enthusiastically.  'I think I have an idea.'  He declared - his eyes bright with eagerness.  'I want to go and check out the area around the Inn where the gentleman you spoke of vanished.'

'What are you thinking Prof?'  Alfyn asked - taking a quick look behind to check that Therion was following.

'Hmm, well..It occurs to me that since people are disappearing both in the day and at night and since people generally don’t just vanish into thin air, there is a good chance that they are being kidnapped.  To what purpose who knows - but it does mean there needs to be somewhere fairly close by that the villain can hide his victim or the act would be noticed.  I propose we go and have a good look around and see if we can find any clues.'

'Shucks, Professor - it's just like playing detective.' Alfyn beamed excitedly.

~0~

'So you mean they are always like that?  How on earth do you deal with it Sir Olberic?'  Odette grimaced.

'Don't misunderstand me Odette,'  Olberic frowned. 'Perhaps I do not explain myself well.'  He thought hard about what he wanted to say. 'At all times, every one of my companions has a quite overwhelming capacity for excellence and drive, it's just delivered in a unique way.'

'Well, I don’t doubt that, Sir Knight.'  Odette patted the arm she had taken hold of as the two of them walked the heavily trafficked road just outside of town.  'It's more that everyone scurried off doing their own thing without a thought. Oh, and the completely obnoxious display of affection that oozed out.  A man like you, used to the formal rank and file of military life - it must vex you surely?'

Olberic chuckled. 'Actually, I find it rather liberating.  I certainly haven’t laughed as much in many a year, or had occasion to genuinely feel part of something worthwhile.  In the time since the fall of my Kingdom I freely admit to feeling very little at all, but our crazy band of miscreants?... No, I don’t think I can explain it - it just works.  I genuinely care for them all.'  He shrugged helplessly.

'So, there is a romantic hiding away underneath all that muscle after all.  Interesting.'  Odette observed with a smile at the uncomfortable blush that rose from the Knight.

'I think your mistaking me for Erhardt.  It's happens.  His reputation for passionate feeling definitely coloured my own quite incorrectly.'  Olberic protested.

'And I think you misunderstand your own appeal, Sir Olberic.'  Odette smirked.  'Why, when Eliza wrote to me of your meeting in Noblecourt she actually gushed about you.  I have never known the unflappable Eliza to gush before.'

'Ah.  So Eliza is part of your little network too.'  Olberic nodded. 'Makes sense I guess.'

'There are a number of us.'  Odette replied suddenly serious.  'Some you have yet to meet but I think you most likely will.  I have never truly been as obsessed with patterns as Susanna - but even I could not help but be amazed at the people Ophilia picked up to travel with.'  She shook her head.

'You think there is danger beyond that which is already apparent.'  Olberic said, more as a statement than a question.

'Make no mistake Sir Olberic.  Something is building.  Has been for many years.  Our own network watches, tries to make sense of the information that we gather - but I cannot help but think that you and yours.. may well stand in the front line when the battle begins.'  She sighed unhappily.  'I had no wish for Cyrus to be caught up in any of this.'  She admitted.  'I protected him from my own involvement - not because of a lack of capability, the man is brilliant.. but from a selfish desire to see him achieve all the things that I gave up when I became embroiled in this whole mess.'

'He is a brilliant man.  And one with a remarkable moral compass.'  Olberic took a sidelong glance at his companion.  'I suspect that it is something he received a positive education in from his mentor.  He does you proud Odette.'

'And yet, I have seen things developed in him in that I have only seen a hint of in the past.'  She smiled softly. 'There is a new tenderness of spirit and a much gentler confidence.  In all, I suppose I cannot truly say that I am unhappy that he has found a place beside you all.'

Olberic raised an eyebrow at the Scholar 'Why Mistress Odette, I do believe there is a romantic hiding away underneath all of your snark after all.  Interesting.'  He grinned.

Odette squeezed his arm painfully tight.  'And you repeat that to no-one - ever -  you hear me boy?'  she chuckled heartily.

~0~

'Come along Therion, put in some effort.  You were the one who found our way in to the Obsidian Brothel.  A hidey hole in a town can't possibly be beyond your admirable skill.'  Cyrus chided the thief, who had followed his companions to the Inn but had then just lounged against the wall, showing no interest in their search whatsoever.

'Nice try Professor, but I know you are astute enough to have already seen the concealed sewer entrance that was glaringly obvious the second we arrived.'  Therion scowled back at the Scholar.

'What concealed entrance?'  Alfyn asked puzzled.

Cyrus chuckled.  'This one.'  He admitted pulling back some foliage from the wall behind the Inn and revealing a small door.'

'So why exactly have we been searching for twenty minutes if you two both already knew it was there?'  Alfyn looked even more perplexed.

'Because the idiot-genius was trying to make me feel part of the team.'  Therion sighed in frustration.  'Can't you even let me sulk in peace?'  he moaned poking Cyrus in the chest as he walked past him to pull the lever opening the door.

'I think not my miserable friend.'  Cyrus murmured, holding out his hand to help Ophilia climb over the uneven ground into the sewer network.

The passage they came into was low enough that both Alfyn and Cyrus had to duck to safely manoeuvre along it.  Added to the dank sliminess of every surface, the overriding odour made the ambience particularly unpleasant.

'Do you wish to continue dearheart?'  Cyrus said quietly to Ophilia after reaching the end of the first passage which forked into a junction of two possible routes - both looking as completely unappealing as the first.  'We can come back later in greater numbers if you so desire.'

'No, I'm fine.'  Ophilia was pleased to note her voice didn’t even tremble.

'I will provide light from the front with my flame.'  Cyrus decided, 'Alfyn could you bring up the rear- and perhaps you could allow him the use of the lantern Ophilia?'  She nodded and unattached her treasure and handed it to the Apothecary.  'Therion, would you please provide an arm to our Cleric while we travel.  I fear the path may be fraught.'  He turned to raise an encouraging eyebrow at the Thief.

'There is no need, I.... Oh!'  Ophilia's protestation was cut short by Therion's cool hand slipping into hers shyly, lacing her fingers tight.  After a few seconds his thumb lightly caressed hers.  She squeezed back, beaming.

'Good then.'  The Scholar smiled to himself in satisfaction.  'So, I think we shall explore the right side passage first.'  Cyrus raised a hand and a small ball of fire appeared hovering over his palm.

As they explored the tunnels the atmosphere became noticeably more oppressive the longer they endured it and the putrid the smell become much more intense the deeper they delved.

'I think it's time we should turn back.'  Cyrus eventually admitted after they had travelled for what seemed like miles. 'We've been down here a few hours already - we should return with something to properly mark our progress.  I have an excellent sense of direction but I am becoming unsure which passages we have explored and which we have not.  There are just so many variations.'

'Seriously?'  Therion sighed.  'I guess it reflects all the time I've spent slinking around places like this that I know exactly where we are.'

'I'm lost.'  Ophilia admitted. 'If we got separated you'd probably never see me again!'

'Good job I ain't letting go of you then huh.'   Therion chuckled.  'Getting pretty tired of hearing  'Where's Ophilia?' on this journey.  Should probably get you a leash.  Bet no-one would stop me!' 

'We could get her name engraved on a tag saying  'If lost.. please return to the nearest Cathedral!'   Alfyn snorted.

'Ho.  Funny.'  Ophilia huffed.  'Cyrus!  Are you laughing?'  she demanded indignantly.

'Who me?  I wouldn’t dare my darling!' Cyrus replied, trying to sound serious.

The companions had just turned back and started to retrace their steps when they all heard a fear-fraught scream pierce the stagnant air.

'This way?'  Cyrus turned and hurried in the direction the scream had come from.

'Do NOT let go of me.'  Therion warned Ophilia as he picked up his pace following Cyrus.

The scream came again a second time - much closer.  At the end of the passage there was a door- the first such they had encountered on their exploration.  It was locked but it took less than a second for Alfyn to break through the half rotten timber with his axe. The space beyond was very square, lit by lanterns and obviously inhabited.

The first thing that grabbed their attention was the woman prone on the floor over by the far wall.  Her scream pierced the air for a third time at their entrance, then she started to babble incoherently.  Alfyn and Ophilia were over to her and supporting her immediately.

Therion and Cyrus were both frozen, their observation drawn more to the room itself than the woman's plight.  There was a hell of a lot to take in.  The first, and most noticeable reference was the contraption that the woman had fallen from, and the two others like it that were along the same wall.

'Alfyn.  There are more.'  Cyrus caught the boys attention and motioned two unconscious men, upright against a wooden rest and attached by straps across the head, chest and feet.  A heavy tube ran from their arms into a glass tank bolted to the wall next to them.  The tubes were pumping blood slowly from the victims.

'What the hell?'  Alfyn swore.  Cyrus came across and they both stood looking at the setup in dumbfounded silence.

'Can we get them out?'  Cyrus asked quietly.  Ophilia was also looking up while still holding the terrified woman in a close embrace.   The Cleric gently reached down to the woman's naked arm, turning it over to inspect the wounds on it.

'It looks like something quite thick is inserted into the underside of the arm, it runs down towards the wrist.'  She advised quietly.  'I think if you remove it very carefully you should be able to get them down.'

'I ain't never seen anything like this!'  Alfyn breathed as he inspected the first man's arm as Ophilia had suggested.  'It's properly amazing.  The kind of stuff this could be used for...'  he shook his head in wonder.  Carefully he drew the rod from the man's arm, checked to make sure there were no other places of attachment and once he was happy, Cyrus cut the bonds and the man fell forward into the Apothecary's waiting arms.

Quickly checking his vital signs, Alfyn laid the man gently beside Ophilia who was persuading the woman to eat a piece of soft fruit, then they moved on to the second man and repeated the process.

'Think you might want to look at this Prof.'  Therion came forward when the second man had been freed and the healers were giving all of the victims closer attention.  He held a gem of some kind with his thumb and forefinger,  well away from his body.

Cyrus took the crystal from the thief and looked at it closely.

'I think that's... is that blood?'  The Scholar took a sharp intake of breath as he held the crystal up to the nearest lantern to scrutinize it closer.  'It is blood.' He breathed.  'More than one type too, by the look of it.  What the hell is going on here?'

'He keeps on taking and taking our blood.'  The woman in Ophilia's arm was sobbing now. ' Day after day.'

'They are okay.'  Alfyn had finished his examination of the men.  'They have been put to sleep with something.  Lost some blood but otherwise seem healthy enough.'  He got up and started looking around the room.  There were a number of benches, racks of bottles and potions and a number of crammed bookcases.  On the floor there was a large inscribed ritual circle.  Several closed doors led off the main room. 

Ophilia had finally disentangled herself from the frightened woman.  'She says there are other's.'  The Cleric reported quietly to her companions.'  We should check those other doors.'

The rooms were locked, but this time Therion got out his picks and worked on them.  The first two rooms were empty, but ready for habitation with beds in a bunk style, a long table and a privy area set up neatly in each.  Alfyn and Cyrus gently persuaded the woman into one of the empty rooms and carried the two men in too laying them down on bunks. 

The third room held the other prisoners. Six in all, four men and two women.  Most were sleeping but two were at the table and stood up in alarm when the door was gently opened.

It was quickly ascertained they were in good health.

'In honesty, we are well fed and well looked after.'  One of them explained.  'Once a day we get taken out, tied to those tanks, and sent to sleep.  When we wake we're tired and a bit sore.'

The last room that Therion unlocked was the one that broke them.  As soon as the door was opened the stink of death was obvious.  There were sixteen corpses in all - every one of them exsanguinated and all in varying states of decayed mummification piled up, discarded without any respect at all.

'This is.. hell.. what is this?'  Cyrus asked.

'Hell is right.'  Ophilia replied quietly.

'We need to get the living out of here.'  Alfyn said firmly.  'Then we can worry about whoever is doing this.'

'Mmmn.  Get them out and then we'll keep a covert watch on the entrance.  Once the villain realises he has been discovered he may run.  We can't let him get away.'  Cyrus took the blood crystal out from his pocket and stared at it again.  'I wonder what use these have?'  he mused.  'What can possibly be worth all of this?'

The companions quickly started to round up the prisoners,  the two that were still slumbering supported by others so as not to be left behind. 

'Okay Therion - if you can lead the way and get us out of here.'  Cyrus said.

'Just where do you think you are taking my sheep?  A sibilant voice interrupted the preparations.  Several of the prisoners screamed.

A tall man stood in the doorway of the room, wrapped and hooded in a black Scholar's cloak, wielding an evil looking hand sickle.  His face was gaunt and pale, and despite his empty looking eyes he had a slightly amused smirk on his face.  He stepped into the room and surveyed the crowd before him.  His eyes settled on Cyrus.

'Ah, a fellow scholar.'  He hissed in his strange rasp.  'Who do you think you are to steal my livestock?

Cyrus drew himself up to his full height.  'Please, continue with the evacuation.' He ordered Therion.  'Go - all of you.'  He added.

The strangers smile only seemed to widen.  'Yes - off you go little sheep.  I will come and find you later.'  The man held up a large key.  'They will be going no-where through a locked door!'  he smirked even wider at Cyrus.

Therion started to lead the group out of the doorway, Alfyn and Ophilia at the rear.

'Bring help.'  Ophilia murmured quietly to the Apothecary.  'But keep Tressa away - she doesn’t need to see this.'  She added firmly.

'You ain't staying?'  Alfyn grabbed her hand and tried to pull her physically through the door.

'I won't leave him alone.'  Ophilia stated simply.

'By the gods girl!'  Alfyn looked torn.  He reached in quickly and kissed her.  'If you let anything happen to yourself, I will bloody kill you.'  He turned and took off after the escaping party.

Ophilia stood in the doorway and looked back at the two Scholars who were now in conversation.

'What work is it you're doing here?'  Cyrus was asking with genuine curiosity.  'I note the old High-Hornburgian runes that make up your ritual circle, but they are incoherent to me.  All of the tomes from that kingdom were lost in its destruction, so you cannot be just any ordinary Scholar.  And these?'  Cyrus brought out the blood crystal.  'Blood magic obviously - but why so many different blood types in one stone?  What does this achieve?'

'Ah, always a seeker of knowledge.'  The strange man chuckled.  'Perhaps you have heard of me.'  He said grandly.  'I am Gideon, the necromancer.' 

'Can't say I have, but I suppose that figures.'  Cyrus was rubbing his chin thoughtfully.  'But really sir, even if necromancy is your chosen path, I fail to see how any self respecting Scholar could actually perform such sick horrors.'

Gideon's expression turned cold at the sudden rebuke.  'You think yourself above taking the actions required to further your work?' he asked with derision.  'Then what can you ever hope to achieve?'  The man sneered  'You bind yourself up with morality and you will always fail.'

'Maybe.'  Cyrus sounded thoughtful.  'There is always a way that can be found that does no harm.  A longer route usually, but no less effective.'

'Pfft.'  Gideon dismissed the words with a wave of his hand.  'These sheep I harvest, they have no purpose - they have no use to the world.  Better they become part of something great, than fade into insignificance.'

'And what of their loved ones?'  Ophilia said, finally stepping back into the room.  'Each one you kill have those that rely on them, love them - miss them.  Your actions are like a stone on the water, rippling misery and pain out in ever greater circles.'

Cyrus's eyes had grown wide.  'Why are you still here?' he asked horrified.  She ignored him - still looking directly at the necromancer.

'Ah.  A bleeding heart - how apt.  And it will be bled my dear.'  Gideon turned his attention back to Cyrus.  'A shame that you feel as you do.  It could have been useful to have another mind to share in this endeavour.  But no matter - I will simply end the threat you bring.'  He stepped back a step and grunted a few words in a guttural language.

Bones appeared, whirling and spinning - forming into vaguely human shape and then falling apart again in rapid movement.  They started to edge towards Cyrus.

'Really?'  Ophilia snorted.  'The undead.. necromancy... kinda my forte.'  She raised her staff and called on the light.  The issuing beam crumbled the bones to dust in seconds.  'Got any more?'  she asked sweetly.

'A Cleric?  You bought a daughter of the sacred flame with you?'  Gideon looked horrified.  'How dare you bring her here!'

Cyrus was staring at Ophilia - his mouth hanging open.  She shrugged at him while erecting her reflective veil just in time for it to redirect the dark bolt that Gideon fired off at them both.  Two more dancing bones appeared in rapid succession, and another volley of bolts.

Cyrus started his own casts, raining fire down on the necromancer whilst Ophilia disintegrated the bone attackers again.  Cyrus' elemental magic seemed to be having little effect on Gideon, he shrugged of bolts of ice and lightning just as well as he did the fire, some kind of shielding kept the worst of the damage at bay. 

The same could not be said of the luminescence that shone forth from the tiny Cleric.  Each cast seemed to wither him from within, as if tugging at the very darkness of his soul.  He started to become angry.  Each deflection of his cast and each destruction of his whirling bones seemed to raise his ire further and further.  In blind fury he threw himself at Ophilia his sickle raised.

Completely unprepared for a physical attack Ophilia was slashed heavily across the chest and thrown a distance across the room crashing into the wall.  At her momentary incapacitation Gideon pressed the advantage to throw a mighty bolt of darkness at Cyrus, who crumpled under its ferocity.  Gideon raised his sickle to end the job.

'Leave him alone!'  Ophilia shouted, throwing herself at the necromancer - smacking him a blinding blow with her staff.  She managed to channel a rapid heal, taking the sting off her own wound and bringing some life back to Cyrus who raised his head woozily.  While Gideon got himself back to his feet, Ophilia cast her reflective veil again and hit back out with her staff as the necromancer came at her again with his sickle.

Ophilia was in no way built for a physical fight with a much taller and stronger man.  Trying to counter his slashes was getting harder and he knew it.  She wasn’t going to last much longer, she realised - but she had to try - she was the only thing standing between the madman and Cyrus, and the Scholar needed time to recover his wits.  Suddenly a smile bloomed on her face.

'All yours.'  She said happily, falling to her knees and covering Cyrus with her body as Olberic brought his sword in a powerful wide arc and the necromancers head went flying across the room.

'By all the bloody God's!'  Odette's voice rang across the room.  'What the hell were you two thinking!'

Chapter Text

Alfyn paled at the sight of all of the blood that soaked Ophilia's chest.

'I've healed it,'  she assured him, seeing his fraught look  '..but it was really deep - it's going to take a while to mend.  I could probably use something to clean it and bind it in the meantime.'

'Bloody hell Li, did you actually just think about your own wounds?  Well that's a first!'  Alfyn grinned.  'Looks like we are making progress with you after all!'

Ophilia helped Cyrus to sit up.  'Are you okay?'  she asked. 'That was some knock you took.'

'I was blinded for a while.'  Cyrus admitted.  'I don't seem to be any worse for the wear now - although that might not be the case when Odette has finished with us.'  He added in a loud whisper.

'You're lucky Odette is too busy being incredulous at this setup.'  The woman muttered.  She was already going through items on the benches and staring a little wild eyed at the blood tanks.  'What the hell is this anyway?'

'He was making these.'  Cyrus took the blood crystal from his pocket and threw it to his mentor.  I'm hoping that something here will tell us why.'  Cyrus turned his attention back to Ophilia.  'Are you alright?' he asked gently, reaching to caress her cheek.  'I admit I was horrified when I realised you hadn’t left, but oh my word ... you were simply marvellous dearheart!  I had no idea the necromancers were such a nemesis to the Order of the Flame.  Of course it does make perfect sense!'

'There was no way I was going to leave you alone.'  Ophilia turned her face slightly to kiss the palm that was cupping her cheek then blushed at her own boldness.

'Hate to break up the moment.'  Alfyn was grinning at the pair of them.  'But I would really like to get that wound sorted Li.  The God's only know what that weirdo used his sickle for, aside from eviscerating Clerics.'

Ophilia let Alfyn help her to her feet and they went to one of the room's that had been prepared for prisoners.  'There's water in here so we can get you cleaned up too.' He told her, indicating that she sit on one of the bunks while he went to grab a bowl.

'This is going to sting so bad.'  Ophilia grouched miserably.

'Serves you right.'  Alfyn gently removed her shirt, wincing at the depth of the wound. 'I told you if you let anything happen I would kill you.  I suppose that's a bit drastic so I'll settle for some mild torture instead.'

'Thanks.'  The Cleric muttered glumly.

Cyrus had gotten up and was standing with Odette surveying the bookcase.  'Some interesting titles.'  He said mildly.  'I trust you will make sure they are dealt with appropriately.'

Odette snorted.  'I been doing this a lot longer than you have boy.'

'Hey Prof.  Have a look at this.'  Therion was crouching over the body of the necromancer and beaming up at Cyrus.  'This is the book you been looking for I think.'

'What?'  Cyrus joined Therion, who had been rifling the necromancers pockets.  He took the small tome that the thief held out to him.

'Hmm.'  Cyrus flicked through the pages. 'Damn.'  He said at last.  'This appears to be a translation, and I don’t even think it's a full translation at that.  What do you think Odette.'  He handed the book to his mentor.

'Well it gives the basics of how to make the blood gems...' She said eventually. '..but no mention of what they are for.  It seems that a load of information is missing.'  she mused.

'This translation was definitely done more recently than the time the book was actually stolen. I think we can pinpoint where this copy was bound by the materials used in the binding which might then give us the translator.  It would be a start.'  Cyrus said thoughtfully. 

'Hmm.  Good thought.'  Odette agreed. She sniffed at the cover of the book.  'Pinewood.'  She said 'And I think the material is goats-hide.'

Cyrus took the volume back and also gave it close inspection.  'I concur.'  He said.  'And there is a quite exclusive binder's in Stonegard.  I noticed it when we were there a while ago.  Both materials would be readily available in that area.'

Therion had been searching the corpses other pockets.  'This might be of interest too.'  He said, handing Cyrus a piece of parchment.

Cyrus read the note and swore colourfully.  Seeing Odette's raised eyebrow at his language he handed her the parchment.  If anything, her cursing was far more inventive.

'So I doubt we are going to find a handy stockpile of the Blood Crystals for us to dispose of safely.'  Cyrus scowled.  'It would be useful if this at least told us who had commissioned him to make them, but it does confirm that he sent off at least one containment to his mysterious benefactor.'

'Which means they are out there now being used for heaven knows what.'  Odette frowned.

Alfyn had finally finished working on Ophilia's wound and she dragged him to the room containing the bodies of the dead. 

'We need to check them over and see if we can find anything to identify them.' She explained seriously 'I genuinely hope we can let their loved ones know what became of them.  It may be harsh, but I think it is better than not knowing.'

'Right you are.'  Alfyn agreed. 'But you madam, are going back to the Inn right now and getting some rest.  That was a properly nasty injury you took and your healing is going to really take it out of you.'

'I will help Alfyn see to the dead.'  Olberic offered solemnly.  'There is very little else I can do here, but we can give them some dignity at the very least.'

'Alfyn is correct dearheart.'  Cyrus had come up behind them and rested his arms around Ophilia.  'I will escort you back now - let the others see to this chore.'

'But you need to be here.'  Ophilia protested smiling fondly at him. 'You already have that glint in your eye Cyrus - the one you get when you have found a new book or something that has taken your interest.  I don't want to drag you away now.'

'None the less, your wellbeing comes first.'  He smiled back at her.

'I can take her.'  Therion spoke up.  'She's right Prof, you should be here using that enormous brain of yours to work out what the hell to do next.  I'll make sure her Holiness gets back and actually gets some rest.'

Cyrus looked torn. 'Are you sure?'  he asked Ophilia.

'Quite sure.'  She replied firmly 'Although I do insist that you don’t stay all night and get some rest yourself.' 

Cyrus grinned wryly.  'How well you know me dearheart.  I promise to try and not get carried away in my study.'  He laid a gentle kiss to the top of her head.

Odette snorted loudly.  'As if.'  She muttered.

Therion took Ophilia's hand again as he began to lead her through the maze of tunnels towards the entrance of the sewer.  They walked in companionable silence for a good distance, then Therion cleared his throat.

'Don't expect it to happen often, but I want to say I'm sorry.  For what I said to you.  It was harsh and you didn’t deserve it.'

'You had a valid point Therion.'  Ophilia squeezed his hand.  'And if anyone had the right to be angry, it was you.  I did literally ask you to be my friend after all.  It was selfish, and I'm sorry.'

'Well..'  there was another silence.  'Why did you?'  he asked suddenly.  'I've never really understood that.  Why was it so important to you?'

Ophilia sighed.  'Ever since we first met - seven years ago - I prayed for you every day.  Of course I didn’t know your name then so I prayed for 'my friend'.  Sometimes, when things were hard I would talk to you too - kind of like having someone to confess my fears to.'

'Oh.'  Therion sounded stunned.  'You prayed for me every day?' 

'Then when we met again outside Atlasdam,  I realised there was little chance we could ever actually be friends and it hurt.'  Ophilia admitted.  'Not your fault of course..'  She added. 'It was my own silly fancies, and at least I learned your name so I could pray for you properly.'  She fell silent.

They had reached the entrance to the sewers and Ophilia was startled to realise how late the hour obviously was.

'Food first and then bed.'  Therion commanded in a tone that brooked no argument.

'Yes Dad.'  Ophilia poked her tongue out at him.

'Gods, you are so annoying sometimes.'  Therion grouched.

They managed to get a plate of cold cuts from the kitchen which they took up to the room that the men were sharing, since they were all still currently down in the sewers.  They ate sat by the fire, the warmth and the food lulling Ophilia to relaxation.  Therion was silent, a somewhat thoughtful look on his face.

'So, just checking.  We are still friends right?' Ophilia asked shyly.

'Hmm?'  Therion looked up at her and she was surprised by the serious look on his face.  'I will always be your friend Ophilia.  I already warned you I ain't any good at being a friend and that ain't likely to change - but as painful as it is to admit.. you're alright.. for a bloody crazy Cleric.'

Ophilia's beam was brighter than the sun.

'Happens that I also have something for you.'  The thief added quietly.  'I can't take the credit for it - when we were in Rippletide I asked Tressa's Da to look into seeing if he could locate it, and the man is a bloody genius.  I got it today.'

'Oh?'  Ophilia looked startled.

Therion reached into one of his many pockets and drew out a silver necklace.  He leaned over and softly placed it on Ophilia's trembling hand.  The girl sat frozen, staring at the locket, not even moving a muscle.  Therion scooted over to her side and gently open the clasp so that the miniature portrait inside was on display.

'You look a lot like your Ma I reckon.'  He said.  'Although you're prettier.' He added. 

Ophilia still hadn’t moved.  Finally she looked at the thief with unshed tears in her eyes, trying desperately to rein in her emotion at the sheer thoughtfulness of the gesture.

'You aren't actually all that bad of a friend.'  She told him, her voice thick.  'For a dirty rotten thief.'

'Hey!'  Therion relaxed into a grin, relieved that she wasn't crying.  'I actually paid for that I'll have you know!'

'With stolen leaf no doubt.'  

'Maybe.. but I did pay!' 

Emotion was building inside her again and Ophilia had to bite her lip to keep it back.

'So, hmm.. I guess this is one of those special occasions right?'  Therion said with a sigh, holding out his arms for the hug.

'Um..okay..'  That completely undid her, despite her desperation not to overwhelm him, Ophilia couldn't stop the tears that fell.  She completely ignored his arms and moved forward to gently bring her lips to his in the lightest of kisses.  When she drew away he looked stunned.

'Well, that was... um... soft.'  He said scratching the back of his head.

'Who are you calling soft?'  Ophilia giggled through her tears.

'You!  You're completely soft in the head - you know that right?'  He smirked at her look of outrage.  'I am so telling the Prof that you kissed me!'  He taunted, poking her on the arm.

'I believe Cyrus has already kissed you so now we're even.'  Ophilia poked him back.

'By the God's - the pure sap!'  Therion moaned tragically.  He stood and pulled Ophilia to her feet.  'Bed!  Now!'  He ordered.  'And don’t even think of having nightmares.  I can't cope with that crap.'

'Yes sir!'  Ophilia saluted smartly, then took his hand.  'Thank you Therion.'  She said genuinely.

'Aw bloody hell.  Damn you Phili..'  Therion grimaced as put his arms around her, gently resting his head against hers. 'You are such a bad influence, you irritating mare!  Don't you dare tell anyone you've made me into a sap too.' 

~0~

The following morning Cyrus and Odette arrived at the Inn early, Cyrus carrying Ophilia's belongings. 

'She's still asleep.'  Olberic told him, giving directions to their room.  Cyrus disappeared upstairs.

Tressa was putting the finishing touches to her latest batch of Sky Stones with a huge smile on her face.  'They sell like hot-cakes!' she told her friends happily.

Primrose was telling Odette about their experience with Morlock the previous day.

'Oh, I did find out that Morlock does actually own the mine and the land.'  Odette sucked in an annoyed breath.  'According to his application he was going to provide paid jobs to the local workforce, which he has obviously renegade on - but it isn’t actually illegal. I shall just keep a closer eye on him and see if I can catch him in anything shadier.'

'Should be illegal to rip workers off like that.'  Tressa said angrily.

'Agreed.'  Odette said firmly. 'So what are the rest of you up to today?'  she asked just as H'aanit came through the door from her hunt with Alaic.  Everyone looked up at her.  She flushed heavily then grinned a huge grin.

'Well I expect that H'aanit will be getting some much needed rest.'  Primrose leered at her friend. 

'I admiteth that I am uncommonly tired.'  H'aanit agreed, still smiling.

'Sweeet.'  Tressa clapped her hands, then turned to Odette.  I will be selling my stones.'  She looked around the group.  'Volunteers to help me?'  she asked.

'Of course.'  Primrose said immediately.  'I do very much enjoy the intricacies of commerce.'  She admitted.  'It is quite fascinating in fact.'

'And it always helps my sales to have you along Prim.'  Tressa grinned.

'Well, what do you think Olberic?'  Alfyn asked putting a friendly hand of the warrior's shoulder.  'I reckon we should help the pretty ladies carry their wares and set up.  And I noticed a very convenient Tavern right in the market square where we could recover from all the manual labour afterwards.'

'Oh, a fine idea my friend!'  Olberic agreed cheerfully rising to start get himself loaded with the sacks that Tressa gleefully pointed him too.

After the four of them had left, H'aanit retired to bed and Cyrus came downstairs.

'H'aanit is going to stay with Ophelia today, so we can head for the sewers whenever you're ready Odette.'  He said sitting down at the table next to Therion.  'Thanks for bringing her back last night my friend.'  He clapped the thief on the shoulder.

'Yeah.'  Therion looked thoughtful.  'I wanna share something Prof.  I'm pretty sure her Holiness won't mention it cause she'll feel its not her story to tell, but I ain't much for the talky talky emotion shit and I reckon she could use someone to speak with.'

'By all means Therion.'  Cyrus looked intrigued.

'So - Ophilia busted me outta prison in Flamesgrace seven years ago after I'd gone looking for healing and got refused.  Long story short, she gave me everything she had.  Healing, her boots, cloak, and a locket with a picture of her folk inside.'

Cyrus was chuckling quietly to himself.  'Honestly, if you were telling this story about anyone else I'd think you were a liar.  Oh, Ophilia!' He shook his head.

'Well, Tressa's Da managed to find the locket for me and I gave it to her last night.  Made her emotional of course - I was ready for tears and that shit - but the stupid Cleric held it all back 'cause she didn't wanna make me uncomfortable.  Sucks that she had to.  She weren't wrong though - I ain't no good with that kinda crap.'

'Perhaps you would be better off asking Primrose or Alfyn to talk with her.'  Cyrus mused. 

'Man up Prof!'  Therion suddenly grinned and clapped the Scholar on the back. 'They ain't the ones making puppy eyes at her Holiness all over the place.  Take this opportunity as my gift to you!'  He winked then stood and stretched.  'All these damned feelings are making me wanna commit some public order offences to redress the balance.  Don't let me down Cyrus, I'm counting on you to give her some proper comfort here.'  He smirked at the Scholar before walking out the door with a jaunty air.

'What an interesting character.'  Odette commented as the door closed.  'Still, times wasting.  Let's get down and finish off our job in the sewers.  Then you will be free to have that chat with your girl.'

'I'm really not sure I'm the right...'  Cyrus began.

'Oh man up puppy!'  Odette sniggered.

~0~

Tressa and Primrose were working the market with enviable ease.  By lunchtime a third of their stock of Stones had been bought and Alfyn and Olberic had taken over the stall while the girls took some food.

'Did you sell anything?'  Tressa asked when they returned to resume their post.

'Um.  Not really no.  I think Olberic here is a little bit intimidating.'  Alfyn was grinning at the big man who flushed, embarrassed.

'I tried smiling.'  Olberic complained.  'But that seemed to make it worse in all honesty.'

'There is no need for you to be good at everything honey.'  Primrose patted the Knight consolingly.

'Yeah.  Just...um.. why don’t you guys go back to the Tavern while we finish up here.'  Tressa urged quickly.

'Don't mind if we do.'  Alfyn grasped Olberic's shoulder and led him back to get in the drinks.

'Hopeless.'  Tressa murmured as soon as they were out of earshot.'

'Oh don’t be so unkind.  At least they tried.'  Primrose was highly amused.

'Hey! There you are Princess!'  Ali suddenly appeared at their stall grinning from ear to ear.  'See you got yourself some more of those stones. What did I tell you?  You can always trust Ali to give the best advice!'

'My name is Tressa.'  The girl said slowly.

'Yeah, got it Princess.  How's it going ?'

Tressa ignored him.

'So'  Ali tried again after a few minute of uncomfortable silence.  'Are you gonna be heading to the Merchant's Fair in Grandport this year?  Wyndham is offering a billion leaves for the winner of the competition again.'

'You WHAT?'  that grabbed the merchants attention.

'Yeah, so it's happened every year recently, the Fair coincides with Wyndham's daughter's birthday and he gives the prize to the best item entered - which is then given to his daughter.  It's a pretty easy money-maker if you ask me!'

'Do you already have an item to enter?'  Tressa couldn't help her curiosity.

'Sure do!'  Ali puffed up his chest.  'Bound to win I reckon.  Can't tell you what it is though.  If I told you I would have to kill you.  And you're way to pretty to waste Princess!'  Ali smiled shyly.

'Oh for the love of the God's.. my name is Tressa.  It's not a hard name, In fact it's a pretty simple name.  It actually takes less breath to say than Princess..'  Tressa's face had started to turn purple.

'Totally worth the effort though.'  Ali said wide eyed.

Primrose was laughing and not hiding it very well.

'Okay, so thanks for the heads up and I guess we will see you tomorrow with the horse.  Bye then.'  Tressa turned her back firmly.

'You know I really like a challenge, never let it be said that Ali..... oh!'  The boys face suddenly went very pale - 'That's..that's..' he stuttered pointing into the crowd.  'Oh!'  he finished lamely.

Primrose looked up to see Morlock and his heavy weaving their way towards them with furious intent on both their faces.  When they reached the stall, Morlock grabbed Ali by the arm and twisted it harshly.

'What are you doing here boy.'  The man growled quietly.  'Omar!'  he said to his man.  'Bring this vermin along if you would be so good.'

'No!'  Ali moaned, a look of pure fear in his eyes.

'Hey Arsehole.'  Tressa was quickly in Morlock's face, brushing off the restraining hand that Primrose had put on her.  'You can't just rock up here and abduct whoever your damn well please.  Let him go!'

'Take him.  Quickly.'  Morlock ordered Omar before turning to face Tressa.

'Who do you think you are little girl?  This is my town, and those are my stones you're selling.  How dare you question me.  Out of the kindness of my heart, I will forget your impertinence, but I am confiscating that stock as payment.  Learn your lesson, brat.  Keep your nose out of grown up's business.'

Tressa was literally shaking with rage as Morlock swept her remaining stones from her table then turned to follow Omar and Ali.'

'Peace Tressa.  Let's get the men and follow them.  We would do well to be cautious.  I really don’t like the look of that Omar fellow.'  Primrose advised.

'Right.  Let's go.'  Tressa stormed quickly to the tavern.

After picking up Alfyn and Olberic who were both furious at the theft of Tressa's stock, the companions made their way through the market and Alfyn caught sight of their quarry heading up the hill to the top of town.  A brief conversation with a local stall holder revealed that Morlock's Manse was located in that direction.  They followed swiftly, careful not to be seen until the huge estate belonging to the repugnant man was laid out before them.  They waited until both had entered the mansion, hauling the protesting Ali along with them, then they moved forward carefully to scope out the place.

'Where's our thief when you need him?'  Tressa complained.

'You called?'  Therion stepped out from behind them with a grin.  'I saw you guys hurrying off like raging bulls and figured I'd better check what sort of mischief you were getting up to.'

'You like stalking your friends?'  Tressa asked indignantly.

'Excuse me.. I believe it was you who was just lamenting my not being with you.  I can go if you wish.'  Therion started to turn away.

'Grrrr.'  Tressa's anger had been growing, she was now practically steaming.

'Have a quick look around mate, there's a good stealthy guy.'  Alfyn placated quickly.

Therion bowed ironically and made off quickly across to the building.  He disappeared round the side and was gone for some time.

'Do you think he's been caught?'  Primrose said finally.  Perhaps we should try and find our own way in.

'Nah, give him a few more minutes.'  Alfyn replied.

Eventually Therion appeared, letting himself out of a side door.  He had Ali and another well-dressed gentleman with him.

'Well, look what I found!'  Therion smirked.

'Ali!'  Tressa ran towards the boy and looked as if she was going to throw her arms around him, then pulled herself back at the last second and put her hands on her hips instead.

'What the crap was that all about?'  she demanded imperiously.  'Why did Morlock abduct you?   What have you done?'

'Me Princess?'  Ali looked disappointed.

'Um.. excuse me..'  The nervous looking man that had accompanied them out pushed himself forward.  'Actually, I'm Morlock.  I certainly did not abduct this young man.  In fact I am the one who has been held prisoner for the last two years.' 

'Oh!'  Primrose said in surprise.

'Yeah, totally weird getup inside.  No guards nothing.  Just rooms full of gold and jewels and trunks flowing with leaf.'  Therion tried to look innocent.  'I thought I'd better try and get an idea of the layout before I got you guys - and that's when I discovered these two.'

'So who is that man then.'  Olberic looked confused.

'Well, damned if I know.'  The real Morlock stated. 'He turned up the day I moved in, locked me in a suite and hasn’t let me out since.  Heaven only knows what the rogue has been doing in my name.'

'I know who he is, or at least, who he was.'  Ali said darkly.  His name was Clearmont when he was a business partner with my Da.  Swindled him good and proper and got him locked up as a debtor.  That's why I'm entering the competition this year.'  Ali looked apologetically at Tressa. 'I need to pay off my old man's debts to get his release and clear his name.'

'Seems like this villain has caused a great deal of misery.'  Morlock looked sad.  'Don't worry son.  I will help your father.  They cannot look unkindly on him when they hear of how the swine has treated me.'

'Occurs to me that if either of the two in there realise their prisoner's have escaped, they will likely make a run for it.  Would be par for the course for their kind.'  Therion said thoughtfully.  'Think we should deal with them sooner rather than later.'

'Agreed.'  Olberic flexed his sword arm.  'Not one for subtlety me.'  He started to march up to the front door.

'Um... Olberic...'  Alfyn made after the Knight, who was banging loudly on the ornate knocker.

The door opened and Omar peered out.

'What?'  he said looking Olberic up and down with a barely concealed sneer.

'I wonder if you could help me my good man..'  Olberic said politely before punching the man a jaw breaking uppercut to the chin, lifting him clear off his feet and smashing him down a few feet away.  Olberic went over to inspect the unconscious bully.  'Nobody steals from my girls... ever.'  He told him quietly.

'Omar?  What the hell was that noise?  What's going on?'  The false Morlock had peered into the hallway - taken quick note of his prone henchman, Olberic rubbing his fist menacingly staring directly at him and had turned quickly away with a squeal and banged the door shut behind him.'

'I'll cover the window.'  Therion said, unable to hide his amusement and sprinting out of the house. 

'I'll get the door.'  Alfyn said enthusiastically reaching for his axe and preparing himself to take a massive swing.

'It's not locked.'  Olberic pointed out, opening the door instead.

'Oh.  Shame.'  Alfyn grumbled.

True to Therion's prediction the villain was hanging halfway out of a window that was way too small for him.  He shrieked in fear again when he saw Olberic and Alfyn advancing on him.

'Don't hurt me, please don’t hurt me!'  he squealed spinelessly.

'We ain't gonna hurt you mate.'  Alfyn grinned cheerfully. 'We are just going to hand you in to the authorities.'  He grabbed hold of the man and hauled him back inside the room - giving a thumbs up to Therion who was grinning at him through the window.

'Well that's not fair.' Olberic moaned. 'Can't I hurt him just a little bit?' 

Chapter Text

Dinner-time!'  Ophilia called, stepping arm in arm through the door to the necromancers lair with Therion.  Both of them had identical enormous grins on their faces. 

Odette and Cyrus looked up from the bench they had commandeered as their study area a little bleary-eyed.

'Food?'  Cyrus asked surprised.  'Is it Midday already?

'Heh, it's evening Prof.  I think you missed lunch already.'  Therion told him.

'Oh!'  Odette looked confused. 'You know - I thought I was starting to get peckish..'

'Here!'  Ophilia put down the large basket she was carrying and waited while the Scholar's eagerly cleared a space on the table, then started to load plates of hot meats and vegetables in front of them.  She finished off with a couple of bottles of ale and handed them some cutlery.

'Oh.. I think I love you...'  Odette murmured rapturously, her nostrils flaring at the delicious aroma.

'Quite!'  Cyrus added piling his plate high.

'And while you eat, everyone's favourite thief has a rather interesting tale to tell you!'  Ophilia added, merrily patting Therion on the arm as she walked past him.  'I will be finishing up in here.' She added - quietly going into the room where the dead had been lain out,  individually wrapped in blankets by Alfyn and Olberic the night before.

Ophilia walked among the bodies stopping at each to lightly touch their faces.  Once she had done this she went to her knees to pray both devotions and  litany for the dead.  As she worked through the familiar words to her prayers tears started to run freely down her cheeks and by the end of her lament she  was sobbing quietly.  Strong arms suddenly went around her shoulders.

'You did good kid.  He won't be hurting anyone else now.'  Odette comforted her.

'But the pain is just beginning for the loved ones of these poor souls.'  Ophilia said sadly.

'The cow's already jumped that gate, Ophilia.'  Odette's tone was soft  'I swear to you that I will do all in my power to get these folk identified and returned to their people.  Any I can't will be remembered here.  There will be a fair amount of leaf raised from the sale of all the crap here and Cyrus insisted that you would want it to go to the families of the bereaved.  I will get this done.

Ophilia's eyes started to well up again.  'Thank you,'  she whispered.  'For everything..'

'Tsk.  Get a grip girl..'  Odette pulled her into a full hug.  'You have enough on your plate without adding any more.  We are heading out now, going to get to town and get a celebration started to welcome back the new and real Morlock.'  Odette chuckled.  'Gods, I would have paid good leaf to have watched that rescue and capture..'

Ophilia finally smiled.  'I can only imagine how vexed Olberic was that someone stole from Tressa.  Wonder if the guy he punched is conscious yet!'

'Good girl.  Now chin up!  Let's go and let the lads lead us out of this godforsaken hellhole.'

Odette excelled herself in getting the town together and merry.  Music and beer flowed long into the night and the new Morlock was happy to not only pay for everything but take the time to speak with as many town members as he possibly could. 

Primrose's dancing was hugely popular,  even Ali - who had finally managed to pin Tressa into a corner - stared a little too long at the graceful dancer only to discover when he turned back round that Tressa had effected an escape and was sending him a mocking wave from where she was currently seated, safely next to Olberic who was glowering at the boy.   

'Am I doing it right Tressa?'  Olberic asked dissolving into drunken giggles.

'Just keep it coming Big Man..'  Tressa ordered.

Cyrus and Ophilia had found a quiet corner together and a nice bottle of wine.  From their vantage they watched Alfyn and Therion's energetic, but rather tipsy wrestling match and Alaic sneak into town to steal H'aanit away.

'I think we will be carrying at least three of our companions back to the Inn.'  Cyrus noted  'Although in the case of Olberic - I fear our only option may be to roll him.  Probably Alfyn too.'

'Maybe we could find barrels..'  Ophilia grinned.

As the evening wore on and a second bottle of wine was ordered talk turned to Therion and his prison break episode.  Ophilia was astounded that he had confided but relieved as well, and she was happy to show Cyrus her pendant.

'No, I wasn’t emotional at all about its actual return.' She told him thoughtfully 'But I was emotional that Therion had gone to trouble to do such a thing.  Which of course would have been the absolute worst thing to have admitted to him.' She added sadly.

By the middle of the second bottle,  Cyrus found himself talking about his mother and his childhood.  Ophilia just let him talk.  Although he found himself looking away during his recitation she had taken his hand in both of hers, caressing it gently and when he was finally able to look at her he was startled to note a kind of fierce pride in her eyes.

'Cyrus,' she said seriously. 'Your sheer determination to learn... I find it... breathtaking.  Not to mention the will and the focus it must have taken to achieve all that you have.'

The Scholar stared at her. The feelings that her words and her simple acceptance invoked were just too overwhelming to process.  

'You have forgotten to mention the wonderful and brilliant mentor who helped make it all possible.'  Odette snorted indelicately - appearing out of nowhere and sitting herself between the two of them.

'I was getting to that.'  Ophilia promised her with a smile. 

'Such a sweet child.'  Odette grinned at the Cleric.  'I have just come to say my goodbyes.  Olberic said you're planning to leave by mid-morning tomorrow and since that nice Mr Morlock has just agreed to come back with me for a nightcap - I don’t expect I will be up to see you go.'

'Too much information.'  Cyrus muttered.

'Ah boy.  It has been so good to see you!'  Odette put an arm around his shoulders and kissed him noisily on the cheek.

'And your drunk.'  He observed.

'Now I need you to promise that you are going to keep our girl here safe.  You hear me?'  Odette told him.  'And for goodness sake, stop over-thinking things.  Don't mess this one up!'

'Thank you Odette.'  He said simply, giving her a hug back.

'And you child..'  Odette turned to the Cleric thoughtfully.  'I would ask you to look after my boy - but you already seem to be doing a fine job of that.  Instead I beg your patience.  He may be a genius but he can be a bit dense at times.  He does love you though.'

'Odette!'  Cyrus had buried his face in his hands.

'I hope we meet again soon.'  Ophilia said honestly.  'There is so much I feel I could learn from you.'  She kissed Odette, who patted her fondly and then stood up.

'Take care of each other, children - and the other astounding members of your little family.  We will be keeping a close watch over you all!'  Odette chuckled to herself as she walked away.

~0~

It was nearly four days of travel to reach Clearbrook.  The addition of a pony and cart to the team actually sped things along.  Their pack's and supplies were added to the merchandise in the sizable vehicle and Primrose turned out to be a very competent driver.  Herbie, the bay pony was placid and sweet and wasn’t even bothered by the companionship of the snow leopard which had been one of Olberic's primary concerns.  The roads they travelled were much busier than they had been in the Frostlands or the Flatlands so even encounters with beasts or monsters were few and far between. 

When they came to the signpost that marked Clearbrook off from the main thoroughfare, Alfyn became increasingly excited until finally they came into sight of the village and Nina came sprinting towards them.  Alfyn ran to meet her and picked the child up throwing her high into the air, then catching her in a huge bear hug.  The girl clung to him as the other's caught up to the pair, then seeing all of the companions grinning, she pulled herself away and looked Alfyn solemnly in the eyes.

'You must put me down Alfyn.'  She ordered imperiously.  'I am eleven now you know.  I am not a little girl anymore!'

'You're always gonna be my little girl,'  Alfyn protested, mussing her with kisses. 'Even when you are an old married woman I'm gonna throw you in the air like a babe!'

'Alfyn!'  the girl was kicking him with her foot, but he just laughed.

'Poor Nina,'  Ophilia came up and smiled broadly at the girl who was flaming red in the face now.  'I understand completely sweetheart - Alfyn does the same to me on occasion - although thankfully he doesn’t toss me in the air like that, and he better not try and start either.'  She added severely when Alfyn turned to grin at her.

As they started to move into the village proper, it seemed that everyone had come out of their homes or away from their work to greet the returning Apothecary.  Their progress slowed to a halt until Zeph finally emerged from a nearby house and hurried up.

'Sorry!'  he apologised.  'Had a sudden emergency!  Let's get you all sorted!'

He pointed out the Inn and said rooms were ready for them and also where the horse and Tressa's wares could be safely stored.  After the introductions were made finally he got to Ophilia and wrapped her in a hug.

'It's good to see you again Sister!' he grinned.

'You too!' she smiled.  'Is there anything I can help with in relation to your emergency?  Please feel free to use and abuse me while I am here!'

'Well, If you wouldn’t mind - it would actually be quite a weight off.  One of our woodsmen took a wicked cut to his arm, and it will be weeks in the healing before he can go back to work.  I believe Alf said that your skill could speed up that process?'

Ophilia grinned at him.  'I'm pretty sure I can help with that.'  She agreed.

They went straight away to see the man, Zeph as fascinated by the Cleric's power as Alfyn had been when they had first met.

'That was the most amazing feeling.'  Zeph commented breathlessly as they left the woodman's house.

'Are you trying to steal my Cleric?'  Alf was lounging by the doorway with Nina by his side as they emerged.  He swept Ophilia off her feet and held her protectively to himself.  'Mine.'  He told Zeph.

'Put me down.'  Ophilia sighed.

'Only if you promise not to run off with another Apothecary behind my back.'  He sniffed.

'Zeph is far less irritating than you.'  The Cleric countered.

Alfyn looked distraught.

'But you will always be my number one Apothecary, Alfyn.'  She smiled, kissing him sweetly.

'Aww shucks.  I hoped you'd say that.'  He put her back on her feet and turned to look at Zeph, suddenly shy.

'Hey mate.'  He blushed up a little.

Zeph stepped forward and drew him into a hug.

'Come on Nina.'  Ophilia smiled at the girl.  'Will you show me where the others are at and I can grab the present I brought you!'

'Oh!'  the girls eyes grew huge.  'C'mon.'  She took Ophilia's hand and pulled her away.

Zeph had arrange a picnic on the banks of the river, the sunlight and sparkling water making the setting almost idyllic.  The arrival of Linde had drawn the attention of every child in the nearby area and very soon after eating - a rough game that included teams, random violence and a lot of screaming and laughing took off.  H'aanit, Tressa and Ophilia captained the girls with Alfyn, Zeph and Therion leading the boys.

'My goodness,'  Primrose said, sitting herself down next to Cyrus who was watching the fun from a shady spot on the riverbank.  'How does a hoard of children make so much noise anyway?'

Cyrus chuckled.  'Not interested in joining in Lady Primrose?'  he asked.

'Oh please.  Just look at the mess they are making of themselves!'  Primrose was grinning.  'Not my kind of thing.'

'I wouldn’t have thought it Therion's thing either.'  Cyrus mused.

'Well he certainly seems to be enjoying himself,'  she smirked as Therion managed to wrestle Ophilia to the floor, calling for a couple of lads to help him pin her and time her out. 

To everyone's amazement, including Therion's - the tiny Cleric's twisted suddenly underneath her captor, hooking one of his legs with her own and flipping him solidly onto his back.  He was up and off again before Ophilia could get help from her team, but not before hoisting her to her feet and clapping her back sportingly.

'Feisty isn’t she.'  Primrose grinned.

'They look so young when they play.'  Cyrus said suddenly.  'Not really more than children themselves.  With all of the duty and responsibility they mostly  seem much, much older.'

'Is that your problem Cyrus?'  Primrose was suddenly studying him interestedly.  'Because none of us can understand why you haven’t claimed your girl yet.  You can't honestly still think your affection would be unwanted can you?'

Cyrus returned the searching stare at Primrose.  'No.'  He said finally.  'I agree my suit would likely be accepted.  I am not sure that offering it is altogether wise though.'

Primrose waited in silence.  A cheer went up from the field of play as Zeph was removed by H'aanit and Linde single handed.

'My life in Atlasdam is, or rather was extremely predictable.'  Cyrus finally said. 'Routine, hard work, applied focus and restraint.  The same principals needed to master and control elemental magic in fact.  In such condition's I have enjoyed success academically and personally in my achievements, but relationships.  Not so much.'

Primrose still said nothing,  just motioned him to continue.

'No single person ever raised an interest in me that wasn’t eclipsed by the next book or the next piece of research that came along.  Obviously, although I never undertook a liaison lightly, my lack of continued interest did not lead to lengthy affairs, and I have never felt any regret on account of that.'

Another cheer went up and Primrose and Cyrus looked to see what had happened.   H'aanit had been taken down but it looked as if every male on the field had needed to pile on top of her to achieve it.

Cyrus eventually continued.  'Ophilia however,  from the day we met - evoked emotion and fascination.  As we travelled somehow it turned into a much deeper regard over which I seemed to have none of my usual control.  I cannot even name some of the feelings I have for her let alone understand them.'

'So where's the problem?'  Primrose was looking frustrated 'I can't see any reason you may think it unwise..'

'I merely said offering suit was unwise Primrose.'  Cyrus began to rub at his chin.  'In the nature of the relationship that we already have - to suddenly push to change the field of play would be unnatural and forced.  I am simply awaiting the right moment.'

'I think you are over-thinking things.'  Primrose said unsurely.

'So does Odette.   And maybe you are all right.  It has seemed however that on a few occasions when I had thought the moment arrived something stepped in to stop it.  Perhaps I believe too much in an order to the universe or I put too much regard into our liaison simply due to my own lack of experience of feeling in this way, but - well I guess we shall see.'

Another cheer went up as a furious looking Tressa was planted by Alfyn who was now wearing her hat at a cocky angle on his head.

'I think I will go and offer Ophilia some moral support on the field.'  Primrose said, getting up with a shrug. 

'Don’t discount her chances.'  Cyrus said with a chuckle.

It looked to be all over.  Alfyn had grabbed Ophilia and had her held tight against his chest.  Therion was gently trying to remove three little girls grips from various of his limbs to go and aid his team-mate to bring the Cleric down.  Nina snuck up stealthily behind Alfyn  and then suddenly popped up to bite him hard on the thigh. With a startled cry he loosened his grip on Ophilia who straight away piled into his knees, causing him to stumble. Nina pushed him further.  Both girls threw themselves on top of him and Olberic counted the five count much quicker than he should.  The spectators cheered.

Ophilia turned directly to the three children that still had hold of Therion.  The challenging look he threw her was quite intoxicating.

'Tickle him!'  she roared at the girls as she and Nina sped up the field in aid, dodging the little boy's trying in vain to stop them.

'No!'  Therion shouted, going down immediately as thirty tiny fingers started to tickle at his ribs.

'Nina, sit on him please.'  Ophilia was laughing harder than Therion.  She sat at his head and put a single finger on his forehead as Nina plonked herself on his belly and the other girls continued their torture.

'You are so going to pay for this.' Therion told her,  tears running down his cheeks.

'Totally worth it.'  Ophilia smiled smugly then kissed his forehead as Olberic counted the five.

After much congratulations and celebrations, and after Ophilia had channelled a heal to deal with all the minor bumps and bruises everyone fell on the feast for more food.   She gathered a plate of fruit and went to join Cyrus who was reading his book.  He looked up at her as she sat down next to him, then reached to remove a leaf from her hair.

'Interesting new look.'  He said - grinning at her total dishevelment.

'I'm a total mess!' she agreed amiably offering him her platter.  He took a plum.

'Who knew you were so very competitive.' Cyrus bit into his fruit thoughtfully.  'Do you happen to play chess?'

'The Archbishop was a huge fan.'  She nodded.  'Apparently I'm a bit random.'

'Oh I think I would enjoy that.'  Cyrus chuckled.  'A resounding victory dearest.' He complimented.

Ophilia finished the pile of grapes she had been devouring then threw herself down onto her back with a happy sigh.

'I think the payback from Therion is going to be interesting.' She grinned.

Nina came sprinting over and threw herself down alongside the Cleric hugging on to her tight.

'You are so awesome Li!'  he girl declared.

'Your bite on Alf's thigh was inspired!'  Ophilia compliment back, wrapping her arm around the girl's shoulder and smoothing back her hair.

'Well, I mean in the match yeah of course.. but I was talking about that healing.  It was so nice!  It made me feel all warm, like someone was hugging me, and all the sad things in my head went away for a while.'

'I'm glad sweetheart.  But did the sad things come back?'  Ophilia asked gently.

'Well yeah, a bit I guess.'  Nina turned her face into the Cleric's side.

'Would you like to talk about it?'  Ophilia asked softly turning to wrap the girl entirely in a hug.

Cyrus moved himself to face slightly away and opened his book.

'It's not much really.'  Nina said her voice a whisper.  'It's just.. having Alf home and seeing him and Zeph together again.  It reminded me of how it was when they were special friends and we all lived together.'

'Oh I see.'  Ophilia was stroking the child's back.  'And do you miss those times honey?'

Nina nodded.  'But Zeph has a new special friend now - Mercedes.  She is really nice, and really friendly but it's not the same.  It's not Alf, and I guess that now Zeph has Mercedes - it really won't ever be Alf again.'  Tears had started to leak from the little girls eyes. Ophilia felt a soft flutter on her side and picked up the silk handkerchief that Cyrus had dropped there. 

'Alf and Zeph still love each other you know.'  Ophilia said as she wiped at the girls tears.  'And just because they no longer live in the same way it doesn’t change the love they have for you either.'  Nina nodded.  'It's the love that is important, but you also need to make sure that you show your love for a person in the right way.'  Ophilia paused to compose her thoughts.  'Do you love your best friend Nina?'  she asked.

'Yes of course! We have been friends since we were babies!'  Nina said sitting up and taking the handkerchief to finish wiping her tears.  Ophilia sat up too.

'Well, do you talk about your apothecary training with your friend?'  Ophilia asked next.

'Sometimes.'  Nina replied.  'Sometimes we talk about baking too, because that's what Lily is training to be alongside her Nan.'

'And what other things do you talk about?'  Ophilia enquired.

'Well, all sorts of stuff I guess.  We play games too sometimes.'  Nina smiled.  'Lily is really good at coming up with new games.'

'So how would you feel if it became that all Lily wanted to do when you spent time together was talk about baking?'  Ophilia suddenly felt Cyrus' fingers on her lower back, caressing supportively.

'Well I guess that would get pretty boring.'  Nina thought for a few minutes.  'I certainly wouldn’t want to do that all the time.'

'I think that's a bit like how it was for Zeph and Alf.  They both really care about healing people and their Apothecary work so that's all they ever spoke about and focused on.  It's not so bad when they were normal friends because they both like healing so much.  But when they became special friends and they were living together as well as seeing each other for work - it became too much.'

'Zeph and Mercedes talk about lots of different stuff.'  Nina said, her eyes widening suddenly.  'Mercedes is really clever and she know about all kinds of things as well as a bit about plants and remedies.'

'Exactly!'  Ophilia beamed.

'I know Zeph is pretty happy now.  They are always making those kissy faces at each other.'  Nina screwed her face up.  'It's pretty gross.  And it sounds so squelchy!'

Ophilia chuckled.  'You will probably change your mind about that in a year or so's time.' She said.

'I guess I get it.'  Nina said finally.  'I mean, I still love Alf best so I am gonna miss him right?'

'It's perfectly fine to be sad sometimes honey, especially when it's because we are missing someone we love.  But remember those still around you that you love and they will always help you if you are feeling down.  You can talk to Lily, or Zeph.  I expect one day soon you will love Mercedes too because she is a fine friend to have.'

Nina threw herself into Ophilia's arms.  'Thanks Li.  I think Alf is really lucky to get to spend his time with you.  Hugging you is just like your healing magic you know.  It makes the sad stuff go right away!'

'It's not magic!'  Ophilia grinned at the girl.  'You should always hug when you can.  It is the best way ever to cheer someone up.  And sometimes someone who is smiling on their face may still be sad in their heart, so it's always best to give the hug regardless- just in case!'

They were silent for a few minutes.

'Do you have a special person Li?'  Nina asked suddenly.

'Well, all of my friends are special and I love them dearly.  But if you mean a kissy face special person then no.'

'I think maybe you should ask Professor Albright.'  Nina mouthed at her quietly.

'Oh?'  Ophilia blushed.  'Why do you think that?'  She asked warily.

'Well, I know about stuff like this because I'm training to be an Apothecary.'  Nina had stood up and cast a critical eye over Ophilia and Cyrus who had looked up at her from his book.

'I reckon that if you two were special kissy friends then you would end up having the prettiest babies that ever existed.'  Nina grinned at them, then turned and ran off in the direct of home.

'Oh, my dearest, I don’t think there is even a name for the shade of red your face has become.'  Cyrus was laughing.  Hard.

'Oh.  Oh dear.  That's not really helping Professor - thank you!'  Ophilia wailed.  She got up.  'I think I'm going to leave.  I need to find a place to curl up and die quietly.'

'Wait!  Ophilia.  Come back!'  he called mercilessly to her rapidly retreating back.  'We haven't even come up with names for our exceptionally gorgeous offspring yet!'  He collapsed back on the grass, tears running down his face.

~0~

The companions got up late the following morning, largely due to a night spent in the Tavern where Zeph had been exceptionally willing to share tales of Alfyn's childhood that had everyone in fits.  Alfyn and Ophilia were the only ones to rise early.  As she had earlier promised him, just before dawn, Ophilia took her lantern and they made their way to the village graveyard.

Alfyn bought flowers.  Ophilia knelt alongside him at the grave of his mother and as the sun rose, lit by the pale blue glow from her light, the Cleric sang a requiem that drifted sweetly around the beautiful spot.

When she was done Alf laid his flowers, taking one from the bunch and handing it to the Cleric.  They sat there together for some time, arms round each other in silence.

'I don't get it.'  Alfyn finally said.  'Alaic keeps going on about how terrible your voice is - but it's properly lovely.'

'It made him cry.'  Ophilia said quietly 'But I kept singing at him anyway because getting any emotion was better than none.  It worked in the end.'

'Thanks for doing this.'  Alf said 'My Mam would be made up to think the Flamebearer herself, with Aelfric's lantern tended her grave!'

'You are more than welcome Alf.'  Ophilia wiped the tears from his cheeks. 'Has it been good to be home?'  she asked curiously.

'It was harder seeing Zeph than I imagined.'  Alf admitted.  'But in the end - yeah, seeing how happy he is - it helps y'know.'

'Make you want to stay?'  Ophilia enquired.

'Are you kidding?  Do you really think I would leave you to deal with healing our nutcases on your own?'

Ophilia chuckled.  'For that I am eternally grateful, my number one Apothecary.'

'So Saintsbridge next hey.'  Alfyn squeezed Ophilia's shoulder.  You reckon your ready for your first Kindling now?'

'I guess we are going to find out soon enough.'  Ophilia sighed.

Chapter Text

It took yet another four days of journeying  for the companions to make their way from Clearbrook to Saintsbridge following the main roads.  The going continued to be easy and the mood was jovial despite the unspoken growing tension felt by most of them at the possibility of an unexpected attack of some kind or another.

Ophilia was quieter than normal, a slight rigidity to her shoulders and the less frequent beam of her smile giving away her anxiety at the upcoming Kindling  to those that knew her and they all rallied to try and keep her spirits up and her growing fear at bay.

'Well, here we are then!'  Alfyn declared as they started on the impressive first bridge that crossed the river into the town.

'Hey.'  Therion suddenly pointed at a figure in a long dark cloak that had materialised in front of them.   'I recognise that woman.  It's the crazy lass looking for her true love!'  Indeed, the dark-haired beauty that they had encountered at Bolderfall by the Ravus Manse was standing demurely on the middle of the bridge - her slightly unfocused gaze peering out distantly over the water.   They had to slow the cart down to a stop as they were unable to get past her.  The woman looked up at Olberic who had moved forward to politely request her to move out of the way.  She grabbed at his arm.

'Oh!'  She said in her deep and husky voice.  'A temptation indeed.  So noble a soul.  But you are not him.'  There was the slightest edge of regret in her voice.  Her eyes slid immediately past Cyrus and Therion, then came to a rest on Alfyn who had no idea what the hell was going on but gulped nervously at the woman's intense scrutiny as she made her way slowly towards him - hand outstretched.  

'What?'  the woman stumbled slightly as she reached the Apothecary.  He caught her deftly before she fell.  She gazed up at him, her eyes blank, her tongue just appearing out from between her dark red lips as if tasting the air.  'You have been touched by the cross!'  she declared breathlessly.  'I feel the mark coursing in your blood and through your soul.  So close.  So very close.  Blonde you are, and kind of heart and mind.  Tested that will be.'  The woman closed her eyes and released herself from Alfyn's bemused grip.'  But you are not my love.'  She said finally.  She drew her cloak to herself tightly, and then without looking at anyone else she started walking down the bridge towards the town.

Everyone looked at each other in confusion.

'H'aanit!'  a voice called from behind them.  The huntress turned in surprise.

'Alphas!'  H'aanit greeted the warrior who came running up to them.

'Did my love just pass this way?'  he asked, his breath coming in gasps at his exertion.

'You mean the crazy woman?'  Therion had come forward to slap the man on the back.  'I'd have thought you'd given up on that by now.'

'I will never forsake my true love.'  Alphas replied stiffly.  'I will follow her to the ends of the earth if I must, although...'  he swallowed sadly '..It is like she doesn't  even see me.  We had that one brief moment when she saw... ahh.' 

'Mayhap it be for the best that thou forget thy love.'  H'aanit suggested sagely.

'I could not.'  Alphas declared.

'Well, yeah she went off that way along the bridge.'  Alfyn patted the warrior on the back.  'If you hurry you may catch her.'

'Many thanks friends!'  Alphas saluted them and took up his run again following his maid.

The cart started moving again.  Suddenly Therion guffawed.

'No... no way!'  he was grinning from ear to ear - waving a scruffy piece of paper in his hand.

'Was ist?'  H'aanit asked curiously.

'I nicked it from that madman.. heh just listen to this...'  Therion struck a dramatic pose and read in a mockingly serious voice.

'....Thou art the other half that makes me whole,  The perfect piece missing from my soul,  When I think of thee strength flows through me,  My sword exists only to protect thee....'

'Therion!  How could you?'  Ophilia was red in the face.  She snatched the paper from him.

Alfyn was snickering and Olberic was laughing outright.

'I know.. right?'  Therion was nearly doubled over.

'Oh that's so lovely!'  Ophilia had the paper held almost up to her nose - her eyes misty.

'Ahh ist a joy!'  H'aanit agreed lustily. 'A veritable feast for thine heart.'

'I knew a boy who wrote poetry once...'  Primrose had a distant look.  'Such wonderful words...'

'Hang on.'  Alfyn's mouth was hanging open.  'You don’t mean you thought that was good do you?'

Ophilia looked at him surprised.  'It was beautiful.  So heartfelt.  You are so mean to take it Therion.'  She admonished the thief. 'It's obviously important to him.  I will return it.'  She said with a sigh.

'Wait.. what?'  Therion looked stunned.  'That was a pile of crap - I could write better in my sleep... seriously?'

'But you don't though,  do you darling?'  Primrose said tartly.  'At least Alphas has the courage to commit to his feelings..'

'Come on...  Prof, help us out here... it was shite right?'  Therion scowled.

'I am staying well out of that debate my sneaky little friend.  In my experience ladies like pretty words.  You would be wise to leave it at that.'  Cyrus was grinning.

The companions moved on into the town.

'I had best head straight on up to the Cathedral and let them know I have arrived.'  Ophilia said with a heavy sigh.  'At least I can get an itinerary of what to expect.'

'I'm meeting with one of my Da's contacts.'  Tressa added.  'They have sorted me a vendors licence for the for the Kindling - apparently your little ceremony will bring traders from all over Ophilia - these licences are like gold-dust!'

'Oh.  So a lot of people are expected then?'  Ophilia sounded daunted.

'Um, well yeah duh!'  Tressa smiled happily.

'Wonderful.'  The little Cleric muttered.

With the growing buzz of the impending Kindling - rooms in town were hard to come by.  Finally the companions were able to find a place in a very upmarket Inn in a wonderfully tranquil location, although the demanded cost to have Linde admitted to the party on top of the inflated rates nearly brought Tressa to tears.  They only managed to secure it when Ophilia stepped in with an imperious  'Do you know who I am?' to the snooty Innkeeper.  After that things had gone rather much better.

Wary of potential problems Olberic insisted that the team stay in groups and keep their eyes open.  Alfyn, Therion and Primrose made their way with Tressa to get herself sorted in the market, and Olberic, H'aanit and Cyrus accompanied Ophilia to the Cathedral. 

Saintsbridge really was a lovely town.  Bordered on all sides by dense woodland, with the main river and a number of subsidiaries running through it - it was picturesque - and it's church, overlooking the town was its crowning jewel.  The grounds that surrounded the place of worship were vast and beautifully maintained.  The delightful tinkle of trickling water and the sheer amount of spots provided to sit in peaceful reflection made for a vibrant social area which bustled with people meeting and chatting and children scampering about in play.

As they made their way up to the Cathedral,   the strange woman that they had encountered on the bridge came rushing from the church, a beauteous smile on her face. 

'He has been found! My love has been found!'  she informed them as she hurried past.

'Oh, I expect Alphas is close by.'  Ophilia murmured reaching into her pocket for the poem that Therion had stolen.  'I can hopefully return this.'  As she took it out a breeze took the paper and whipped it from her hand.  It landed at the feet of a pretty woman stood alone on the path, who bent to retrieve it for the Cleric.  The woman's eyes scanned the poem and a rosy blush coloured her cheeks.

'Did you write this?'  she breathed at Olberic, who had gone forward to retrieve the note.

'Not I,'  he chuckled.  'I am afraid I have no way with words My Lady.  That honour goes to the gentleman just now coming from the Church.  Sir Alphas is the warrior and the scribe.'

'Indeed!  The woman blushed heavier.  'I think I may like to speak with him.'

'Would you be kind enough to give him back that note then My Lady.'  Olberic asked smoothly.  'Alas, he dropped it when we encountered him on the bridge earlier today - and we were looking to return it!'

'But of course!'  the lady replied kindly and set off on a course to intercept the lovesick warrior.

'Oh, nicely done Olberic!'  Ophilia smiled at him as he returned to them.

'Hmm?' he asked.

Since Linde was likely to cause a panic if she were taken into the Cathedral, Olberic and H'aanit stayed outside whilst Cyrus took the faltering Cleric gently by the hand and up the steps to the entrance.

'Breathe my love.'  He murmured quietly as he opened the door.  'I am right here.  Lean on me if you need too.' 

Ophilia flashed him a small, grateful smile.  'Am I so obviously terrified?' she asked in a whisper.

'Only to one who knows you and loves you dearheart.'  Cyrus reassured her squeezing her hand.

They walked together slowly up the nave towards the choir and High Altar.

'Oh.  That's not good.'  Ophilia said imperceptibly, her stance suddenly straightening as she got her first look at the Burning Flame of Saintsbridge.

'The Flame does seem.. a little low.'  Cyrus agreed.

'Sister Ophilia.'  A gentle voice called to her from the North transept of the crossing.

'Your Excellency!'  Ophilia's face lit for the first time since entering the Cathedral.  'Father Bartolo!  I am so glad to see you again!'  Suddenly energised the little Cleric hastened towards the plump, kindly looking Bishop, her hands stretched out to him.

The Bishop gave a little laugh and encased her in a huge hug.  'I am sure we are breaking every rule of etiquette.'  He told her with a jolly smile, '..but by the God's Ophilia, it is so good to see you here safe and well!  Please come with me my dear...'

He took Ophilia by the arm and led her out to the High Altar and into the presence of the Flame.  Cyrus followed a few steps behind them.

'Can I introduce you to my companion and my scribe?'  Ophilia asked as they came to stop.  'And my friend.'  She added as Cyrus joined them.

'Oh, of course.  Professor Albright I believe!'  the Bishop looked keenly up at the Scholar.  'I have been lucky enough to have read a number of your papers on Ancient Theology and Language, Professor.  I hope that we may get a chance to discuss some relative points while you are here.'  He grinned happily at the thought.  'Ophilia did write that you may be interested in viewing our small archive of works here.'  He patted Ophilia's arm kindly.  'Please be assured that you are most welcome - I have set the agreement with our head archivist already so do not hesitate when you have the time!'

Cyrus bowed and looked a little startled.  'I genuinely hope we will get the chance to talk, Your Excellency, although I am sure your workload will be quite extensive with the Kindling.'

'Ah yes.'  The Bishop turned his attention back to Ophilia  'Not a moment too soon dear child.  Just look at our poor Flame.'  He sighed heavily.

'How long has it waned like this?'  Ophilia asked gently.

'This bare flicker?  It has been a while now.'  The Bishop regarded the high Altar with some sadness.  'How well I remember the day your father came and performed the Kindling.  Such vigour and passion!  How the Flame roared bright, but time has not been kind.  The land is assaulted by doubt, both in the Flame and in the Church.  Rumours of alternative religions and oh, such cynicism on all sides. We shall change this course though Ophilia.  You bring warmth and gentle love, just what is needed in these cold times, mark my words.'

'I hope your faith in me is not misplaced, Your Excellency.'  Ophilia said vehemently.

The Bishop patted Ophilia's arm.  'So let me give you the plan and then you can get some well earned rest my dear.'  He smiled.  'Tomorrow you and I will be meeting for our advisement.  At both of the locations you travel to we keep a half of the story of 'The Sacrifice.'  which is imparted to you so you better understand the role you will undertake.  My part covers the ritual itself.  In Goldshore you will learn what comes after for the Flamebearer.'

'Okay.'  Ophilia nodded a little warily.

'On the second day you will have time for reflection and prayer on what you have learned.  You will also be able to undertake cleansing if you so wish, although it is not compulsory.  On the third day the Kindling will be performed when the sun is at its zenith.'  The Bishop smiled at the dazed look on Ophilia's face.   'You have a suite prepared for your use here my dear, and a room for you also Professor, if you wish it.  I believe you know Eliza Woodward, of the Knights Ardante.  She is in charge of your security and will meet with you shortly.'

Ophilia had started to wilt.  Cyrus was quickly behind her, subtly propping her up, his hand on the small of her back.

'You must be tired child.'  Bishop Bartolo frowned in concern 'Would you like to be shown to your room now?'  he asked.

'Oh.. thank you but no Your Excellency.  I would greatly like some fresh air and perhaps a look around your beautiful town.'  Ophilia raised a smile.

'Then I shall keep you no longer.  I will see you for our meeting tomorrow!'  The Bishop bowed slightly to the Flamebearer and took his leave.

'Let me help you.'  Cyrus said, his concern evident as he scrutinised Ophilia's pale face.

Ophilia noted how the Cathedral had filled up since they had entered, many of the faces staring down towards her in curiosity.

'Thank you Cyrus, but I have to make an effort to at least appear inspiring, or something close...'  she straightened herself up and raised her chin,  trying not to lean too heavily on her staff.

'You are always inspiring my love.'  Cyrus said reflectively as she started her stride back down the nave, smiling gently to the onlookers who gawked at her.

They had reached near to the door and freedom when Ophilia was suddenly accosted by a handsome young man who stepped directly in front of her and grabbed at her wrist.

'We need to talk.'  The man said roughly, with no preamble.

'Mr Mattias!'  Ophilia exclaimed, as Cyrus moved quickly forward to deal with the situation.

'Please unhand the Flamebearer.'  Cyrus said with controlled politeness.

'Alone.'  Mattias had not let go of his grip on Ophilia's wrist.

'Please, Mr Mattias.  I greatly require some fresh air - may we not take our conversation outside?'  the strain on the girls face was very evident.

'I will take you to my lodging.  I have a room in the cloister.'  Mattias turned and began to physically drag Ophilia along behind him.

'Let go of her.'  Cyrus's voice was still low - but the menace in his tone was palpable.

'Or what Professor?'  Mattias stopped and gave the Scholar a condescending sneer.

'Peace.  Please!'  Ophilia begged, pulling her arm out of Mattias' grip.  'Mr Mattias.  Forgive me,  I am tired and I wish some air.  I will happily talk with you, but Professor Albright has taken responsibility for my safety and he takes his role very seriously.  Can we not please conduct our business gracefully?'

'This is family business girl.'  Mattias took a deep breath, trying to control his ire.  'Since the Archbishop is incapacitated and I have accepted the role as the Intended of your Sister, your guardianship had legally fallen to me.'

'Ophilia is a woman grown, a full Cleric of the Order.  She has no requirement for guardianship.'  Cyrus sounded incredulous.

'None the less.'  Mattias' tone was clipped.  'In her adoption, to protect her interest and her inheritance, her guardianship does extend to her twenty-fifth year or the occasion of her agreed marriage.  Neither of which have yet come to pass.'

'This is about leaf?'  The Cleric almost laughed.  'I have no wish for inheritance Mr Mattias.  I will happily draw you up a statement making this clear.'

Mattias growled.  'It is not only about leaf you silly child.  Your conduct is shaming our family.  Traipsing about the continent and avoiding your duty.  Taking up with a Thief, a shamed Scholar, a Whore?'

Ophilia took each verbal hit like a physical blow.  A crowd was starting to gather around them.

'After this Kindling is done you will be returning to Flamesgrace with me Ophilia.'  Mattias' voice had become a low rumble.  'You will attend your Sister on her wedding day and then I will personally escort you to Goldshore to finish your duty.  That is the last word on it.  I expect you to be ready to leave as soon as the Flame here is seen to.'  With a last scornful look at Cyrus, Mattias moved off.

'I was so very wrong about him.'  Eliza stepped out from behind a stone pillar and took Ophilia by the arm.  'Come on, let's get you outside.'  She added, gently steering the Cleric to the door.

~0~

Tressa was completely in her element.  She had found that not only did she have an absolutely perfect stall from which to sell her wares, but her location could not be better either, on the main thoroughfare that led round and up to the Cathedral.  The other merchants had gotten wind of the fact that she had travelled with the Flamebearer and were all seeking out her attention too. 

'I honestly think I underestimated the stock for this.'  She murmured happily to Primrose.  'We are going to make a killing.'

Therion and Alfyn were sitting under a central tree, keeping an eye on the ladies and enjoying a mug of ale.  Despite the crowded streets they were nicely relaxed.  Alfyn had quickly discovered that there was another travelling Apothecary in town who had been there for a number of days already so there had been no call for his own skills at all.

'I could get used to this.'  Alfyn said with a happy sigh, indicating the nice weather and view - and of course the beer in his hand.

'It's all just a little bit sterile for my taste.'  Therion moaned, but he too seemed relaxed.

There was a sudden ruckus, as a number of guards made their way through the market, six men heavily armoured and looking high and low as they went.

'Wonder what that's about.'  Alfyn mused.

'Dunno, just grateful it isn’t me for a change.'  Therion sighed.  'Promised her Holiness to behave myself - like a fool.'

'I do think she is about eighty percent of your conscience'  Alfyn laughed.

'A pain in my arse is what she is.'  Therion grumbled.

'Aww its kinda sweet Therion.  You make her naughty, she makes you nice... It always .....'  Alfyn stopped in the middle of his sentence.  'Look..'  he pointed at an empty stall in a side part of the market.  'That fellow looks like he could use some help.'  He indicated a man with a bright orange shock of hair fallen almost under the stall, in obvious pain.

'I know what's coming next...'  Therion sighed.  'Well.  Let's go!'

They started to make their way over to where the man had fallen.  Before they reached him, another older man got there first and bent over the prone redhead.

'Are you in trouble?'  the older man asked.

'Well, Whadda it look like?'  the redhead asked roughly.  'Me bleedin' leg is killing me.'

'Hmm.'  The older man knelt and took a look at the offending limb.  'A rather nasty infection.'  He said.  'Sir, I am an Apothecary.  If you can just answer a few questions...'

The two men conferred for a number of minutes.  The older man suddenly stood up. 

'I'm sorry.'  He said stiffly.  'I won't be able to help you I'm afraid.'  He walked away, straight into Therion and Alfyn.

'Hey!'  Alfyn looked confused.  'Sir, did you just refuse that man help?'

The older man looked Alfyn up and down, taking in his satchel and greens.  'It is my choice whom I chose to heal.'  He said quietly.  'That man is not worth saving.  Good-day.'

'Now wait here...'  Alfyn started, but the man had walked off without a second glance.

'Well, we'll see about that!'  Alfyn went to the redhead.

'Hello Sir,'  Alfyn said with his best friendly smile.  'I too am an Apothecary.  May I take a look at that wound?'

'What? So you can refuse to help me too?'  the man said bitterly.

'Doubt it.  I'm Alfyn.'  The boy took a good look at the man's leg.  It had festered badly.  'Okay mate.  I'm gonna give you a tonic that should help clear that up.  You got somewhere to stay?  Your gonna need rest.'

'Been hanging in a barn just on the outskirts of town.  Can't get no place with a bed on account of the bloody Kindling circus.'  The man said bitterly.

Alfyn was pounding up some medication.  'Well If you take this now, I will come look you up in the morning and we can see how it's doing?'  Alfyn offered.

'Yeah, that's okay.  Names Miguel.  Thanks kid.'

'You're welcome.' Alfyn grinned broadly at his new patient.

~0~

Ophilia has taken a seat in a quiet part of the Cathedral garden, having begged to simply be left alone for a while to gather herself.  She was within easy reach of Eliza, Cyrus, H'aanit and Olberic, who were grouped together a short way away, giving her space but sending her concerned looks whilst talking amongst themselves, obviously about her.

Ophilia was totally mortified.  Her head was reeling and she could form no proper coherent thought.  It was as if someone had wrapped her head in wool.  She continued to breathe deeply as her father had taught her and tried to stave off the panic that was threatening to overwhelm her.

Her peace was suddenly shattered by three children who had started arguing loudly.

'Children please!'  she had stood up, irritation uncommonly rising in her.  'What is all this noise about?'

'Why don’t you ask him, he's the idiot!'  one of the boys said pointing at another.

'Yeah,' the third one said.  'It's all his fault!'

The accused boy suddenly burst into tears.  Loud sobs that shook his entire body.

'Ughh.  Cry-baby!'  The first boy said unkindly.  'Come on Nate, let's get away before the baby makes us wet!'  The two boys ran off to another part of the garden.

Ophilia sighed, but despite her own woes, the crying child tugged at her heart.

'What's wrong sweetheart?'  she asked gently kneeling in front of the boy and putting a kind hand to his shoulder.  'Why are those other's being mean?'

'They're right, it is all m...m...my fault.'  The boy cried miserably.

'Come and sit with me honey, and we will see if we can sort it out.'  Ophilia led the boy back to her bench and put an arm around his frail body.  'Can you tell me your name?'  she asked.

'Emil.'  The boy had stopped crying but was twisting his hands together unhappily.  'I bumped into Darryl and he must dropped it.' He explained 'I didn't mean to, I didn’t know it would fall off and go missing.  He is my friend, and I wouldn’t want to hurt him.  Not for anything.'

'What went missing?'  Ophilia asked patiently.

'His mum's brooch.'  Emil looked thoroughly miserable.  'His mum died a few weeks past and the brooch - it's important to him.  He showed it to us and I guess it wasn’t pinned properly back on.'

'Well where was it lost?'  Ophilia smiled at the boy.  'We can go and have a good look for it if you like.

'Really?'  the boy's answering smile was like a ray of sunshine.  He got up and took the Cleric's hand.  'Just over here...'  he pulled her to an area not far away but heavy in shrub and undergrowth.

At her movement, Cyrus came rushing over.

'Is everything alright dearheart?'  he asked, his arm wrapping instinctively around her shoulders.

Ophilia quickly explained Emil's plight.  Cyrus looked at her - his expression unreadable. 

'I will get the others.'  He said.  'The more of us looking the better our chances.'

'You don’t have too..'  Ophilia began but he cut her off with a soft kiss.

'Yes.  Yes we do.  I will be only a moment.'  He sprinted back to the others.  

Between the four of them and Emil, the area was searched rather thoroughly, but there was no sign of the brooch.

'There are tracks here.'  H'aanit mused at one stage.  'A large animal, but I hath not seen such since we hath been here.'

'There was a big dog here earlier.'  Emil spoke up.  'It's why Darryl got pushed in the first place.  The dog was pretty scary and I was trying to push him away.  Then we ran.  It was only later we realised the brooch was missing.'

'Not a dog.'  H'aanit said.  'I recognise these prints.  Liken Hagen.  A dire wolf.  There should be none such in this land though.'

'Where do they lead?'  Cyrus asked, rubbing his chin.

'Back towardeth the woods.'  H'aanit pointed.

Ophilia had noted that the child whose brooch had been lost had sidled back and was watching the search effort dispassionately.  She approached him.

'I am sorry to hear about your Mother.'  She said softly.

'Yeah, whatever.'  The boy frowned.  'What you doing?'

'Emil is looking for your brooch.  He is very upset that it was lost.'

'Yeah? Well he should be - it was his fault.'  Darryl's frown deepened.

'I know you're hurting.'  Ophilia reached out to put a comforting hand on the boy - but he shrugged away.  'I lost my Mother too - when I was a bit younger than you.  I know how it hurts Darryl.'

'Does it stop?  The hurt?'  the child asked almost unwillingly.

'Honestly Darryl, no.  You will always grieve for a loved one, but it does get easier.  And one of the biggest things that can help ease the pain is the love of a friend.  Someone who will try and right a wrong to make you happy.'

'Eh, well Emil isn't even here anymore - so he ain't a friend is he?'

'What?'  she looked.  Emil was no longer with the group.  'Um guys?'  Ophilia called.  'Where did Emil go?'

They looked at each other.  The other boy that had been with them earlier came running up.

'Emil's gone into the Murkwood!'  he exclaimed breathlessly.  'Said he reckons he knows where that dog went - wanted to see if it took the brooch!'

'Where?  Show me!'  The Cleric grabbed a hold of Nate.  She turned round to speak to Darryl, but that boy was no longer there.

'Oh by the Gods!'  Ophilia's face was red in anger 'Now where has that child gone.'  Everyone was looking a bit confused.  'Nate.  Show me where Emil went.  Please'  she added realising her tone was angry.

'Right.  This way.'  Nate took her to an opening that seemed to lead a path into the forest.  'He went in there.'  Nate said.

'Wait here and DO NOT MOVE.'  The Cleric marched down the path into the tree's.  She was vaguely aware that H'aanit, Olberic and Cyrus were behind her, but she didn’t wait for them.  She was angry.  Angrier than she could ever remember being. 

The darkness under the tree cover was almost absolute.  With a frustrated sigh Ophilia banged her staff to the ground and light shone forth from the tip.  Well that was new but she barely even registered surprise.

The boy's hadn’t made it far into the tree's, she found them relatively quickly.  Unfortunately when it came to it - there was a huge dire wolf stood between her and them, growling at the children menacingly.

'Hey you!'  she shouted at the wolf.  'Pick on someone your own size.'  The wolf turned at the noise in time for Ophilia's staff to connect a resounding blow to its head.  She flung her arms in the air dramatically and called on the light, beaming a huge brilliant beam directly at the animal causing it to whimper and run backwards away from them.  She ran to the children and stood in front of them.

'Well come on then.'  She said to the wolf.

Cyrus reached her first.  He put both hands up and approached her carefully.

Ophilia saw H'aanit over Cyrus's shoulder throw her huge net over the cowed dire wolf and with Olberic's help secure it safely.  Olberic also picked something up off the ground and walked it over to the children.  Wordlessly he handed the brooch back to Darryl.

There was a silence.  Cyrus tentatively opened his arms to the Cleric who suddenly dropped like a stone into them.

Darryl and Emil were staring at Ophilia in wide eyes wonder.

'Bloody hell Sister.  You kicked the living snot outta that dog!'  Darryl whooped gleefully.

'Yeah!'  Emil agreed wondrously.  'Your frigging outrageous Sister!'

'I am aren’t I?'  Ophilia said breathlessly.

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Ophilia couldn't work out exactly when it was that everything had started to go so very horribly wrong. 

Chapter Text

Cyrus awoke to singing, quiet and indistinct but definitely tuneful and happy.  He sat up groggily, rubbing his eyes and trying to focus his thoughts.  He was on the mattress by the burned out hearth in Ophilia's room and sunlight was streaming through the window - the singing he noted was accompanied by gentle splashing and coming from the bathroom.

He lay back down with a contented sigh, listening to the merry little voice, his eyes closing in peaceful tranquillity.  Eventually, the singing stopped and Ophilia came out of the bathroom quietly, obviously intent on not disturbing him.  He heard her pull out a chair at the table and he opened his eyes lazily.  She was staring at him with a gentle smile, combing out her damp hair.

'Good morning.'  She said softly, putting down her brush and coming to kneel beside him.  Her hand raked through his decidedly mussed mane, pushing it away from his brow before she leaned in to gently brush his lips with her own.  Cyrus closed his eyes again, unable to prevent a happy moan as he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer.

'I'm sorry if I woke you.'  She murmured, resting her chin on her hands against his chest, trying to avoid trailing her wet hair over him.  'You seemed so completely exhausted last night and you slept entirely through Eliza's visit this morning.  She was kind enough to fill me in on what happened yesterday since I don’t really remember... well, from what she said it sounds like it's a good thing I don’t recall in any detail.'

Cyrus ran a soothing hand down her back, the fabric of her clerical robe soft beneath his fingers.  She blushed suddenly. 'Of course, after I woke from the sleeping draught ... you rather diverted my attention.'  She was silent for a minute.  'Actually...'  she added quietly, her blush deepening.  'In truth, I find that I am still rather distracted.'

'Oh, my darling..'  Cyrus's voice was husky but brimming with affection.

She gazed at him intensely for a few moments - a rather overwhelmed look on her face that was just so raw and pure that it made his heart flutter with its sincerity.  In a sudden fluidity of movement she pushed herself up and fiercely found his lips, one hand burying itself into his hair whilst her other grasped a handful of his shirt like a ballast.  His own passionate response startled her momentarily - she pulled away slightly to see pure fire blazing in his eyes.

'Gods, Ophilia.  I love you.'  He whispered hoarsely, pulling her back into the kiss, completely taking her breath away with his heartfelt sentiment.

'Ahem.'  Therion cleared his throat delicately after a few minutes had passed.  'Just thought I'd warn you, everyone is on their way up here with brunch.  You might want to.... err...'

Ophilia and Cyrus both looked up at Therion who was hanging through the window with a grin almost wider than his face.

'Therion!  When are you going to learn to use the door?'  Ophilia groaned, sitting up and scowling at the chuckling thief.

Therion slid fully into the room and closed the window.  'You should be thanking me!'  he waggled a finger at the pair of them.  'Luckily when I came and checked on you last night, I got an inkling that prior warning of arrival might be in order..'

'You were here last night?'  Cyrus looked confused.

'Yeah, everyone was worried naturally.'  Therion looked closely at Ophilia, 'But they wouldn’t let us in to visit, so Olberic sent me up to the window.  Never tried to break into a Cathedral before!'  he added, his grin back.  'Of course, a quick look through the window and it was pretty obvious you were recovering just fine your Holiness.  Although ... I'm not sure piracy is really the way to go - you are definitely way to cute for that....' He neatly dodged the pillow aimed at his head.

'Oh my goodness, you sneak - you were watching us?'  Ophilia was almost purple with embarrassment.

'Heh.'  Therion smirked and gave Cyrus a cheeky thumbs up.

'Well... ahem... right..'  Cyrus sat up with a wry smile, shaking his head at the thief,  then his eyes suddenly grew wide and he looked startled. 'Oh... my!'  he exclaimed  'It's the Kindling today Ophilia!  How on earth did that slip my mind?  Oh my goodness!  What time is it?'  he asked, totally flustered.

'Whoa Prof!'  Therion was laughing aloud now.  'Look at you! - mind all muddled and you're actually properly dishevelled too! Heh - your shirt's all creased and your hair's quite the disaster!  Way to go Ophilia, so proud of you!'

'You are a very bad man.'  The Cleric started to grin through her blush.

'Charming is the word you're looking for I think.'  Therion smirked - pulling her to her feet and hugging her.  'C'mon Phili, let's get everything straightened up before the other's get here.  That includes you genius!'  Therion put out his hands to pull Cyrus to his feet as well.

'What no hug for me?'  Cyrus chuckled.

'I think you've had enough already!'  Therion handed him his waistcoat and boots, then propelled him helpfully towards the door.  'Don't come back till you are your normal immaculate self!'  he advised with an amused snicker.

Therion turned back to Ophilia who was dragging the mattress from the fireplace back to the bed.  He picked up the other side and they carried it together.

'Are you really okay Phili?'  Therion asked gently, as they straightened up the blankets.  'We got here yesterday just before the sleeping draft took effect.... it wasn’t pretty.'

Ophilia sat on the edge of the bed and for the briefest second it seemed as a shadow passed over her face.  'I remember the fear.'  She said softly.  '..but honestly, I have lived with it for so long.  It was sharper, more in focus, more debilitating.'  She shuddered slightly.

'Why didn’t you leave?  When Cyrus offered.  He was right you know - you don’t owe anyone shit.'  Therion scowled.  'The way you've been treated since taking up that Ember...'

Ophilia put a hand up to gently silence him.  'It was always my choice to do it.'  She said firmly.  'I knew, at least partly what I would face.  I didn’t think I would make it this far but I had to try.  I don’t regret it Therion.  If anything, I have felt more true to myself in the last few months than at any other time in the past fifteen years.'  She smiled at him serenely. 'I think the family that I have found more than makes up for the adversity.  I mean look at you.  It's almost like you care!'  she chuckled at his hurt expression.

'That's right your Holiness, kick a man when he's trying to be supportive!  It's not like I'm any good at it.'  The Thief grumped.

'Awww poor Therion -  perhaps you need a little kiss too?'  Ophilia threatened, fully grinning now.

'Don't you dare!  Save it for lover-boy.'  Therion grinned back at her.  'Heh, you two are so cutesy.' 

'I can't believe you watched.'  Ophilia shook her head giggling.  'You have a problem, you know that right?'

'Oh I have a problem?  You're the one that wants to be a pirate! '  Therion started laughing.  'I need to come along and witness that one Phili.  If there were ever two least likely people...'

'It's not like I could stop you,'  Ophilia was laughing too.  'You would sneak onto the ship and watch anyway!'

Therion shook his head in amusement and wrapped the Cleric tight in his arms.  'You know, you're gonna be simply amazing today your Holiness.'  He said, his eyes sparkling.  'Tressa was right for a change.  You're going to show them all just how brilliant you are.  We all know it and we are all gonna be there for you ...'   Therion rested his forehead against hers.  '...and... well.   I..I guess..well..what I mean is...'  he suddenly frowned at his own stammering.

Ophilia beamed a smile that could have eclipsed the sun.  'I love you too Therion, you big sap.' 

'What?  That's not what I.. Really?'  he looked a little stunned.  'Hmph.. well..okay.  Bloody sneaky Cleric...' 

'Disgusting voyeur Thief..'  she countered.

'Heh.' He smirked.  They both started giggling.

The door knocked loudly and suddenly the room was crowded.  Olberic and H'aanit brought in huge trays of food.  Olberic popped outside the door again to drag Eliza in - who was protesting that she was working, but her blush gave away her pleasure at the Knights insistence.  Zeph and Nina accompanied Alfyn, both of whom were wide-eyed at the Cathedral, and the fact that she was the Flamebearer.

'It ain't like we didn’t realise what it meant, but being here, and you with the lantern and all.  It's like something out of a book!'  Zeph said shyly. 

Ophilia laughed and hugged him till he blushed.  'I'm just so happy you turned out for me!'  she said.  'You should have used the time off to go see Mercedes in Atlasdam!'

'Well, yeah about that.'  Zeph blushed even harder.  'I didn’t get a chance to ask you if you would...  well, I was thinking of...I mean it won't be for a while but...'

'Spit it out!'  Ophilia was smiling at him.

'Well, I was thinking of asking her, you know if she would consider.. well me.'

'Oh!'  Ophilia clapped her hands in delight.  'That's wonderful.  Did you tell Alf?'

'Yeah.  He was happy.'  Zeph beamed.  'Actually he was the one that said that maybe you would... well, if she said yes of course  - would you consider doing the ceremony for us?'

'Me?  Really?  Well, of course! - I'd love too!' 

Alfyn had wandered over.  He handed Ophilia a fresh blue bloom and engulfed her in a huge hug.

'Okay?'  she asked kissing him soundly.

'Yeah, thanks Li.'  He held her away from himself and took a long look at her.  'You're looking way better than yesterday too.  Should I start prescribing Cyrus smooches to all my patients?'  he grinned.

'Don't you dare!  Mine!'  she laughed.

'Ogen was amazing.'  Alfyn told her. 'He will be along in a while, check you over.  We had a long chat too.  He told me about.. well what happened to him, why he don't heal some people.  He is a really good guy!' 

'You're still my number one Alf.'  Ophilia squeezed him.

'Well of course!'  Alfyn blushed at her. 

Primrose was the next to grab Ophilia and drag her over to a corner where H'aanit and Tressa were sat.

'Okay, spill Sister!'  Primrose was grinning.  'Therion said there were kisses but then he clammed up and wouldn’t say any more - just sat there grinning.'

'I threatened him and still he wouldst not reveal anything!'  H'aanit added eagerly.

Ophilia coloured prettily.  'I'm surprised you're here Tressa,'  she said in a vain effort to change the subject.  'I was sure you would be busy with sales on the morning of the Kindling.'

'Oh, ho- ho... No way Phili.  You ain't getting out of this.  We need details!'  the young Merchant grinned, bouncing excitedly.

'There really isn’t much to tell.'  Ophilia exclaimed.  'There were kisses, but Cyrus was so exhausted that he fell asleep pretty quickly!'

'Oh, I am going to have to have words with that boy!'  Primrose muttered.

'In truthe though Primrose,'  H'aanit said seriously. 'Ophilia wast so very badly afflicted, I finden myself not surprised that the Professor wast so tired.  He suffered much from her anguish.  He doth love thou greatly.'  She noted to the Cleric.

'Ahh.. so romantic!'  Tressa smiled.

'But still..'  H'aanit grinned at her friend.  'Thou needeth to tellen us if the kisses were nice!'  she put her arm around the Cleric.

'Very, very nice.'  Ophilia sighed happily.

Ogen had slipped quietly in while Ophilia was talking to the girls.  When he got her attention he beckoned her over.  She rushed to him and hugged him impulsively.

'Thank you Ogen.'  She murmured gratefully.  'For both your attention and Eliza tells me that you chased off Mattias quite effectively too!'

'The man was a total arse.'  Ogen grumbled, pushing the Cleric away softly so that he could look her over closely.  'Hmm.  The Professor said you were strong girl, but really I am quite amazed at your recovery.  It must have been hell.'

'What I remember yes, but how can I possibly succumb to fear with all these wonderful people supporting me?'  Ophilia's eyes filled.

'Hey now.'  Ogen pulled her back into a hug.

Cyrus appeared at the door, eyes widening at the crowd of people who had appeared.  He spotted Ophilia with Ogen, and came up to clasp the Apothecary on the shoulder.

'How's my girl doing?'  he asked the man.

'Remarkably.'  Ogen chuckled.  'You are quite the inspiration Ophilia.'  He added.  'I find myself looking forward with interest to the Kindling.  Not usually my kind of thing - but I think in your case I may make an exception!'  he patted her on the arm, then moved away to talk with Alfyn and Zeph.

Cyrus and Ophilia stood staring at each other shyly for a second then he reached out to take her in his arms and kissed her tenderly.  There was definitely some sniggering from behind them.  Tressa cheered.

'Oh dear.'  Cyrus murmured. 

'They can just get used to it.'  Ophilia said fiercely.

'Quite right dearheart!' Cyrus chuckled and kissed her again.

~0~

It was very nearly time.  Bishop Bartolo had already begun the proceedings, engaging the crowd in a solemn retelling of the Kindling story.  Ophilia was waiting patiently in the wings, calm and serene while Cyrus was pacing nervously behind her. 

The Cleric had already spied all of her friends out in the main body of the Cathedral.  Olberic and H'aanit were on either side of the nave - patrolling discreetly keeping an eye on the spectators.  Alfyn, Zeph, Nina and Ogen were right at the front, Nina bouncing up and down in excitement.  Ophilia had been surprised to see that Tressa and Primrose were sat next to Heathcote and Lady Cordelia Ravus, all of whom appeared to be deep in conversation.

She spotted Therion last of all, and she would have missed him all together if it were not for the awareness of her friend in her head.  He was perched high above them all in the wooden rafters of the roof, feet dangling dangerously from a narrow beam.  He spied her staring up at him and waved,  then laughed when she lifted her robe slightly and shook a foot at him - showing his grotty boots which adorned her feet.

'I don’t know how you are so calm dearheart.'  Cyrus muttered, standing behind her and wrapping his arms around her shoulders.  He was tremouring in nervous excitement.

'Peace, my love.'  She turned slightly to kiss his cheek.

'It's just.. well it's the Kindling!' he said in awe.  'Not only that but it's you.  You are the one undertaking it!'  he looked slightly pensive.  'I'm not sure how I will report this subjectively in your telling of course.  I am quite sure none of the previous scribes were kissing their Flamebearer's right before the ceremony!'

'Perhaps they should have been.  I can heartily recommend it!'  Ophilia grinned. 'Oh Cyrus, I admit your excitement is yet another reason for me to do my best and see all of this through till the end!'

Bishop Bartolo had fallen silent, having led the crowd in a prayer.

'Well, that's my cue.'  Ophilia said determinedly, kissing Cyrus swiftly then moving forward.  Just before she stepped out she half turned.  'I love you.'  She said with a gentle smile.

~0~

Therion was watching the proceedings from his perch up in the rafters.  He had a perfect view of the entire Cathedral and had arranged a series of gestures with Olberic, H'aanit and Eliza for if he should spot anything untoward. 

When Ophilia finally stepped out of the side aisle where she and Cyrus had been waiting, Therion was momentarily stunned by her radiance.  She looked almost ethereal, bathed in the gentle blue light of the Flame in its Pyre on the High Altar, yet he could clearly see, even from his distance above her, the golden glow that pulsed not only from her eyes but from her whole being.  Therion recalled that first time Alfyn had spied her on the road to Atlasdam, and had called her an Angel.  Honestly he had not been far wrong.

Ophilia had made her way to the stone plinth that was set a way forward from the Flame.  She set down her lantern carefully and looked up at the people, silent and still in front of her.  She smiled gently and then sank to her knees.

'Aelfric..'  she said.  Her voice was lyrical and soft as honey - but somehow it was audible to everyone within the church.  '..Great Bringer of the Flame.  To you I humbly offer my soul and my blood.'  She slipped a small jewelled dagger from a pocket and raised her right hand, slicing a line across her palm which welled blood instantly.'

Therion winced, unable to drag his eyes from the tiny Cleric.

Ophilia stood.  She looked up again and gazed on the people who were now almost to a man staring in awe.  'With the Ember of your First Flame, I will Kindle this fire.  May it forever shelter the people of this land.'  She walked to her lantern and opened the glass door.  She reached into the vessel with her bloodied hand and she took up the Living Ember, the slightest tremor in her arm the only tell of the pain that the fire caused.  She held it aloft for all to see.

Therion tore his eyes away.  Anger flooded through him.  Would this ridiculous duty never stop causing her harm he wondered venomously.  With the shifting of his gaze he suddenly noticed a movement where there should be none.

The upper galleries had been closed to the public for the event.  Eliza had insisted upon it for safety.  She had stationed a Knight Ardante at either end at the staircases to prevent access, but the Knight opposite from Therion seemed to have abandoned his post and was staring over the stone balcony at Ophilia.

Therion stood on his beam to try and get a better look while making a quick gesture to H'aanit who was covering that side of the Cathedral.  He started to move quickly along the narrow planking, a sudden anxiety clawing at him.

The Knight was leaning far forward,  Therion saw H'aanit moving towards the staircase below at his signal.  Slowly the Knight raised a crossbow and took considered aim directly at Ophilia.

'Noooo!'  Therion roared.  Despite the insane distance he threw himself from the beam sailing through the air towards the balcony and the Knight.

Every eye in the place swung up to see the thief flying into the man just as he released his bolt.  In almost slow motion the Knight went down as the bolt flew towards the Cleric holding the Ember.  Olberic and Cyrus were racing towards her as the bolt grazed her arm heavily and then embedded itself in the High Altar, rocking the pyre that held the Flame. Blood starting to flow freely from the Cleric's wound. 

'Stop, No!'  Ophilia said to Olberic and Cyrus as they reached her.  She was unnervingly calm.  'I need to finish this.  Please.'

Therion had crashed into the Knight and knocked him from his feet.  Heavily winded the thief tried to grab for his daggers, but the Knight was already on top of him - his own blade plunging deep into Therion's thigh.  Grappling with each other the Knights knife plunged mercilessly again and again into the thief - each cut spilling more and more of his blood.  Therion felt his strength totally fail him, a cold darkness creeping through him.  He was aware when H'aanit arrived and kicked the man on top of him away but Therion was unable to concentrate on anything but Ophilia's voice as she started to speak again.

'She made it!'  He rejoiced with a slow smile.

'Through the sacrament of the Kindling...'  Ophilia intoned her voice now struggling but still clear '..Great Aelfric, grant us your Mercy and your blessing.'

There was complete silence.

Therion's heart-rate had slowed and the coldness was becoming almost unbearable.  'Come on your Holiness..'  he urged.  'You can do it!'

There was a tremendous roar as the Ember and the Flame were connected through the heart and soul of the Cleric conduit.  The blast of pure love that radiated from the conflagration of blue flame was almost overpowering in its intensity.  It washed like a tsunami over everyone, along with a purely musical signature of peace.

Therion found himself grinning.  He, like his companions felt their little Cleric in every part of the wave that settled over him.  The others were there as a part of the whole as well.  Olberic strong and protective, Alfyn's kindness, Tressa's unassailable enthusiasm, Primrose's fierceness, H'aanit's great spirit and Cyrus's kind wisdom.  Therion started to chuckle as he recognised what of himself Ophilia had chosen to add to her heart.  Devotion.  Heh, well that was a first.

Therion was still smiling as the coldness and the dark finally claimed him.

At the High Altar, Ophilia had managed to return the Ember to the lantern.  Now that the Flame was roaring, pandemonium was starting to break out all over the Cathedral.  Cyrus and Olberic had Ophilia covered and were trying to get her moving out of the crowd that had started to surge in all directions. 

Ophilia suddenly froze.

'Therion!'  she whispered, her face turning shockingly white.  She fell, unceremoniously against Cyrus.  'I can't feel Therion anymore.' She wailed.  'He's gone!'

Tears started to fall in a river down her face.

Chapter Text

H'aanit came down the stairs from the balcony of the Cathedral slowly and carefully, clinging hard to the guardrail as if to keep herself from falling.  Blood covered her as if she had bathed in it and her eyes bore a stunned and hopeless sheen.  She looked down to where Cyrus, Olberic and Alfyn were gathered around a collapsed and weeping Ophilia, trying to get some sense out of her.

Alfyn had noticed the huntress' descent, but before he could rush towards her, she shook her head sadly at him and her own tears started to fall.

'No!'  Alfyn whispered.  'No!'  he repeated more firmly and ran to the stair. 

'Alfyn..'  H'aanit put out a hand to him as if to restrain him as he tried to get past her.  Ignoring the gesture he pushed his way through and bolted upwards.

The other's had noticed her now and the look of utter despair that she sent them chilled them all to the bone.

Tressa and Primrose had finally managed to fight their way through the crowd and were demanding to know what was going on.

'T..T..Therion's ... gone!'  Ophilia keened, her face buried in Cyrus's chest.

H'aanit reached them and Olberic embraced her fiercely.  'What's happened?'  he demanded.  'Is he...?'

'I wast too late!'  H'aanit replied gruffly through her tears.  'I dealt with the villain - but when I gotten back to Therion...  He had ... there wast nothing... soo much blood....'  she closed her eyes and sobbed.

Ophilia shuddered violently.  She took a deep ragged breath, trying to pull herself together.  'I must see to him.'  She murmured half to herself, letting Cyrus help her to stand.  The Scholar nodded his understanding, wiped his own eyes and put his arm around the Cleric to gently guide her towards the stairs.  Ophilia was aware that everyone was following her in numb silence.

The companions had just started upwards when Alfyn appeared at the top.  He was weeping, the tears cascading down his cheeks and off his chin.

'Ophilia!'  he croaked holding out his hand to the Cleric.  'I don't... I don't understand!'  He pulled her up the remaining stairs and onto the balcony.

H'aanit had not exaggerated.  The sheer amount of blood that Therion sat slumped in was shocking.   He was collapsed against the wall, head hanging down but with a contented smile on his face.  Despite the devastation all around him, he almost looked peaceful.  A heartbroken sob escaped from the Cleric as she moved forward slowly, trailing through the puddles and kneeling by his side.  She gently put out a hand to touch his face.

As she did, Therion opened his eyes and lifted his face up to her.  She jumped back with a startled yelp.

'Thank the God's you're okay!'  the thief said quietly, taking the hand that she had reached out to him.

'You're...Oh my Goodness!  Y..y..you're... No!...B...b... but I can't feel you!  By the God's..... Therion!  Your eyes!'  Ophilia was stunned,  fresh tears started to fall,  she couldn’t stop them.

'My eyes?'  Therion looked up as the others started to crowd around him.

'Whoa!!!'  Tressa was the only one with any power of speech.  'Your eyes are like, properly golden... Just like Phili's!'

'Really?'  Therion touched his visible eye.  'Gotta admit, I feel a bit weird.  Good.. but weird.'  He felt under his fringe at his other eye.  'Eh?' He exclaimed, pushing his hair aside.  The scar... it's gone!'

Alfyn had been leaning on Cyrus, the Scholar holding him up.  With a small cry the Apothecary threw himself at Therion, gathering him into a fierce hug, still weeping.  'What's going on Li?'  Alfyn asked through his sobs.  'I don't understand.  All this blood.  He should be dead.'

'I sweareth, he was dead.  I think I knowen death when I see it!'  H'aanit was looking completely bemused.

'I really don’t know.'  Ophilia said wondrously.  'But I am so glad he isn’t.'

'You all thought I was dead?'  Therion looked perplexed. He hooked a concerned arm around Alfyn's shoulder, patting him consolingly then he looked in amazement at his other companions.  'Olberic... are you crying?'  he couldn’t help himself, he started to chuckle.

'Hmph.. it's very dusty up here...'  Olberic replied, wiping his eyes with his sleeve and then suddenly grinned back at the Thief.

Cyrus was rubbing his chin thoughtfully.  'What exactly do you remember Therion?'  he asked puzzled.

Therion looked up at him surprised.  'Well, I remember seeing the guy with the crossbow and leaping at him.  It was all kinda sudden.'  He looked at Ophilia.  'I really thought I was too late.'  He told her quietly.  'I heard the crossbow go off but I couldn’t see what happened to you and by the time I'd landed on him and he was poking me with his damned blade it was all over.'

'I'm okay!'  Ophilia smiled at him. 'Just grazed me. See!'  She lifted her arm gingerly to show him - it was still bleeding heavily.

'Grazed you!'  Therion looked angry.  'Ophilia that's not a graze!'  His eyes flashed brightly.  There was a strange rush and a rough kind of punching sensation almost like a bone-crushing hug.  A stunned silence followed.

'Therion.'  Ophilia said slowly - an odd awe to her voice.  'You.. err.. well! I think you just healed me!' 

'Bloody hell!'  the Thief said.  Then he fainted.

~0~

Ophilia's room was as packed full of people as it had been that morning.  Alfyn had carried Therion back.  Therion was still unconscious, but Ophilia had allayed everyone's fears by telling them that as acolytes learning to channel healing, it was common to overextend yourself and end up drained.

'It's a long lesson, learning to control the flow if you don’t have a base of experience to draw from.'  She said thoughtfully.  'And there is a price.  It's unique to each healer - but it comes as a shock initially.'

'What is it for you?'  Tressa asked curiously.

'Me?  Oh.  I take a portion of the pain that I'm healing.  It doesn’t manifest physically but for a few seconds I feel it.'  Cyrus's arm around her shoulder grew tighter and she smiled up at him.  'I am quite used to it.'  She assured him.

Zeph and Nina had already taken refuge in her room when they had arrived, and surprisingly Alaic was there as well.

'Always causing trouble Ophilia.'  He smirked at the Cleric when they entered.  'My report to Susanna is going to be fun!'

Alfyn immediately took charge of Therion, taking him into the bathroom to get him cleaned up and checked over.  Cyrus had taken Nina onto his lap and was gamely trying to distract her from the mayhem going on around them whilst Zeph was administering to Ophilia's wounds.  Alfyn popped his head out from round the bathroom door.

 'You have got to see this Li!'  he exclaimed.

'My goodness!'  Ophilia breathed when she and Zeph went in to inspect the Thief.  All of the old scarring that had puckered the skin over his chest and back had disappeared.

'And look at this.'  Alfyn lifted one of Therion hands to show them a very precise mark just under the base of the thumb on his palm.  It was obviously in the shape of some kind of symbol.

'Snap.'  Ophilia said quietly, showing the two Apothecary's the hand that had been burned by holding the Ember.  In the same position the same symbol was apparent on her palm too.

'So you think he was saved by .. what? The Kindling?'  Alfyn looked perplexed.

'I think the Bishop might have more of an idea than I.'  Ophilia shrugged, the gesture tugging at her arm wound painfully.  'He said he was going to come up once the chaos we left behind was sorted.

'Let me get your hand seen to.'  Zeph said wincing at the raw skin she had shown.

'Thanks, number two Apothecary.'  Ophilia grinned at him.

Bishop Bartolo finally arrived along with Eliza and food just as Therion had finally come around.  Ophilia had fallen into an exhausted slumber cuddled up against Cyrus's chest in a chair by the fire and he gently kissed her awake at the Bishop's entrance.

'Well now.'  The Bishop exclaimed merrily after the food had been lain out.  'That's a Kindling that won't be forgotten in a long time!'

'You sound rather cheerful Your Excellency!'  Primrose noted sourly.  'I'm not sure I share your enthusiasm after nearly losing two of our companions.'

'Ah.'  The Bishop's face fell.  'Yes, Indeed.  Forgive me.  I am afraid I have spent so much time in anxiety over the pitiable state of the Saintsbridge Flame, that its overwhelming rejuvenation has rendered me quite thoughtless.'

'The actual Kindling was a success then?'  Ophilia asked in a small voice.  'I was so afraid that the nature of proceedings....'

'Oh my dear!'  Bishop Bartolo rushed to her and knelt, taking her unbandaged hand.  'The Kindling was a tour de force!  I have had the honour of tending our flame for nearly four decades.  I am simply overwhelmed... there are no words.'  He bowed his head.  'I believe it to be nothing short of the kind of completion that was the fruit of the sacrifice of old.  As we discussed child.'

Ophilia nodded at him gravely.  'I see.'  She said.  'Therion...'  she looked over at the Thief who was sitting very quietly on the bed next to Alfyn who had been fussing over him since he had awoken.  'Would you show His Excellency your palm please.'

Therion nodded and scooted across the bed.  He came forward to the Bishop, his palm raised.

Bishop Bartolo stood and took the proffered hand.  He gazed down at the symbol marking the flesh.  He looked up at the boy quizzically noting his golden eyes.  'Were you hurt?  When you brought down the assassin?' he asked solemnly.

'Stabbed.  Many, many times.'  Therion replied cheerfully.  'Not a mark on me now though!  Not even one of my old scars.  Just this.'

'Oh my.'  The Bishop looked like he may fall.  Olberic moved and took the older Clerics arm and gently steered him to a chair.

'Thank you.'  The Bishop sat heavily.  'Your own?' he asked Ophilia.  She nodded.

'It's there.'  She held up her bandaged hand.

The Bishop shook his head.  'It would appear you were right child.'  He said seriously.

'I think the details need to be shared.'  Ophilia suggested gently.  'It is not my place..'

'Quite.'  Bishop Bartolo looked up at the assembled companions but was silent for several minutes.  'The Kindling isn’t a healing..'  He said finally.  '..Not in the conventional sense at least.'  He grimaced to himself.  'At the conception of our order, after the thirteenth God, Galdera was cast into the Afterworld by Aelfric, the lands were still reeling under the evil that had been manifest.  The Sacred Flame which Aelfric called from the heavens to imprison Galdera also acted as a balm and a source of power which the Clerics of the Order could use in their work to help restore order and heal the heart of the land.'

Ophilia smiled at Cyrus's look of rapt attention and quietly handed him his notebook and quill, moving from his lap to allow him to write - sitting on the floor leaning against his legs instead.  He tickled the back of her neck with the feather, his expression tenderly grateful.

'The Kindling, back then was similar in many ways to how it is now.'  The Bishop continued.  'But who we now call the Flamebearer was then known as 'the Sacrifice.'  The Journey undertaken to restore the Flames consisted of a group of Clerics who aided the Sacrifice - all strong in their power and their conviction.  The Companions of the Flame made up a whole.  Physical protection for the Sacrifice as well as spiritual and emotional support to allow the success of the undertaking.'

'Rather like you have all provided for me.'  Ophilia told her friends softly.

'The burden of the Sacrifice was to carry the weight of the journey and to heal the blood and the pain that was spent by all on the way to each Flame.  Along with their own blood, pain and heart, the spirit of the companions and the will to heal the land and people - the Ember that they carried fuelled the Flame as you witnessed.' 

'I'm not sure I understand the difference.'  Olberic said.  'This is what Ophilia has done.'

'Yes.'  The Bishop agreed.  'Yet in more recent times the Kindling had become much less than it once was.  As Galdera's sway over the land lessened - so did the need for so momentous an undertaking.  The Flamebearer became a single individual, chosen more by politic than by strength.  The blood, heart and spirit given mostly as token to replenish, rather than an important necessity.'

'So your saying that this time - what Ophilia did was different - was more like the old Kindling?'  Cyrus mused.  'That what she gave, that her whole journey in fact was the actions of a Sacrifice rather than a Flamebearer.'

'In essence yes.  You, her companions were a large part of the heart and soul that was offered.  She has carried all of you - all of the blood and pain and tears from your adventures and in return - when she gave it to the Flame you each gave her your full support and love to do so - to succeed.'  The Bishop turned to Therion.  'And you gave your life.  I'm guessing it happened in the instant of  the conduit flaring.  That mark you have is the mark of Aelfric,  the same one that is granted to the Flamebearer - one on either palm at each kindling.'  Suddenly the Bishop looked concerned.

'Uh... I don’t like that look your Excellency.'  Therion grimaced.

'I believe that the power of the Kindling - from Ophilia and your other companions as well as Aelfric's will is what kept you living Therion.'  The Bishop was sombre.  'That mark.  Well it also means that should Ophilia fall or be unable to continue.. you would be able to carry the Ember and complete the journey.  Sadly that is a real possibility, given the threat that seems to surround her.'

There was complete and utter silence, then unexpectedly Ophilia started to giggle.

'Oh my goodness Therion.. is nothing sacred from your shifty fingers?  Not content with stealing my show by flying through the air and saving my life, you actually think you can steal my whole Kindling too? Rotten bloody Thief!'

'Heh!'  Therion smirked at the Cleric.  'May as well just give me the lantern now Phili.  We all know I'd do a better job than you!  Why don't you go play at pirates instead!'

'Really?'  Ophilia was laughing so hard that tears ran down her face.   'Sorry your Holiness, you're only gonna be stealing it from my literal dead body!'

Cyrus had started to chuckle, leaning forward to stoke Ophilia's hair.  'I concur with Therion.'  He grinned.  'He would make such a fine Flamebearer indeed!  I am sorry dearheart, but he is just so inspiring!'

Primrose snorted.  'Crazy people!'  She exclaimed with a grin.  'Dear me - if the fate of the land rested on Therion... Oh dear me!'

'Hey!'  Therion pouted dramatically at the dancer and held up his palm.  'I got my Godly references right here.. so suck it sister.  Feel the wrath of my healiness!'

'Go Therion!'  Tressa cheered, laughing.

'No, no, no...'  Alfyn had hidden his face in his hands.  'Please don't start healing again.'  He begged. 

Olberic tapped H'aanit on the shoulder.  'Whatever we do..'  He said seriously,  'We MUST keep Ophilia alive.  The alternative.. oh dear gods, no!'  He winked at Therion.  H'aanit grinned and nodded emphatically. 

'You are all mad!'  Bishop Bartolo whispered incredulously.

'You only just realised that Your Excellency?'  Eliza asked surprised.

'My report to Susanna really is going to be the most fun I ever had.'  Alaic snickered to himself.

~0~

It was late when finally everyone had left.  Therion's recovery was quite remarkable and he had taken everything else with a wry humour. 

'Hey,'  He grinned.  'It's better than me being dead and I reckon I can totally get on your nerves now!'  He leaned in and gently kissed Ophilia's forehead.  'I'm really glad you're not dead as well.'  He told her sincerely.

'Only cause if I was then you'd have to be Flamebearer.'  Ophilia smirked.  He laughed again and ruffled her hair.

When the last person left,  Ophilia threw herself down on her bed with a groan.  'I am so tired.'  She said to Cyrus who was still writing in his notebook furiously.

'Do you want me to go dearheart?'  He asked.  'I don’t want to keep you awake.'

'No,'  She replied with a smile.  'Please stay.'

He smiled back and started on his notes again.

After a while Cyrus looked up from his book and saw Ophilia wrapped in her blanket, gazing at him.

'You don't appear to be sleeping.'  He pointed out gently.

'I like to watch you work.'  She admitted.  'I find it calming.'

He put his notebook and quill onto the table and regarded her closely.

'I wonder my dear, do you plan to give Therion instruction in healing now?' He asked curiously.

'I don’t know.'  She admitted.  'I'm not sure if he will want too.  Once we leave Saintsbridge, and the further distance we put between him and the Flame the more effort it will take for him to connect.  Here, directly close to it - it's almost instant.  I will have to see what he wishes, and abide by his decision.'

Ophilia noted the wistful look in Cyrus's eyes.

'Is it something that you would like to learn?'  She asked with an edge of amusement to her tone.

'I can't deny a certain scholarly envy.'  Cyrus admitted.  'It is a whole different form of ability from elemental magic.  You know me!'  He grinned boyishly.

Ophilia raised herself up to a sitting position.

'Cyrus - you realise that you are part of the Flame now too?'  she said seriously.

'Of course.'  He said.  'I felt it during the Kindling.  The others as well.  It was rather breathtaking Ophilia!'

'Well, that means you are connected my love.  I could probably teach any of you to call power from the Flame now.  You especially, since you already have such a grounding in the manipulation and control of energy.'

Cyrus looked startled.  'Really?'  He asked breathlessly.  'I never considered that.  Yes of course it does makes sense.  I mean, I can still feel the humming of the Flame here, it hasn’t really left me since the Kindling.'

Ophilia smiled at his enthusiasm.  'Would you like to try Cyrus.'  She asked holding her unbandaged hand out to him.

'Now?'  He said.  'But darling, you are so tired.  It can wait!'

'We leave tomorrow.'  She pointed out.  To make your first connection here would make it easier for you I am sure.  I mean, I have never taught but I think I can work it through.'

'Okay.  Just for a little while.  Then I insist you sleep!  What do you want me to do?'  He asked eagerly sitting forward in his chair.

'Well, I think I can guide you.'  She said thoughtfully.  Come to me please.'  She rose to her knees as he came forward.  'Okay, remove your waistcoat and then sit in front of me.'  She directed.

He sat on the edge of the bed and Ophilia moved in close behind him.  She rested her chin on his shoulder and with her good hand she reached under his arm and around to his front.  She quickly undid the buttons of his shirt and placed her hand directly over his heart.

'Right,' she said. 'Place your hand over mine and I want you to feel what I am doing.'

He swallowed hard at her warm touch.  'Okay..'  He whispered.

Ophilia reached for the Flame and opened a channel to the Light, guiding the slight flow to his heart.  'Can you feel it?'  She asked.

'Yes.'  He closed his eyes.  'I can feel the Flame much stronger - as if it was in the room with us.'

'Do you feel yourself within it?'  she said

'I feel you more... but yes.  I can sense myself too.  And the others.'

'Follow yourself.'  She advised.  'Feel it inside your heart.  You are going to pull a little of it to you if you can.  Like this.'  She pulled a tiny stream of the power of the Flame to herself.  'You see.'

'Yes!'  He said surprised.  'It's very much like controlling your own energy, but starting off remotely rather than internally.  Let me see...'

'Slowly!'  She yelped.  'The more you take the bigger the price.  Just a little for this.'

He chuckled.  'That better?'  He asked.

'Actually that's perfect.'  Ophilia was impressed. 'Okay just hold it there.  That's the easy part.  Now to effect a heal you first have to understand what you are aiming to achieve - so you have to emote the hurt.  You are going to direct it at my arm.  It's throbbing rather than hurting, although if I turn or move too quickly there is a dull pain.  I want you to try and 'feel' what that's like.'

'Yes.  I have that.'  Cyrus agreed.

'This is where your own energy comes in.'  Ophilia gently bade him to turn to face her.  'Your energy is going to direct the power that you have taken.'  She explained.  'To do that, you have to want to heal the pain.  To take it away.'

'I do want to ease your pain dearheart.'  He said seriously.

'Well good!'  she smiled at him.  'That's what you need to use.   As you know the heal is generalised so you don’t really have to aim it but you do need to hold in your mind the person or persons.  Others will always get residual healing but it will be a tiny amount compared to the ones you are wanting to heal.'

'Can I touch you?'  He asked.

'Of course, if you need too.  And remember there will be a price.  I can't say what it will be - and it's best if you don’t say either.  You need to come to terms with it yourself before you share.  Some healers never talk about it at all.'

'I think I am ready.'  He was frowning with concentration. 

'Okay - so just push your energy and the thread of the Flame at me!'  She encouraged.

He looked into her eyes and brought his lips to hers.  As they connected they both felt the gentle healing wave wash over them, exactly like the warmth of their lips pressed together.  Cyrus gave a small cry and broke away for a second and the healing stopped.

'Amazing!'  Ophilia sighed.  'Just wonderful!'

Cyrus's eyes were shining.  'Absolutely!' he agreed taking her in his arms, mindful of her hurts and holding her tight.

'So you think I will continue to be able to draw on that even when we leave?' he asked.

'I don’t see why not.  A Cleric builds their relationship with Aelfric through prayer and meditation and training, but you guys have already been introduced.'  She smiled.  'There are the other skills too.  I know how much you like the reflective shields!  For those you don’t even need to use borrowed power - although they are stronger if you do.  Technically some heals I don’t need to borrow for either - but it comes with experience I guess.'  She yawned suddenly.

'You promised you would sleep now.' He reminded her gently.

'I guess I did.'  She sighed and yawned again.  Settling down against the pillows, she pulled up the blankets and then held out her arms to Cyrus to join her. He flicked his fingers to extinguish the candle on the table and lay down beside her.

~0~

Morning brought a rush of packing and preparations to leave.  Ophilia sought out Eliza and Bishop Bartolo before they departed the Cathedral.

'Thank you so much both of you for everything.'  She said as they stood in front of the Sacred Flame which was burning bright and fierce.

'Haven't seen anything of Mattias since the day before the Kindling, so you shouldn't be troubled by him when you try to leave.'  Eliza said thoughtfully.  'I promise to keep an eye on him when I return to Flamesgrace though.  I am very unsure of his motives - I must admit.'

'Please - if you find anything get a message to us.'  Cyrus requested and Eliza promised that she would.

'Ah child.'  Bishop Bartolo hugged her close.  'Just look at the brilliance of the Flame.  You have done so well my dear.'

''Thank you.'  She beamed at him.

'I just wish your reputation had improved.'  He added unhappily.  'With all the drama it seems that even more rumours and ill will have spread.  It's as if they cannot see with their own eyes the wonder you have wrought.'

Ophilia shrugged at him.  'It's not like I was used to being everyone's favourite Flamebearer.'  she grinned at him.

'Such spirit!'  he chuckled back.  'Please, Ophilia take care.  You have so much to give.'

'I will Your Excellency.'  She promised.

Cyrus and Ophilia walked hand in hand down through the crowded streets to the Inn where they were to meet up with their companions.  On their way they spied the warrior Alphas, also walking hand in hand with the woman that had picked up his poem on their first day in the town.

'Looks like he has forgotten all about the mad women then.'  Ophilia said with a smile and a wave at the warrior.

'For the best I think.'  Cyrus agreed.

Zeph, Nina and Ogen accompanied the companions out of the town to the main road.  Although the cart was now mostly empty, Herbie the Pony was all hitched up and ready to travel on with them.

'Ogen is coming back to Clearbrook for a spell.'  Zeph told Ophilia as they walked. 'He has been sharing some of his remedies.  Then Eliza asked him to look in on a lady called Odette in Quarrycrest.  Seems she might have some work for him.'

After they parted ways the companions quickly fell back into their travelling routines as they started the six day trek to Wellspring.

'Here's hoping for a slightly less exciting time for the next few days.'  Olberic said over dinner at their first nights camp.

'Seriously?'  Primrose snorted.  'What's the chances of that?'

Chapter Text

The first night out of Saintsbridge was a genuinely merry time.  Everyone had been feeling the ill-will and rumours that had saturated the town in regard to the Kindling.  Indeed not since their first meeting in Atlasdam had the general mood and level of bile directed towards their sweet Cleric been so oppressive.

Now, back again on the road, just the eight of them and Linde, the pressure eased and the easy camaraderie fell swiftly back into place.  After their evening meal, they all lounged round the fire, relaxed and laughing about nothing in particular.

'I think we should have some songs!'  Tressa said enthusiastically.

Cyrus chuckled.  'I'm fairly sure no-one would want to hear me sing!'  He shook his head.  'Not a skill I have ever been able to master.'

'What about you H'aanit?'   Tressa pressed on.  'Are you a songbird?' 

H'aanit snorted indelicately.  'I singeth when I have imbibed too many spirits.  I can't sayen it ist a pleasant experience for anybody though.'

'Well someone must be able to!'  Tressa moaned.  'I mean - I would but most of the songs I know are sailor ones and they are a bit... fruity.'  She grinned.

'You can sing Li!'  Alfyn beamed at the Cleric.

'Yes.. Laments for the dead, part of my job, but hardly the kind of thing for a pleasant evening by the fire.'  She smiled.

'But you sang such a merry song in the bathtub dearheart!'  Cyrus said tenderly, tightening his arms around her.

'Oh really!'  Primroses eyebrows shot up as the others sniggered.

Cyrus looked up at his companions in confusion.  'Yes.'  He nodded.  'It was exceedingly pleasant.'

'I'm sure it was.'  Primrose was grinning now.  'But perhaps a tad too much information darling.'  She smirked.

'Oh!'  Cyrus blushed heavily. 'I didn’t mean.. that is, I wasn’t.. Oh.  Oh dear.'

'Ophilia patted his arm consolingly.  'Don't worry my love.'  She said grinning at her companions.  'It's not your fault that our friends are unable to take their minds out of the gutter!'

.

The first watch that evening went to Cyrus and Tressa.

'Your such a big dope.'  Tressa grinned, punching him on the arm as they settled themselves together.

'A dope!'  Cyrus looked hurt.  'How very unkind.'

'Okay.  Enthusiastically nerdy then.'  Tressa giggled.  'In a nice way!'  She added reassuringly.

'I can't help but wonder whatever happened to actually respecting your elders, young lady!'  Cyrus smiled at the Merchant. 'I swear that my students never gave me half as much trouble as you do!' 

'That's cause they were all too busy swooning over you Prof.'  Tressa winked.

'Excuse me.  There was no swooning, my students were very committed to their study I'll have you know!'

'Yeah, I bet.'  Tressa grinned.

'Hmm.  So, how did your sales go in Saintsbridge?'  Cyrus asked, anxious to change the subject.  'I'm afraid I missed out on seeing you in action!'

'Really?  Well..'  Tressa looked suddenly serious.  'It was extremely positive.  Almost doubled the price I was planning to charge and still sold out completely the day before the Kindling.  Took a load of orders too.'

'Oh very good!'  Cyrus patted her shoulder. 

'Yeah,  made a huge amount for Ophilia's charitable causes.'  Tressa agreed.  'She almost fainted when I told her how much!   Odd though, after her shock, she just smiled and asked that I look after it, said she had an idea of what to do with it once all this is over.'

'I see.'  Cyrus looked surprised.  'She's not mentioned anything, although her attention has obviously been much scattered recently..'

'Mainly by you!'  Tressa sniggered.

'Hmm, and the Kindling and Alfyn's misadventure and Therion's...resurrection.  I fear I can only claim a small distraction in the scheme of things.'  He smiled softly as he gazed on the tiny Cleric slumbering peacefully by the fire.

'I dunno Prof.'  Tressa bumped his shoulder conspiratorially.  'She did get all starry-eyed and dreamy when she told us girls that kissing you was very, very nice.'

'Honestly?  She said that?  Oh...'  Cyrus started to grin broadly.

'Heh.'  Tressa laughed at his pleased expression.  'You really are such a nerd Cyrus.  It's totally cute though.'

.

When their watch was done, Cyrus went and gently woke Ophilia and Tressa gave Olberic a hearty shove.  Ophilia made herself and the Knight their usual herb tea then followed Olberic to his decided vantage point.  She handed Olberic his cup and then sat at his feet leaning against his legs in familiar comradeship.

'I missed this peace.'  She murmured contentedly.

'Been a rough few days, sweetheart.'  Olberic rested one of his huge hands on her head.

'Mmmm.'  She agreed, then she grinned up at him.  'It wasn’t all bad though.'

Olberic chuckled.  'Ah, yes.  About time too!'

Ophilia blushed suddenly.  'You know,' she said quietly, 'Cyrus was willing to give up everything, all that he's worked for - to take me away and keep me safe.'  She was silent for a few seconds.  'I had no idea he felt that way.'  She finally added.

Olberic looked surprised.  'You must have known he had feelings for you lass.'

'Well, yes.'  Ophilia admitted shyly.  'He has always been so calm and so kind, and right by my side with wisdom and affection.   My heart was so very full of love for him that I didn’t believe he could possibly feel the same way that I did.'

'Oh Ophilia, you really do have a problem with accepting how much people care don’t you.'  Olberic said sadly.

'I did, I guess.' Ophilia chuckled.  'I didn’t know how to respond to him most of the time.  I thought it was just me projecting how I felt.'  She shook her head.  'Quite the revelation really.'  She added wondrously.

'He's a good man.'  Olberic said seriously.  'You will take a fair amount of teasing of course!'  He added with a smile.  'But everyone is happy that you finally got yourselves sorted.'

They were silent for a few minutes, then Ophilia shifted to look up at Olberic directly.

'And what of you Sir Knight?'  She asked gently.  'We are on our way to Wellspring now.  Your thoughts must have turned to potentially facing Sir Erhardt again.'

Olberic looked away from her scrutinizing but compassionate gaze.  'I suppose so.'  He mumbled with a shrug.

'Olberic.'  Ophilia stood and sat herself in his lap, putting her arms as far around the knight as she could manage.  'I have though often about our last conversation.  I admit it concerns me that your final and abiding memory of the man that you so cared about was one of such betrayal.'

'Can't change the past.'  Olberic said stoically with a shrug.

'No.  But I fear that if it is the only memory you take with you to your encounter, you may... make a judgement that in time you come to regret.'  Ophilia looked up into the Knight's dark eyes to see the glisten of tears.  'I would not want you to have to carry such a burden Olberic.'  She said simply.

'I am a very different man to the one that I was back then.  I don't doubt that Erhardt is too.  I promise I will ensure that however our meeting ends, it will be... considered carefully.  If I can even beat him anymore of course.'

Ophilia looked troubled.  'Would you tell me about him?'  She asked quietly.  'Stories of your time together.  Your friendship?'  She shrugged.  'I think you should remember those things too.'

Olberic suddenly grinned.  'Heh, well I'm not sure I come out so favourably in many of those stories!'  He admitted.  'Erhardt was always rather good at getting me into trouble.'

'Really?'  Ophilia grinned back.  'How interesting.  I think I will totally enjoy those tales!'

'You are a very bad woman Ophilia!'  Olberic accused, engulfing her in a hug.  'But if it pleases you I will tell of my misspent youth.' 

'Wonderful!'  Ophilia snuggled into him to listen.

.

Once their watch was over and H'aanit and Therion were wakened to take over Ophilia went to where Cyrus lay and curled up to his back.  He turned to face her and pulled her into his arms.

'I didn’t mean to wake you.'  She apologised in a whisper.  He didn’t answer just rested his head against hers with a contented sigh.

.

'May I sit with you?'  Therion approached H'aanit and Linde cautiously.  H'aanit looked up at him in surprise.

'Of course thou may'st.'  She replied.  'I admit I am glad that thou wantest too.  Our months of keeping watch together has always been so solitary.'

'Sorry about that.'  Therion mumbled, sitting himself down next to Linde and burying a hand into the cat's silky fur.  'I guess I don’t generally play well with others.'

'I hath noted a change, Therion.'  H'aanit said seriously.  'From the timen we entered Saintsbridge in fact.'

'Well...'  Therion frowned.  He looked at the Huntress, her face as impassive as ever, but her eyes gentle and encouraging.  He made up his mind to speak.  '..I suppose my general.... feeling... is anger.  At pretty much everything.'

'H'aanit chuckled, a deep throaty sound, much like the purr of her cat.  'That hath always been obvious my friend.  Thy scowl alone could maketh the fiercest of beasts run in terror.'

'Heh.  I worked hard on that scowl I'll have you know!'  he grinned briefly... but then his brow creased again.  'Thing is, all that shit in Saintsbridge, all the rumours and attempts to..well... dammit...'  Therion's scowl broke through with ferocity.

'Thou art unaccustomed to feeling anger on behalf of another.'  H'aanit said quietly.  'Tis a different kind of anger indeed.'  She added.

'It just ain't right.'  Therion's fists had curled so tight he could feel his nails cutting into the flesh of his hands.  'What did she ever do to have so much thrown at her?'

'I understand Therion.'  He felt H'aanit's hand rest over the top of his on Linde's neck.  'Tis mightily vexing.  Thine anger, I feeleth it too.  We all do.'

'But you can all give so much support!'  Therion groaned.  'I wish...I mean, I envy the ability you all have to give comfort.  I can't.  And even if I could what reassurance could be taken from the compassion of thief?'

H'aanit raised an eyebrow.  'Thou do'st not thinken thou provideth gentle soothing to Ophilia's heart?'  she asked earnestly.  'I can assurest you that thou do'st.'

Therion shook his head and opened his mouth to reply but H'aanit held up a stalling finger.

'Despite thy limitations Therion, despite thy unease with contact.. thou hast always shown a most subtle devotion.  Thou couldst have taken off at any time and discarded the troubles that travelling with all of us hath brought to returneth to thy solitary path.  Thou hast not.  Thou hast kept a most close and solicitous watch over our Cleric.  Thou hath taken injury frequently... far too frequently,'  she added with a grin.  '..and even given your life.'

'Which anyone else would have done in my position.'  Therion whispered.

'Yes.' H'aanit agreed.  'I believe they wouldst, but nobody truly knoweth until they are in that situation.  Thou dist not fail!'

'All the same...'  Therion mumbled.

'In truth, thou and the Cleric are much similar.'  H'aanit mused and then chuckled at the thief's incredulous expression.  'Thou both truly understand the depth of despair.'  H'aanit continued.  'And thou both have the hardest time accepting that others care.  Deeply. Even that thoust care about each other.'

'I'm.... trying H'aanit.'  Therion mumbled.

'Yes.  As I hath said, I hath noticed the change.  It ist welcome.'  She paused and gripped his hand a little tighter.  'If anyone else had rejected mine company on our night's watch for so many months, I would hath been insulted - but I understand ist not a personal slight.  The fact that thou hast chosen to speaketh with me tonight is all the more valuable because it ist a hard thing for thou to do.  If tomorrow thou go back to a solitary watch, that will also be fine.  Thou art who thou art and caring for someone meaneth accepting their limitations.'

Therion looked up at the huntress a little shyly.  'I make no promises, but I don’t think that I would care to go back H'aanit.  Besides,  Linde is so warm!'

'That she is!'  H'aanit chuckled.  'In fairness, I too am not wholly accustomed to a great deal of talk all the time.  I fear that taking watch with Tressa might have tried my patience to the limit despite my regard for her enthusiasm.'

'Thank you.'  Therion said quietly.

'Thou art welcome.'  H'aanit replied solemnly. 'I should also clear up a small misunderstanding that still sits betweeneth us Therion.'  She added equally seriously. 

He looked at her in puzzlement.

'Now that I hath had adequate time to considereth it,  I hath concluded that I agree that thy bottom is most pleasant.  Quite pert in truth of fact.'  She grinned wickedly at him.

'Oh that's evil!' He grinned back.

.

Primrose and Alfyn took their watch a while before dawn finally broke.  After banking the fire and putting water on to boil, they took their place side by side, Alfyn with his medicine bag contents spread out before him and Primrose gazing off into the distance.

After a long time of silence Primrose finally sighed and looked at the young man industriously making an inventory beside her.

'So I assume you have taken Ophilia up on her offer to train in healing.'  She stated rather than asked.

'Shucks!'  Alfyn grinned.  'I mean, I'm not sure it's gonna come easy but I sure would like to try.  Therion agreed to have a go as well - although we all know the Prof will be top of the class.' 

'I think you will do just fine Alfyn.'  Primrose said.  'As I understand from what Ophilia explained, a large part of the process is the desire to heal and you certainly have that in abundance.' 

'Well sure thing, but the control ...I ain't so sure.  I ain't naturally as calm as Ophilia or Cyrus and my own little bit of skill with ice never really called for much thought or proper training.  Although I expect Cyrus will be useful for helping in that regard.'

'Yes.  Most likely.'  Primrose agreed.

'What about you Prim?' Alfyn asked curiously.  'Your dark magic, and your dancing are both massively powerful.  Should be easy on you!'

Primrose looked away.  'I'm not sure my character fits the holy light.'  She shrugged.

'Whadda yer mean!'  Alfyn reached out to grasp her shoulder gently.  'You are one of the most fiercely protective people I ever met.  Can't see how that's a bad thing in terms of wanting to heal.'

'For people I let myself know.  Or even people that you or Ophilia give kindness too and set an example.  Generally, left to my own devices I don’t have that compassion Alfyn.  I don’t let myself care.'

'Well, it ain't like Therion is all that different is it?'  Alfyn looked puzzled.  'You ain't a bad person Prim.  I don’t really understand what you're saying.'

'Of course you don’t Alfyn.'  She sighed heavily.  'You are a good person, with good intentions who see's the good in everybody.'

'Yeah.'  He said sarcastically.  'Well that ain't gone particularly well recently has it.'

Primrose turned to him, a familiar passion flashing in her eyes.  'Don't you dare continue to beat yourself up over that villain Alfyn.  He isn’t worth another moment of your time or your consideration.'

'I healed him - even knowing what he was, which allowed him to go on and hurt a child.'  Tears started to well in the Apothecary's eyes.  'If we hadn’t have happened along it could 'a been far worse.  Course I got regrets.  Killing him too.  That don't sit easy.'

'By the God's Alfyn, you healed him and gave him a chance and when he let himself down and threw that chance back in your face you did the hard, but noble thing of correcting that wrong.  There is no shame in your actions.  Don't be such a fool!'  Primrose's outburst wound to an end.  She looked away again, silent for a while.  'Whereas those I have killed.. it was simply for my own ends.  My revenge.'  She eventually continued dully.

Alfyn looked at her thoughtfully for a moment.  'Well, they did kill your Da.'  He said finally.  'I can't pretend to know what that's like, but.. well you were a girl just on the verge of womanhood.  A hard time for anyone, even without witnessing a murder.'

'Perhaps.'   Primrose sighed.  'Really though, I was so full of rage that they had stolen him from me, and so full of pride at our family honour - I can't fit any noble intent to my actions.'  She shook her head sorrowfully.  'Lately my thoughts have turned often to a man that I loved back then - who had time and care for a lonely child in abundance.  I can't help but think that if he saw me now, what I have allowed myself to become... how repulsed he would be.'

'Don't be dumb.'  Alfyn wrapped his arms around the dancer and pulled her close to his chest.  'If he saw anything other than a strong and beautiful woman then he would be a fool.'

Primrose clung onto the Apothecary, her shoulders shaking with sobs.  They sat that way for a long while, until Primrose finally pulled her control back together.  She pulled back a way and smiled at her friend.

'Why don’t you do that more often?' she asked 'You do with others, but I can't help but note you never do with me!'

Alfyn suddenly looked a bit embarrassed.  'Well... it's just that you got pretty sharp reflexes Prim.  Always been a bit worried you might stab me by mistake..'

Primrose chuckled, a smile braking through the frown she had worn all evening.  'I promise I won't stab you Alfyn.  Please.  I'd like your cuddles.'

'Aww, well shucks Prim, that's mighty kind of you!' he grinned back at her.

~0~

The next day saw the companions cross into the Sunland's, their intention to stop off overnight in Sunshade to pick up provisions and - Ophilia stated quite firmly - something to wear that hadn’t been designed for the Frostlands.  Having already threatened to break out her dancer's costume everyone agreed that something more fitting could surely be found.

As soon as they entered Sunshade the ladies made off to the market, then went for a soak in the baths.  Ophilia had managed to find a white silk dress that was wonderfully cool and relatively modest and not a huge lot different in style to her customary robe,  although - as she told the others as she sank gratefully into the tepid water, she would have happily worn a sack if it had kept her cooler.

'Poor lamb.'  Primrose laughed.  'I didn’t think - but of course you suffer in the heat as much as I do in the cold.'

'At least in the cold you can add as many layers as you need!'  the Cleric grouched.  'In the heat, there's only so much you can remove!'

'Then I certainly expect that the Professor will thoroughly enjoy our time here!'  Primrose giggled.

.

When the ladies got to the Inn at lunchtime they ordered food then made their way up to the rooms that had been booked.

Ophilia followed the girls but was surprised when Tressa pushed her away with a grin.  'Not you Phili!  You're in there.'

'Oh..okay.'  Ophilia pushed open the door Tressa indicated to find Cyrus alone reading a book.  He held up his hands as she came in, a look of chagrin on his face.

'Not my idea!'  He exclaimed quickly.  'Apparently everyone insisted we share..  Are you.. okay with that?' He asked shyly.

Ophilia started to laugh as she put her pack down and bounced on the edge of the bed.  'Olberic warned there would be teasing.'  She grinned.  'But at the same time it's a kind of acceptance, which is nice!'

'I have no doubt whatsoever that they are currently sniggering together and taking bets on how long it takes for us to emerge.  Should we disappoint them dearest?'  He grinned at her. 

'Perhaps we should surprise them instead.'  Ophilia giggled as she opened the door at the knock of a server who had brought up their food.

During their meal Cyrus showed the Cleric the three new books that he had already managed to pick up that morning, and grinned when he told her that Tressa had warned him that having a pony and cart now did not mean he could start building his own mobile library.'

After the meal was cleared Ophilia moved to Cyrus's lap while he got back out the book he had been perusing when she'd arrive, picking out some of the parts that had already pulled his interest to show her.

'You're lucky your incredibly cute Cyrus,'  Ophilia murmured as he nuzzled the strap of her dress with his cheek.  'Body heat in this climate is a killer.  I hope you plan on making it worth my while.'

'Mmm.. better?'  He asked, pushing the strap with his chin off her shoulder and planting a lingering kiss in its place.

'Getting there..' She admitted breathlessly.

They were both startled by the door suddenly being thrown open.

Mattias stalked in, calmly closing the door behind him.

'Well Ophilia..'  He said, quietly smiling although his dark eyes were expressionless  'I had expected to find you alone, but how remiss of me.  We are in a town of whores so why should I be surprised to find you being one.'

He took the seat at the table that Ophilia had previously been sat in.

Ophilia quickly grasped Cyrus's hand, noting the immediate anger that had flared in him at the other man's words.  Cyrus nodded slightly at her and sat back in his chair.  Ophilia stood, self consciously replacing her dress strap onto her shoulder.

'I am happy to talk with you Mattias.'  She said delicately as she moved to sit on the edge of the bed, her whole body stiff with tension.  'But I would ask for some civility.'

'Oh I apologise dear Sister.  Do I read the situation incorrectly then?  Are you not in fact sequestered in an Inn accompanying a man with a known reputation as a philanderer?'

Anger flared on Ophilia's face.  She opened her mouth to answer by Cyrus cut across her quickly.

'My reputation is unfortunate.'  The Scholar said coldly but with rigid control.  'However it is merely false accusation and lies at its base.'  Cyrus glanced at Ophilia, his eyes softening slightly.  'In truth..'  He turned his attention back to Mattias.  'You find Ophilia in the company of the man who loves her and who wishes for nothing more than to marry her, just as soon as her burden and commitment is resolved.  As such her virtue is very much safe in my care.' 

Ophilia couldn’t help a small gasp at his words.

Cyrus regarded Mattias closely for a few seconds.  He frowned deeply but carried on in a neutral tongue.  'I have to request that you desist with your foul accusations, for I will not tolerate Ophilia being further upset and her deep regard for her Sister extends to wanting to remain courteous to you - but I fear you are making that somewhat hard to achieve.'

Mattias snorted with a smirk.  'Indeed.  Marriage you say?  You will find it impossible to find a church that will marry you since she requires her guardian's agreement for such an arrangement.  Of course that only lasts for another five years.. So not too long to wait, hey.'

'What do you want Mattias?'  Ophilia said into the silence that had followed his words.

'Well I did originally come to persuade you to return home with me.'  Mattias pondered thoughtfully.  'But I am open to a new idea.'  He looked between Ophilia and Cyrus.  'Give me the Lanthorn.  I will return it to Flamesgrace and after our wedding Lianna will take up the rite as was her due.  Go and marry your hedge-mage if you must - I won't prevent it, but give up your ridiculous attempt at completing this Kindling.'

Ophilia stared at him wide-eyed. 

'I..can't.'  She whispered sorrowfully.  'Mattias... please believe me when I say that I only refuse for the sake of Anna.'

Mattias' face had grown furious.  'You refuse Witch - to keep the glory to yourself!'  He bellowed in anger.

'No!'  Ophilia raised her hand.  'I have known Anna for fifteen years Mattias.  She could never cope with the ritual itself, even if she were carried in a guarded carriage on the entire journey.'  Ophilia closed her eyes.  'The pain of handling the ember is like nothing I have ever experienced.  That it is necessary to guide what is needed into the Flame is fact - but Anna.. she.. her constitution.. she could not do it.'  Tears started to spill down Ophilia's cheeks.  'Knowing what is to come the second time.. even if she managed the first, she would never manage the second.'

Cyrus had stood, distraught at the Clerics words, and started to move towards her, but Mattias reached her first.  His hand gripped round her throat.

'You will give me the Lanthorn!'  He said furiously.  'Give it to me now!'

'Get your damned hands off of her!'  Cyrus threw himself towards them, a shot of pure ice bursting from his clenched fist.  It didn’t even come close to Mattias.  It just.. disappeared.'

'Oh bad luck Albright,'  Mattias released Ophilia to face the Scholar,  sarcastic amusement on his face.  'Did I forget to mention.. magic?  Totally immune.  Mine however.. '  Mattias started to weave his hands in a complex pattern.

Cyrus pulled back a fist and punched the man squarely in the jaw.  Mattias staggered under the sheer weight of the blow - his hand flying to his bloodied mouth in shock.

'Get out.'  Cyrus said his voice like ice.  'Get out of my sight before I give you the thrashing you so richly deserve.'

Mattias pulled himself together.  'You are no match for..' He froze in shock as Therion slithered through the window, his daggers in hand.

'I said leave!'  Cyrus repeated, his fist clenching, taking a step towards the man who seemed to be weighing up his odds.  'And if you ever come near Ophilia again, I swear I will not be held responsible for my actions.'

'You have made a terrible mistake here today.'  Mattias spat at them as he span round and walked out of the door.

Cyrus turned to look at Ophilia.  She stared back at him intensely, her breath heavy, her eyes alight with fire.

'Ah.. I'll be going then.'  Therion said delicately.  'Oh.. just to mention.. I saw Mattias enter the Inn - I thought I'd keep an eye on things in case you needed... well... I wasn’t watching like on purpose.  This time.'

'Thank you Therion.'  Cyrus said gruffly, his eyes not leaving Ophilia's.

'Yeah, it's fine no problems..  see ya then..'  Therion hurried towards the door.

'Oh and Therion..'  Cyrus looked towards the Thief with a smile for the briefest second.  'If our friends are still running their betting on when we may emerge, I would suggest the wise money would be tomorrow morning.'

Therion grinned.  'Nice Prof.. thanks for the heads up!'  He said closing the door softly behind him.

Cyrus and Ophilia continued to stare at each other.  Slowly she reached out her hand to take the one he had assaulted Mattias with and raised it to her lips, channelling a soft heal as she did, the warmth of its passage making him close his eyes in an effort to control his emotion.

'Did you mean it?'  She finally whispered.

'That I wish to marry you or that I am intent on protecting your virtue?'  He asked seriously.  'Because I meant exactly what I said, on both counts.  Although...'  His grip on her hand intensified.  'This wasn’t exactly how or when I intended to propose.'  He knelt in front of her.  'You need to finish off this crazy burden and be free of its duty before you even think about considering your future dearheart.  My love is yours without condition, but please don't ever doubt that my intentions are honourable.'  He rested his head against hers.  'You are my world, Ophilia.' He said simply.

She wrapped her arms around his neck.  'As I recall,' She murmured in his ear,  'I once told you that I was looking forward to a little besmirching.  You thought I was teasing.. but I wasn’t.  Not really.  I wonder if that may be an acceptable.. compromise.'

'Virtuous besmirching?'  He chuckled, kissing her fondly.  'A rather interesting concept my love.  One I think we could probably work with.'  

Chapter Text

Cyrus and Ophilia's eventual arrival at the breakfast table the next morning raised a few leery eyebrows and a number of sniggers.

'What do you want to eat?'  Therion asked them.  'My treat.. I happen to be quite flush for leaf at the moment!'  He smirked.

Ophilia was grinning at her friends.  'You are all so mean.'  She said good naturedly as she took the seat that Cyrus held out for her.   'Did Therion tell you all that we had a visit from Mattias?'  She asked quickly before anyone could get in any actual teasing comments.

Primrose frowned.  'That man is completely contemptible.'  She said.  'I know he is to become your Brother-in-law, darling - but I am simply itching to take my dagger to him.'

'Oh Primrose you're so sweet!'  Ophilia giggled reaching over the table to pat her friend.

Therion beamed.  'Cyrus totally had it in hand!  Literally...  That's some wicked punch you got on you Prof!' 

'Why, thank you Therion! - but I must admit I was lucky to have Ophilia there to provide a heal.'  Cyrus said wryly.  'Otherwise I'm sure I'd have suffered quite a bit of swelling.'

'Totally my pleasure, my love.'  Ophilia smiled at him.

'I probably need some work on my technique!'  Cyrus added thoughtfully.

'I'd be happy to help with that.'  Olberic offered with a grin.

Cyrus suddenly looked perplexed.  'You know,'  he said slowly, his hand going up to rub at his chin thoughtfully.  '..There were a couple of things that struck me as very odd about Mattias yesterday.  I haven’t really had a chance to think it through...'

'You only find a couple of things about him odd?'  Therion snorted.  'Pretty much everything about him is odd .  What the hell was he doing wearing a thick coat in the Sunlands for a start!'

'Well quite..'  Cyrus mused.  'But more relevantly, he called Aelfric's lantern 'the Lanthorn'.  That's not a term that's been in use for ... just about forever.'

'I've heard it named that.'  Ophilia admitted.  '.. but it was only from Father Bartolo when he was talking about when the Kindling was performed by the Sacrifice.'

'The second point is his so-called immunity to magic.'  Cyrus looked troubled.  'There really is no such thing.  A person may have a resistance to a particular form or use an item that gives protection.. some spells can work in a similar way temporarily.  Nothing I have ever heard of  would cover all types of magic though.'

'Well perhaps he was using something that just happened to be geared towards what you threw at him.'  Alfyn spoke up.

'Indeed.  I think that's what I assumed at the time.  Giving it thought though..'  Cyrus shook his head.  'It was a complete surprise when he started to cast magic himself.  I had no feeling of magic about him in any of our encounters and I am sure I would have identified a protective spell or item.  A resistance would not have destroyed my ice as completely as it did either, it just disappeared and I was angry enough for it to have been rather powerful.'

'So what do you think Cyrus?'  Primrose asked, her interest piqued.

'I really have no idea.'  He admitted.  'It may have just been a lucky chance that he had something that combated ice, as Alfyn suggested... but surely if he was targeted on Ophilia, he would have focused on protection from Light magic.  That's what I would have done.  I know your spells aren’t offensive per 'say my love.. but if he was seeking to kidnap you - you would certainly have been able to defend yourself.'

Ophilia nodded uneasily

'It would be prudent to keep a close eye out for the man.'  Olberic said frowning.  'He certainly has some kind of unhealthy interest in you and the Kindling, lass.  Whatever his reason and despite his relationship to your sister - I don’t think it is a good idea to allow him any kind of discourse with you going forward.'

'I'm afraid I have to agree.'  Ophilia said heavy heartedly.  'I pray that it is just his worry over his own reputation that is causing his pig-headedness.'

'You said that he is a businessman Ophilia?'  Primrose asked. 

Ophilia nodded.  'He provides most of the Churches in the land - their agent if you like.  He is incredibly well respected.  I suppose one of the most noted Laymen in the hierarchy of the Order of the Flame.'  She looked worried.  'The council members certainly would listen and take note of his concerns if he were to put in a complaint or seek to enforce the terms of my adoption.'

'Maybe it would be an idea to ask your father what he knows of the man Tressa.'  Primrose went on.  'In trading terms there are few as well connected as he.'

'Great idea!'  Tressa agreed enthusiastically.  'I've got a message ready to send him today - I will add a few lines to it now!'

The companions fell quiet as breakfast arrived. 

'Four days to Wellspring then.'  Tressa said as they finished eating.

'We ready to leave in an hour?'  Olberic asked. 

Everyone agreed and got up to start gathering themselves together.

'One other thing!'  Alfyn suddenly spoke up with a huge grin.  He came over to Ophilia and placed a satchel over her shoulder.  'About time you carried your own stock.'

'Oh!'  Ophilia jumped, throwing herself at him enthusiastically. 

'Hey!'  Alfyn smiled.  'I'll get you a new bag every day if means I get kisses!'

~0~

As they travelled closer and closer to Wellspring, Olberic's anxiety grew.

The potential confrontation with Erhardt, in fact the inevitability of facing him at some stage in the future and maybe getting some kind of resolution warred in his heart with his knowledge of Ophilia's kinship to the man.

His love for the tiny Cleric was beyond doubt.  Adding to her burden of problems, unthinkable.  Olberic however was a simple man.  It weighed on him that he may someday have to admit he had kept knowledge from her and that his subterfuge would hurt her.  He was not easy with that idea at all.

Two nights away from their expected arrival in the town, Olberic decided he would speak his mind.

As usual, Ophilia had made them drinks as they took the second watch slot of the night.  She had then sat down into the glow of Aelfric's lantern with an odd assortment of items gathered around herself.

First she picked up an apple.  Using her paring knife she cut a ball of the flesh,  took up a thick needle and threaded a leather thong directly through its middle.  Next she used her knife to roughly cut a length of her hair.

'What in the name of the Gods are you doing lass?'  Olberic asked, completely confused.

She smiled up at him.  'Just watch.'  She said softly.  She delicately plaited a tiny braid from the hair which she wound round the apple in a cross pattern.  Finally she sliced a small cut on her finger and rubbed it to the hair.  Ophilia took the whole thing into her hands, cupping them closed around it and then closed her eyes serenely.  Olberic felt the surge of power run through her and when she opened her hands again..

'Oh, that's quite beautiful!'  he breathed, stunned.

The raw ball of apple was now iridescent, golden and glimmering, perfectly shaped in apple form and where the braided hair had been statically tied, it seemed to undulate with energy. 

Ophilia beamed a huge happy smile.  'Oh..'  she said.  'I really had no idea if that would work or not!'  She handed it to Olberic who inspected it closely.

'I can feel... something... like when you heal.'  He said, his head to one side in considered contemplation.

'I've stored some of the power of the flame inside of it.'  Ophilia grinned.  'I'm going to use these to start Therion and Alfyn's training.  I can charge them myself so they can't pull too much energy and end up unconscious.  I wish we had something like this when I was training!'  she added.

Olberic raised an eyebrow.  'It's very calming,'  he said running a giant thumb over the warm apple charm. 

'I can make you one too.'  Ophilia smiled.  '..Regardless of whether you want to learn or not!'

Olberic chuckled.  'I would like that.'  He admitted.  'But leave it a while or you will end up with bald spots!'

Ophilia picked up the blue flower she intended to use as Alfyn's charm and started a like process as she had done with the apple.  Olberic watched her quietly and soon she had produced the second one.

'Cyrus's will be slightly different.'  She told the Knight.  He winced as she cut a larger lock of hair from her head.  'He doesn’t really need help with drawing power, his skill is quite awe inspiring.  Instead ..'  She had started to weave her hair in a delicate design around what looked like a piece of white ribbon, the kind that normally bound back Cyrus's locks.  '..This will be a devotion.'  She looked up briefly at the Knight.  'Sometimes, when Cleric's enter into a relationship with each other they bind a little piece of themselves, the flame and their love into a token.  It also acts as a store of energy - a gift for their loved one should they ever need to draw it in a time of need.  A protection I guess.' 

'Ah Lass.  Cyrus is a very lucky man.'  Olberic smiled gently.

'Oh my dear Olberic..'  Ophilia looked up at him and comically fluttered her eyelashes.  'Just say the word my darling and you can quite steal me away!'

'And also a very brave man...'  Olberic added with a chuckle.

'That too.'  Ophilia smiled as she closed her eyes to instil power into her new creation.  Once she was done, she handed the small thick ring to Olberic to inspect. 

Olberic sat staring at the treasure for a long while, captivated by the lights as they rippled around the band.  When he handed it back to the Cleric, his face was serious.  Conflicted.

'I need to talk to you about something Ophilia.  I just don’t know how to start.' He said a bit helplessly.

Ophilia had packed away her tools and scooted forward to rest her head on his knee.  'Just speak, Sir knight.  I will hear you out.'  She said gently, disturbed at his expression.

'Well..'  Olberic grimaced.  'I came into some ... information, and I think it should be shared with you.  I was asked... to decide.  No.  It was given to me... um.  Well... it's about Erhardt...'

'You know!'  Ophilia's eyes went wide.

'Er, know what?'  Olberic asked, confused.

'That he's my brother?'  Ophilia asked rather than stated.

'Well.. yes.  You knew?  Did Therion tell you?'  Olberic said with a sigh.

'Therion?  He knows too?  Oh my.'  Ophilia started to smile.  'I have been trying for ages to get the courage to speak to you about what I suspected Olberic, but I was so worried that...  Wait.  Let's get some order here.  Will you tell me what you know?'

Olberic nodded dumbly.  'Your father set Eliza the task of trying to track down where you were from.'  He explained. 'Her report, her findings.. it didn’t come together until after the fall of Hornburg, after Erhardt had already betrayed the King.  The Archbishop made the decision not to tell you, but left Eliza with the ultimate decision in the event of his death.  When I emerged, and it was discovered I was travelling with you - she passed that decision to me.'  Olberic looked fraught.  'I never read the report.  It was Therion, when we were in Victor's Hollow who found it in my bag and read it.  He brought it to my attention since he realised I was planning to... confront Erhardt.'

'I see!'  Ophilia said breathlessly.

'I really didn’t know what to do.'  Olberic's look was troubled again.  'I have no idea who the man really is, if the knowledge could hurt you.  I wanted to protect you if I could.  Oh, Ophilia!  I couldn’t stand the thought that you may find out what I knew and would think ill of me for not trusting in you to tell you - because I do.  Of course I do.  It has only taken so long...'

'Because you care.'  Ophilia finished for him gently.

'Yes.'  He agreed.  They were silent for a few minutes as his words sank in.  'So, if Therion didn’t tell you - how did you know?'  Olberic asked eventually.

Ophilia looked up at him and smiled.  'I didn't, not really.  I suspected that it may be the case but..'  She paused and thought for a second.  'Whenever you talked of Erhardt, it tugged a memory in me.'  She explained finally.  'I had no idea what it was but the name was so familiar.  I just assumed to begin with that I had heard the story or that my father had mentioned it.. but it was a very persuasive prod, a really overpowering feeling.'

Olberic reached down to smooth her hair as she fell silent again.

'It was the night we spoke, after Victor's Hollow that it suddenly became clear.  We talked of my mother, and then Erhardt.  That was it.  It was my mother who spoke of him, all the time when I was small.. my brother, Erhardt.'  Ophilia sighed.  'I remember so little of the time.. before.. and in order to survive, even that which I do remember I have pushed deep into my heart.'

'So what is your wish Ophilia?'  Olberic looked at her, his expression blank.

She gazed back at him, troubled. 'I wish for this revelation to have no effect whatsoever on what you chose to do when you meet with him Olberic.'  She replied seriously.  'I don't know this man at all.  I do however know you and I love you.  What I want is for you to free yourself from the burden that you carry, get the answers you deserve and move on.'

Olberic opened his mouth to protest but Ophilia held up a hand.

'There has never been a time that I have seen you fight with anything less than respect and compassion for your opponent Olberic, whether it has been monster, beast or person.  I know that you will make the right choice, whatever that may be in this matter.  It's who you are.  You have openly talked about your old friend and his betrayal both.'

'But what about you?'  Olberic asked.  'Do you not want the chance to learn about yourself, your past... your brother?'

'I am curious.'  Ophilia smiled suddenly.  'That's my nature.  I have never before had this option however, and if it ceases to be an option, I am no better or worse off.  I know that however this ends it will be in my best interest for  If you cannot see anything worthwhile in the man, then there is nothing further that I would wish to know.  This is your story now Olberic, I buried my part in it a long time ago.'

Olberic shook his head with a wry smile.  'I hope you do not misplace your trust in me sweetheart.'  He said.  'Do you want to tell the others?'  

Ophilia grinned.  'Well,'  she said with a chuckle.  'You and I know of course, Therion sneaked and I talked over my suspicions with Cyrus... so it's already a badly kept secret!  I would hate for the others to feel left out!'

'Right you are!'  Olberic agreed.

.

Cyrus woke to gather Ophilia to him when she went to lay beside him.

'We were right.'  Ophilia murmured quietly.  'Erhardt is my brother.'  Cyrus looked about to speak but she brushed his lips with hers.  'We will talk in the morning.'  She said.  'About this also..'  she slipped the ring that she had made onto his finger.

Cyrus's eyes widened at the gentle caress of harmony that rolled over him from the devotion.  He took a surprised glance down at his hand, the gentle warmth from it spreading over him like a blanket.

'Amazing.'  He whispered, kissing her again.

.

When morning dawned with bright sun and already intense heat,  H'aanit started to get breakfast ready while the others pottered about helping or getting themselves sorted.

Ophilia quietly explained to Cyrus what she and Olberic had discussed the night before, and Olberic brought over the report he had from Eliza and handed it to them to read.  After they had gone through it Cyrus asked about the ring, and Ophilia shyly explained its significance.

'This is absolutely incredible.. ' he admitted in awe.  'A fascinating piece of casting... how?...'

'No... not telling.'  Ophilia smiled at him.  'You have to work it out!'

'A puzzle?'  Cyrus beamed.  'Intoxicating...'

After breakfast, Olberic told the others about the kinship between Ophilia and Erhardt.  There was a stunned silence.

'Oh!... '  Alfyn started to chuckle suddenly... 'Oh, by the God's...' it turned into a full laugh.  Everyone stared at him.  'Better start running now Prof!'  tears had started running down his face as he clutched his belly and slumped to the floor.

Tressa had started to titter too.  Therion was staring at Alfyn, then all of a sudden he beamed.

'What in the hell?'  Olberic looked confused, mirroring everyone else's perplexed expressions.

'It's just...'  Therion giggled.  'I think what our Apothecary is getting at is... well.. if you don’t make a quick getaway Cyrus,  it's not just Mad Mattius you will have to contend with as a potential brother-in-law, but one of the bloody Twin-Blades of Hornburg too!'  Therion wiped tears from his eyes as Alfyn howled again.  'Not only that...'  Therion continued.  'The Regicidal Blade!  I truly wonder how happy he will be about you dallying with his sister!  Interesting family you got there Ophilia!'  Therion collapsed.

'Oh!'  Cyrus said as Olberic began to grin too.  'Oh, dear!'

.

Two days later and the companions were finally in sight of Wellspring.

'About time too.'  Tressa moaned.  'This sand gets everywhere!'

'Proper bath.. real bed..'  Ophilia made it sound like a prayer.

'Beer.'  Alfyn added with a hearty sigh.

Once they got into town, booked rooms at the Inn and had bathed at the bathhouse, it was time for lunch.

Both Olberic and Therion were absent. 

'They went to start asking around town about their respective interests.'  Cyrus told the others as their food arrived.

'Shucks,'  Alfyn added.  'I spoke to the bloke running the baths.  Sounds like Sir Erhardt is a proper hero in this town.  Call him Lord and everything.  Brings the fight to these 'lizard men' that have been plaguing the town for ages.'

'We heard pretty much the same in our baths.'  Primrose added.  'Couple of the young girls in the waters with us sighing over the handsome and fearless Hero of Wellspring.

They had barely finished their meal when Therion came running into the Tavern just as a sonorous bell began to chime somewhere outside.

'Lizard Men are attacking the town.'  He told the others, trying to catch his breath.  'Olberic is in the town square with a Captain Bale.  Looks like it's a bad one.'  He added.

The companions rose and gathered their stuff.

'Don't go out there!'  The Tavern keeper was at the door peering out, ushering some inside.  'We will be locking down.  The guards and Lord Erhardt will be taking control of the situation.'

'Gonna be volunteering our services.'  Alfyn grinned at the man, pushing past him.

Olberic was in the town square, deep in conversation with a tall, older soldier.  They both looked up as the friends rushed towards them.

'This is my team.'  Olberic told the man.

'I see.  Captain Bale.'  The man introduced himself.

The captain turned back to Olberic.  'So they will be swarming from yonder canyon - they have bases up in the hills.  Tis a cavernous place, and we have yet to be able to get a reasonable count of their numbers.'

'You say that's where Erhardt will be?'  Olberic said flatly.

'Sure to be.'  Bale looked anxious.  'Can't spare the men from town to back him up.'  He said regretfully.  'Too many damned entrances to cover here.  We got to protect the townsfolk first.'

'Of course.'  Olberic agreed. 'We can head out there and see if we can find him.  Offer aid at the source.  If we can tap them off, stop them getting through, it will ease the risk here.'

'You sure man?'  Bale looked over the companions with a sceptical eye.

'I am.'  Olberic replied simply.

'Well and good then.  I cannot thank you enough for your aid, and your timely arrival.'  Bale saluted them all and turned to start marshalling his troops.

'You all up for this?'  Olberic asked his friends quietly.  They nodded.

The companions trekked carefully out of town.  They encountered a few small bands of the Lizard Men but it seemed as if the main bulk were directing themselves unthinkingly at the main gate.

'They do not appear to have much in the way of a plan.'  Cyrus observed after they had seen off their fourth group of the sand fighters.  'Or skill for that matter.'

'I can see that they would present a problem to a travelling caravan, or in greater numbers.  I cannot see any rhyme to their method either though.'  Olberic said thoughtfully.

They headed towards the rising cliffs and the canyon that Bale had indicated, and they soon spotted the lone man stood at the narrow entrance to the opening, surrounded by the Lizard Men who were trailing out of the canyon in dribs and drabs.

'Tressa, a little help?'  Cyrus asked the merchant, who nodded enthusiastically at him.  'Just like we practiced then.'  The Scholar added.

Standing side by side Tressa brought up a stirring wind focused just in front of them, beating at the sand.  Cyrus raised his hand and added focused lightning into the current of swirling air.

'Let's go!'  he said merrily.

Between them, they forced the air and lightning forward slowly.  It moved past the man and into the canyon where it suddenly intensified and, becoming a gale of pure energy that ripped through the approaching enemies and decimated their ranks.

The man ahead finished off the last of those that had been attacking him and he looked at the devastation being wrought ahead of him.  He turned to face the approaching companions in confusion, leaning heavily on his bloodied sword.

'Ho Erhardt.'  Olberic called when they were close enough to the man to be heard.  'Looks like you could use some back-up.'

'Olberic?'  The man pushed back the long blond hair from his face, and visored his hand to his forehead against the sun - staring out at the Knight striding towards him in disbelief.  'Am I dead?'  he asked incredulously.

Olberic snorted.  'Not yet.'  He grunted.  'So what's the deal.  We just turn up in town and it gets attacked.. Captain Bale says you're out here alone trying to single handedly take on an army.. You got some sort of hero complex these days or what?'

'Pfft.. what are you doing bringing women and children along to fight for you?'  Erhardt countered glancing down the line of faces who were all staring at him in complete fascination.

'I can't help but wonder what that makes me..'  Cyrus mumbled thoughtfully.

'A Woman.'  Tressa said with a grin, quick as a flash.

'An old woman..'  Alfyn added smirking.

'Oh your so mean!'  Cyrus laughed.

'Looks like those Lizard's are regaining some momentum.'  Primrose spoke up quietly - nodding back into the canyon.

'Right.'  Erhardt pulled himself together.  'I'm going in there.  Check out what's stirring them up.  Come along if you want.'  He added with a raised eyebrow at Olberic.

'Oh, good plan.'  Olberic parried.  'Well thought out.'

'Well.. What would you do?'  Erhardt asked as he started to move forward past him.

'Guess I'd suggest going in and checking out what's stirring them up.'  Olberic replied with a wry grin.

'Figured.'  Erhardt snorted a laugh.

As they all started to move a small healing wave washed over them and with it the multitude of small nicks and cuts that Erhardt had already received eased and closed up.  With an exclamation of surprise at both at the heal itself and the incredible warmth of it, the Knight turned to look for the source.  The most likely candidate, the slight blonde girl with the staff seemed to be concentrating on her feet.

'Thank you.'  He said quietly.

The girl looked up briefly, her smile and her soft beauty both rendering him speechless.  She nodded slightly at him and then her eyes fell to her feet again.

Erhardt noticed that Olberic had also stopped and was looking at him with an unreadable expression.  'Not quite the same as our battle-healers of old eh.'  Olberic noted. 

'No.'  Erhardt agreed softly.  'That was something else entirely.'

'You have had the privilege of having been healed by the Flamebearer.'  Olberic added.

'The Crazy Cleric?'  Erhardt took a quick look back in surprise.  'The one they tried to assassinate in Saintsbridge?   Were you there?'

Olberic scowled heavily.  'I was.  And she isn’t mad.' He barked.

'Oh?  She's travelling with you and currently walking into a Lizard Man lair in the middle of nowhere...'  Erhardt pointed out.

'She's loyal.' Olberic muttered.

There was a silence as they moved forward.  The ravine ended in a large open space, with a wide entrance to the west that looked like a cave system.  There were at least a hundred Lizard Men milling around.  None seemed that interested in taking to the ravine - in fact as the companions came through they seemed to shy further away.

'Sir Olberic.'  Ophilia had come forward, Cyrus by her side, an arm around her shoulder.  'I don’t think these 'men' are really men at all.'  She said quietly.

'What are you thinking Lass?'  Olberic asked.

'I feel more of a soul than in the monster's we have faced.'  Ophilia said thoughtfully.  'But I, we..'  she looked up at Cyrus with a smile.  '...think that they may be more animalistic than actual men.'

'We all noted their lack of planning and rather random attack.'  Cyrus added.  'So we were thinking, if we were faced with this number of say wolves.. what would we do?'

'Thou wouldst attempt to scatter them.'  H'aanit chipped in.  'They couldst be feared, mayhaps driven off completely.'

'Quite right my dear!'  Cyrus beamed at the Huntress.

'Shucks, it gotta be worth a shot right?'  Alfyn said.  'Gotta admit I'm not that keen on just ploughing into that many of em.  Be worse than that Dragon episode in the pants department!'

Olberic chuckled at that.  'You have a plan?'  he asked.

'Try a bit of fire and a bit of light and see where that goes?'  Cyrus suggested.

'I can give you a big bang!'  Alfyn added beaming brightly and reaching into his satchel.

'Okay, the rest of us can tackle any stragglers then.'  Olberic grinned drawing his sword.

'Er.  Fine. Okay!'  Erhardt looked a bit overwhelmed.

'Say when you're ready Alf.'  Ophilia told the Apothecary, moving towards him with interest to see what he was concocting.

'Used to make these to scare the crows from the fields back home!'  Alfyn told her, showing her the items he was grinding.  He took out a bandage and ripped it into six pieces then spooned a little mixture into each, tying it into a pouch.  'When they hit the ground... BOOOM.'  His smile was just a little bit overenthusiastic.

'After you then my darling.'  Cyrus offered his hand to the Cleric as she made her way forward.  She looked to the biggest clump of the Lizard Men and raised her staff.

'Let the Holy Light shine forth..'  she intoned bringing her staff down to the ground in a fluid movement.  The resulting luminescent was vast, a shocking flash of brightness that poured over the Lizards as they cowered in fear.

'Your power seems to have grown since the Kindling, Your Holiness.'  Therion noted in awe.  'That was proper impressive!'

Cyrus had started raising columns of fire scattered amongst the crowds in front of them, turning fear into pure panic.  Alfyn threw his concoctions into the mix, adding noise to the confusion and mayhem.

Most of the Lizards were heading away from the companions, but a few ran towards them.  They were met initially by a rain of arrows, turning a couple back, and then gusts of heavy wind that again distracted a few.  The rest fell to Olberic and Erhardt's blades that whirled and danced almost as impressively as Primrose as she bolstered her friends attacks and Therion's daggers that peppered their enemies.

Many of the Lizard Men had run for the entrance to the cave.  Ophilia pushed them back further in with a flash of Holy light at the entrance and Cyrus built a wall of fire further penning them back.

'That went well!'  Tressa cheered when the area was totally clear of the enemy and they started moving as a group towards the cave.

'Famous last words...'  Primrose grimaced as a huge bestial roar went up, and then a second.

'What the hell was that?'  Therion was looking around,  trying to locate where the sound was coming from.

'Um... Them I think.'  Ophilia pointed with her staff.

Two much larger Lizard Men were pushing through the ranks in the cave to come to the front.  They were grunting and gesturing to their companions, seeming to encourage them to go back deeper into the system.

'I think those are their leaders.'  Erhardt said grimly.  'Only seen them once before, when they last made an attack on the actual town.  If we can finish them off this time...'

'One each by my count.'  Olberic was grinning at his fellow Knight.  'I wager mine will go down first.'  He added.

'Only if you cheat!'  Erhardt grinned back.

The Knights moved in to their respective foe.  A few of their minions accompanied their leaders but the most of the Lizards had either retreated totally into the caves or were staying back, cowed by the fires that still burned.

Olberic's blade got in the first major score against his leader, a massive thrust that hit the Lizard Man hard to the shoulder,  almost running the entire way through.  His foe incensed, it leaped at the Knight slashing tooth and claw at him in a ferocious attack, but failed to get purchase past the Knight's armour.  The Lizard was rather effectively thrown to the floor and the beast scurried backwards away.

Erhardt was faring just as well.  His faster blade slashing a whirlwind and then suddenly switching to a spear in a move that completely blindsided his enemy who took a debilitating thrust to the stomach.  It was this leaders companions that swarmed Erhardt while their Chief recovered his wits, cutting and slashing wildly with their short swords and overwhelming the Knight for a second.  A flash of Holy light saw them cowed and a harsh guttural word from their leader had them moving back safely behind him.

The battles raged on, although even these leaders were hardly a match for the twin blades of Hornburg.  They had stamina and a seemingly swift recovery from the worst of their wounds but they were almost helpless against the cool efficiency of the Knights.  The crowd of Lizard men behind them grew as the fighting progressed, although it became clear that the Chief's were communicating in their strange language, keeping them back and safe.  Protecting their herd.

The end was inevitable.  Olberic took the final blow of his foe just seconds before Erhardt brought down his.  The on-looking Lizards keened a heart wrenching wail of loss.

As the Knights moved back from the fallen leaders,  Ophilia made her way forward.  She went to each in turn, straightening their limbs, settling their cloaks about them and retrieving their weapons while reciting a prayer very quietly. They all moved backwards slowly and two of the watching Lizards moved forwards to retrieve their dead.  Taking the bodies, all of their foes went silently back into the caves and disappeared from sight.

Alfyn was attending the two Knights minor wounds.

'Just a quick blast and we're done I reckon Li.' He told the Cleric as she came up to help, wiping the tears from her cheek.  He finished wrapping a bandage on Olberic's hand and engulfed his Ophilia in a bone-crushing hug as she cast her heal.

Ophilia went to Olberic and crouched down beside him and took his hand.

'This is your story now Sir Knight.'  She told him firmly.  'We won't be far away.  Please don’t get yourself hurt.'  She looked up briefly at Erhardt who was staring back at her.  '..Too much.'  She added with a wry smile.  Olberic kissed her brow.

The companions left the two Knights and slowly walked down the canyon to the other end to sit and wait.

Olberic looked over at his former friend.  'I guess it's time we talk.'  He said.

Chapter Text

Erhardt stood clasping at his sword watching Olberic's companions as they walked away leaving the two Knights alone, unable to bring himself to look at his old friend as he scouted out a place away from the Lizard Men's cave entrance to sit.  Now that the enemy threat appeared to be over Erhardt found himself to be more nervous than he had been in a very long time.  He risked a glance up at Olberic, who had now sat and was observing him warily.  When their eyes met he motioned for Erhardt to join him.

Heavy hearted, the man made his way slowly over to where Olberic had indicated and reluctantly joined him, seating himself a slight distance away.

'Your companions...'  Erhardt said quietly, looking away down the ravine through which they had departed.  'Certainly more capable than they appear at first glance.'

Olberic chuckled.  'A fair number have underestimated them only to fall foul to their skills.'  He said.  'A unique and talented bunch.'

'A story to be told as to your association I am sure.'  Erhardt glanced at Olberic who was smiling slightly to himself.

'Indeed.'  Olberic glanced at his erstwhile friend.  'Oddly enough I have you to thank for bringing me to my new family.' 

'Me?'  Erhardt raised an eyebrow.

There was silence for a long time as Olberic studied the man dispassionately.

'Eight years.'  Olberic said finally looking away -  a frown creasing at his brow.  'I spent eight years feeling... nothing at all.'

Erhardt couldn’t help but wince at the emotionless tone, so alien from the man he had known so well.

'What did you do... after?'  he asked quietly.

'Wandered a while.'  Olberic stared at his hands.  'Finally found a home of sorts in a small town with a bandit problem.  Helped train the guard there, wasn’t really a sense of purpose but it masqueraded as one I suppose.'

Erhardt found himself smiling sourly at that.  'I thought...in fact I found myself hoping that you would hunt me down.  Seek your revenge.'

Olberic looked at him then with something akin to surprise.  'Is that why you left me alive?'  he asked. 

Erhardt shook his head, not trusting himself to speak.  There was another long silence.

'It was your name,'  Olberic eventually filled the silence once more. 'Spoken from the lips of a bandit, a random and unexpected moment that pushed me from my inertia.  I don’t know what changed inside of me, but suddenly I had an overpowering need to know why.  I'd not felt that before, in all the time that had passed.'

'Why I did what I did?' Erhardt looked intensely at Olberic, who for the first time recognised the deep pools of pain in his eyes.  He had seen the expression before, many times during their friendship but had never truly seen it for what it was.

'I was a callow youth Erhardt.'  Olberic said softly.  'Simple even -  in my emotions.  I never recognised your hurt then but I recognise it now.'  He looked down at the ground at his feet.   'I have seen such pain reflected in the eyes of others that I love, and I have learned to know it for what it is.'

'The stoic and noble Olberic admitting to feelings?'  Erhardt couldn’t prevent the smirk that rose to his lips.  'Talking of love even.  Is the sky falling?'  he looked up as if to check.

'Funny.'  Olberic's lips quirked into a smile that fell away just as quickly.  'You took my world Erhardt, just as surely as yours was taken from you.  My purpose and my overpowering ego were the casualties of that.  You left a hollow man - but it seems that the emptiness has started to be filled.  I think, no.. I hope I am a better man for it.'

'You were always the better man Olberic.'  Erhardt shook his head.  'I sought revenge for my hurts.  Trickery, deception and betrayal.  King Alfred promised my people help and renegade on that promise and I wanted to destroy not only him, but everything that he stood for in retaliation.'

'Why was that Erhardt?'  Olberic looked up at the man quizzically.  'What made your hatred burn so bright?  The man I thought I knew was so very different.'

'Honestly?'  Erhardt looked back at his old friend with open frankness.  'I was a child, I was angry, but if I had not been offered the opportunity for revenge by another, I would not have sought it independently.  I realise that now.  My hatred was blazing, and I was the perfect weapon to be used - that is not an excuse - merely a fact.  When offered, I was eager to infiltrate the ranks and happy to provide intelligence to those that orchestrated the downfall.'

'So it was another behind it then.'  Olberic said mostly to himself.  'I wonder why I never considered that.'

'You thought it was all me?'  Erhardt suddenly looked amused.  'Exactly when was planning or even thinking ever my strong point?'  No Olberic..'  he chuckled wryly.  'I had neither the brain nor the leaf to orchestrate the downfall of a Kingdom.  Ha, I'm actually a little flattered that you think I might!'

'I think you underestimate yourself Erhardt.'  Olberic muttered shaking his head wryly.  'You certainly managed to mastermind enough schemes that got me into trouble...'

'My favourite scapegoat!'  Erhardt amusement grew.  'God's you were so easy to wind up, so endearingly serious..'  He looked up, his eyes shining for the first time.  '..You took the knocks with such grace too.'

'I should have known better.  You brought out the worst in me!'  Olberic ran a hand through his hair and looked a little bewildered.  'I just can't understand how you kept your true purpose.. your bitterness.. a secret from me for all that time.  I genuinely thought that we were ... close.'

The haunted look returned to Erhardt's face.  'I kept many secrets old friend.  Each one I had to keep from you was a fresh hurt.'  He moved himself closer to reach out a hand which he placed lightly on Olberic's arm.  'From the day that my home burned, the only time I ever felt remotely like the carefree lad that died along with it was when I was with you.'

Olberic's gaze was drawn to the hand on his arm.  Although the touch was light - it felt like a lead weight.  'I liked that lad.' He murmured.  'He was the best friend I ever had.'

Erhardt's grip tightened.  'There were many times I dreamed of confession Olberic.  Not because I no longer wanted to carry out the role assigned to me - but because I did not want to hurt you.'

Olberic scowled.  'But in the end your revenge was too important.'

'Not true!'  Erhardt exclaimed.  'There was no stopping the plot.  There was too much leaf, too much planning and simply too many people who were already in place to make it preventable.  If I thought telling you would mean you would leave, get away safely.. then I would have told you.  I know though that despite the odds and the warnings you would have tried to prevent it - your honour would allow nothing else.  You would have died for that honour.'

'As it should have been.'   Olberic replied harshly - knocking away the crushing grasp on his arm and rubbing unconsciously at the spot.

'In the end I did the only thing I could do to save you.'  Erhardt spoke passionately, almost angrily as he held his rejected hand to his chest. 'I took up the task, fought you.  Bested you.  Many of those that died at my hand that day - Knights you thought died trying to prevent me killing the King - were actually allies that I finished in order to prevent them from getting to you.  Werner had more people loyal to his leaf than the King had loyal to his patronage.  Many more.'

'Werner?'  Olberic looked up sharply.  'This is the man who orchestrated the carnage?'

'Yes.  Although I believe there may have been someone even above him who provided the leaf in the first place.'  Erhardt's ire had died down and settled into a melancholy.  'What his interest in the destruction of Hornburg was I never knew, except that he was a nasty bastard who truly enjoyed witnessing the suffering of others and who had nothing less than a godlike opinion of his own worth.'

'You still work for him?'  Olberic asked roughly.

Erhardt shook his head forcefully.  'The man was an animal.  He offered me further employment where he settled in Riverford but I refused him.'

There was another long silence.

'Was it worth it?'  Olberic asked eventually.  'Your revenge I mean.'

'No.'  Erhardt's voice was barely audible. 'The dead was still just as dead and my home still ashes.  I did not regret killing Alfred, but it did not ease the pain in the slightest.  Indeed ... I lost you ... the only thing that had ever made the hurt less.  Ironic no?  I fulfilled my desire only for it to leave me emptier and more bereft than ever.  I longed for you to come and find me.  To end me, and end the suffering.'

'We are going to fight.'  Olberic stood up and stretched. 'You realise that right.'  

Erhardt smiled, a genuine heartfelt smile.  'Yes!'  he said. 'I have no hope and no purpose, this is truly the ending that I long for. I cannot kill you Olberic.  I couldn’t then and I cannot now.  Oh but to try..'  his eyes were shining.  'I am so very ready to try!'

Olberic had his blade in his hand.  Erhardt stood and took up his.  They circled each other cautiously.  Without warning Erhardt's sword flew out and cut a gash across Olberic's cheek.'

'That will scar I warrant.'  Olberic observed wiping at the blood running freely down to his chin.

'You have a face that can hold a scar well.  And that white to your temples old man... when did that happen?'  Erhardt was grinning as he parried a thrust from his opponent.

'Pretty much the day you betrayed me you arse..'  Olberic grinned back as his blade connected with Erhardt's shoulder and his first blood began to fall.

'Gotta admit you're in pretty good shape.'  The blonde Knight was moving slower now, looking for openings and wary of the weight of the attacks that he was fielding, he took a hit on the leg.  More blood ran.

'Had a pretty strict regime when I beat your man Gustav, at the championship in Victor's Hollow.'  Olberic couldn’t help but boast, pushing his advantage carefully, aware that the tide of attack could turn at any moment.

'Ah, Gustav.. that old rogue.  I'm not surprised you beat him.  Proper man-crush he had, always asking for stories of the noble and handsome Sir Olberic.  Got quite tired of his simpering over you!'  Erhardt span into a whirlwind of slashes, connecting to the ribs and the chest of his foe several times.  Olberic just grinned harder.

The battle was brutal - at times a sensuous and skilled dance and at others just pure physical slaughter.  As the opponents swept back and forth blood and sweat poured from the heat, the exertion and the many wounds they both inflicted.  They both exalted in the physicality, the closeness of their skills and their desire to win - raising each other's fever to boiling point.

Eventually it was Olberic that knocked Erhardt's sword flying and sent it skittering across the sand.

'Ah.'  Erhardt raised his hands as the point of Olberic's blade rested against his heart lightly.  'I guess you have me old friend.'  He looked into Olberic's dark eyes, and scowling face.

'I don’t believe I am done yet.'  Olberic threw his own sword aside and piled his shoulder into his foe bringing him down and landing a wicked punch to the stomach.

'Ouch!'  Erhardt complained grabbing at Olberic's neck, trying to get a grip.

'Wimp.'  Olberic taunted as they wrestled and punched at each other.

Suddenly Erhardt froze and his face went white.  'Where the hell did you get that!'  he said, his voice cold... emotionless.  He was pointing at the brooch pinned to Olberic's tunic.  With a rough shove he pushed Olberic off of him and moved faster than lightning to his sword, still resting abandoned on the sand.

'Erhardt, Peace.'  Olberic had also moved to retrieve his own sword and the two fighters were once again circling each other.

'Speak Olberic.'  The blonde Knight was angry, his lip curled in a snarl.

'It was a gift, a token from a lady before my fight in Victors Hollow.'  Olberic answered honestly.

Erhardt stared at him hard, but his focus seemed far away.  He dropped back to the floor as if his entire energy had been sucked from his body.

'It... it... I think... I'm sure it was my mother's...'  Erhardts voice broke away as tears starting to fall.  He tried to pull himself together.  'Have you noticed how it is slightly wonky to one side?'  he asked, not able to look at Olberic.  'My father was a blacksmith, but he made little pieces for my Mother, certainly not an artisan... but always made with love.  I..I helped him when he made that.'

Olberic removed the little pin and handed it wordlessly to Erhardt.

'I guess it must have been looted from her body.'  Erhardt's voice was little more than a whisper.  'How odd that it should end up with you.' He added, wiping at his tears with his sleeve.

Olberic closed his eyes as clarity rushed over him.  He sat next to Erhardt, and gently took the brooch back.

'I have to tell you something.'  He said.  'I want you to listen and not interrupt.'

Erhardt had brought his knees up to his chest, his face hidden against them, struggling to contain his sorrow.  Resolutely Olberic put a hand out to grasp his shoulder.

'I can't yet forgive you Erhardt.'  Olberic said honestly.  'That may never happen, or at the least take some time - but I am satisfied that.. at heart, you are the man I always believed you to be.'

Erhardt raised his head.  'No Olberic,'  he said sadly.  'I am a shadow of a man now.  Anything that was ever important to me is gone.  I am fading, my friend.'

'In truth of fact,'  Olberic rumbled, his hand gripping tighter.  'You have not lost everything.  You never had.  Fate has been a cruel Mistress, Erhardt, but there is still time I believe and a soul that could save you as surely as it has saved others.'

Erhardt's brow creased in confusion.  'I have no idea what you...' he began.

'This won't be easy my old friend, but hear me out. please.'  Olberic closed his eyes briefly to gather his thoughts.  'I am a simple man Erhardt so I can only speak plainly, but believe what I tell you.  I have a report which will clarify what I cannot - back at the Tavern - which I will give you - but for now.. I should tell you that your Mother survived the destruction of your village...'

'Do not jest with me!'  Erhardt's anger was swift.  'I will not tolerate...'

Olberic roughly shook the shoulder he was still grasping.  'I said hear me out!'  He admonished.  Erhardt fell silent, scowling.

'You were not in your village the day of the attack because you had shirked your chores to meet with a girl..'  Olberic smirked a little at that.  'Unsurprisingly...' he added.

'How did you know...?' 

'Will you please just listen!'  Olberic shook his head.  'Your Mother was also out of town.  She had gone to visit with the Apothecary a few villages over.'

'I don’t remember her being ill...'  Erhardt noted the flash of annoyance at the interruption and shut up.

'She was not ill.'  Olberic clarified.  'She was pregnant.'  There was a small silence as these words sunk in.  'She was gone when the raiders attacked and she, like you, believed that she had lost everything save the babe growing inside of her.  Neither of you knew the other lived.'

'Is she still.. did she...'  Erhardt started, but again fell silent when Olberic raised his finger to his lips and tightened his grip.

'She had a daughter, found a position and spent five years raising your sister in relative peace and safety.'  Olberic's face turned grim.  'Then, I suppose not long after we had been raised to Knighthood she heard tell of you.  Our exploits were rather widely reported...'  Olberic swallowed hard, but gamely continued.  'Your Mother became anxious to see if the Sir Erhardt of the tales was in fact her son against all odds, so she joined a caravan heading back to Hornburg to seek you out.'

'But she never arrived...'  Erhardt whispered.  'Does that mean...?'

'I'm sorry Erhardt.  I truly am.  The caravan was attacked and everyone.. was killed.  Apart from the child.  A tiny girl of five or so grievously injured who survived alone the week or more before the carnage was finally discovered.'

'My sister?'  Erhardt's voice was barely audible.

Olberic nodded.  'She was adopted by a kind man with a daughter of his own close to her age.  Her trauma, the deep fear that her experience left her with affected her for a long time.  She did not speak, was long in recovery - but she did recover, and although her fear afflicts her still, she grew to be the most remarkable of women.'

'Where is she?'  Erhardt asked urgently.  'Where can I find her?'

Olberic raised a hand to stop the questions.  'The man who adopted her was Archbishop Josef, of the Cathedral in Flamesgrace.'  Olberic shrugged.  'Under his tutorage, your Sister became a Cleric of the Order of the Flame, and she took on a responsibility out of love for her adopted family, when her father fell ill.  She took up the Ember that her Sister was supposed to carry in order to allow her to stay by her father's side during his final days.'

Comprehension flooded over Erhardt's features.. 'The Flamebearer.. the one you travel with...'  he breathed.

'Indeed.  Ophilia is your sister.'  Olberic agreed. 

Erhardt tried to rise, but was pushed back down firmly.

'The information was given to me at the will of the Archbishop by the Knight Ardante who compiled it.  He never told Ophilia of your kinship, by the time it was uncovered Hornburg had fallen and your role in it...  He did not feel that the news would be of any benefit to his adopted daughter.  With his failing health however, and because of my sudden association with Ophilia and my history with you - the task of deciding what to do with the knowledge was given to me.'  Olberic shrugged again.  'In truth, it was not a role I wished to be given.  I was no longer confident that I knew the man that you ever were, let alone the one you had become, and my own love for Ophilia... the burdens that she already carries.. the sheer weight of opposition and threat that she lives with.. I had no wish to add to her troubles.'

Erhardt's eyes filled with tears.  'Yet you have chosen to tell me?'  he questioned.

Olberic nodded.  'Ophilia, she is aware of your kinship.  Her main concern was for me of course..'  Olberic chuckled suddenly, 'You will find that is the most usual response from the child... to care for others at the detriment to herself.  None the less - she insisted that  this was my story, my wellbeing that needed to be sated and that she trusted in my heart and my care enough that whatever I decided needed to be done in relation to you - would be the correct choice.'

'It seems that she loves you too then.'  Erhardt sounded wistful.

'She has locked away her sentiment for her true heritage.'  Olberic mused.  'While you do have the ability to cause her pain by bringing it out into the light, I cannot help but believe that her desire to heal your soul will far outweigh her own hurts.  I believe that in that respect you could help one another.'

Erhardt suddenly looked uncomfortable.  'Are you sure?'  he mumbled.  'I hardly think I am good brother material, especially to a Cleric.  By the God's what on earth must she think of me?'

Olberic laughed aloud this time.  'Um.. about that.  If you are thinking in terms of Cleric alone, well.. heh.. let's just say that this particular one has a fairly unusual .. heh.'  Olberic patted his shoulder.  'While she is most certainly not mad, Erhardt.. her humour is quite wicked and her attitude to many things are not really what you might expect.  Indeed one of her closest friends is a thief and a complete rascal.  I'm not sure that being Sister to you is going to faze her that much.'

'All the same..'  Erhardt grimaced.

'Nervous?'  Olberic was still laughing, then all of a sudden he too grimaced, looking down at himself and his battered and bloodied body as if noticing the wounds that had been inflicted for the first time.

'Oh.  I am going to be in so much trouble.'  He realised.  'C'mon, we better get back to them.  I promised not to get too hurt and look at me!'

'Now who's nervous!'  Erhardt raised an eyebrow.  'The child can't weigh more than a wet puppy, surely a big strong Knight like you aren’t scared of her?'  He accepted the hand that Olberic offered to him and rose to his feet.

'You never want to make Ophilia angry.'  He advised balefully.  'Let's go!'

.

Ophilia had spent a good amount of time pacing the entrance to the ravine awaiting Olberic's return.  Cyrus finally took her in hand, pulling her to his lap and imprisoning her gently with his arms, holding her close and distracting her with kisses.  Alfyn had also stayed with them, grinding salves that he thought may be useful to treat the wounds they all knew were likely to have been inflicted in a confrontation between the two Knights.  Everyone else had made their way back to town to check on how things had gone there and lend a hand with any clear-up required.

'You know you properly look like your Brother.'  Alfyn said thoughtfully.  'Shucks, I found it hard to believe what Olberic told us, but seeing the both of you together...  Zeph is never going to believe this one!'  he grinned.

'You think?'  Ophilia asked quietly.

'I concur.'  Cyrus agreed with the Apothecary.  'A mightily handsome man, and if he has anything near the charm of his Sister, I can understand how he could be quite devastating to the ladies, as his reputation reports.'

Ophilia grew quite still.  'Olberic is returning,'  she said, pushing herself up from Cyrus's embrace, running to the entrance of the ravine and raising her hand to her eyes to block the glare of the late afternoon sun.  She soon spotted the two weary figures making their way towards her and she bolted forward, skidding to a stop a few feet in front of Olberic, her hands on her hips and a fierce glint in her eye.

'Oh crap.'  Olberic murmured.

'What did I tell you?'  the Cleric demanded, her look sweeping him from top to toe, taking in the many, many wounds that were still bleeding in some cases.

'Not to get too hurt?'  he said meekly.  'Honestly it looks far worse than it is!  I just bleed a lot..'

'Oh good comeback..'  Erhardt retorted quietly.

Ophilia's eyes swung to the blonde Knight.  'And don't think your state has escaped my notice.  I will deal with you in a minute!'  she warned.

'Oh.  Yes.. right.'  Erhardt looked abashed.

Olberic was eyeing her warily but he held out his arms to her, a hopeful look on his face.  She frowned at him for a moment then threw herself at him leaping so that she could wrap her arms around his neck while he crushed her in his embrace.

'All is well sweetheart.'  He promised, feeling her tears against his neck.  'I'm sorry if we worried you.  We had a lot to talk about.'  He lent and whispered something in her ear.  She looked a little surprised but nodded.

He started walking again, towards where Alfyn and Cyrus were waiting for them, almost identical grins on their faces.

'Get you both patched up before we head back to town.'  Alfyn said as they all came together.  'Wow, that's.. a lot of blood.  Did you boys have fun?'  he raised an eyebrow at them grinning.

Olberic put Ophilia gently down on her feet, pausing to kiss her brow, before grinning back at the Apothecary.  'I feel it would be unwise to answer that in front of our Cleric.'  He replied with a wink.

'I'm just happy you didn’t actually kill each other.'  She said slightly tartly, as Alfyn started to minister to Olberic.  She turned to Erhardt.

'May I see to your wounds Sir Knight?'  she asked running a competent eye over him.

'Ah.. I'm fine.. really.'  He mumbled, staring at her.

'Forgive me,'  she hit back at him 'But I have been travelling with Olberic for a number of months now, and I know when a Knight says he is fine, he is just as likely to have a limb hanging off as not.  Please can you remove your tunic.  From your breath I can tell you have some damage to your ribs.'  Her tone brooked no messing.

'Right..um..okay.'  He tried to lift his arm to remove his armour, but found he couldn’t.

'Not hurt my arse.'  Ophilia mumbled, moving to help him.

Olberic was chuckling.  'Ophilia doesn’t agree with fighting as a sport.'  He said.  'She was really quite inventive in her language and her lectures when we were in Victor's Hollow.  Anyone would think she had been raised by pirates!'

'It's always useful to have a backup plan..'  she murmured casting a sly glance at Cyrus who smiled broadly back at her.

Once they had managed to get his armour removed, Ophilia ran her hand over Erhardt's chest.  'Bruised,' she noted 'But not broken I think.  Alfyn?'  The Apothecary came to have a quick look.

'Yeah, agree.  Shoulder looks wrenched though.. some of the cooling unguent for both, and some antiseptic on the cuts before you do your magic Li.  I'm just setting Olberic's hand.  Seems Sir Erhardt's chest probably broke a couple of his fingers.'

Ophilia snorted. 'Men.'  She admonished shaking her head.

As she sorted his wounds, Ophilia noted Erhardt's gaze had become fixed on the locket that sat on her chest.  Once she had finished and helped him back into his clothing, she took a step back with her hands on her hips.  'Are you ogling my bosom, Sir Erhardt?'  she asked her voice outraged.

His eyes widened.  'What? No!... on my no!.. I'm so sorry - it's your locket.. I was looking at...'

'I'm aware of your reputation Sir Knight.. I would ask that you desist..' she continued mercilessly.

'Really!... Sister Ophilia!  I meant no.. I was just..'  Erhardt noticed Olberic, Alfyn and Cyrus's poorly hidden sniggers.  He looked up, his face flaming red at Ophilia whose grin was as huge as her face.

'Oh!  You are so easy to fluster, brother!  My, that will be fun!'  she smirked at him then removed the locket that he had been staring at and handed it to him.

'You were teasing me?' he asked, shocked.  'You were teasing me...'  he said wryly, her grin infectious.

'I have twenty years of teasing to make up for. '  she said laughing.  'No time like the present!'

'I did try to warn you.'  Olberic was shaking in his amusement.  'I'm going to so enjoy this.  Finally payback for all the trouble you got me into!  I can just set my little Cleric on you!'

Ophilia perched herself on Erhardt's knee as he opened the locket.

'I remember this,'  he said quietly.  He looked up at Ophilia again.  You do look remarkably like my... our Mother.'  He added.  Her huge grey eyes widened as the pain flooded through him, unchecked and raw.  She closed hers for a second and when she opened them again her own hurt showed, matching his.'  Erhardt swallowed hard and couldn't prevent tears springing forth.

Her arms went impulsively round his neck and she hugged him close.  'It will be fine, Erhardt.'  She murmured consolingly in his ear.  'Just fine.' 

'Yes..' he whispered.  'I believe it might..' He patted her slightly awkwardly on the back, his expression one of stunned amazement.

'Oh yeah.'  Alfyn drawled.  'You have just been totally Ophilia'd.  Don't worry mate, it happened to us all, absolutely no point in resisting it.  Mind you, quick work Li.. it normally takes a couple of days.  Maybe it's the kinship.'

'Actually, it was almost instantaneous for me too.'  Cyrus noted softly.

'Not wanting to break-up the love-fest.'  Alfyn added, 'But do you think you can do your healy thing Li, so that we can make our way back to town and beer?'

'Ophilia disentangled herself from her brother with a smile and cast the heal.

'Super.'  Alfyn grinned.  'Now...about that beer!'

Chapter Text

Wellspring was still in chaos when the companions finally got back to the town.  The actual fighting appeared to be over but there was a number of buildings on fire and there were townsfolk and soldiers both working to put out the conflagrations and pull the injured from the wreckage.  Therion and H'aanit came running out to them and quickly lead Alfyn and Ophilia to where those hurt were being treated while Olberic, Cyrus and Erhardt went to find Captain Bale.

'Really don’t know how the fire's started.'  Bale admitted when they finally caught up with the battered Captain.  'The fight seemed over, the assault had dried up - no new foes were arriving and my men were dealing with the pockets of fighters left standing.  Then a number of the buildings just seemed to go up in flames almost at the same time!'

'I don’t believe that the Lizard Men had the capability of organising anything as sophisticated as a coordinated attack.'  Cyrus pondered thoughtfully.  'Is there anyone else that could benefit from what's happening?'

'Not that I can think of.'  Bale paused for a minute to issue orders to a few of his men who came forward with a report.

'What are you thinking Professor?'  Olberic asked quietly

'I don’t know.'  Cyrus began to rub at his chin, looking around, scrutinising the scene closely.  'I admit that I find myself a little paranoid however.  This doesn’t make a lot of sense.  I am positive that the Lizard's were not responsible, incapable of such a ploy - note how spread out the fires are - it's like it maximises the ensuing chaos, thins out the guard responding.'

'I've resided here for a while now.'  Erhardt said seriously.  'I cannot fathom a single reason for any such plotting.  There is the black market that conducts trade just outside the town, but in fairness those that operate in that business have reason to protect the town.  Their enterprise is tolerated here for as long as they don’t traffic in people.'

'I think this warrants some exploration.'  Cyrus decided.  'I am wary that I may be overreacting, but when things are decidedly odd, I find myself instantly worrying it is related to the attempts on Ophilia and the Kindling.'

'Therion is with the Flamebearer.'  Olberic reassured.  'His attention is unlikely to be diverted.  He has always kept a very close watch over Ophilia's wellbeing.'

'There have been other attempts on her?  As well as the assassination in Saintsbridge?'  Erhardt asked with a frown.

'A few.  There was a price placed on her head, probably us too since both Tressa and Therion have been targeted in the past.'  Olberic admitted.

'I would like a look around the sites of the fires.'  Cyrus's brow was knitting in thought.  'If it is a threat of some kind, there is surely no way that the instigators could have known the Lizard Men were going to attack, so they must have taken advantage of the situation.  As such they may have been sloppy.  If there is any clue I would like a chance to seek it before the trail is cold.'

'I'd like to check where everyone is and give them a heads up to be vigilant.'  Olberic added.

They decided to start at the town hall where the injured were being taken.  When they walked in they found Ophilia efficiently managing the wounded as they arrived and Alfyn ministering to injuries as they were sent back to him.   H'aanit was assisting Alfyn but also keeping a close eye on the people crowded in the large space and Therion was by Ophilia's side, aiding where he could but mainly scowling as people jostled and demanded attention.

'Are you alright my darling?'  Cyrus asked Ophilia when she managed to get a second free.  She looked absolutely exhausted.

'It's a bit mental.'  She grimaced.  'Luckily no-one appears to have suffered grievous wounds, but burns are never pleasant.'  She shrugged.  'The number arriving seems to have settled down now though so we should be able to get some better order restored.'

'Do you know where Primrose and Tressa are?'  Olberic asked, concerned for the missing members of the team.

'They are drumming up supplies for us here.'  Ophilia said as a new arrival came bursting in and her attention was drawn away.

'Something going on?'  Therion asked perceptively as soon as Ophilia was out of earshot.

'Not really sure.'  Cyrus still looked worried.  'Just odd all these fires burst out simultaneously and I get jittery when strange things happen as soon as we get into town..'  Therion nodded warily.  'Don't mention it to Ophilia however.'  Cyrus continued.  'If she even thought that all these people got hurt in an attempt to get to her... well I'd rather be sure of our facts before we even addressed that.'

Olberic had approached H'aanit and Alfyn to have a word.  Erhardt had been listening intently to Cyrus, his eyes sweeping the mass of people in the room.

'Maybe I should stay here.'  He eventually offered. 'I know the majority of people from town by sight.  If a stranger tried to enter, I could probably pick them out..'

'That would be useful, Sir Erhardt.'  Cyrus agreed as Olberic rejoined them.

'I want to get eyes on Tressa and Primrose - make sure they are okay.'  Olberic murmured, 'Then we should get to the sites of the fires before darkness falls.'

Cyrus nodded.  He managed to get Ophilia's attention again briefly and told her know they were going to help with the effort in the town.'

'Promise me you will stay with Therion and your brother if you need to go anywhere or do something specific.'  He asked her.

'Of course.'  Ophilia looked surprised.

He kissed her tenderly.  'Please don’t wear yourself out my love.  Rest if you need to.'

Ophilia grinned at him. 'Yes Ma.' She chuckled at his raised eyebrow and gave him a hug.

After Cyrus and Olberic had left, Erhardt settled himself by the door.  The flood of the injured had indeed settled into a slow trickle and Ophilia went to assist Alfyn.  Erhardt couldn’t help but be impressed by the two healers.  They worked together in tandem with a kind of intimacy, an unspoken understanding of each other's skills and a subtle support that was apparent to the keen observer in the small, affectionate encouragements that they shared.  That they were both utterly exhausted was also apparent but only under close scrutiny - to every patient that they dealt with, the kindness and compassion that exuded from both of them was quite overwhelming.

Primrose and Tressa appeared after a short while, bringing along with them a number of volunteers, a load of food and other supplies that they had managed to scrounge.

Ophilia came over to organise the delivery, getting tables set up so that the refreshments could be co-ordinated and making sure that everyone received nourishment.

'Don't forget yourself.'  Primrose chided her, after the Cleric had filled plates for Alfyn and H'aanit.   'Phili darling, you honestly look fit to drop.  Can't you take a break?'

'Soon.'  Ophilia agreed turning to smile at a new arrival that had slipped in the door and was looking around uncertainly at the activity going on.

'Can I help you?'  Ophilia went forward holding out her hands to the woman, who shrank back a little at the approach and pulled her dark cloak tighter around herself like a shield.

'Are you... the Cleric?'  the woman asked in a whisper.

'I am,'  Ophilia replied kindly.  'Are you hurt?'

'Oh... no.'  The woman brought her hand out from under her cloak, holding a bottle of some kind of spirit.  'The,  errr..  Professor stopped by the Tavern and ask that I bring this over for Ophilia, The Cleric.'  The woman pressed the bottle at Ophilia who took it on surprise.

'Thank you.'  She said.

'No problem.'  The woman turned and walked away.

Ophilia looked a little bemused at the drink she had been left with.  It was so typically thoughtful of Cyrus, she smiled to herself.  However, she needed to keep her wits about her so she went over to the table where Erhardt was standing, and placed it down.

'Help yourself.' she told him as his eyes lit up at the sight of the spirit.

'Plum Brandy!'  he said with a grin.  'Very restorative.'  He added at her amused look.  Suddenly she stumbled and he moved to catch her before she fell. 'Are you alright?' he asked concerned.

'I'm fine.'  Ophilia smiled at him.  'I just get rather clumsy when I'm tired.'

Therion had rushed over to her side.

'You have been pushing yourself again, your Holiness'  he accused her with a scowl.

'Perhaps a little.'  She agreed quietly.

'Hmmm.'  Therion's scowl deepened for a second but then Erhardt noted that the Thief's whole expression softened when he took Ophilia's hands in his own.  'Let me help Phili.'  Therion murmured, closing his eyes. 

Erhardt was still propping his sister up, so he felt the full body shudder that went through her suddenly. 

'Oh Therion!'  Ophilia pulled the Thief into a hug.  'I won't waste it!'  she promised, moving back towards Alfyn with renewed vigour.

'What in the world was that?'  Erhardt asked as Ophilia practically skipped away from them.

'Transferred her some of my energy.'  Therion mumbled, his usual scowl returned.

'That's a rare skill!'  Erhardt looked surprised.  'Certainly seems to have helped.'  He added.

'Stupid damn Cleric would push herself to collapse.'  Therion's fists had clenched in his frustration.  'Enough to make you bloody crazy.' He added mainly to himself.

Both men moved out of the way as a couple of the town soldiers came up to the table to get food.  Erhardt grasped Therion by the shoulder as the Thief started to move away from him.  Therion grimaced at the touch but followed the Knight as requested over to the other side of the door.

'I...I ..wanted to thank you.'  Erhardt said quietly when they settled into their new position.  'You were the one that saved my Sister from the attempt on her in Saintsbridge, I believe.  Without that... I would never have known I still had any kin, let alone got the chance to meet them.'

Therion looked away, his expression going blank.  'You really lucked out there.'  He said sarcastically.  'Ain't everyone that suddenly gets their very own family.  Especially not one like... her.'

'Well,'  Erhardt noted the Thief's sudden bitter tone.  'It isn’t like I don’t have a lot of work to do to build a relationship.  I haven’t exactly been a paragon, I can't expect anything just based on shared blood.'

'Pfft.'  Therion looked up at him, 'Ophilia will love you regardless.  You are her brother and that's who she is.'

'If that is true,'  Erhardt said gently, 'Then I can only be envious of the love she has for you, which is given of complete free will and not simply because of Kinship.'

Therion opened his mouth to retort, then closed it again.  He smiled very slightly.  'I suppose you're right.'  He admitted, and his smile grew warmer as his eyes followed the little Cleric as she aided Alfyn.  His gaze solely on her he added in a neutral tone, 'If you hurt her or cause her any pain Sir Erhardt, I will kill you.  Just so we're clear.  Of course Cyrus would most likely fry you first, and Primrose, H'aanit or Olberic may get to you faster.. but one of us will get the job done.'

'If I hurt her then I promise I won't put up any resistance to your retaliation.'  Erhardt replied seriously.  Then he grinned and clasped Therion on the shoulder once more.  'Well said Master Therion!' he approved cheerfully.  'It heartens me no end to know that Ophilia has people who care so much!'

Therion stared round at him then suddenly he grinned too.

'You think I care?'  he said with a chuckle.  'Ain't nothing compared to how she's got the Prof wrapped round her finger.'

'Yeah, I noticed that.'  Erhardt was grinning too.  'So are they .. y'know..?'

'Oh yeah.'  Therion laughed, nodding emphatically.  'Although you won't believe how long that took - both of em crazy in love and clueless as hell.'

'Oh?  Really?  Sounds like a fine tale..'  Erhardt said wistfully.

'I know, right!'  Therion settled himself back against the doorframe.

'Why don’t you tell me all about it over a glass of plum brandy.'  Erhardt suggested.  He looked back at the table and saw the bottle was gone.  'Ah, it must have been taken already, shame.  I will have to stand you a drink back at the Tavern instead.'  He said regretfully.

'Eh, no worries.'  Therion crossed his arms and settled in.  'So, it all started back the first day they met, at the Great Library in Atlasdam...' he began, smirking at the memory.

~0~

Cyrus and Olberic had literally bumped into Primrose and Tressa not long after they had left the Town Hall.  After giving them a quick explanation of their concerns, they had then gone quickly back to their Inn as Cyrus wanted to pick up a specific notebook to record any discoveries they made on their examination of the sites of the fire.

It was apparent as soon as they went up to their rooms that the one shared by Ophilia and Cyrus had been breached sometime since they had left it at midday, their stored packs had been disrupted, in the case of Ophilia's the items held within strewn across the bed as if searched thoroughly.

Cyrus packed her bag again quickly, not wanting the sight to be the first she returned too.  His own pack was intact but he noted that two rather strange things were missing.  One of his shirts and a hairbrush.

'A very odd thief to my mind.'  He noted to Olberic in puzzlement.  I cannot fathom what use they would be to anyone.. unless they wanted something with scent to track me.'

'The downside,'  Olberic rumbled unhappily 'Is that it does seem you have been correct in your assumption that something is afoot that related to Ophilia.'

'I have to concur.'  Cyrus's face was grim.  'Let us get to the sites and see if we can glean anything useful.  I can't help but feel rather on the back foot in all this.'  He added.

There had been six building fires in all, seemingly random in their choice, there was no commonality amongst the buildings.  One was a storehouse, three private residence, and two shops.

'I can smell magic.'  Cyrus said immediately at the first site they stopped at.  'It's faint though.  It wasn’t cast here.  It would suggest that someone maybe stood centrally to the pattern and cast from one place.'

'Is that possible?'  Olberic said surprised.  'There is quite some distance between these fires.'

'II could do it quite easily.'  Cyrus said.  'As long as I could see the target I could drop an element onto it.  I could also send the spell into an area I couldn’t see, but obviously there would be randomness to the result.  It's not something I would chose to do.'

'So the caster would need to have the same kind of ability that you do?'  Olberic asked nervously.

'Perhaps not.'  Cyrus replied thoughtfully.  'Once you have mastered a basic spell, the actual delivery is the easier part.  Obviously they would need to have at least an average skill in elemental magic.  More than say Therion's ability with fire at this stage - although he could probably learn to range it like this quite easily.'

Based on the pattern of fires Cyrus plotted where he would have chosen to cast from and just as dusk began to fall, they started to search out in the area around the square that he had picked.

'What exactly are we looking for?'  Olberic asked uncertainly.

'I'm looking for a stronger magical signature to pinpoint the location.'  Cyrus said, his eyes half closed and his focus sharp.  'It might be useful if you ask around and see if anyone saw anything out of the ordinary, aside from Lizard Men of course.'

It didn’t take Cyrus long to find what he was looking for.  He stood at the spot he believed the cast was made -  then scrutinized the area closely.  It was a purely residential area, quiet and open.  He could see nothing that might indicate anything of use to his enquiry.  Frustrated he went over to where Olberic was talking with a guard at the end of the street.

'Ah Cyrus.'  Olberic greeted the Scholar as he came up.  'Bain here made note of a couple of strangers who were in the area earlier this afternoon when he checked on his patrol.'

'Was a pair of women.'  The guard said quietly.  'Not seen them before, and I noticed them because they was heavily cloaked despite the heat of the afternoon.'

'I see.  Women you say.'  Cyrus looked thoughtful.  'Did you see what either of them looked like?'  he asked.

'Not really.'  Bain said.  'I was kinda distracted, what with the attack and all, and they both had their hoods up.  One I saw closest wasn’t particularly tall and she looked nervous but I figured that was on account of the Lizard Men.  Assumed they were staying with family I guess, since there ain't no boarding house or Inn close to here.'

Cyrus and Olberic knocked the doors in the street, speaking to the residents.  One or two had seen the women but none were able to provide any clue as to who they were or indeed where they were staying.

'Annoying.'  Cyrus muttered as they made their way back to their Inn as darkness fell.

'At least we know we are keeping a watch out for women now.'  Olberic consoled him.

'Indeed.'  Cyrus still looked worried.  'It feels never-ending, this persecution.'  He added sourly.

'I know.'  Olberic nodded in agreement.  'It's vexing, but all we can do is work with what we have.'

.

Everyone was back at the Inn when Olberic and Cyrus returned,  Erhardt and Ophilia in a corner together alone chatting animatedly, the others round a common table, all looking decidedly tired.  Olberic filled them in on what they had found while Cyrus went to Ophilia and Erhardt, distracting her whilst Olberic gave the news. 

Therion wandered over a while later.

'Hey Prof.  Was wondering if you could help me out tomorrow, with the Dragonstone.'  He said draping himself over the Scholar's back and pinching his cheek fondly.

Cyrus chuckled. 'Of course my young scallywag.  What's the deal?' he asked.

'Well...'  Therion took a seat next to him.  'Before all hell let loose earlier - I was able to find out that the actual sale that the Emerald Stone is being sold in is tomorrow.  I managed to lift an inventory of the items going up and I noticed there is a section of books on the list, so I was thinking maybe you could pose as a buyer.. get us in and potentially if we need to actually purchase something ... well you'd know what you were looking at.'

'Oh my!'  Cyrus's eyes had lit up bright, taking the list and reading down it quickly.  'Oh my!'  He repeated, his excitement doubling.  'Is that actually a real copy of...'

'Save it for the sale genius.'  Therion cut him off with a laugh.  'So I take it you'll come then?'

'Oh...my!'  Cyrus said with a nod.

'Dress to impress and you will need one of these.'  Therion handed the scholar a black mask.  'We will leave early, Primrose and Alfyn are backing us up.'  He added with a wink.

'Extraordinary!'  Cyrus breathed as Therion walked back to the main table laughing.  He took Ophilia's hand.  'I'm going to retire to our room dearheart, I need to go over this list and...'

'Go Cyrus!'  Ophilia was smiling fondly at his bright eyed enthusiasm.  'I will be up a little later,  Therion shared some energy so I find myself quite awake.  I think I should like to keep company with my brother a little longer... If that is okay with you?'  she added looking a shyly at Erhardt.

The Knight was grinning at Cyrus.  'Of course Ophilia, um... does he always get that excited about books?'  he laughed aloud.

'Excited?'  Cyrus was grinning too.  'Why this is merely a slight enthusiasm!'  he hugged Ophilia, placing a huge kiss on the top of her head, and patting Erhardt on the shoulder as he left for their room.

The others started making their way to bed too, exhausted after such a busy day.  Therion was the last to leave, he came and sat next to Ophilia and put an arm around her shoulder.

'Sorry Phili.'  He said quietly.  'About tomorrow I mean.  I'd love for you to come along too.. but..'

'I know.'  Ophilia smiled a bit sadly at him.  'I'm not very sneaky, and you will have your work cut out holding Cyrus back from his natural instincts without me adding to the load too.'

'You have many, many talents.'  Therion agreed.  'Sneakiness is not one of them.  And you tend to glow sometimes.' 

'So do you these days!'  She pointed out with a laugh, then her tone turned serious.  'I am sorry too though.  I wasn’t there when you retrieved your last Dragonstone either.  I rather feel I'm letting you down.'

'Hey!'  Therion turned her to face him.  'Never!'  He rested his forehead against hers.

Ophilia took his hands in hers.  'You will be careful Therion.'  She beseeched.  'I can't help but recall what happened last time you went off adventuring without me.'

'Heh, as long as there are no Golems to fall on my head I'll be fine!' He promised.

'I hate letting you guys go off alone.  Please no Golems!.'  She eyed him with a sudden mischievous grin. 'So.. I guess you know what has to happen now don’t you?'  

'Oh Gods.. you're not going to get all affectionate on me are you?'  He groaned.

'Well, I was just planning on hugging you..'  

'Go on then your Sappiness.'  He sighed.

'Ha!'  She dived forward and mussed a kiss to his cheek instead.  'One day I swear your gonna actually like it!'  She teased with a triumphant smirk.

Therion raised an eyebrow,  'Who says I don't like it?'  He took a firm hold of her chin and pecked her lips noisily.

Ophilia's eyes flew wide and startled and a heated blush rose right to the tips of her ears as she hid her face in embarrassment. 

'Oh! By the God's!  How red can you actually go?  I totally got you!'  Therion exploded into laughter - barely able to get his words out coherently.  Tears appeared in his eyes and rolled down his cheeks.  'Oh man, teasing you with affection is definitely the way to go.. Have a care your Holiness.. I know your weakness now!.'

'You are such an arsehole.'  Ophilia finally managed to grouch crossly, poking him in the ribs.

'Oh, SO worth it.  Oh Phili!'  He pulled her into a hug, still laughing.

'Glad I amuse you.'  Finally a grin appeared and she shook her head at him.

'Ahh.  I'm gonna live off that one for a while.'  Therion got himself up, patting her on the back and ruffling Erhardt's hair as he went past, still chortling to himself.

'Um, what just happened?' Erhardt asked, completely confused.

'Therion just won a big point in our ongoing battle.'  Ophilia said sorrowfully.

'I see.'  Erhardt chuckled.  'Looks like he got you good if your face was anything to go by.'

.

After an hour or so of conversation, Erhardt finally admitted he needed to get to bed.

'I got a room here for tonight.  Can we talk again in the morning?'  He asked a little shyly.

'Of course.'  Ophilia grinned at him.  She picked up some cold drinks before she made her way upstairs and let herself into her room, quietly closing the door behind her.  She moved to the table and placed an iced drink in front of Cyrus who was scribbling away feverishly.

'Oh!'  He said  'Thanks.'  He put his quill down and pulled her to him kissing her soundly.

'Still busy?' She asked.

'Just finishing off.  I wanted to get my first impressions of Sir Erhardt down before I properly speak to him.'  Cyrus smiled at her.  'So how did it go for you?'  He ran his hand through her hair, resting his head against her shoulder.

'Good, I think.  It's an odd situation.'  Ophilia said thoughtfully.  'It is probably hard for him too.'  She shrugged.  'One day at a time.'  She smiled and reached for another kiss.  After a few minutes she pulled away.  'You finish this off my love.' She told him fondly.  'I have a few things to do.'  With a final kiss she handed him his quill back and moved from his lap.

~0~

Just before dawn there was a knocking at the door to Ophilia and Cyrus's room.  Cyrus answered, letting a harried looking Alfyn in.

'Sorry to wake you both,' He apologised.  'Just got a request to go into town, there's a medical emergency - sounds a bad one.  Wondered if you'd come along.' 

'Of course.'  Ophilia replied.  'Give me a few minutes to get ready.' She added.

Alfyn waited outside as they both dressed swiftly.  When they went out Erhardt was waiting by Alfyn.

'I'm a light sleeper.'  He told them.  Heard the noise - thought I'd come along in case there was any trouble.'

'Thanks.'  Cyrus said.

The home that the tavern keeper instructed them too wasn’t very far away.  When they knocked, a very distressed young woman, holding a babe and with a second small child peering out from behind her skirt opened the door and ushered them all in.

'Through there..'  she nodded at a door that led into the kitchen.  'He came home late, my husband that is, brought his friend Sam along with him.  After all the fighting and the fires, they had a bottle of something between em.'  The woman dissolved into tears.  Alfyn had already pushed his way through the door and they all heard him suck in a hard breath.

'Li, quick..' he murmured.

She peered round the door and her eyes widened.  She immediately cast a heal.  'I daren’t do too much till we know what's going on.'  She whispered.

The young child had pushed her way forward trying to see what was going on.  Ophilia picked her up swiftly and moved away, taking hold of the young woman as she did.

'We need a bit of space to try and help your Pa.'  She told the child gently.  'Do you think you could look after your Ma for me while we see to him?'  The little girl nodded seriously.  Ophilia set the child down and hugged the young woman.  'We will do all we can.'  She promised.

Returning to the kitchen,  Ophilia got down to the floor beside Alfyn who was loosening the clothing on one of the men.  Cyrus and Erhardt were doing the same to the other.

Both men were in guard uniforms and both were convulsing fiercely.  They had blood running from their ears and noses, and a huge amount of froth foaming at their mouths.

'I think we are too late.'  Alfyn said quietly, as Ophilia started examining the second man, trying to clear out his mouth. 

'His tongue is completely black.'  She exclaimed, pressing a hand to his chest and wincing as the light pressure she'd applied immediately left a bruise in its place.

'It's a poison.'  Alfyn added, 'But even if we knew which one, the body has already begun to shut down.  The best we can do is make it easier on them.' 

Ophilia had taken Alfyn's hand.  'I agree.'  She said in a whisper.  'If we can get them stable... the wife can come and say her goodbyes at least.'  Alfyn started to mix something in his bowl, while Ophilia gathered some water and a cloth and started wiping at the first man's face, trying to clear up the blood. 

Cyrus had been looking round the room as the healers worked.  He picked up an empty bottle that had rolled across the floor.

'I wonder if this was the culprit.'  He mused.  'There is a magic signature.  I don't get one from the victims however.'

Ophilia looked up at him.  'Oh, that looks just like the bottle that you sent over last night.'  She said. 

'Plum Brandy.'  Erhardt added.  'Very popular, but very expensive.'  He added.

'I didn’t send anything to you last night.'  Cyrus said intensely.  'When do you mean?'

Ophilia turned white.  'A woman in a cloak turned up at the Town Hall, not long after you had left.'  She said shakily.  'She said you had ordered the bottle to be sent to me.  By name.'  She added.

'A woman?'  Cyrus knelt down beside Ophilia.  'What did she look like dearheart?'  he asked, putting an arm round her shoulder.

'I couldn’t see.  She had her cloak pulled tight and her hood up.  She looked nervous, I assumed it was all the injured people - some people have a problem...'

'Ophilia put the bottle on the table where the food was.'  Erhardt added.  I was going to have some but was talking to Therion, then when I looked back for it the bottle was gone.  Assumed someone spied it and took it since it was just with the general foodstuff.'

'You think this was meant for me?'  Ophilia's eyes suddenly went wide. 

There was silence.  Alfyn held a cloth to the first man's nose, coated in the mixture he had prepared.  The man's convulsing eased and he fell into a sleep.  The apothecary moved on to the second man, doing the same.

Ophilia continued to clean away the blood from the men silently.  Eventually she looked up.

'Cyrus, Alfyn.. you need to go.  Therion will need to be heading out soon and he needs you both.'

'Whoa, I'm not leaving you with this!'  Alfyn disagreed.

'Quite.'  Cyrus's arm had not left her shoulders as she worked.

'You must.  You can't let Therion down.'  Ophilia's voice was fierce,  angry.  'It's bad enough that these poor men will die and a Mother and two children are going to be left without a husband and father... because of me.  I will not stand to have Therion's chance at securing the Dragon Stone ruined as well.'

'It's not your...' Cyrus began. 

'Save it!'  Ophilia said gently.  'Erhardt can help me here.  Please go.'

Both men looked like they were going to argue further, but Erhardt nodded at them both.

Cyrus pulled Ophilia into an embrace.  She smiled sadly at him.

'Dearheart...'  he said..

'I'm fine.'  She replied kissing him.  'We will talk later.'

Alfyn crushed the both of them in a tight embrace.  'I don’t like leaving you like this.'  He said.

'I know.  It's not ideal but we got to keep to the plan.'  Ophilia kissed him too.

Alf gripped Cyrus by the arm and led him to the door.  'Please look after her.'  He said to Erhardt, as they made their way out.

'You have my word.'  The Knight said solemnly.

Chapter Text

Therion came downstairs with jaunty cheer, happy to be on the verge of sorting out his second Dragon Stone.  His good mood was quickly extinguished however when he joined his companions at breakfast and heard about the events of that morning.

'Why in the hell did you leave Ophilia to deal with that shit on her own?'  he asked of Alfyn and Cyrus incredulously.  'Seriously Guys, I can come up with something on the fly at the Black Market.  It is kind of my speciality.'

'I agree my friend, wholeheartedly.'  Cyrus said in a muted voice. 'However, I believe that Ophilia is only coping right now because she is clinging to the idea that at least you will get what you require.  If for some reason you were to fail or get hurt because the plan had changed, she would take that on as her fault as well.'

'Yeah,'  Alfyn agreed glumly.  'She was upset, course she was - but I kinda got that she was mainly mightily angry.  Insisting that we stay wasn’t  going down well at all.'

Therion scowled.  'Then we need to forget the lark with the Stone altogether and just concentrate on this situation.' He decided.

'Therion, I really don’t think that will be helpful.'  Primrose spoke up, resignation clearly evident.  'Like you, like everyone my instinctual reaction is to be with Ophilia, make sure she is safe and support her but I do believe - as Cyrus does - that if your mission is a failure it will only serve to hurt her further.'  Primrose bit at a nail, deep in thought.  'I do however worry about her anger, I mean it is completely understandable, but not a response the child is altogether used to.'

Cyrus nodded.  'I have been thinking the same myself.'  He admitted unhappily.

'While she is caring for the victims and their family she will be dedicated and in control..'  Primrose continued.  '..However I do wonder if once she is free of duty - her emotion will prompt her to do something... ill advised.  Sir Olberic, I do not doubt that Sir Erhardt will have Ophilia's best interest at heart but he doesn’t  know her.  He would not know if a request she made was out of character from her.  It might be wise if you attend her as well, to prevent her from rushing into any kind of danger.'

'Oh my.. I had not considered that!'  Cyrus's face had gone quite white.

'I will make sure that doesn’t happen.'  Olberic put a reassuring hand on the Scholar's arm.

'H'aanit and I can start asking around town about these women.'  Tressa spoke up quietly, an unusually serious frown on her face.  'I may not be sneaky or even that experienced in gathering information, but a Merchant does need to know how to talk to people and stuff.  I want to help!' 

'I reckon you'll be better at it than you think short-stuff.'  Therion said with a small strained smile at the girl.  'You're generally nosey after all.'  He couldn’t help but add.

Tressa looked at him with a confused frown.  'I think that's the nicest thing you ever said to me Therion!'  she gave him a grateful nod.

'Yeah?  Well I wouldn’t get used to it.'  Therion shrugged.

'So, I think we should get going.'  Primrose stood up and went to Cyrus and squeezed his shoulder.  'The sooner we get done, the sooner we can get back.'  She added. 

~0~

The Black Market operated out of a network of caves,  just outside of Wellspring  which afforded a welcome relief from the ferocity of the desert sun.  It was quickly apparent that it was an extremely well organised and profitable business.  All of the lots for the day were divided into sections and each section required a registration to attend.

Cyrus, having donned his mask, resplendent as ever in his scholarly garb, made his way to the area that dealt with books and maps - which unlike other area's was extremely quiet.  The gentleman who manned the registration for the section looked up in surprise when Cyrus and his companions made their way forward to him.

'Well,'  the man said - his lips, the only part of his face uncovered by the elaborate fox mask he was wearing.  'A fellow Scholar I see.  Honestly wasn’t expecting anyone to be interested in this lot.'  The man waved his hand at the pile of tomes stacked neatly behind him.

'Lost history's..'  Cyrus's voice was almost reverent.  'Surely there is interest my good man, I nearly fainted right away when I saw what was on the list!'

The man chuckled.  'It isn’t generally the learned that we get here.'  He replied.  'Normally it's the dark magic grimoires and the ah ... 'naughtier' books that are the only ones that are popular. '

'May I see them?'  Cyrus indicated the stack, his fingers twitching in anticipation.'

'Ah, a true bibliophile.. it heartens me!'  The man turned and brought the books forward.  Cyrus spent quite a bit of time examining them.

'Darling...'  Primrose had come forward and put a hand on the Professor's arm, pouting prettily at him.  'Do hurry my love - you promised that I could look at the gems.  I am already bored of your musty books.'

'Apologies my dear.'  Cyrus snuck a baleful glance at the registrar.  'Can I get myself signed in my good man, before my lady decides to leave me for an emerald merchant.'  He chuckled ruefully.

'Well my darling, emeralds do so suit my hair colour.'  Primrose purred, running a slow hand alluringly through her auburn tresses.

The man had handed Cyrus a blue ribbon with a pin, and three white ones for his companions.  'Do you want to register a broker for payment?'  the man asked.

'Oh.. no.  Not for these.'  Cyrus shook his head.

'Aye, I doubt the books are going to go at a high price.'  The man grumbled.  'However if your lady is determined on an emerald, there is an absolute beauty in the sale today.  Now that is going to fetch a King's ransom if there's any justice.'

'Indeed?'  Cyrus looked thoughtful.  Maybe I will need to register an agent after all.  Perhaps we should go and have a look.  No promises though my dear.'  He said with a smile at Primrose.

'No fun!'  she pouted at him again and grabbed onto his arm to steer him away.

The gems and jewellery section was one of the busier area's and obviously very well guarded.  Cyrus and Primrose went in alone, Cyrus casually scrutinizing the press of interested people carefully.  Despite the cover of their masks, most of the crowd clearly appeared to be merchants or agents, with only a few that seemed to be private buyers.  When they finally weaved the crowd to the front to see the display of items on offer, Primrose immediately started cooing over the emerald Dragon Stone that was set behind glass in a cabinet of its own.

'Simply divine!'  she simpered, reaching to touch the glass longingly.  'Darling, just look how it glows.'  She touched Cyrus lightly on the arm.

'May my lady have a closer look, Sir?'  Cyrus politely asked the attendant.  The stone was brought forward and Cyrus took a hold - handing it to Primrose - whose eyes widened immediately and a covetous smile crossed her face.

'I think that will be heavily contested.'  Cyrus said lightly, quickly taking the stone back and handing it to the attendant.  'Perhaps you would like to look at the pendants instead my dear.'  He accompanied her to the next cabinet along.

As Primrose took a good look at the other jewels on offer, Cyrus continued to watch those that were inspecting the Dragon Stone.  There were many of them.  Eventually, as the crowds started to thin and it was announced that the auction was due to start, they rejoined Therion and Alfyn.

'The song of the stone is very similar to the ruby one.'  Cyrus reported.  'I recognised Aelfric in it this time.'

'As did I.'  Primrose agreed.

'It's signature is strong, I will be able to track it I believe, if we are unable to ascertain who buys it.'  Cyrus rubbed at his chin.  'Did you bring the lead box Therion?'  The Thief nodded.  'Good that should prevent anyone else with skill being able to track it once you have your hands on it.'  The Scholar mused.

The auction itself went at a blistering pace.  Cyrus was pleased to manage to pick up five tomes for what he had expected to pay for just one.

'It seems appropriate to actually buy something.'  He explained to the others.  'It will give an excuse to hang around after the sale, to pick them up.'

Alfyn raised an eyebrow at his innocent look.

As predicted the bidding on the Dragon Stone was extensive and the price that it finally went for was quite staggering.  Despite the sale being fast moving, they all noted the man that placed the winning bid for he wore a huge black top hat and a feathered black mask.  He seemed to be greatly enjoying the attention rather than shying away.

'Bit of a peacock.'  Therion muttered.  Don't think it's going to be particularly hard to relieve him of the stone in all honesty.'

Their mark stayed in his place for the entirety of the auction, talking animatedly to well-wishers who came up to congratulate him and seemingly impervious to the covetous glares of many.  When the final lot was eventually closed, Top Hat made his way slowly through the throng of people to pick up his prize. 

Cyrus led the way back to the registration area, keeping the man well within his sights.  The Scholar who was overseeing the book sale, greeted Cyrus enthusiastically when he went to retrieve his tomes.

'I must say, I am glad you managed to procure them.'  The man had said as he handed them over and took payment from Cyrus.  'I know that I have sold my soul to leaf, but there is still a bit of the academic left in me.  It is good that these are going to someone I feel will truly appreciate them.'

'Indeed I will!'  murmured Cyrus, storing his treasure in his backpack - unable to withhold a beaming grin.  'Oh..my.' he added happily.

When Cyrus got back to his companions, they started moving off immediately into a side cavern.

'Top Hat got a note,'  Alfyn explained as they walked.  'He hurried off in this direction.'

Keeping low and quiet, they made their way through a twisty path of rock, deeper and deeper back.

'Where the hell is he going?'  Therion muttered to himself.  Round the next turn, he motioned the others who were in single file behind him to stop and placed a quick finger to his lips.

Ahead, and out of sight there was the unmistakable sound of weapons being drawn and a muted alarmed cry.  Gesturing the others to stay back, Therion stepped out from behind the rock he was crouching behind.

'Who the hell are you?'  a rough voice barked at Therion's movement.

'Someone who needs that stone you just murdered for.  I ask that you hand it over before more blood is shed.'  Therion replied his voice cold.

'Heh.  Oh is that so?'  A second voice sounded amused.  ' You're a bloody fool if you think we are just going to give you our booty mate, and you're gonna be a dead fool for coming after us alone!'

'The real fool..'  A harsh voice cut in from a bit further away, 'Is the fool that leaves a bloody trail to our hideout, you imbeciles.'

From their vantage point, the companions only had Therion in their sights and they were all astonished when the lad jerked suddenly on the spot and nearly fell.

'Darius?'  Therion's voice was a strangled whisper,  his hand went tight to his chest as if it hurt him.

'Hey, wait.. I know you!'  The man with the harsh voice had come closer, but was still out of view of the others.  'Hahaha..!'  the laugh was loud and raucous.  'Well bloody hell... if it isn’t Therion!'  he said the name with a cruel mockery, spreading out each syllable as if he were tasting it.  'I never thought to see you alive again me little tea-leaf.  How extraordinary!' 

The man had come into view now, peering intently at Therion.  He was tall, redheaded and wearing a green cowl, much the same as Therion's purple one.  He put out a hand and grasped Therion's chin roughly, moving his face from side to side as if inspecting him.

'Darius...'  Therion's voice was quiet, his eyes fixed on the man inspecting him.

'Hmm.'  Darius said, letting go of the Therion's chin and stepping back to look him up and down.  'I heard that there was another thief looking for my Dragon Stones.'  He noted Therion looking past him at the others behind.  'Them?'  Darius chuckled.  'They work for me.  Many, many people work for me these days my love.'

Darius suddenly spied the fools bangle, and reached to lift Therion's arm chuckling meanly.  'So..how's life been without me kitten?  Ha.  If that bangles anything to go by its been exciting, no?  Darius shook his head condescendingly.  'You've obviously been getting sloppy mate!' Stealing used to be your only talent, the reason I kept you for so long..'  he snorted and dropped Therion's arm.

Therion was staring down at his feet, seemingly unable to meet this man's sarcasm with any of his own.

'Ah well Therion, No point in reminiscing really.  I'm just going to have to kill you.  Again.'  Darius sighed and turned walking away.  'Get him lads..'  he added with a chuckle as his voice disappeared into the distance.

Therion didn’t move a muscle as three others warily approached him, each with a dagger in their hand. 

'Hey!'  Primrose moved forward, her own weapon out, followed by Alfyn.  Cyrus was already muttering a cast.  'Therion snap out of it!'  Therion looked over towards Primrose but still made no move to protect himself.

A crack of lightning diverted the first strike that their foes tried to make and Alfyn roughly pushed Therion back to stand in front of him, his axe in his hand.

'We can't let the Dragon Stone get too far ahead of us,'  Cyrus warned as he began summoning a second cast,  'The Stone's signature will only be strong enough to follow for a short time.'  He let loose a larger crack of lightning, as Alfyn reversed his axe and efficiently knocked one of their opponents a sharp blow to the head that made him crumple unceremoniously to the ground.

'Four of us, two of you.. '  Primrose was leering at the two remaining men.  'Are you getting paid enough for this?  Really?'  she asked.

Both of the men were looking frazzled by the lightning.

'You planning to let us go?'  One of them said incredulously. 

'Bit short on time.'  Primrose studied her nails as if bored.  'We would need to tie you up of course, can't have you  following us.  But you would still be alive.'  She added cheerfully.

Both men dropped their weapons.

Shortly after, Cyrus started to lead them through the caverns, his face raised and his tongue licking at his top lip slowly as if tasting the air.  Alfyn was at the back, a hand on Therion's shoulder gently pushing him along.  The thief still hadn’t said a word.  Cyrus suddenly put up a warning hand and they all pressed their backs to the wall.

'You really are a bunch of idiots..'  Darius's heavily sarcastic voice drifted to them.  'It would have been wise to actually memorise the way out of here, no?'

'It's this way.'  One of his companions replied defensively.  'Just being sure boss, don’t wanna make a mistake.'

'Fine, I guess if I employ monkeys.. it's my own fault.  I will just sit here and scheme how to punish you.'  Darius chuckled to himself. 

'So..'  a voice broke into the silence that followed.  'That Therion guy, what was all that about?'

'Oh you want to know about him do you?'  Darius's voice had turned hard, mean.  'Think carefully how you answer Gareth.  Your life may depend on it.' He sniggered at the confusion on his man's face.

'Whoa, no boss.  I was just making conversation.'  Gareth backed away.

Therion stepped forward, brushing off Alfyn who tried to hold him back.

'So how is surrounding yourself in spineless idiots working out for you Darius?'  Therion said very quietly, his face completely blank.  'At least it will make getting the Dragon Stone off you easy.

Darius looked up at him.  'You just refuse to die don’t you kitten.  Like a bloody toffee stuck to my shoe.'

'What is your interest in the stones anyway?'  Therion asked.

'Ha, do I need a reason?  I am a thief bud, I'm thieving.'  Darius stood and took a long interested look at Therion.  He grinned when Therion was unable to meet his eye and looked down at the ground instead.   'Ah poor kitten..'  he mocked.  '..Look at you all cold and guarded.  Are you mistrusting Therion.. are you wary?  Can it be that my betrayal still haunts you?'  he laughed aloud.

Therion shook his head, as if trying to clear his thoughts.  He glanced up and opened his mouth to speak, but nothing came out.

'Ah, Therion. You haven’t changed a bit have you my love.'  Darius reached out a hand and ruffled his hair roughly.  'For a top-notch thief you are still pathetically sentimental.  Always was your downfall.  Heh.. get it.  'Down Fall' !'

Therion closed his eyes against the sudden pain that rolled through him.

'So here we are then, you and me.  Only I got people.  I got lots of others to do my dirty work for me these days, not just a pitiable sap like you were.'  Darius grinned nastily.  ' May as well just give up and roll over Therion.  You ain't got nothing and you ain't got no-one.  Reckon I told you once that no-one could ever love a wretch like you - so you may as well just die.  Bye-Bye Kitten.'  Darius threw a last sneer, then turned and motioned for Gareth to come forward.

'Don't fail me Gareth.'  He warned as he walked away.

'He ain't alone you shits!'  Alfyn was by Therion's side in an instant, his face furious.  Primrose and Cyrus joined their friends, facing Gareth and two other thieves.

'Yer fight is with me.'  Gareth moved forward ominously.  'I am Lord Darius's right hand now.  Me!' 

At his words, Therion seemed to be spurred into action.  He threw himself bodily at Gareth, blades in his hands and murder in his eyes.  He was a dervish of death, his daggers dealing blows all over Gareth's body as the taller man struggled against the sheer ferocity of the attack.  Cyrus and Alfyn supported him, hitting out the two other master thieves that were backing up Gareth, Cyrus firing ice and Alfyn swinging massive blows with his axe.  Primrose was dealing dark magic spikes to all, her face a mask of passionate anger and her damage debilitating.

The master thieves went down easily under the weight of the challenge against them, both falling only minutes into the assault.  Gareth however was a completely different story.  He surprised everyone with a sudden wave of fire magic, a particularly strong cast that rolled out hitting the companions hard and fast.

 Cyrus took a step back to call on the light to effect a heal, marvelling as the rush of warmth ran over them, the band on his finger lighting up brightly as the power of the flame filled him.  Seconds later he was hit by a dagger and felt his energy drain by a significant amount under the enchanted strike.  Pulling himself together again after the slump -  Cyrus hit back with ice shards that knocked Gareth back a few feet and gave Therion the room to throw himself back into the fray after falling under the fire.

Gareth's attention was mainly spread between Cyrus's magic, Therion's aggression and keeping a wary eye on Alfyn's axe.  A number of times when he connected with his dagger,  Gareth seemed to recover a bit from his own wounds which was stretching the fight out and allowing nobody an actual advantage.    Primrose completed a dance bolstering Therion's defence that left her positioned behind their enemy.  He had seemed not to notice where she was.  Primrose pulled her dagger from its sheath and she drove it deep into Gareth's back, twisting viciously as she did so. 

Gareth stumbled at the sudden pain, and was hit by ice and fire from Cyrus and Therion.  He went down heavily to his knees and lurched forward when Primrose pulled her dagger from his back and a torrent of blood started to flow.

The companions eased back as Gareth lifted his head.  'Darius!'  he called as the light faded from his eyes.

Therion slumped to the floor, pushing away at Alfyn who was immediately by his side trying to check him over.  Cyrus had moved forward, in the direction that Darius had left.

'I can no longer sense the stone.  I'm sorry.'  The Scholar said quietly.  'I can see a light up ahead however - which I suspect is a way out of these caves.'

'Let's make a move then.'  Primrose said, wiping her dagger clean.  'Sooner we get out of here the better to my mind.'

~0~

It was late afternoon that the weary companions got back into town.  Cyrus and Primrose led the way silently, with Alfyn following slightly behind Therion at the rear.  The thief had not said a word at all, and had flinched away from any attempt at contact.  As they came within sight of the Inn, Ophilia ran up to them, launching herself at Cyrus who caught her in a hug.

'Are you alright my darling.'  He murmured in her ear as she nestled into his shoulder, her arms tight around his neck.

'I have discovered that I like hitting things.  Hard.'  She replied seriously, gesturing back to the green at the front of the Inn where Olberic and Erhardt had set up an impromptu training ground.  Cyrus noted the bruises that both of the Knights were sporting.

'That explains your interesting outfit then.'  Cyrus said, taking in her trousers and blouse and the fact she was wearing Erhardt's padded armour over the top, belted at her middle and as long as a dress on her diminutive frame.

Therion had come forward as Cyrus put Ophilia back on her feet with a tender kiss.   'Are you alright Phili?'  he asked so quietly it was almost inaudible.

'I've been better.'  She admitted honestly reaching out a hand to him, then pulling it back when he flinched away.  'How about you?  Did you get the stone?'  she asked, and then was stunned by the sheer pain that burned in her friends eyes.

'No.'  He said.  'No..I..'  he fell silent, not able to look at her.  'I..I'm..'  he tried again,  anguish clearly on his face now.  Ophilia moved a step forward only for him to move away again.

'Therion?'  she said gently.

Finally he looked at her for a brief second.  His eyes were blank, his face firmly neutral.  'I'm sorry.'  He said emotionlessly.  'I can't.'  He turned and ran towards the Inn, leaping up onto the side of the building and climbing to the roof easily.  He was up and over it in seconds and gone from view.

The companions retreated to the Inn and Tressa and H'aanit also returned before they could even order food.

Primrose and Cyrus, filled everyone in about the events at the auction.  Alfyn was drinking steadily, unable to add anything, the look of total devastation on his face quite heartbreaking.

'So it seemeth that this Darius was a friend of Therion at some time in the past?'  H'aanit mused.

'Not much of one from the sounds of it.'  Primrose grunted angrily.

'Well I can't quite believe that Therion was ever 'sentimental'.  Tressa said.  'Or emotional.'  She added.

'I can.'  Ophilia interjected quietly.

'He has always been intensely private.'  Olberic added thoughtfully.  'He will speak of it or not.'  He shrugged.  'I guess all we can do is wait for him to work it out, though it pains me to see him like that.'

'How went your enquiries?'  Primrose asked H'aanit and Tressa as a weighty silence fell.

'Tis a shame that Alaic has travelled back to Stillsnow to report in.'  H'aanit said sourly.  'We did manage to discovereth where the women stayed, but they left from there this morning and hath not returned.  If Alaic wast still watching he mayeth have seen their departure and given us an indication of where they went or even a better description of them.'

'The landlord did let us peek in the room they shared.'  Tressa added.  It had been cleaned though and the only thing we found that was left by them was this.'  Tressa reached into her pack and brought out a folded piece of blank paper.  'It had slipped under the bed.'  She added.

Cyrus reached out and took the paper.  He regarded it with a frown creasing his brow.  He held it up to the light.  'This is from Atlasdam.'  He stated curiously.  'The watermark is for a papermakers there.  They supply the university.'  He began to rub at his chin thoughtfully.

'So what happened after we left you?'  Alfyn finally spoke, reaching out to clasp Ophilia's hand.  'Sure hated leaving you in the lurch like that Li.'  He added.

'The soldiers, they hung on for a short time.  Got them presentable and the wife and child were able to be there when they slipped away.'  Ophilia's sadness was palpable.

'I spoke to a few people.'  Erhardt added sombrely.  'Made sure that the family will be looked after and both the soldiers will be given every respect in their burial...'

'Also spoke with the Captain.  He's gonna be asking his troops about the women too - see if we can glean anything else.'  Olberic said.

'I'm regretful of course.'  Ophilia said honestly.  'I should have realised that it was unlikely that Cyrus would have sent alcohol over to me, but I guess I was distracted by the injured and not really thinking straight.  Not an excuse, but it won't happen again.'  She added firmly.

'Not your fault Li.'  Alf reassured her.

'Well, yes - in this case it was.  If I was sensible, or more suspicious...'  Ophilia grimaced.  'Two men died because I failed to take proper consideration.  Could have been more.  Anyone in fact.  I do find it reprehensible however that my death should have been sought in such a manner.  A crossbow to my back is fair enough, I am the only one likely to be hurt - but setting fires?  Poisoning a wine?  It shows contempt for collateral damage.  I find myself more desiring to focus on these women than on any other that have looked to kill me.'

Alfyn suddenly grinned.  'I'm amazed no-one has ever actually painted a target on your back .. I mean it is surely half the continent that wants you dead by now Li.. may as well give 'em something to aim at!'

Ophilia started to giggle.  'What's it like having such a popular sibling Erhardt?'  she asked innocently.  'You must be feeling so lucky.'

'You forget sister dearest, you are talking to a Regicidal maniac..  how proud our parents must be!' Erhardt chuckled.

~0~

It was a few hours before dawn that Therion crept from the room in the Inn that he was sharing with Alfyn and Olberic.  He made his way downstairs and out of the door.

'You're leaving then.'  Therion was startled by the soft voice from behind him.  He spun around quickly to see Cyrus and Ophilia sat on a bench by the door he had exited.

'What the hell...'  Therion looked stunned.

'We figured that you would...'  Ophilia added quietly.  '..and when I felt you moving around so early...'  she added.

'You gonna try and talk me out of it?'  Therion was frowning, unable to look at either of them.

'No.'  Cyrus's voice was gentle.  'You have to deal in your own way Therion.  However we did want to make sure that you know.. well you probably do know that we are all here for you.  Whenever.'

'You will always be welcome Therion, wherever we are you will have a home.  If we actually have a home that is.  We might have a ship...'  Ophilia smiled.

Therion couldn’t help the small quirk of his lips.

'Please be safe.  I will be praying for you.'  Ophilia reached out a hand but dropped it before Therion could flinch.

'Thanks.'  He muttered.  He looked up at Cyrus briefly.  'Look after her.' He demanded.

'Always.'  Cyrus agreed.

Therion moved his eyes to Ophilia.  He nodded to her then he turned and ran and didn’t look back.

Cyrus and Ophilia made their way back up to bed silently.  When they had laid down, arms tight around each other, Cyrus sighed.  'Do you think he will be back?'  he asked sadly.

'There is still a tiny glimmer of hope in him my love.'  Ophilia replied firmly.  'I am quite sure that he will.'

Chapter Text

'Not at breakfast, Alf.'  Ophilia said with a sigh, taking the beer mug from his hand and putting it out of his reach.

'Hey!'  Alf frowned at her.  'Gimmie that back!'

'No.'  Ophilia smacked away his attempt at reaching for the drink again.  'I'm going to miss him too you know, we all will -  but drinking isn't going to help one bit.'

'How would you know.'  Alf grumbled.. 'It's not like you've tried it as a remedy.  You're way too....'  he struggled to find the right word.

'Repressed?  Strait-laced?... Stuffy?'  Ophilia supplied.

'Sensible...'  Alf muttered.

'Ouch... Sensible... that's rather hurtful..'  Erhardt whispered to Ophilia loudly.  'As a devoted brother, I really feel I should step in here and defend your honour!'  He declared.

Alfyn couldn’t help choking out a laugh.  'Yeah Ophilia..'  He continued with a leer.  'You're not only sensible, but kind too.  Heh... now I'm really getting insulting!  C'mon then Erry, defend your sister.. I dare you!  I have a bag full of flowers and I'm not afraid to use them!'  He plucked a tiny blue bloom out of his bag and chucked it at the Knight.

Erhardt raised an eyebrow.. 'Erry?'  he questioned, picking up the flower and automatically handing it to Primrose with a flourish and a winsome smile.

'I'm happy with sensible.'  Ophilia smiled as Primrose blushed, taking the offered flower and looking more flustered than anyone had ever seen her.  'We have to go and check on our burns patients Alf, it would be a shame to have you breathing beer all over them!'

'I know.'  Alf looked downcast.  'It's just...'

'We all feel it lad.'  Olberic put a hand on his shoulder. 'Hopefully he will be back.  I don't give up on him just yet.'

'I agree.'  H'aanit looked up from her breakfast.  'May'st take some time but I think we shalt see him again.'

'Figures.'  Tressa added crossly.  'The little arse finally managed to say something almost nice to me then he does a runner.' 

Alfyn couldn’t help a full grin.  'Ah, so it's all your fault squirt!'  he accused throwing a flower at her too.

.

Once they had finished breakfast Cyrus got out his map and laid it across the table. 

'So, I think we are all agreed that we make haste to Goldshore so that Ophilia can get the second part of the kindling done as soon as possible?'  he asked - pointing it out to them all.

'I think it wise.'  Primrose was looking thoughtfully at Ophilia.  'Will you be ready darling?  It was a long journey to your first ritual - I know we are all keen to see it over and done with since that can only ease the threat to you - but if you do need more time...?'

'I have everything I need Prim.'  Ophilia said quietly, looking at her companions and taking hold of Cyrus' hand.  'Getting it done will make it safer for everybody I hope and at least this time it will be low key.  Father Bartolo is making sure of that.'

Cyrus squeezed her hand.  'We will need to stop in Stonegard to resupply.'  He added.  'I want to speak to the book-binders there, but that shouldn’t hold us up.'

'So when do you plan to set out?'  Erhardt's voice was flat.

'Well, we are checking on our patients this morning, but as long as there are no complications we can just leave some salve with them for continued treatment.  None of the burns were hugely severe.'  Alfyn supplied.

'Tomorrow then - if all is well?'  Tressa decided 'I need a proper look around, I was too busy talking to people to do much trading yesterday.'

'So what about you Erry.'  Olberic asked casually.  'You coming along with us or...?'

'Me?'  Erhardt looked momentarily stunned.  'Well,  I.. There are things I need to settle here.. I suppose...'  He looked at Ophilia who was grinning at his discomfort.  'I would like to get to Goldshore and be at the Kindling.'  He said carefully.  'Just in case Therion isn’t back and you need someone else to fly at an assassin.'

'I was hoping that you may spend a little more time with us.'  Cyrus admitted.  'I haven’t even had the chance to ask you about Hornburg and your memories....'

'He has an entire list of questions already drawn up to hit you with..'  Ophilia smiled, hugging the Scholar's arm, looking up at him fondly.

'Well, yes I do.. I didn’t get the chance to actually plan my interrogation, err, I mean conversation with Olberic about his old Kingdom. '  Cyrus explained.  

'Hmm..'  Erhardt said seriously, looking between Ophilia and Cyrus.  'In truth, I think that I have an interrogation of my own for you too Professor.'

'Oh!..'  Cyrus looked a little alarmed.  'Yes...well, quite.'

'Don't worry my love.'  Ophilia whispered to him.  'I'll protect you!'

~0~

'What I don't really understand though Li, is why you didn’t try to persuade him to stay.'  Alfyn was walking alongside Ophilia, Cyrus and Erhardt as they made their way into town to start visiting with their patients.

Ophilia considered the question carefully, looking at Cyrus to see if he was going to answer - but the Scholar nodded at her.

'People are far more your expertise my darling.'  He reassured.

'Right...'  Ophilia took Alfyn's hand.  'I think... if we had pushed Therion to stay, he would have stayed - but I don’t think it would have been in his best interest.'  She said heavily.

'What do you mean?'  Alfyn asked indignantly.  'Of course it would be in his best interest to be around people who love him and would help him through.  I mean look at how you..  and everybody helped me when I was dealing with what happened with Miguel.'

'And when that happened - do you remember what your reaction was?'  Ophilia said delicately, squeezing his hand.

'Well, yeah.  I got drunk then you made me get naked and bathed me.' 

'You did what?'  Erhardt choked, staring at Ophilia open mouthed.

'Alternative therapy.'  The Cleric smirked at her brother then turned her gaze back to Alfyn.  'Actually Alf, you did indeed get drunk, but then you refused help from anyone - even though you were badly hurt  - and I ended up having to bully you before we got anywhere.'

'Well alright.'  Alfyn scowled, '..but it was only for a few hours.  Once I got over my initial shock, I leaned on you pretty hard that night and everyone pitched in to help me cope.  If I'd gone off on my own, I would never have felt even slightly better. '

'Therein lies the main difference between you and Therion.'  Ophilia said gently.  'You had a really loving Ma and an exceptionally close friend in Zeph for all of your life.  When you had problems, you had them to help you, pick you up and hug you.  Therion didn’t have anybody.  You are able to accept support and love because you have always known it.  You are also able to give it to others in such abundance for the same reason.'

'But Therion does have that now.'  Alfyn said quietly.

'Indeed, now.'  Ophilia agreed. 'Before though he had to manage alone.  That he had some kind of relationship with this Darius person suggests that he still had hope that things could be different but it is obvious that his hope was betrayed.

'Darius was a thoroughly nasty piece of work.'  Cyrus scowled.

Ophilia shook her head sadly.  'Therion is in despair Alfyn.  It is a dark and lonely pit that is filled with self loathing.'  she fell into a reflective silence.

'I guess I don’t really understand what that kind of despair is like.'  Alfyn said quietly reaching out to grip her hand.

'Making it out comes down to grasping at that small slither of hope that's left in your heart.'  Ophilia said thoughtfully.  'When I was finally rescued it took me months of complete silence and withdrawal to realise that I even wanted to return to the world - and then when I was ready it still took a whole lot of gentle persuasion and care to return to any kind of normalcy.'

'Did the despair ever return?'  Erhardt asked, looking at her intensely.

'Often.'  Ophilia admitted.  'Although Cleric's are actively taught repression of emotion for clear thinking and healing - I never did too well in that lesson..'  she grinned at him.  'I found as I got older that locking myself away with large volumes of alcohol to break through the repression - followed by copious amounts of weeping and wailing dealt with my lapses well enough, although I now realise that was unhealthy too.'    

Alfyn looked distraught.  'I ain't never seen you get drunk Li.'  He said quietly.

'Well, I haven’t needed it when I'm around you lot!'  Ophilia smiled up at him.  'When I first left Flamesgrace I had H'aanit who held me at night and took my nightmares,  then there was you and all your hugs,  Olberic and his sheer physical protection, Prim's fierce dedication - Therion always following and watching out for me and of course Cyrus....'  Her eyes met the Scholars and her words fell away at the raw emotion that flashed between them.

'Ahem.'  Erhardt cleared his throat and put a hand on Alfyn's shoulder.  'She's quite right my friend.  Give the lad a bit of time, I don’t really know him of course but I do understand despair.. and even I could see genuine affection he has for you all.'

'Therion needs to find that glimmer again and until he does - all the love and support we throw at him would just make him feel worse rather than better.'  Ophilia added confidently.  'Once he is more secure in his hope, just as I am now - the need to escape becomes less.'

'What about you Erry.'  Alfyn grinned suddenly at the Knight.  'Are you ready to climb out of your pit and indulge in a bit of love and hugging?'

'Are you offering?' Erhardt flashed back quick as lightning, eyes bright with amusement.

'Don't even tempt him!'  Ophilia groaned.

~0~

It was early afternoon when there was a commotion in the town that drew the companions from their respective pursuits to see what was happening. 

'That's Eliza!'  Ophilia said, as they made their way to where twenty or so Knight Ardante on horseback were coming into town.

The Knights were met by Captain Bale, and Eliza spent a bit of time organising her troops, before finally coming over to where the companions had congregated together.

'Well met!'  She greeted them, smiling tersely, turning straight to H'aanit.  'We believe we have located Red-Eye.'  She said with her usual frank economy.

'This ist welcome news!'  H'aanit put a hand to Linde's head - her face eager.  'Whence hath it been found?'

'We received a request from King Khalim in Marsalim.'  Eliza wiped her brow against the heat of the desert sun.  ' It appears that an unholy creature has taken up residence in a ruin known as Grimsand not far from their city.  Although they have had no direct confrontation with the beast, its arrival has pushed monsters and animals alike from their usual resting places and the city and surrounding area is under sustained attack.  I take my men to aid in their defence.'

'How sure are we that the beast is in fact Red-eye?'  Olberic asked tersely.

'Not at all,'  Eliza admitted.  'It has not been sighted, or at least not by anyone who has lived to report back.  Based on the trail we have been following however it is highly likely that we have the right of this.'

'Even if it ist not so, this creature ist causing an imbalance in the nature of things.'  H'aanit mused seriously.  'Wouldst be right to dealeth with it, regardless of whether it ist the beast whose death wilst restore mine Master.'

'Agreed.'  Olberic patted the Huntress on the shoulder, 'Although I pray it is Red-Eye.'

'I too, Sir Olberic.'  H'aanit agreed quietly.

'So how far is Marsalim?'  Primrose asked practically, putting her own arm around H'aanit and squeezing her reassuringly.

'About a day and a half travel from here.'  Eliza informed.  'My Knights will rest here tonight, and set out tomorrow to aid the city itself.  I hope that it will cut a path for you to engage the beast more easily.'  She added.

'Then we shalt be ready to leave on the morrow also, as we hast planned.'  H'aanit agreed.

Eliza looked around the group.  'I have other news.'  She said quietly.  'We need to speak in private.'

'Join us for dinner?'  Olberic offered, 'We can all meet in one of our rooms after.'

Eliza coloured slightly.  'Dinner would be appreciated.'  She agreed slightly gruffly.

'Hmm?'  Erhardt whispered,  nudging Ophilia with a quizzical glance at Eliza and Olberic.

'Hmm!'  Ophilia smiled, wrapping an arm around her brother, both laughing.

.

After dinner was finished Eliza and the companions went up to the room shared by the girls. 

'Sir Erhardt,'  Eliza nodded to him as they all settled down.  'It is a pleasure to actually meet you at last.'

'Ahh, I believe you are the one who compiled the report on me.'  Erhardt grinned at her as she nodded.  'Then I should thank you for leaving out some of the more colourful moments in my history as I am sure you uncovered many!'  he winked at her.

'Well..'  Eliza suddenly grinned at him.  'I didn’t feel it necessary to give the Archbishop a heart attack when he read it.'   She agreed.

'Although, I am quite sure it wouldn’t faze my sister at all, given some of the stories that have come to light about her in the past few days.'  Erhardt poked Ophilia on the arm playfully.  'I'm amazed they let her become a Cleric at all..' he teased.

Eliza laughed aloud.  'I've known Ophilia since she was a child.  Honestly.. you have only just scratched the surface...'  Eliza chuckled at Ophilia's outraged expression.

Eliza noted that everyone was looking at them.  She cleared her throat.  'Right.'  She said composing herself and her thoughts.  'Okay, as you all know - after the Kindling I was planning on returning to Flamesgrace, both to resume my duties and to keep an eye on Mattias.'

'Actually,'  Ophilia spoke up.  'Mattias followed us to Sunshade.  He tried once again to get me to give up the Kindling in his usual personable manner.'

Eliza looked surprised.  'How did that go?'  She asked in concern.

'Oh, you know..'  Ophilia grinned.  'Cyrus punched him..'  She wrapped her arms around the Scholar sat next to her.

Cyrus' cheeks flushed.  'Well, my magic didn’t touch him.  Do you know anything about this 'immunity' that he claimed to have Eliza?  I don’t quite understand it.'

Eliza shook her head.  'I have no idea.'  She admitted with a frown.

'He also said that he is taking his guardianship of Ophilia seriously and will not allow any Church to marry us in the five years that the adoption papers are still enforced.'  Cyrus added heavily.  'Unless she gives up the lantern and allows Lianna to undertake the Kindling.'

'Marriage?'  Primrose's voice squeaked.  'Well you both failed to mention that!'  she accused, with a look at Ophilia that said they would be having a 'talk' later.

'He does have the sway in the Church to effect such a condition, but well, it can't help but occur to me that Ophilia's guardianship could be contested now that she has discovered a true blood relative.'  Eliza said thoughtfully.

All eyes in the room swung to Erhardt.

'Oh...um.. hello!'  he said warily.  'I think this is another of those things I know nothing about...'

Ophilia grinned.  'Brother, dearest..'  She said in her best little girl voice.  'May I please have your permission to marry Cyrus.'

Erhardt looked around the assembled people.  'So, if I say no - is there going to be violence?'  He asked mildly.

'Much.. much violence.'  Primrose said, her dagger already in her hand.

'Linde ist ever hungry for body parts..'  H'aanit added with a growl.

'What say you Olberic?'  Erhardt asked his fellow Knight who was grinning like a loon.

'Oh by the God's.. this is the most fun I have had in years...'  Olberic laughed.

'Seriously Professor Albright, I thought you were supposed to be smart... '  Erhardt smirked at Cyrus.  'Surely you want me to refuse... Ouch!'  He rubbed his arm where Ophilia had thumped him, hard .  'Okay..okay!'  Erhardt laughed,  'Far be it from me to try and save a decent fellow from the terrible clutches of my sister!'

Tressa cheered heartily.

'You have all distracted me yet again!'  Eliza said with a sigh. 

'Apologies, please continue.'  Ophilia said smiling.

'As I was saying, it was my intention to go to Flamesgrace, but I accompanied The Lady Ravus and Heathcote back to Bolderfall on my way.'

'Oh, I had met Heathcote before.  With all that's happened I forgot to mention it.  He used to come to stay with my father on occasion when I was a child.'  Primrose said cutting in.  'He had a different name then, but I recognised him at once.  I spoke with him at the Kindling.'  She added.

'Yes.  Quite an enigma, Heathcote.'  Eliza agreed.  'The point is however as we arrived back at Ravus Manse,  so did Odette.'

'Odette?'  Cyrus looked up quickly.  'Was there a problem?'  he asked, concerned.

'Unfortunately yes.'  Eliza replied gravely.  'It would appear that whoever had commissioned the bloodstones be made by the necromancer in Quarrycrest had come looking to find out why the supply had been suddenly cut off.'

'Oh no!'  Ophilia's hands went to her mouth.  'Is Odette alright?'  she asked faintly.

'Luckily Odette had considered that something of the sort may happen.'  Eliza reassured quickly.  'She had been staying with a Mister Morlock at his manse, so she was not home when her house was burned to the ground.'

'By the God's.'  Olberic swore, smacking his hand against the table and making everyone jump.

'Odette enlisted help in moving herself quietly away from Quarrycrest and down to Bolderfall.   When we met up with her there, she begged me to come and give you warning that whoever was behind the creation of the crystals is most likely aware of your own involvement in the destruction of the workshop as well.'  Eliza looked troubled.  'I would have been here sooner, except the news about Red-Eye also came through and I had to deal with that and raise my Knights on the way.'

'What does Odette plan to do now?'  Cyrus was angry, he was gripping Ophilia's hand hard.

Eliza cringed.  'Believe me Professor, her ire at the situation was quite a sight to behold.  Likewise the level of her voice. '

Cyrus had to laugh at that.  'Oh, I can just imagine!' 

'Before she left Quarrycrest she was able to find out that two women were seen in the vicinity before her house burned.'  Eliza added.

There was loud and some rather inspired swearing.

'This means something to you?'  Eliza guessed cannily.

'Same thing happened here.'  Olberic muttered darkly, as Cyrus was still busy swearing.  'Only, we assumed the attack was directed at Ophilia, since she was delivered a rather nasty and fatal poison.  Two men lost their lives.'  He added.

'Actually, it could have been very clever.'  Cyrus admitted sourly.  'Since there has already been a very public attempt on the Flamebearer, of course everyone would assume her death would be linked to the Kindling and whoever is trying to prevent that.  Yet what better way to incapacitate me and my own enquiries?'  he looked distraught.  'Seems I am responsible for this attempt on you dearheart.'

'If the added risk is due to ending that Necromancer and his disgusting blood factory then so be it.'  Ophilia said furiously.  'Take no remorse for what we did there Cyrus, I know I don’t.'

'I suppose it does make some sense since that paper that Tressa and H'aanit found came from Atlasdam.'  Cyrus continued.  'If anyone was going to be interested in blood magic, I suppose it was likely to be a Scholar.'

'So anyway..'  Eliza continued when silence finally fell. 'Odette is staying at the Ravus manse for a few more days, then one of our other operatives is picking her up by ship and taking her to Stonegard, where she intends to meet up with you all, apparently you have some lead you are following there?'  she said to Cyrus.'

'Indeed, I need to speak to a bookbinder.  Did she say why she was coming?'  Cyrus looked concerned.

Eliza laughed aloud.  'Um.. well, let's just say that Odette was mightily displeased to have her house burned down, not to mention her books and essays destroyed.  Despite the rottenness of these villains, whoever they are - I can't help but feel a little sorry for them if Odette does actually manage to get her hands on them...'   

' I need to think on all this.'  Cyrus said, rubbing at his chin.  'If there is nothing else you need to add Eliza, I might take some air.'

'That's pretty much it.'  Eliza confirmed.  'Odette will arrive in seven or eight days time escorted by Captain Bastralle.'

'Leon Bastralle?  The Pirate?'  Ophilia squealed.

'Oh dear.'  Cyrus rolled his eyes.

'The ex-pirate!'  Tressa said excitedly.  'He is a merchant now and a friend of mine!  I got my diary from him!'

'You know Leon Bastralle?'   Ophilia looked fit to faint.

'I can't help but feel I'm missing something again.'  Erhardt sighed puzzled.

'Well, me too darling.'  Primrose agreed, taking in the fierce blush that had suddenly crept up Ophilia's face.

Cyrus shook his head sadly. 

'Is he as handsome as they say?'  Ophilia asked Tressa breathlessly.

'Err.'  Tressa looked confused.  'I suppose, I was more interested in his merchandise to be honest.'

'Just think Cyrus.. how much he could teach us!'  Ophilia hugged him happily.

'Ah, so you're not planning to run off with the handsome ex-pirate then?'  Cyrus asked smiling at her enthusiasm.

'Oh, is that an option?'  She grinned at him.

'No.'  He said firmly.

~0~

Ophilia accompanied Cyrus when he left the Inn to clear his head and gather his thoughts.  They walked in companionable silence just outside of the walls and up a small winding path to a cliff top that overlooked the town.  When they could walk no further they settled to take in the scene.

'I just can't make sense of it all Ophilia.'  Cyrus admitted eventually.  'I'm sure there is something staring me right in the face but it's muddled.'  He frowned.  'I do hate not being able to see clearly.'

'I think it may be worth resting your mind for a while.'  Ophilia reassured him.  'There has been a lot to take in, and you haven’t even started notes yet.  You seem to get clarity when you write things down - you always look.. so relaxed when you do.'

Cyrus sighed.  'You are right as ever dearheart.  I wanted to order my head first but it just goes round in circles, and I am horrified that my search has led to an attempt on you.'

'Well, it's a long queue!'  Ophilia smiled at him, taking his hand.

They were silent for a long while, looking out over the vista.  Cyrus began to twist the ring on his finger thoughtfully,  enjoying the warmth and the little sparkles of light that played across it as he did so.

'So have you had a chance to work it out yet?'  Ophilia asked quietly, pointing to the ring.

'Mostly, I believe.'  Cyrus looked at it closely.  'It is a very elegant binding, my love.  I have fathomed that it was created using the power from the flame, and your own light but also something of me too.  I feel the well of power it contains and I could draw it if required.  There is an overwhelming sense of you of course... and yet, there is something else.  I very much feel there is a piece missing or I am missing an element.'

'Very good.'  Ophilia's eyes were alight.  'You never cease to amaze me Cyrus.' She added.

'So there is something missing?'  he asked, his curiosity plain.

'A piece of information I suppose.'  Ophilia admitted.  'That you recognised there was something else you needed is ... well,  I shouldn’t be surprised.'  She shook her head.

'So I have to work out what it is?'  he asked.  'I admit, I have applied much thought to it but ..'

'It would be wholly unfair to expect you to.'  Ophilia touched his cheek tenderly.  'Are you ready to unlock it?'  she asked.

'Ready?'  he looked puzzled.

'The key you require will allow you to access the piece of me that went into its making.'  She said quietly.  'A piece of my soul if you like.  You will be able to experience my feelings.  All of them.'

Cyrus looked startled.  'To do that..'   he rubbed his chin.  '..Would require your whole self to be put in.  I assume then that the missing piece relates to your life before Flamesgrace.  The part that you choose to forget.'

Ophilia's smile was brilliant.  'Now you're just showing off.'  She grumbled light-heartedly.

Cyrus grinned.  'Perhaps,'  he said.  'But I still can't work out what unlocks that part.'

'My name.'  Ophilia spoke so quietly it was barely audible.

'I tried that.'  He assured her, or do you mean your full name?'

'I mean the name that my Mother gave me.'  She replied seriously.

'Oh!'  Cyrus looked stunned.  'I never thought... so 'Ophilia' was given to you when you were taken in?' he asked.

'Not exactly.'  Ophilia smiled up at him.  'When I was first found I did say 'Ophilia' a number of times to my rescuers and they assumed that it was my name.  Actually...'  she looked a little embarrassed.  'It was the name of my doll.  I was asking for my doll.'

'But you remember your real name?'  he asked.

'Yes.'

'Then why didn’t you tell anyone once you were talking again?'   Cyrus asked curiously.

'I don’t know really.  I was used to the people in the new place calling me Ophilia and they said it in kindness I suppose.  Later, when I just wanted to lock the past away I was glad that I had never corrected them.'  Ophilia fell silent.

'Do you want to share it?'  Cyrus asked gently.

'Yes.'  Ophilia laid her head against his arm.  'I don’t want to hold anything back from you.'  She got to her knees and pushed his hair back from his ear,  whispering the name to him as she did so.

'Oh.. yes!  Yes it suits you!'  Cyrus smiled as she kissed his cheek and stood up.

'I will give you some time then.'  She said,  turning away and walking over to a tree not far from the edge of the precipice they were on.

As she looked out over the town she smiled to herself at the brilliant light that suddenly flooded the area and his soft exclamation of surprise as the ring activated.  The light dimmed behind her, but she stayed as she was giving him time to process.  Eventually, he came up behind her and gathered her in his arms.

'Can that really be how you see me?  What you feel?'  Cyrus asked softly, his mouth next to her ear.

'It is.'  She replied simply.

Cyrus sat, pulling Ophilia down with him taking hold of both her hands in his and kissing her gently before resting his head on her shoulder.

'I never realised I spent so much time caressing the covers of books.'  He said eventually when he finally regained his power of speech.

'Oh you do.'  Ophilia smiled at him, 'I used to find myself getting quite jealous in fact!'

He chuckled.  'Yes, I got that.'  He admitted.  'It really is incredibly remarkable Ophilia.  The experience lasted barely seconds, and yet.. I can still access it, inside.'

'It will fade, I am told.'  She explained to him.  '..But you can use it any time you please.'

He shook his head in wonder.  He tried to speak, to say what he was feeling but nothing came out  'I'm sorry.'  He said helplessly.  'I am overwhelmed.  You are just.. the most amazing woman Ophilia.  That you love me at all is a gift, that you feel so very much...'  His words were cut off as her lips softly claimed his.

They sat together in a peaceful, intimate silence holding onto each other as darkness began to fall quickly.

'We should get back.'  Cyrus said regretfully after a while.  'We have an early morning and a ferocious monster that turns people to stone to hunt tomorrow.'

'Oh, just another normal day then.'  Ophilia said lightly.

'Yes, my love.'  Cyrus laughed, standing and taking her hand.  'Another quite usual day!'

Chapter Text

The Jade Palace, seat of King Khalim of Marsalim was a truly magnificent structure.

'Impressive.' Cyrus had declared, when the companions had entered the City - itself known as the Jewel of the Desert - and stood staring in awe at the vibrant colours and activity all around them crowned by the Palace itself. 'Obviously..' the Scholar continued, '..I am more familiar with the historical Marsalim than the one as it stands today, but I do know that the Palace was built and named by the people in thanks for the current King's role in finally bringing peace to what was always a particularly warlike land.'

'Correct, Professor.' Eliza said, walking towards them - her rent and stained armour evidence of her own engagement in fighting recently. 'The King is a wise man and well respected by his people. He is awaiting your arrival with some anticipation as a number of his own guards reported back an encounter with Red-Eye this morning. We are no longer in any doubt that it is the creature that we seek.'

'The King's guard hath foughteth the beast and lived to tell the tale?' H'aanit pushed her way forward to the Knight, interest lighting her face.

'Only at the sacrifice of many of their number who were petrified in the manner you witnessed with Z'aanta.' Eliza replied quietly. 'Come.' She added. 'The King has arranged accommodation for you at the Palace and will speak with you this evening.'

'We are staying at the Palace?' Tressa squealed in excitement.

'Shucks, Zeph will never believe this!' Alfyn grinned.

'I'm kind of relieved Therion isn't with us.' Ophilia mused affectionately. 'It would have probably taken more than one pair of mittens to contain his fingers ...'

'Probably would have had to hog-tie him.' Alfyn chortled in agreement.

.

The accommodation at the Palace was as unbelievable as the building itself.

The women were split from the men in two separate wings and the accommodation in both was off of a central area which contained a fantastic hot baths complex.

Eliza accompanied the girls to their rooms, explaining that the water for the baths was in a constant cycle of being pumped and cleaned.

'Water, so far out here in the desert is worth more than blood.' Eliza told them as they gawped at the marble pools that were shared by the women of the palace. 'The scarcity of it is what fuelled the wars in this land for so long, until the King finally persuaded the warlords that working together in the preservation of resource was a far more sensible solution that dying over it. These pools, and the same ones that the men-folk enjoy are really a physical example of these amazing people coming together and sharing knowledge for the benefit of all.'

'Simply wonderful!' Ophilia breathed. 'I can't help but note that the Palace itself is temperate too. I have suffered much in the heat of the Sunlands.. but here, it is bearable!'

The ladies stashed their gear in the lavish room that had been provided for them and immediately made their way to the bath-pool, sinking into the water with moans of pleasure.

'It will be good to have you with us for the night again.' Primrose said to Ophilia once they had settled into the water.

'Yes, I have missed the night-time gossip!' Ophilia replied with a chuckle. 'So what's been going on?' she enquired.

'Ho!' Tressa laughed. 'Well most of the gossip has been about you Phili, so you ain't missed much!'

'Why am I not surprised.' Ophilia said with a wry grin at her friends. 'Am I going to suffer now?' she asked cannily.

'I thinketh that an interrogation ist long overdue!' H'aanit smirked. 'We hast hardly had the privacy to talketh woman talk since we arrived at Saintsbridge!'

'And quite aside from your love life darling, there is also your rather captivating brother to talk about!' Primrose added, with a hearty sigh. 'Now there is a handsome and charming man. A shame that he stayed behind to settle his affairs in Wellspring, but at least he will be accompanying us on our travels afterwards.'

Ophilia's eyes widened in surprise. 'Primrose .. are you gushing?' she asked in amazement.

'Well you can hardly blame me. The force of his smile is just as devastating as your own Phili, only his is rarer. I did consider..' a wicked glint lit Primrose's eye and a smile curled her lips. '..Well.. I have already had the pleasure of kissing the sister - so perhaps I should work on the brother and complete the set!'

Ophilia's jaw dropped, then she started to giggle. 'Oh Gods!' she said, struggling to get the words out. 'Please don't tell him that! He already thinks I'm completely reprehensible!'

'Well then..' Primrose arched an eyebrow at the Cleric, 'Perhaps you can buy my silence by telling us all about you and the Professor... Details now Ophilia, darling. We need details!'

'Well one thing I can tell you is that right about now Cyrus will be in raptures wondering how this bath system actually works.' Ophilia said with a fond chuckle.

~0~

'This is simply astounding!'  Cyrus exclaimed as he followed the piping that supplied the baths in the men's quarters with an avid enthusiasm. 'I can see that the water is being moved by a buildup of pressure.. but... well... I do wonder if they will let me have a look at the schematics for it before we leave!'

'Shucks Prof, merely listening to you is giving me a headache. For the sake of my sanity just get in the bloody water and enjoy it will you?' Alfyn groaned.

'I have to agree with the lad.' Olberic added opening his eyes to grin at the Scholar as he joined them in the pool with a rather sheepish smile. 'I know I am a very simple man but it does seem a waste of a totally enjoyable event to be talking about it rather than experiencing it!'

Cyrus sighed as the water lapped over him and his muscles relaxed. 'You are both very wise.' He muttered.

They sat in companionable silence for a long while, letting the water ebb away their aches and restore their minds to peaceful contemplation.

'That is a most beautiful thing.' Olberic observed quietly, having opened his eyes and noticed that Cyrus was focused on the ring that Ophilia had made for him.

'Indeed.' Cyrus agreed. 'I am in the process of making one of my own to gift in return, but I am at a loss as to how to make it even close to as special as this.'

Alfyn was looking at it too. 'So it's like the charms that Li made me and Therion?' he asked. 'Thought you could draw on the power without making yourself unconscious already Prof!'

'It's a bit different.' Cyrus admitted. 'Although, it does store power, just as yours does.'

'You know..' Alfyn mused. 'It strikes me as kinda sad that Li can track us all in her head yet when she went missing we had no idea how to find her. Mightily ironic, since she's the one whose fear is based in being lost and alone.' He clasped Cyrus on the shoulder. 'Is there some sort of magic or whatnot that you could put in an item that would track her? So she knew for sure she could never be lost again?'

Cyrus looked at the young man in stunned gratitude. 'Oh Alfyn!' he gasped. 'What a wonderful idea!'

'While you're at it, make it light up too!' Olberic added. 'I know she can use her staff for light but it's cumbersome - and we all know how much she hates the dark!'

Thank you my friends.' Cyrus said humbly. 'I do so often fall foul of over-thinking things. Your clarity is much appreciated.'

'Aww shucks Prof, anytime y'know.' Alfyn said with a grin.

~0~

The companions met up with King Khalim in an antechamber to the main throne room before just dinner. Eliza, resplendent in dress uniform, escorted them to the audience and they met up along the way with Captain Raaf, the guard who had led the few men back to the city after their encounter with Red-Eye. The man was injured and although his wounds had been expertly ministered, he was obviously still in great discomfort.

'Might I offer healing Captain?' Ophilia asked as they were making their way along the maze of corridors to their meeting.

'Ah. You are one who uses the fire magic of Aelfric?' the man asked - his tone very formal. 'I have heard of such, but it has never been my pleasure to meet a Cleric of the Sacred Flame.'

'I am. I would happily provide service to you now, and any others to whom it may be required afterwards.' Ophilia replied solemnly. 'I am sure that the speeding up of the process for all of your guards would aid greatly in your ongoing battle Captain.'

'It would be kindly appreciated.' The Captain replied politely but looked a little sceptical. Ophilia channelled a heal as they walked, and the man's eyes opened in surprise.

'Oh!' he murmured. 'My thanks.' He bowed to her deeply and couldn't contain his puzzlement at the sudden rush of relief that he felt.

King Khalim was stood awaiting them when they entered his chamber and he strode forward immediately with his arms open and palms up in greeting.

'My thanks for attending me.' He said formally as the companions, with varying degrees of success bowed or curtseyed to him. 'Please,' he added 'There is no need for such formalities. If you are able to rid us of the threat that we currently face, it should be I that bow to you.'

'Wouldst thou be able to tell of your experience against the beast.' H'aanit asked Captain Raaf who was still flexing the arm that had been injured with a wondrous look on his face. 'It hath not been our experience to come across any who hath lived to tell of the monster, thine thoughts would be of use.'

'Please Captain, pray report as you did to me earlier.' King Khalim urged him.

'Of course Sire.' The Captain stood tall and looked at the assembled companions. 'My Company, under the leadership of General Lenaar were fighting beasts to the west of the city. Many monsters we killed and then we cut a path straight through to the ruins themselves. Buoyed by our success we entered the ruin in search of the monster for we were assured that we would be able to slay the beast, such was our confidence.' The man fell silent for a few seconds, a harsh look passed quickly over his face.

'Didst thou see the beast with thine own eyes?' H'aanit asked into the lull.

The captain looked up directly at her. 'I did Lady H'aanit.' He said. 'It is a sight I will never forget and one that I fear will haunt my dreams for many years to come.' He took a deep breath before continuing. 'The beast was huge, but odd in its countenance - almost as if it had been but roughly formed. As soon as we had entered the ruin there was a sense of foreboding and as we came upon the beast itself that feeling intensified to a most frightening level - even the smell upon it - rank like a decayed corpse left out in the sun to rot.' The man shuddered involuntarily.

'I see before me a military man who is not easily moved by sight of battle.' Olberic mused thoughtfully. 'I find I am concerned that such a man should be warning of menace for I believe it may be understated.'

'I would agree with you Sir Knight.' The King added. 'There are few braver or stronger men in my guard than Captain Raaf. I too share your concern.'

'I am not a man easily given to fancy.' The Captain agreed. 'I have saved the worst however. The eyes of the beast...' his voice trailed off , then he roused himself again. 'I believe you have named him Red-Eye and this is a fair description, however the gaze of the beast, the pure depth of those eyes... In almost no time at least half of our men started the transformation into stone. It was not an easy one, the spread of the affliction started at the feet and they had to stand, affixed as the malady rose up through their bodies slowly. The General was not afflicted in this first assault, however he saw immediately that fighting was futile and that bringing information back was the best that we could achieve. He gave himself as a distraction to the monster to allow myself and those few that returned with me the chance to get away and bring the news of what we had witnessed. His sacrifice is the reason I am able to impart this to you now.'

There was a few moment of silence.

'Eliza has told me that you believe you are in possession of something that will counteract the beasts gaze and allow you to fight him without the risk of petrifaction.' King Khalim finally said.

'Yes.' H'aanit nodded. 'We hast been able to obtain a rare bloom from the white dragon of the Whitewoods. We hath been assured that the elixir that hath been prepared from the flower wilst allow us safety from the evil gaze.'

'And you are willing to undertake this task?' the King asked solemnly.

'I hath mine own motivation, for mine Master hath suffered the same petrifaction as thine guards hath. We believeth that in slaying the beast the vile spell wilst be reversed and all whom hath suffered from it wilst return to their normal form.' H'aanit stood tall, and nodded her agreement. 'We wilst slay this beast, King Khalim. For mine Master and for thine people both.'

The King stared at the Huntress for a long minute, appraising the woman thoughtfully.

'Each time a menace has been visited on this realm a hero has stepped forth with the same steel in their eyes that I see in yours Lady H'aanit. The King said quietly. 'I find I am content to put my own trust in your and your companions ability to deal with this issue, both to the purpose of saving your Master and freeing my people.'

'I thankest thou Sire.' H'aanit inclined her head. 'Were mine Master here he wouldst quoteth to thou a creed that our Hunters do stand by. 'Betrayst not the trust of others, lest thou betrayst thine own honour.' We will conquer this beast.'

'The King clapped his hands. 'Then I decree that you shall set out tomorrow morning accompanied by my men and the Knights that Eliza has so kindly provided. We will see that you have safe passage to the ruin and offer any aid that we can in your endeavours. Anything that you need is yours.' He smiled at the people in front of him. 'Now let us eat!'

~0~

Despite the trials that they were all sure they would face in the encounter with Red-Eye, the companions had a very pleasant evening. The food was extraordinary and after eating Ophilia had taken a trip to the Infirmary with Alfyn where they had both been impressed with by facilities. Alfyn was able to pick up information of a number of new plants and potions and Ophilia's healing magic got many of the wounded back on their feet, much to the amazement of the physicians who attended them.

When they retired to their rooms, the sheer luxury and comfort allowed a relaxed and refreshing night's sleep so that when they woke they were all ready for the day.

They set out early, just as sun was rising over the desert sands - a vast company of Guards and Knight's swathing their way to the Grimsand ruins to the West where their quarry was waiting.

At the gates to the former settlement, Alfyn divided up the elixir that Susanna had prepared for them back in Stillsnow.

'Who wants to bet this tastes vile.' Tressa said cheerfully, raising her portion to her lips and gamely knocking it back in one gulp. 'Urghhh, yeah I was right!' She choked moments later.'

Eliza stood with them at the entrance gazing through the threshold with something akin to envy.

'Are you sure that you don't want me to accompany you?' she asked seriously.

'No, Eliza.' Olberic placed a firm hand on her shoulder. 'If we fail, the potion that we have left with you will provide the chance for a second assault. There is none more able to orchestrate that than yourself.'

Eliza nodded. 'You will not fail Sir Olberic.' She insisted.

He nodded back to her with a gentle squeeze on her shoulder, then turned and walked the first steps into the ruin, his companions following him.

As they made their way into the gloom, Ophilia began to shiver noticeably.

'Can you feel it dearheart?' Cyrus asked taking her hand as they walked.

'How could I not?' she asked quietly. 'The atmosphere is quite overpowering.'

'I agree.' He replied with a frown. 'It is unlike anything I have encountered before. It has the taste of dark magic about it, but far more than just that.'

'Corruption.' Ophilia murmured as they paced further in. 'It is not only in the mind and the air, but I can feel it seeping from the ground upon which we walk. It is as if my feet are twice as heavy - I can barely force them to move forward.' She sounded frustrated at the fact. Thoughtfully she brought her staff down heavily and the tip issued its light although it was strangely muted in the oppressive air. She reached to the cover that held Aelfric Lantern to her pack and freed it. 'Oh!' she breathed.

Everyone turned to her as she took up the lamp. The Ember was burning wildly in a deep purple, almost black hue.

'When we were in Bolderfall, when Al took me from the road - the flame was like this.' She looked up at her friends. 'Even then it was not so black!' her eyes were troubled.

'I rarely feel much of an atmosphere.' Olberic admitted, 'But here?.. Yes you are right Ophilia, it feels like a corruption. It is most disturbing.'

'It is nothing like the dark magic I harness.' Primrose was looking at the Ember as if engrossed by it. 'It has a wrongness. It's growing too. The deeper we travel.'

They pressed on again, walking closer together as the severity of what they were all feeling grew. Ophilia had begun muttering a prayer under her breath, matching her pace to the words, gathering strength to move forward. Her manner had become determined, her brow knitting in concentration at each step until they finally came to the place where Captain Raaf and his team had met the beast. It was like a forest of statues. So many guards frozen in place, their humanity clear on their faces in the desperate and scared expressions that adorned them.

Tressa emitted a strangled sob. H'aanit was next to her immediately with a soothing arm around the girl.

'Feareth not child. Whence we kill the monster they wilst be restored.' She reassured. Tressa gulped and nodded bravely.

It was the smell that hit them first, a putrid, sour stench that could almost be tasted, followed by an impossibly low bestial growling. The companions looked around themselves for the source of the disturbance and it was Ophilia, her lantern held aloft that pushed ahead of them all to illuminate the passage in front of them.

'This way.' She murmured, following the trail of torment that assailed her mind and her body in equal measure.

'Wait.' Olberic pushed his way in front of the Cleric and assumed his normal stance at the head of their group, followed swiftly by H'aanit. The corridor down which they travelled was wide and strangely, for a structure in the depth of the Desert, it seemed unpleasantly moist. The companions pushed themselves down it, coming ever closer to the growling sound.

'I do not senseth a beast.' H'aanit was saying to Olberic as they moved together abreast, 'I doth normally feel the mind of such. Mayhaps this monster ist like the lizard men in Wellspring, a corruption of man?'

'Corruption is right.' Olberic was breathing heavily as they pushed their way out into a large ruinous room that was black in its lack of light.

There was an ominous hissing sound, then pinpoints of bright blood red slowly grew larger as the friends stopped dead in their tracks.

'By the Gods!' Alfyn had frozen, stunned by the sight in front of him.

Red-Eye was huge and a shifting mass of dark hues and loosely formed body and limbs, completely asymmetrical in its shape and form. It hung back away from them as they approached, the smell and the feeling of wrongness now completely overpowering.

'Tis most definitely not a beast.' H'aanit confirmed. Ophilia's eyes were closed and her hand was reaching out.

'There is something of a soul.' She said quietly, 'But I sense no heartbeat. No heart.' Her eyes opened slowly. 'It is an abomination. Chaotic.' Her expression had gone hard as she drew herself together. 'It drains the light away completely, it is trying to draw it directly from me.' She added.

'Whatever it is..' Primrose said grimly. '..It is time to end it.'

At the murmur of agreement, Olberic brought up his blade and stoically marched towards the monster. As he reached it, Ophilia flooded the room with brilliant light, sending Red-Eye scuttling back and allowing Olberic an open swing. Arrows started to plough into the monster and it recoiled further at the sudden assault. Fire hit the beast from above and it looked frantically around for a few seconds as if trying to work out exactly what was happening.

The light began to fade quickly as if eaten up by the darkness. As gloom descended, Red-Eye suddenly shot forward an arm, rending at Olberic - the only target within its range. The Knight met the attack easily and diverted it with an almost lazy flick of his sword as Ophilia once again called light to hurt the beast but also to illuminate the proceedings.

As the second blaze raged Red-Eye seemed to coil back upon itself and then blasted an unearthly roar that pulsed over the entire group. As the sound hit them Alfyn fell to the ground in a heap, unconscious and the rest of them staggered under the weight of the blast. Tressa recovered first hitting out with winds that whipped keenly and pushed back at the beast. Ophilia had gone to the fallen Apothecary, looking for signs of injury, but the boy appeared whole. She quickly reached into her satchel and brought out her bowl and started to grind something swiftly, trying to keep one eye on the fight as she did so.

Olberic had advanced towards the creature again, who was now winding itself up for another attack. His blade and H'aanit's arrows had opened many wounds in the beast that were bleeding out a black viscous liquid.

'Ware the blood!' Olberic warned his companions after a spray from his cleave covered his arm and ate away swiftly at his armour on the patches where it dropped. They battled on back and forth, nothing seeming to slow Red-Eye in the slightest, but the companions managing to hold their own against its sheer physicality.

Ophilia finally managed to get her powder into Alfyn' face and his eyes opened.

'Okay?' Ophilia asked quickly, helping him to stand. He nodded. 'I made extra.' Ophilia pushed half the powder she had produced at him. 'Seems the beast can render us unconscious with his roar.' She added, moving away to send a heal towards Olberic.

Linde was a dervish of claw and fang, dodging in and out attacking Red-Eye ferociously as H'aanit continued to pepper it with arrows. The beast appeared not to notice the damage it was taking, the fire that Cyrus was conjuring was burning at its skin in several places and Olberic's sword had cut deeply into its carcass numerous times. Seemingly in frustration that it had been engaged in battle for so long a time, it lifted its head and sounded another bestial roar, even more powerful than the first had been. This time Alfyn dropped along with both Primrose and Olberic.

Seeing a sudden advantage, Red-Eye moved quickly to take a rending swipe at the fallen Knight but Linde was on it in a heartbeat, forcibly knocking the vicious swipe aside and taking a massive hit herself under the momentum of her attack.

Cyrus switched to ice to try and create a barrier between the monster and Olberic as H'aanit threw herself forward with her axe to protect their comrade. Ophilia rushed forward too with her powder to restore him but before she could get close enough to administer it the beast lifted its maw to howl again, perhaps finally realising that its usual method of petrifaction was having no effect on its current prey.

H'aanit fell to the floor and Ophilia heard Tressa call that Cyrus was also afflicted and down.

'Get the powder from Alfyn.. get them awake!' Ophilia called back to the girl as she stepped in front of the beast and drew her power deeply.

She flung her light wildly and Red-Eye paused under its assault. Ophilia's stomach was churning under the pure malevolence that swept her this close to the unholy creature. It swiped a limb at her, cutting her deep, the acidity of its blood causing droplets of pain then it raised an arm to swing again. Ophilia brought up her own arm to try and ward of the blow, lifting Aelfric's Lantern as she did so, waiting for a hit that never came.

Red-Eye was cowering back from the vessel shielding its eyes for a number of seconds - but it didn't take long for it to began to slowly recover its strength and then it moved forward again raising its face to perform yet another howl.

In desperation, Ophilia opened up the Lantern and grabbed at the fiercely burning Ember. The pain almost overwhelmed her but she pushed the living flame towards the monster. Red-Eye stumbled and fell to its belly, writhed as the light seemed to consume some of the darkness surrounding it. The monster did not rise again - unable to fight against the power of the unhindered Ember being channelled by the Cleric.

Tressa had managed to get Alfyn and Cyrus to their feet and Ophilia felt a welcome healing wave as Cyrus was resurrected, then ice rained down on the beast. Alfyn and Tressa moved to get H'aanit, Olberic and Primrose up, all of whom immediately attacked Red-Eye, the creature now completely vulnerable under the raw and pulsing fire of the Ember.

H'aanit moved close to the monster and looked directly into its bloody gaze. She loosened an arrow into the boiling socket. The scream that was racked from the creature was almost human - an awful, painful wail. Unperturbed H'aanit targeted the second eye and did the same. The beast's cry did not lessen.. It seemed to shimmer oddly for a few moments, almost changing shape and form in the strange light - and then suddenly it exploded into an enormous cloud of black ash that rained down on them all like corrupted snow. Natural light flooded back into the ruin.

Ophilia was frozen, stock still, the pain causing tears to run unchecked down her face and off her chin - the Ember now reducing back down to its normal size and colour.

'Put it away darling.' Primrose held the lantern that the Cleric had discarded and guided her hand down to place the Ember back into its vessel. Shuddering, Ophilia cast a heal, then sank to the floor gasping.

Alfyn saw to the immediate wounds of his friends, concerned when Ophilia fell into restless unconsciousness in Cyrus's arms.

'I think it best if we get back to the city.' He murmured to the others.

They made their way out of the ruins, their joy at seeing the petrified guards slowly recover and spring back to normalcy - seemingly no worse for their ordeal - lifting everyone.

'There ist hope that mine Master is now whole again.' H'aanit whispered.

~0~

By the time the companions reached Marsalim, Ophilia was awake and protesting to be put down.

'I am fine!' She grouched when her request was refused. 'Your healing was magnificent!' She added to Cyrus.

'You are not fine Ophilia!'  Alfyn replied firmly.  'Your hands are cinders.. I'm amazed you are even conscious.'

The King himself had come out to meet them as they came into the City.

'We will feast!' he declared triumphantly, bowing deeply to the assembled companions.

'Mine thanks.' H'aanit replied. 'But I am eager to discover if the beast's demise hast indeed restoreth mine Master.'

'Then you shall have transport provided through the desert to speed your journey!' The King declared. 'And I insist that you return when you may so that we may provide proper thanks!'

After a quick visit to the infirmary, where Ophilia's burns were given attention, and a longer visit to the baths the companions were finally ready to leave and travel to pick up Erhardt back in Wellspring.'

'I sent a message to Natalia before we got to Marsalim.' Eliza told H'aanit. 'If Z'aanta is resurrected he will know that you are travelling to him in Stonegard and will be urged to await your there.'

'Mine thanks.' H'aanit grinned at the Knight. 'After he hath spent so long encased in stone, I doth believe that he wilst still be drunk by the timest we doth reach him!'

Eliza chuckled. 'I have no doubt that you are right.' She said.

'On this one occasion though, I thinkest that I will forgive him his indulgence!' H'aanit noted with a smile.

Chapter Text

Therion's body had become frighteningly efficient - he had been running for four days now only stopping for rest or nourishment sparingly and he physically felt fine.  It had been quite the revelation in fact - it seemed that the resurrection he had experienced in Saintsbridge at the Kindling had not only rid him of all of his scars but had also repaired damage that he hadn’t even known still troubled him.  Old broken bones that had not quite healed right, historic damage to his ribs and probably other things too had been righted and he found he could move completely unhindered by aches or pain. 

The rhythmic  pounding of his feet, the concentration on his breathing and just the sheer output of energy prevented thoughts and reflection to intrude.  He didn't want to dwell in his mind.  Running was good.  Thinking was bad.  When he did stop he was tired enough to fall straight into a deep sleep as soon as he had eaten - and as the distance he traveled took him further and further from his companions he found a numbness settle over him that was familiar and oddly reassuring. 

He was close now to Bolderfall, might even make it by this evening - what should have been a week's journey condensed into roughly half that time.  He had stayed mainly off the roads, but also managed to dodge attack from monsters and beasts effectively - his swift passing hardly rousing any notice. 

When he had set out, he had not planned where he was running too - he had just wanted to get away.  He found himself heading in the direction of the Bolderfall though and had made a conscious decision to continue, it was only fair that he report his failure to secure the emerald Dragon Stone, let Heathcote know where it had ended up and announce that his role in its retrieval was now over.  He would not be facing Darius again.  He doubted he could face anyone again.

Therion was so completely focused on his running that the assault, when it came, completely blindsided him.  He had slept for a few hours, eaten and then had started pounding his way along the rocky trail ahead having entered the Bolderfall Pass as soon as he had started out - the only option available to him to get into town.  His feet were moving steadily, his breathing and his heart-rate relaxed and controlled when a sudden excruciating pain wracked through him causing him to fall immediately to his knees.

Therion was so overcome by the intensity of the hurt that it took him several moment of confusion to realise that the agony was radiating from his palm and sending spasms of torment all along his body.  He lifted his hand to look for the source of the burning and noted it was centered on the the palm marked by Aelfric's symbol and that the imprint itself was inflamed in a bright blue glow. Next, a fugue-like vision overtook his battered senses.  He could see Ophilia with the Ember of the First Flame held aloft in her naked hand - just as she had taken it up during the Kindling.  The unbelievable pain that somehow Therion was sharing was quite unlike any he had known - even more intensive that the devastation he'd known when he had survived being tossed from the cliff-top by Darius all those years ago.

Unable to rise or even move, Therion watched Ophilia head towards something that was cowering away from her in a corner of the space they occupied.  As the thing came into sharper focus his mind recoiled instinctively from the sheer horror of the unholy monster before him.  He became engulfed by an overwhelming fear, realising that the emotion was pouring not from him but rather from the tiny Cleric - a fear that was equally mixed with love.  She knew that if she failed in holding this creature back then her companions - those that she loved so dearly - would surely suffer and die.

Tears started to cascade down Therion's cheeks as all he could do was watch and share his friend's sentiments and despair.  He gasped in relief as a burst of warmth.. a heal.. shot through him - it surely had to be Cyrus - and yes, following the heal the prone monster was suddenly bathed in elemental magic, ice rending at its flesh.  Olberic came into view, his sword swinging, his face stoic as he placed himself between Ophilia and their foe protectively.  Then H'aanit came forward.  She moved dangerously close to the head of the beast and with unbelievable calmness she put an arrow through one glowing red eye, and then the second.  After a few moments, the beast exploded into blackness.

Therion became aware of the others crowding around Ophilia who seemed completely unable to move or react.  Despite the unbelievable pain she felt, despite her physical immobility, he knew and shared her overriding sense of relief and thanks that her friends were all fine.  The connection to his companions was lost as suddenly as it had overtaken him when Primrose aided the Cleric to place the Ember gently back into the lantern.

At once the pain was gone, nothing of it remained - not even an ache or a throb.  Through his tears, Therion stared at his hand.  It was completely normal.  The scar was there but there was no sign of a burn or anything that would suggest that what he had just experienced had actually happened.

Shaking and unable to quash his tears, Therion dragged himself to the roadside and pushed up tight against the rocky wall.  He gulped for breath, trying to steady himself, his mind running out of control for several minutes until eventually he was able to grab a hold of his emotions.

His first and strongest feeling was of pure shame.  His friends had faced.. well he didn’t know what it was - but they had faced it without him.  He had left them.  He had betrayed them.  Ironic how he, who was so scared of betrayal himself should do something like that to the only people in the world he really cared about. Then Therion's heart hardened in his chest.  No.  Ophilia had just illustrated perfectly what love did to you - how terrifying it was. It could destroy you with worry for those you cared about.  No.  In fact, he reflected firmly, his leaving was probably the best thing he could have done for his friends as well as for himself.  He had at least saved them from him.

Angry now, Therion got to his feet.  He was glad that he would never have to face them again.  He was right in his decision to leave.  All he had to do now was to free himself from the ridiculous job of retrieving the Dragon Stones and he was done.  No more.  Even if he had to live with the bangle on his wrist for the rest of his life it was better than the... alternative.  His wiped his face dry with his scarf, heaved his shoulders resolutely and allowed his feet to start their run yet again towards Bolderfall and an end to his associations.

.

The sun was just beginning to set when Therion finally reached the Ravus Manse - illuminated already against the impending darkness.  He found no resistance from the guards who patrolled the grounds as he entered and made his way to the front door.

On his knock, he was immediately admitted by a member of staff into the grand hallway where he was told to wait.  Pacing uncomfortably now he was unable to run,  Therion's frenetic energy was bubbling uneasily at the loss of its outlet.  He turned the bangle over and over on his wrist as he padded to and fro  and waited.

'Therion?'  A loud and familiar voice called to him, making him turn in surprise.

'Odette?'  His voice choked slightly at her unexpected appearance.

'What happened?'  she cried rushing up to him and grabbing him firmly by the arm, not allowing him to flinch away even with his superb reflexes.  'Where are the others?  Was there a problem with Red-Eye?  Is everyone alright?  Why the hell are you alone boy?'  Her questions came quick and fast and sounded desperate.  Therion pulled his arm from her tight grip.

'I don’t know.'  He practically shouted at her.  'I left them.'

'You what?'   Odette's voice went up an octave.  'Why the hell would you do that?'  she demanded.

Therion stumbled.  He closed his eyes and rubbed his head.  'It was Red-Eye they faced?  The beast that turned H'aanit's Master to stone?' he asked his voice suddenly quiet.

'Yes.'  Odette's tone balanced too.  'We received word here a few days ago that the beast was most likely in Marsalim.'  Worry was etched on her face.

'In truth, I left before the information came through.'  Therion told her.  'But this morning I had.. an experience.. I think Ophilia took the Ember from her lantern and when she did, somehow it connected us through these.'  He showed the Scholar the mark on his hand.  'If I have the right of it, and what I witnessed was true events, then they managed to slay the beast and all was well.'

Odette's worry tempered a little.  'Interesting..'  she said in a tone much more like her normal one.

'Mister Therion?'  A polite voice called out softly.  He turned to see Lady Cordelia peering at the two of them.  'Did you wish to speak with me?'  She asked.

'Is Heathcote not here?'  Therion tensed again at the sight of the girl.

'Out.'  Odette said crisply.  'Should be back in a while.  Speak with Cordelia, Therion.  I will organise some refreshment.'

'Please, follow me.'  Cordelia indicated the room behind her.  'You look worn,  Mister Therion,  come and be seated.'

With a scowl, the thief followed the girl into a lavish sitting room.  She indicated a plush seat and he threw himself into it, sighing.

'Do you have the emerald stone?'  Cordelia asked as she sat herself in a seat opposite him.

'Nope.'  He looked away from her.  'Another thief managed to steal it away.  Don't know where it's gone or what he plans to do with it.'

'Oh.  Oh dear.'  Cordelia looked fraught.  'Do you know this thief Mister Therion?  She asked meekly.

'On account that all us lowlifes must know each other?'  the thief asked sourly.

'Oh no, please - I meant no offence.'  Cordelia looked close to tears.  'I merely meant by reputation.  He must be a skilled operative to have managed to thwart your efforts.'  She added appealingly 

Therion sighed.  'Not especially.'  He muttered.  'He just had a lot of help is all.'

'Not to worry.'  Cordelia smiled weakly.  'I am sure Heathcote will know what to do.'

'I'm sure he will.'  Therion's voice was cool.  'He can bloody well tie up these loose ends for me and be done.'  He added with a scowl.

'Loose ends?'  Cordelia looked confused.

'Thinking aloud.'  Therion couldn’t help the flash of emotion that ran across his face.

There was a silence.

'Forgive me Mr Therion..'  Cordelia said gently into the loaded atmosphere.  'I don’t mean to pry.. but are these 'loose ends' perchance the reason that you look so sad sometimes?'

'What?'  Therion's scowl deepened.  'That is really nothing to do with you.  You may have tricked me into helping you..'  He held up his arm, rattling the bangle around it mockingly at her, '..But that don’t give you the right to anything other than my...'

'Apologies.  Please.  I meant no disrespect.'  Cordelia cut in anxiously.

Therion raised an ironic eyebrow at her.  'I really have no need of your apologies... or indeed anything from a sheltered princess like you.

 Cordelia sighed heavily.  'You've never asked how I lost the Dragonstones in the first place you know.'  She said.

'Well, that's because I simply don’t care.'  Therion shot back at her.

'When the first attempted theft happened..'  Cordelia went on, ignoring his words.  'My parents decided to save me rather than the stones whose guardianship they were sworn too.  They did not survive the encounter, but due to their sacrifice I did..'

Therion closed his eyes.  'Still really not interested..'  He muttered.

'.. After the passing of my parents.. I did lose them.'  Cordelia ploughed on regardless, 'I allowed myself to be duped -  I feared being alone in the world, and when countless distant relatives came from far and wide to be at my side I allowed them - thinking them all so kind and caring.  Of course in the end all that they really wanted was money, they didn’t really care about me at all.'

Therion grunted.

'Mister Therion..'  Cordelia looked at him intensely.  '..I felt the sting of betrayal from each and every one of those people, and I think I understand why that particular look on your face has haunted me so.  It is..familiar.. filled with the same pain that filled mine then.'

Therion was silent for a long time.  'Why do you bother hopelessly believing in people then?'  He asked harshly.  'People like me.'

Cordelia looked up at him shyly.  'Actually it was Heathcote that taught me something.'  She said thoughtfully.  'He told me that 'only the betrayed know the true meaning of trust.' and from the moment that he took over my care has never once betrayed me, so I guess that it why I can still believe in others.'

'How very nice for you.'  Therion said defensively.

'I don’t pretend to know anything about your past - or by whom you were betrayed.'  Cordelia sucked in an annoyed breath.  'It doesn’t really matter you know.  What matters is that you once believed in someone so much that when they betrayed you - you decided that you never wanted to feel that way ever again.'

Therion said nothing. 

'I understand.'  Cordelia said gently.  'However I truly consider that believing in people is what makes us strong.'

'You would get along very well with Ophilia you know.'  Therion said his voice unexpectedly soft.

'The Flamebearer?'  Cordelia looked stunned. 'She is extraordinary!   I was at the Kindling.. her strength..'  She looked at him suddenly intense.  'I also witnessed your actions there Mister Therion.  I can't believe that you'd risked your life in such a manner for someone that you don’t believe in at all.'

'Ophilia?'  Therion grimaced.  'Actually I  accused her of betrayal once - right in this very town.'

'Oh!'  Cordelia looked confused.  'I find it hard to believe that she...'

'She didn’t.'  Therion shook his head.  'I was expecting it and accused her quite unfairly.  Caused all sorts of trouble.'  He sighed.  'Love is Ophilia's strength - you must have felt it at the Kindling.'  Cordelia nodded.  'She not only believes in people but she is able to love them, even when they let her down.'  Therion shook his head sadly.  'Even me.'  He added.

'Is that a bad thing?'  Cordelia looked confused.

'I hear what you say Lady Cordelia.'  Therion shook his head, frustrated.  ' Look, I do understand your sentiment and I am glad that you are able to move beyond your pain.  I suppose you have more to offer than I gave you credit for and the kindness to offer it.  Don't ever undervalue that.'  Therion paused.  'There are simply some people that you are better off without regardless of their intentions.'  

Cordelia shrugged.  'I think that would be my own decision to make.'  She replied and then looked sad.  'I envy you, you know.'  She added.

'Oh?'  Therion smirked sarcastically, he couldn’t help it. 'My life has been such a joy Lady Cordelia.  I am sure you would have totally enjoyed it!'

'I have a duty to continuation of the House Ravus and to keep the Dragonstones safe.'  Cordelia frowned at him.  'To do that I will have to marry a fitting suitor and build the reputation of my ancestors.  Obligations that trap me behind these walls and having to find trust in others.'  Her face suddenly went a little red and her tone became angry.  'Why should I not envy you Therion.  You are obviously so free of duty and obligation that you can disregard the love of someone like Sister Ophilia without a second thought.  I  don’t have anything even like that kind of freedom - I can hardly do without those around me that I don't even trust.'

'Poor little rich girl.'  Therion mocked.

'Well it's nice to see you making friends Therion.'  Odette remarked as she entered the lounge with a tray full of refreshment.

'Hmph'  he replied indelicately.

They had barely started on the food in uncomfortable silence when Heathcote rushed in.  He skidded to a stop when he saw Therion sat with the ladies and for once actually looked surprised and flustered.

'Therion!'  He said in confusion.  'I know you don’t have the stone boy.  It was taken by Darius, the leader of some particularly nasty brigands from Northreach.  They are no small group either, they have domination over the whole town and they rule it with an iron fist. '  Heathcote sank down into a chair beside Odette.  'I have learned that they are also in possession of the last stone.. the gold stone.  I intend to travel there, to Northreach to find out what I can.'

'So you are going to finish the quest then?'  Therion asked mildly.  'Think you can remove this now?'  He held out his arm.

Heathcote looked at him with a strange expression.  'I can't retrieve the stones boy.  That's your job.'  He said.

Therion scowled and looked about to reply but Heathcote had already turned to Odette.

'Archbishop Josef is dead.  Word just came through.'

Odette jumped to her feet, swearing profusely.  'The vision!' she said when her profanities finally wound down.

Heathcote nodded tersely. 

Therion's head swam.  It felt as if the walls were closing in on him.  'No!' he said quietly, shaking his head as if to clear it.

'Can we get a message to them?  By quicker than usual means?'  Odette was pacing now.  'They need to be warned. '

'Messages are on their way but honestly, you are likely to get to them quicker.  The ship will pick you up in the early hours tonight.'  Heathcote nodded to Therion.  'I assume you will go with it too?'  he asked.

Therion didn’t answer.

'I will get a room ready for you.'  Heathcote took his silence as agreement.  'You should try and get some sleep while you can.  I will wake you when it is time to leave.'

~0~

Therion sat alone at the window of the room he had been shown to.  Night had fallen and he knew he should be away, running out of town but he had yet to shimmy out and down the building to freedom.

His head was filled with doubts.  Darius and his town full of thieves was rolling round and round in his brain painfully.  There was no way Therion was ever going to go near there.  Not to retrieve the stones and not to retrieve his dignity either.  It was simply.. too much.  It didn’t sit well with him though.  What the hell had happened to his pride?  How had Darius managed to steal that along with everything else?  Therion was also trying hard to prevent the drifting of his thoughts, desperate to banish his uncomfortable feelings about Ophilia and her father's death, but she was refusing to stay out of his consciousness.  Seemed that she had managed to destroy him too- almost as fully as Darius had.

Therion paced the floor over to the bed and back again.  He knew the exact second he had finally been broken down by the bloody Cleric who was tormenting him.  It had been during the whole bloodstones debacle.  He'd learned then that she could forgive him completely for unkindly accusing her of betrayal and that she had been praying for him - thinking kindly of him - every single day since they had first met seven years ago.  When he had returned her locket to her he'd fully expected to be rewarded with an awkward sappiness - but she had valiantly held back her natural emotion simply because she knew he'd have trouble dealing with it and instead she had reached out and brushed the tiniest of kisses on him in thanks.  She might as well have just beaten him around the head with a sledgehammer.  Nobody before that moment had ever touched him with such an honest and uncomplicated love.  She had offered it to him instinctively without any guile or condition set to it.

He sighed.  That one gentle kiss had given him so much.  He'd begun to finally accept Ophilia's regard and belief in him and that had allowed him the confidence to open his eyes and see the care and consideration that the others afforded him too.  Alf's generous and demonstrative camaraderie, the way H'aanit had covered his hand and spoken kindly to him when he joined her on their night's watch, Cyrus' continual enthusiastic encouragement and friendship, Olberic's actual tears at his resurrection.  Even those of his companions that he hadn’t been so nice to over their travels had shown care for him too.  Primrose had been a rock during the incident with Darius, fiercely protective when he had been overwhelmed and Tressa had been completely touched when he had given her just a half a compliment.

'I should be more like Darius.  Surround myself with people - but not allow myself to care about them in any way. Completely discount any importance in others.'  Therion thought sourly.  'A lot less messy that way.'

Suddenly he froze.  Was it though?  He had witnessed so many times the strength that had come from the closeness of his companions.  What they had achieved together against ridiculous odds.  How they had helped each other when things got tough.  Darius would never know that kind of support, could never harness that power.

A new emotion welled up in the Thief, one that surprised him more than any other he had felt.  Pity.  He felt pity for Darius.  Even if Therion was never able to face his friends again, he had known for the last few months what it felt to belong, to be cared for and to care himself.  Therion could have been that friend to Darius  if he had been allowed, but he hadn’t -  Darius  choosing instead to try and destroy him for an opportunity.  Darius only saw weakness in relying on others when in reality, friendship and love was a strength like no other.  That was.. sad.

Therion's hand reached to one of his many pockets for the charm that Ophilia had made for him when he started to learn healing from her.  He had avoided it since he'd left, but hadn’t been able to actually discard it.  When it came to his hand he felt her warmth wash over him from the power held in the tiny apple.  He transferred it to his other hand, the one with his mark, hoping that with the connection the feeling would intensify as it usually did when they had trained. 

'Oh, Ophilia.' He thought. 'Please stay safe.  Let the vision be wrong.'

'Therion?'  Ophilia's voice suddenly sounded in his head.  'Wait, I'm just finishing a heal.'  She added.

Therion sank cross legged to the floor, gripping the charm so hard it hurt.

'Are you alright?  How?'  Ophilia's voice sounded again.

'Fine.  I'm in Bolderfall at the Ravus place.  Odette is here.  I'm holding my charm against Aelfric's mark - I assume that's how I can hear you.'  Therion thought back to her.

'I had a channel open too, healing.'  She mused.  'Interesting.'

'Are you guys okay Phili? - You fought Red-Eye today right?' Therion asked.

He could almost feel Ophilia's shock.  'We are a bit battered,' She admitted honestly.  'Job's done though, we make our way to Stonegard - hopefully the beast's death will have released Z'aanta.'

'When you took the Ember out of the lantern, I not only could hear you but I could see you and around you.  I felt the pain of it too.  By the God's Phili.. that bloody hurt!'

'Sorry.'  She murmured.

'Hardly your fault.'  Therion paused.  'There is a boat arriving in a few hours for Odette to come join you.  I..will be on it too, if that's okay?'

'Dumbass question.'  He could hear the grin in her voice.

'We will meet up with you in Stonegard then I guess.'  Therion paused and swallowed hard.  'I'm really sorry Phili, I gotta tell you.. Your father.. Heathcote got the news today that he has finally passed.'

'I..I see.  Thank you.' 

'You know, the vision and all...'

'I know Therion.  I will alert the others.'  The sadness in her voice was enough to break him to pieces.

'I will be there as soon as I can.'  He promised softly. 'I'd best shut this down before I lose all the power from the charm.' He added.

'I've missed you, you rotten bloody Thief.'   Ophilia said, choked by emotion.

'Heh,'  Therion laughed gently.  'I love you too, you sneaky bloody Cleric.'

Chapter Text

'Therion's coming up to us pretty fast.'  Ophilia said, smiling at Erhardt.  'He should be with us shortly!'

'That thing in your head...'  Her brother looked quizzical.  'It must be weird!'

'I'm used to it now.'  The Cleric patted Erhardt's arm.  'I expect I will get you in there soon too.'  She added.  'You are quite as bad as Olberic when it comes to needing healing.  What is it about throwing yourself in front of others?'

Erhardt nudged her gently.  'It's a Knightly thing of course!'  He laughed.  'Protection of the weak and all that crap!'

'Attention seeking more like.'  Ophilia nudged him back.

'Heh, that too.' 

'It's a bit strange you know..'  Ophilia mused after a few minutes of companionable silence,  '.. Doing the night watch with you rather than Olberic, but maybe once Therion is back to partner H'aanit again, he will join with us.  What is nice though...'  Ophilia added,  '..Olberic is so much happier now you are here with us - I suppose it's good for him to have someone along who is as very old as he is.'

'Harsh.' Erhardt shook his head sadly.  'I thought Cleric's were supposed to be nice.' 

'I don’t think it counts since you're my brother.' 

'Bloody hell..  Why me?'  Erhardt raised his eyebrows in mock despair.  'I guess it's payback for all my sins..  and there have been many..' 

'Hmm.'  Ophilia agreed patting his arm again.

'I admit, I'm glad Therion is on his way too.'  Erhardt said thoughtfully after a short pause. 'The last week has obviously been very trying for you lass, but you do seem much lighter of heart tonight - if the level of teasing is anything to go by.'

'It's because I'm so extremely lovable..'  Therion advised him having sneaked up behind them and wrapped his arms around Ophilia.  '..Of course she's happy I'm back!'

'By the Gods!'  Erhardt exclaimed jumping to his feet with his sword raised.  'I could have run you through!  Don’t surprise me like that!'

'Well that would have spoiled my good humour!'  Ophilia said with a chuckle.  'Hey you.'  She added turning her head to set it against the Thief's whose chin was resting on her shoulder.

'How you doing Phili?'  Therion asked kissing her cheek softly.

'Oh, you know..'  Ophilia smiled.  'There's the impending doom on account of my father's passing, I burned my hands to cinders facing some hell beast, spent days worrying about my friend who ran off.. and to top the lot, I've had to deal with him for a brother.  I'm just dandy!'

Therion laughed.  'Impending doom don’t sound so bad if the alternative is Erhardt as a sibling.'  He chortled, squeezing Ophilia tight.

'I am sat right here you know!'  Erhardt grouched at them.

'Don't tell him..'  Ophilia whispered loudly at Therion, '.. But I find myself becoming quite fond of him in all honesty.  Probably on account of my being crazy of course..'

'You do?'  Erhardt looked stunned for a second.  'I mean, of course you do.'  He added quickly.  'I'm even more lovable than that rogue there!'  He looked at them both grinning at him.  'Do you need some space to talk?'  he asked gently.  'I can take my lovely self over the other side of camp..'

'Well frankly, if Phili is giving you that much grief I reckon she must like you a whole lot more than she's letting on.  I don't see any reason you should go.'  Therion replied.

'Stop giving away my secrets.'  Ophilia chided the Thief, smiling at Erhardt.  'Stay.'  She insisted, amused at the flustered pleasure that crept over her brother's face.  'So anyway, I thought you were meeting us at Stonegard..'  She turned her attention back to Therion.  'How come your here?'

'Ah, as soon as we got into town we bumped into Z'aanta and Hagen.  He told us you hadn’t arrived yet so I took off to meet up with you.  Knew you couldn't be far away.'  Therion shuddered.  'Can you imagine what three days stuck on a ship with a very grumpy Odette was like?'  He added.  'I needed some space!'

'Oh dear!  Poor Therion!'  Ophilia patted him.  'But it is good to hear that Z'aanta is okay!'  She added.

'Yeah, he seemed right as rain.  Huge fella, pretty scary actually.  I'm glad he's a friend.'  The Thief's eyes lit up in amusement.  'Of course, the other friend I made on the journey.. well, turns out he is a big fan of you your Holiness!'

'Oh?'  Ophilia said, surprised.  'Who was that then?'

'Only Leon Bastralle.  The renowned ex-pirate!'  Therion grinned broadly.  'Figured you would probably be a fan of his too!'

'Captain Bastralle?  He has heard of me?  Oh.. my!'  Ophilia sounded faint.

'Yeah, actually he knew Alaic back when he was an assassin and the Captain was still a pirate.'  Therion was chuckling at Ophilia's astounded expression.  'He can't wait to meet the child who completely destroyed Alaic by singing, and it's because of their association and changes in careers that the Captain became involved with Susanna and her merry band.'

'Oh my.'  Ophilia repeated.

'What is this thing with pirates?'  Erhardt sounded perplexed.  'What am I missing?'

Therion burst out laughing.  'I can't possibly tell you!'  He admitted.  'That one will have to be told from the source.  It's well worth it though!'

'Shush you.'  Ophilia was blushing.  'Some other time!'  She added to Erhardt.

Therion suddenly noticed the bandaging on Ophilia's hands and reached forward to gently take one up.  'This was bad?'  He asked.  'I mean, I felt the pain but it didn’t damage me.'

'It was pretty bad, yeah.'  Ophilia sighed.  'It's taking a while to heal and there is so much people are having to help me with because of it.' 

'She is driving poor Alfyn completely insane trying to do things she shouldn’t.'  Erhardt added.  'At one stage he threatened her with a sleeping elixir and sticking her on the cart for the whole journey.  That was a fun argument!'  He grinned. 

'Poor Alf.. I bet it wasn’t him that won!' The Thief guessed.

'No, I'm allowed to feed myself now.'  Ophilia said smugly, 'Although Prim and H'aanit are still having to help me bathe and dress.'

'I'd have thought the Prof would volunteer for that job!'  Therion smirked.

'Yeah, he did, but the ladies beat him down!'  Erhardt chuckled.

'No he didn't.. Ohh.. shush Erry.'  Ophilia blushed again.

'Heh, sorry Sis.'  Erhardt stood up.  'I will go make us a drink, hey.'  He ambled off to the fire.

'So how about you Therion.'  Ophilia shifted round so that she could look at him properly for the first time.  Therion couldn’t help but suck in a shocked breath.

'By the God's Phili, you look like shit!'  He exclaimed, dismayed by how thin and ragged she looked and the deep well of sadness that was obvious in her eyes.

'Oh, Therion!'  She smiled a genuine smile for a few seconds that made her look far more her normal self.  'I can always trust in your honesty!'  She threw her arms round his neck and buried her face in his shoulder.

'You're as stubborn as a mule..'  Therion said gently, stroking her hair - glad she couldn’t see how angry he was.  'Reckon I'd have sided with Alfyn if I'd seen how bad you look.'

'I'm fine!'  Ophilia said exasperated.  'It's just the prolonged healing, its taking a lot out of me and I'm going to need my hands recovered to perform the Kindling in Goldshore - which is why I have been forcing it so hard.'

'Pfft.'  Therion pushed her away to look at her seriously.  'If it comes to it, I can do it.'  He reminded her.

She giggled, unable to contain it.  'You would too, wouldn’t you?  Bloody Kindling Thief!'  She accused.

'Heh..'  Therion relaxed into a grin.  'Only Thief in history to steal an entire religious ceremony I bet.  Almost worth it just for that!'

'Would be quite the talking point.'  Erhardt had returned with drinks.  'No!'  he chided Ophilia when she reached for a mug.  'Wait till it's cooled down.'

'Arsehole.'  She muttered under her breath.  'So.. Therion, you never answered, how are you doing?'  She let go of him and sat back to regard him closely.

'Good Phili.  Better than good in fact.'  He took a sip of his drink.  'Feeling pretty stupid that I ran off like that..'  He admitted.

'You needed to.'  Ophilia said consolingly.

'Yeah, I guess I did.'  Therion agreed.  'Seeing Darius again, well I wasn’t expecting it and I certainly wasn’t ready for it.'  The Thief met Ophilia's eyes.  'The injuries you treated back in Flamesgrace, when you busted me out of prison.  It was Darius that gave me them.'

Ophilia looked startled.  'You were pretty badly hurt.'  She said mildly.

Therion sighed.  'Technically I suppose it was being thrown off a cliff that caused them.  Darius was only the one that did the throwing.'

'Nice chap.'  Erhardt snorted.

'Up till that point I'd thought so.'  Therion admitted.  'Met him about the time the orphanages had finally given up on me.. in a prison cell of course.  We escaped and we ran together for a number of years.  Dunno how long really - on the streets time don’t mean that much.'

'So you were friends?'  Ophilia had reached out a bandaged hand and laid it on his lightly.

'Well, I mean.. I'd never had any friends before so I thought we were.  Having someone to run with, it made life more fun - less about just surviving from day to day.'  Therion shook his head.  'Thinking back of course,  Darius was never particularly kind, but he was strong and full of ideas and mischief.  I pretty much worshipped him.'

'Charismatic then?'  Erhardt frowned.  'Men like that usually like to be admired.  What on earth happened to make him propel you over a precipice?'

'He was offered a place in a gang.'  Therion's voice had gone blank.  'A rough and dangerous bunch of villains that he desperately wanted to join.  Thing is they weren’t interested in the sappy little lapdog that followed him round, so his initiation was to kill me.  Prove his stones.'

'And he did?  Just like that?'  Ophilia was shocked.

'Laughed at me while he did it too.'  Therion nodded.

'His loss.'  Erhardt frowned.

'Yeah, I've come to that conclusion too - finally.'  Therion agreed with a surprised glance at the Knight.  'Heathcote told me that he has his own gang now, operates out of a town called Northreach and that he not only has the emerald Dragonstone but the gold one too.'  Therion paused a short while, deep in thought.  'I didn’t think I could face him again, but yeah.. I can.  I'm gonna steal the stones back and be done.'

'You mean 'we' are gonna steal the stones back.'  Ophilia said quietly.

Therion smiled at her.  'I thought we discussed before how very unsneaky you are your Holiness.  Well except at making people care about shit - at that you're  a master sneak.'

'I suppose I have the whole impending doom thing too.'  She said heavily.  'Bit remiss of me to make promises of help with that hanging over me.'  She looked away from him.

Therion reached out and gently turned her face back to him.  'If you want to come Ophilia, I will teach you how to sneak like a pro.'  He said firmly.  'I won't ever leave you behind again.'

'You plan to kill him,  Darius I mean?'  Erhardt asked curiously.

'Nope.  Stealing from him will hurt him enough.'  Therion answered.  'No matter how it ended up, he still gave me a few years where life wasn’t as shit as it had been.  I ain't got the desire to end him - that would just make me as bad as him and to be honest, I pity him.'  He looked back at Ophilia.  'Darius will always be bitter and never let anyone close.  I don’t want to be like that.'

'Good.'  She said wrapping her arms round him again.

'And on that happy note - it's time to wake the next shift up.'  Erhardt said with a grin.

'Just so we're clear.'  Therion murmured to Ophilia as the Knight went to rouse Cyrus and Tressa.  'I ain't letting you die.  So don’t go planning on it anytime soon.'

'Yes Da.'  She shot back at him.

Therion gathered her to him tighter.  'You are such an irritating mare.'  He chided affectionately.

'Excuse me!'  Cyrus had come up to them and stood before them with a frown.  'Do you think you could take your hands off my girl, Therion?'

Therion's eyes shot wide.  'Right, yeah.. of course... sorry..'  He stuttered letting go of Ophilia who was smiling up at the Scholar.

'Well good.'  Cyrus said with a grin, swooping down to sit next to them and pulling Therion onto his lap in one swift move.  'Because it's my turn for cuddles!'  He declared, wrapping the startled Thief in a huge hug.

'Oh man, you really had me worried for a sec Prof...'  Therion chuckled, winding his arms around Cyrus as Ophilia started to giggle.

'It is good to have you back.'  The Scholar declared, pulling Ophilia to him as well. 

'God's you lot are such a bunch of saps.'  Tressa moaned as she walked up to them.

'Aww Tressa, didn’t you miss me even a little bit?'  Therion looked up at her fluttering his eyelashes.

'Pfft.'  Tressa smirked.  'What's there to miss?'  She dove in fast and kissed his cheek.  'That will never happen again.. make the most of it.'  She advised before wandering off to make tea.

Erhardt had come back over.  'C'mon sis.  Bedtime.  You're still healing remember!'  Ophilia stuck her tongue out at him.

'He is quite right my darling.  Be kind to your brother when he is trying to look out for you!'  Cyrus kissed her frown gently.

'In the morning I'll give you an energy boost Phili.'  Therion promised.  'Should help with the healing right?'

'You really have to teach me how to do that.'  Cyrus said thoughtfully.

'We can have a go.'  Therion agreed.  I got stuff to tell you first, but afterwards we'll talk it through.  I expect you'll be better at it than me within a few days.'

Ophilia eventually allowed Erhardt to help her up and over to where Cyrus had vacated their bedding.  Erhardt sat down with her and she snuggled up to him. 

'Well that's new.'  Therion grunted in surprise.

'Mmm.  Since the meeting with Red-Eye and learning about her Father, Ophilia's been suffering badly with the night fears.  Erhardt sits with her until I'm done on watch.'  Cyrus looked concerned.  'I am so glad you're here Therion.  Not worrying about you too will hopefully ease her mind a bit.'

'Sorry.'  Therion murmured.

'No, I didn’t mean it like that.  You needed time, but by the God's it's been good to see her actually smile today.'

'Heh, well..'  Therion smirked at Cyrus.  'She will get to meet the Pirate Captain tomorrow, pretty sure that will bolster her spirits!'

'Oh dear.'  Cyrus moaned shaking his head sadly.

~0~

The companions were finally within sight of Stonegard early the following afternoon when they were met by a very enthusiastic dire wolf.

'Hagen!'  H'aanit knelt to fuss the wolf.  'Ist thy Master..'

'He ist!'  Z'aanta appeared from the tree's like a ghost.  From such a huge man it was an impressive feat.

'Master.'  H'aanit said quietly.  'Ist good to see thou restored.'

'By the God's girl!'  The man exclaimed moving towards her swiftly and catching her up in a huge embrace that lifted the Huntress clear off her feet.  'Ist that all thou hast to sayeth to me!  Can it be that I am only just out of stone and already I hath somehow vexed thou?'

'Put'eth me down!'  H'aanit's cheeks shone bright red.  'I am no longer a child Z'aanta, ist unseemly!'

The hunter bellowed with laughter.  'I see'eth thou hast grown even more thorny child.  I wilst hath to watch my behaviour ever closer.  For shame!'

He turned to the others who were grinning at the Huntress and her discomfort.

'Well met!'  Z'aanta greeted them cheerfully.  'Ah, Natalya hath told me all about the fearsome companions that H'aanit hath come by.  I see'eth that the woman did not exaggerate in her descriptions.'

'It is good to see you restored.'  Olberic had moved forward and gripped the hunters arm.

'Thankest thou Sir Olberic, 'tis a pleasure to meeteth thou, and thou too, Sir Erhardt.  I admit I am looking forward to testing thy prowess of battle.  Thine reputations preceedeth you!'

'Men.'  Ophilia muttered to herself.. 'Wonder who will have to heal up that mess.'  She grouched.

'And Ophilia.'  Z'aanta's voice became gentle.  'I admit I was wholly amazed that thou and H'aanit hath meeten up again and doth travel together.

'Met again?'  Ophilia looked at H'aanit who shrugged her shoulders in as much confusion as the Cleric.

'Neither of thou remembers?'  Z'aanta looked surprised.  'Thou must remember the winter we spendeth in Flamesgrace Hany, thou spenteth the entire time moaning about the cold!'

'Aye, I doth remember the cold.  I doth not remember meeting.. oh!'  H'aanit suddenly grinned at Ophilia.  'Thou wast a small child!  I remember thou and thy sister.  She wast mightily afraid of Hagen!'

'Aye!'  Z'aanta was grinning too.  'I am not surprised that thou don’t remember Ophilia, t'was when we brought Alaic to the Cathedral for healing - thou spendeth most of thine time with him!'

'It was?'  H'aanit blushed.  Z'aanta noted her rosy cheeks immediately.  He grinned. 

'Something thine wishest to tellen me H'aanit?  About Alaic maybe?  Thou art blushing like a maiden...'

H'aanit scowled fiercely and Z'aanta bellowed laughter again.

'Come all.'  He said finally when his amusement finally tempered.  'The Captain doth own a Tavern in the town, he hath made accommodation for everyone, plus food and drink.. ahh a good man Captain Bastralle, may his ale always floweth free!'

Still chuckling Z'aanta turned and led them into Stonegard.

.

The tavern owned by Captain Bastralle was a huge rambling building of excellent quality and filled with patrons.  Z'aanta led them straight upstairs and ushered them into a large private lounge.  Odette was on her feet the second they arrived.

'Well you took you're damned time!' she grouched to no-one in particular.  She peered at them all closely.   'Bloody hell Ophilia, you look awful.'  She exclaimed in dismay.  'I thought I told you to look after her boy!'  she crossed the room, pulling Ophilia into a fierce hug and slapping Cyrus hard on the arm.  Cyrus was trying to formulate a reply as Odette began ushering the Cleric up a second flight of stairs.

'Let's get you settled.'  She was saying,  'Honestly Ophilia you look dead on your feet!'

'It's just the healing process..'  Ophilia was trying to explain looking for help from Cyrus who was following behind them.

'None the less - you can rest up a while.  Leon won't be back for a couple of hours so we won't talk about anything major till he returns.'  Odette opened the door to a nicely appointed bedroom.  'I will have some food sent up for you.'  She added firmly.

Cyrus had moved to help Ophilia off with her cloak, then sat her down on the edge of the bed and knelt to untie her boots. 

'Shall I request some water for the bath dearheart?'  He asked having noted the bathroom and the tub when he came in.

'Ohh please!'  Ophilia finally smiled. 

'It is good to see you smile!'  Cyrus lent in towards her kissing her tenderly.

'She is supposed to be resting, not smooching boy.'  Odette commented grumpily.

Cyrus turned to his mentor with a grin.  'I think I already told you once Odette, I am a grown man.. and we are most definitely going to smooch.  Lots.  And in private.'  He took her by the arm and gently pushed her towards the door.  'Could you organise us some bathwater when you order the food?'  He asked politely.

'Heh.'  Odette grinned back at him.  'Good lad.'  She added.  'Have fun you two.' 

Once the door was closed, Cyrus went back to Ophilia.  'Why don’t you have a lie down before the food arrives?'  He suggested softly.  'You do look pretty terrible.'  He added.

'You definitely just promised smooches..'  Ophilia pouted. 

'A promise I intend to keep whole-heartedly.'  He said caressing her cheek.  'Once you have rested.'

'Now!'  She demanded with a smile.

'Fine then, my impatient love.  I find it quite impossible to deny you your wishes - as you know!'  He reached into the pocket of his waistcoat.  'First though, I have this for you - you can't actually wear it at the moment, with your damaged hands but I thought you could put it on the chain with your locket until they have recovered.'  He handed her a tiny blue ring.

'Oh..'  she breathed.  'It's beautiful!' 

'I finished it last night.'  Cyrus took it back and looked at it intently.  'Therion was kind enough to show me how to transfer energy, it's actually quite a simple process.. but it allowed me to add that ability to this item.  It should, if my calculations are correct have stored my energy, much in the same way your ring stores the energy of the Flame so I think you might find it helpful while you are currently so depleted.'

'Thank you.'  She said quietly.

Aside from that, I think it will work in the same way that yours does.'  Cyrus suddenly grinned at her.'  I don’t have a secret name though, so it should be fairly simple for you to access it.  When you do activate it there is one unique aspect - I will know exactly where you are, be able to see you and track you if need be.  It was Alfyn's idea, so that you will never ever be lost again.'

Tears sprang to Ophilia's eyes.  'Truly?'  She asked hoarsely.

'Truly.'  He replied gently.  'Oh lastly, if you hold it as say 'illuminate' it will light up, banish the dark.  That was Olberic's idea.'  He added, lifting her locket from around her neck and threading the ring onto the chain.

The tears had started running down her cheeks.  'Kisses now?'  She asked hopefully.

Cyrus didn’t answer, choosing instead to honour her request.

~0~

Dusk was falling when Leon Bastralle returned to the tavern.  He was grim faced when he entered but quickly pulled himself together to meet with everyone.

'Tressa!'  The merchant girl had run up to him enthusiastically at his entrance and babbled for several minutes as the Captain tried vainly to keep up with her chatter.  She looked well, as enthusiastic as ever and despite the concerns that were tugging at him, he couldn’t help the smile that her sheer exuberance brought. 

He was quickly introduced to the others.

'Where is the Flamebearer?'  he asked quietly.

'Resting.'  Odette stood.  'I will go get her and Cyrus.'  She added.

'Wait.  Please.'  Leon, removed his cloak and slung it over the back of a chair, sitting himself down with a frown.  'I received a bird from Alaic.  He is or was at Flamesgrace - he went to keep an eye on things as Eliza had business in Marsalim.'  The Captain looked at the assembled faces around him.  'He sent some rather confusing news.'  He added.

'Surely we should get Ophilia first if you have news from her home to relay.'  Primrose said.

'Aye probably lass,'  Leon agreed.  'But I think I would like your thoughts first if I may.'

'Speak Captain.'  Olberic replied.

'Seems that a few days after the death of the Archbishop, Lianna and Mattias fought.  Their wedding had been due, but Lianna walked out saying that she was going to join her sister in Goldshore.  She left with a Knight Ardante and does appear to have been following that plan.'

'Odd.'  Odette muttered.  'The child is.. delicate, I would not have thought her capable of such action.'

'Quite.'  Leon agreed.  'Alaic reports that Mattias left two days later with the intention of following Lianna.  Alaic is following him to keep an eye on what he gets up to.'

'The man is a complete arse.'  Therion muttered grimly.

'Well Susanna has been looking into him since his actions at Saintsbridge and here's the thing.'  Leon looked concerned.  'He has hardly any traceable history except for his business, which was set up by his grandfather, passed to his father and now to him.  Of what he has done apart from in business terms, where he was born, who his mother was, where he was educated.. nothing.  The man is a ghost.

'It's concerning of course..'  Erhardt mused.  'But what exactly is the relevance here?'

'Alaic considers that the most danger that Ophilia will face will be leading up to and including the final Kindling at Goldshore.'  Leon spread his hands.  'Taking into consideration her father's vision - the fact that there are two further people making their way to her with unknown intentions and that one of them has already threatened her and her role in the Kindling before...'

'Right.'  Erhardt agreed.

'And then there is also the fact that the price on her head has nearly tripled from the original amount...'

Therion swore.  'Damn, it wasn’t a small reward in the first place!'  he muttered.

They all fell silent, reflecting on the Captains words.

'Look..'  Odette said finally.  'I know that getting Ophilia to Goldshore and getting her duty over and done is appealing..'  Odette paused a second. 'I also know you however Leon and if you are concerned then so am I.  I am also betting that since this Inn is yours then it's probably one of the safest and best guarded places to be.

The Captain inclined his head.

'And frankly Ophilia is a mess right now.'  Odette added.

'Honestly,'  Alfyn spoke up, blushing as all eyes fell on him.. 'Err, well.. she is expending so much energy trying to get herself healed, if she was to take even the slightest bit of further damage, it could be a real problem.  I'm not sure her body could cope..'  

'Well then, I propose we hole up here for a few days and allow her to heal and rest before we go pushing forward.  It's not the best, but I think probably the safest idea.'  Odette looked at the others.  'Thoughts?'  she asked.

'There ist plenty of us here to make sure the child is safe.'  Z'aanta agreed.  'As long as we are all together - I do not doubt that even given the delay we canst get her to Goldshore and the duty done.  Ist a formidable team.'

'Yes,'  Olberic nodded.  'Getting to full strength, all of us - is the best tactic and we really can't let any more worries onto the lass to my mind.'

'I wouldst keep this information about Lianna from her I thinketh.'  H'aanit added absently stroking at Linde's head as she spoke.  'She hast enough worry.  It doth not sit well to keep secrets, however in this instance, I see'eth it as necessary to her wellbeing.'

Alfyn nodded uneasily.  'I don’t like keeping things from her either but.. after all the crap in Saintsbridge.. I'm amazed she isn’t a jabbering wreck to be honest.'

Therion shrugged.  'I'm all for her resting.'  He said simply.

'Decided then.'  Odette nodded.  'We will stay a few days then move onto Goldshore.  Cyrus and I have an enquiry with a bookbinder in town,  but it is a simple task in our undertaking and should not present any problems.' 

Nobody spoke for a few minutes

'So will you call Ophilia now?'  Leon finally smiled.  I have been most eager to meet her,  knowing Alaic as I did and the changes that she wrought in him.. and hearing the stories of her latest adventures too.. I have to admit, I'm already a bit of a fan!'  

'Oh Captain...'  Therion started to laugh.  'I promise - you have no idea what's about to hit you!'

Chapter Text

Cyrus and Odette made their way swiftly through the streets of Stonegard,  Z'aanta and Hagen a few steps behind them giving them some space to talk quietly.  Odette had been filling the Scholar in on the information that Captain Bastralle had brought the night before.

'I think Ophilia should be told!'  Cyrus said frustrated.  'She is hardly a wilting flower Odette, and while I am not happy to have her take on any additional worry, I simply can't see what good it does not to warn her that her sister and Mattias may be searching her out.'

'Let her heal first, before we add to her burden.'  Odette was scowling.  'I know how much she has already overcome Cyrus, but let her have these few days of relative peace to grieve the Archbishop and recover.'

'I know you are looking to her best interests.'  Cyrus's admitted, his voice softer.  'It is just vexing - the danger.. it seems never ending.'

'It would help if we could fathom out why there are so many intent on the failure of this Kindling.'  Odette grimaced.  'Susanna has a few theories, mainly centred around a cult that seems to be thriving in Wispermill - but they have proved highly secretive and thus far impossible to infiltrate,  all we really know is that they are following a leader who calls himself The Saviour and that he preaches against the Order of the Flame with passion.'

Cyrus shrugged helplessly. 'Unless we have facts, there is little we can do but concentrate on getting the ritual done and the Flames renewed.'

'Agreed.'  Odette sighed.  'I guess for the time being we may as well turn our attention to our own little problem.  Although if the binders have no recollection of the translation of 'From the far reaches of Hell' that we found, I am at a loss of what to do next.  God's everything is so frustrating!'

'Then let us hope it isn’t a dead end.'  Cyrus murmured as they came up to the large warehouse building that was their destination.  'At least the book was covered at expense and with care.  It is very good quality and the title is printed on the cover.  Not the most forgettable tome to my mind.'

Odette turned to Z'aanta allowing him to catch up to them.  'This is the place,'  she informed him.  'We will pop in and have a chat with the binders.  Shouldn't be too long.'

'Hath no fear Odette.'  The grizzled hunter grinned.  'Hagen and I wilst await thy return.  If thou needeth us to looken menacingly at anyone thou hast but to call!'

The bindery was a well established and obviously well regarded business.  The internal reception was plush and nicely furnished and there was a welcome desk manned by a young woman intently reading a thick tome.

'May I help you?'  she asked with a bright smile, putting a mark in her book and standing to greet Cyrus and Odette as they entered.

'Hope so lass.'  Odette went forward in her usual blunt manner.  'We want to speak to whoever bound this tome.'  She handed the translation to the woman.

'I see.'  The woman's smile turned polite.  'Is there a problem with the work?'  she asked.

'Nope.  Just want to ask some questions regarding the client.'  Odette said impatiently.

'I am very sorry Mistress, but our client details are not shared by request.'  The woman looked apologetic.  'It would not do our reputation any favours to do so.'  She explained.

Odette opened her mouth to rebuke the girl but Cyrus stepped forward quickly and put a restraining hand on his mentors arm.

'I quite understand your position my dear.'  He said seriously to the receptionist as he pushed Odette discreetly behind him.  'In this case it is a simply a scholarly interest that is behind our appeal.' 

'Oh, I see.'  Her eyes had widened slightly at the charming and very handsome man who was now smiling at her.  'None the less..'  she added breathlessly.

'You see..'  Cyrus continued with a small self depreciative chuckle,  'I have travelled from the Royal Academy in Atlasdam seeking the translator of this book -  for his skill and knowledge of ancient Hornburgian is really very impressive.'  He leaned in closer to the woman, speaking quietly, confidentially to her.  'I am myself engaged in the study of languages and I would really appreciate his contribution to some work that I am currently undertaking on behalf of the Royal Family..'

'Professor.. I really don’t think you should be divulging...'  Odette had caught on to Cyrus's plan.

'Please my dear,'  Cyrus waved a hand at his mentor cutting her off.  'I can tell that this lovely lady is quite trustworthy and discreet.'  His smile brightened.  'Is there any way you can help us out?'  he enquired gently reaching out and taking her hand.

'Oh.'  The woman blushed.  'Well, I can at least take a look and see if the binder in question still works with us.  It would be up to him if he would speak with you.'  She added.

'Thank you my dear.'  Cyrus squeezed her hand and her blush deepened.

The woman took the book over to her desk and carefully opened it to the back.  She took out a magnifying glass and peered in the corner of the binding where a tiny line of numbers were printed, almost invisibly.

'Ah,'  she said looking up at Cyrus and beaming brightly.  'It would appear this is Harald's work.  He is a partner now - this was done almost fifteen years ago.  Would you like me to have a quick word with him for you?'

'If you wouldn’t mind my dear.  I would be most appreciative.'  Cyrus smiled.

'I will be right back!'  she promised and disappeared through the double doors into to the workshop.

'Cyrus!'  Odette turned to her former student in amazement.. 'Did you just play that poor girl?  Whatever happened to your complete cluelessness?'

Cyrus chuckled.  'Ophilia pokes fun whenever she notices someone caught in the apparent effect I have on people - she finds it uncommonly amusing - but her teasing has made me a little more aware I suppose.'

'But I've been pointing it out for years!'  Odette humphed.  'You never paid any note to my assertions.'

'Well.. you only ever teased but never explained properly.'  Cyrus patted his mentor on the shoulder.  'In regards to people, Ophilia is a most excellent tutor.  She sees the humanity in everything.  According to Primrose - I am now only 'mostly' clueless.'  He looked rather proud of the fact.

Odette was shaking her head and laughing as the receptionist returned with an older man in tow.

'You the people asking after this book?'  The man said gruffly.

'We are.'  Cyrus stepped forward with his hand extended.  'Professor Cyrus Albright from The Royal Academy in Atlasdam.'  He politely added.

'What do you want with the man who translated this?'  The binder's voice was still hostile.

'It's an academic enquiry.'  Cyrus looked at the man closely.  'The translation is impressive,  I would be very interested in acquiring the translators skills in my own pursuit.'

'Right.  Well good luck with that.  The man has been a recluse for more than a decade.  Pretty much since the day his daughter died.'

'Oh?'  Cyrus raised an interested eyebrow.  'He is local then?'

'Aye, came here after he married.  He come from Atlasdam originally too.  Expect you are too young to remember him though.  He cast an eye over Odette.  Probably you too.'  He added.

'None the less,'  Odette stepped forward pushing her glasses up to the bridge of her nose.  'I'm sure someone of this kind of skill must have been notable.  Will you give us the man's name?'

The binder sighed.  'I will be frank with you.'  He said.  'The man was once a good friend, he undertook  many commissions for the University and he used me to bind his volumes and his research.  Then his daughter got sick.'  The man shook his head sadly.

'I see, did that induce him to stop working?'  Odette asked bluntly.

'Not exactly.'  The binder looked closely at the two Scholars in front of him.  'You know anything about this?'  he asked delicately holding up their translation.

Cyrus lowered his voice.  'It is the sort of volume that can cause damage in the wrong hands.'  He said gravely.

'That's the impression I got too.'  The binder looked down the book.  'I love my job, but I'm not much of a reader myself and when this was brought in I was clearly warned not to look it over.  Never had that actually spelled out to me before like that.  As it happens I didn’t, not interested enough to cause myself sleepless nights over something I doubt I'd understand anyway.'

'Probably a good thing for you.'  Odette murmured.

'Yeah.  But my friend.. he wasn’t the sort to be messing with that kind of thing.  Not at all.  He was a good man, devoted to his family and his passion for his work came second.'

'You said he worked doing translations for the University?'  Cyrus raised an eyebrow.  'I'm absolutely sure that they did not sanction this job.'

'I don’t know anything about that.'  The binder handed the book back to the Scholars with a grimace.  'I do however know that he desperately needed money for his daughters medicines.  He tried everything to save her and some of the medicines.. they weren’t cheap.  My guess is that he took on the commission for that tome from an unusual source because the leaf was good.  I can't fathom any other reason he would get involved with something that was potentially better off being left well alone.'

'And his daughter died anyway..'  Cyrus said sadly.

'She did.'  The binder looked at Cyrus again closely.  'I have to ask you again Professor.  What is your interest. Really.'

Cyrus looked back at the older man shrewdly.  He nodded to himself.  'We seek to find who commissioned the translation as we believe that they are meddling with the practise contained within.  We seek to stop them.'  He answered quietly.

'The translators name is Dominic.  He lives on the east side of town.'  The binder looked at his hands.  'I hope he can be persuaded to speak with you, perhaps as much for his own sake, as for the sake of your mission.'

'Thank you sir.'  Cyrus nodded gravely.  'We will do our best.'

.

Outside the warehouse Cyrus and Odette met up again with Z'aanta who was lounging against the wall.

'Get what thou needeth?'  he asked as they started walking back to the main town.

'We got the name of the Scholar who did the translation.  He lives here in Stonegard.'  Odette was thoughtful.  'I'm sure I have heard of the man but I don’t  remember him.  Shame.'

'Well I'm certain he never provided translation for any of the dark tomes I have read.  I tend to keep note of who has worked on what.'  Cyrus mused.

They were able to locate Dominic's house easily, and Odette went to the door and knocked heavily on it.  There was no reply.  Knocking again, she went to peer through a heavily draped window.

Cyrus knocked the third time.  'Sir,'  he called quietly through the door.  'We would greatly like to speak with you about a book your translated fifteen years ago.  We require your aid in preventing the knowledge contained within from being misused.'

There was silence.

'Go away..'  a muffled voice came through the door.

'Sir, I apologise.  I cannot.  Our need is too great.'  Cyrus said sorrowfully, leaning against where the voice had come from.  'I truly have no wish to open old wounds friend.. but I have heard how you lost your dear daughter to illness fifteen years ago...'

There was a distinct keening sound from inside the house.

'I apologise..'  Cyrus ploughed on.  'I know that since then you have secluded yourself away.. but that while she lived you had need of a lot of leaf quickly and that you accepted an unusual task.. translating a book called 'From the Far Reaches of Hell'.'

'Who told you that?'  The man's voice was strained, breathless.

'I have the book here with me now.'  Cyrus said quietly.  'It is clear from reading it, that being a Scholar of your great knowledge and wisdom -  you took care to omit the most horrific of passages, doubtless because you recognised the danger that they posed.'

'I will not divulge any further information on that vile book.  You are wasting your time.'  Dominic's voice had become angry.

'As a fellow academic,'  Cyrus went on urgently.  'I am afraid I cannot stand idly by as such knowledge is used for the purpose of evil, so I need to ask you who it was who commissioned you in this task.'

'It has been used?'  the voice behind the door had become faint.

'It was attempted yes.  I believe that the only thing that may have prevented a disaster was the fact that you had the forethought to tamper with the translation.'  Cyrus put his hand against the door.  'Please sir, our task is urgent, for the person who did this still has the book and if they realise that the translation was incomplete, they may eventually find the correct way to...'

The door slowly opened and Cyrus was beckoned in quickly.  Odette, Z'aanta and Hagen followed.

Dominic ushered them into his kitchen and bade them to sit.  His shoulders were hunched, his face gray and even the presence of a full sized dire wolf in his home did not seem to move him beyond a curious look at the creature.

Once they were settled the older man held out his hand for the book that he had created many years ago. 'This is my greatest shame.' The man said quietly.  'I knew.. yes - I knew that horror's may one day come to pass from the work that I undertook on this translation, although at the time...'  a shadow passed over the man's face.

'Your need for leaf was great.'  Cyrus said gently.  'A father fighting for the life of his child.. is there much that he would not do?'

'And yet she did not live.'  Dominic's grief was palpable. 'Indeed I have often wondered if her demise was a punishment for my sins in undertaking the work... Having had the chance to read the book in its entirety.. Professor,  it is imperative that it is not correctly translated.  The book, the rituals it contains hold the secret of life and death itself.  To harness that power...'

Cyrus reached out a hand to the man.  'I intend to see to it that this book is never again used to bring pain and suffering to this world.  The pain and the guilt that you feel is beyond my understanding but I do hope that you can get some solace from this.  Please rest your heart easy friend and tell us what you know.'

Odette's jaw had dropped and she was looking at Cyrus as if seeing him for the first time.

'Thank you.'  Dominic had sat up straighter in his chair and looked to be thinking carefully.  'I knew the man who commissioned me quite well from my time in Atlasdam.  He admitted, 'Although I was surprised to learn that he actually was born here in Stonegard.  I do not know whether he came here specifically to seek me out to work on the book, or whether it was just happenstance that he found me here - but either way the leaf that he offered was far more than a man in his position should have been able to offer and that should have been my first warning.'

'Is he here now?'  Cyrus asked urgently.

'I wouldn’t know.'  Dominic admitted, 'As I understand it he did not live here often or for long periods of time although he did, back then, still own the house that he was born in.  Of course he is a busy man now, I doubt he would make it all the way out here regularly.  Unless he uses his family home as a base for his vile practises.  I did what I could,'  Dominic looked intensely at Cyrus.  'I did everything that I felt would not be noticed easily.  Some things I did not add to the translation at all and I changed the positioning of some of the runes in the casting circle, which should have corrupted the result sufficiently.'

'You have a name for us?'  Odette asked impatiently.

'I do.'  Dominic said.  'He was a Scholar of sharp mind and overwhelming ambition even when I knew him at the University.  His eyes burned with zeal, yet I was always of the belief that his brilliance did not match his own opinion of his worth.   Of course I was proven wrong when he was offered the position of Headmaster of the University..'  Dominic sighed.

'Headmaster Yvon?'  Cyrus gasped.

'Yes.'  Dominic nodded.  'Yvon was the man who commissioned the translation.'

.

Odette had been swearing continuously since they had left Dominic's house.

'I always loathed the bloody man..' she was saying as they walked back to the tavern.  'His taking over as Headmaster was most of the reason I left the University in the first place.'

'Well, it's not exactly like I have ever seen eye to eye with him.'  Cyrus mused.. 'But I am still shocked that he would stoop to such..'

'Oh I have no doubt whatsoever that he would.'  Odette said bitterly.  'Vanity such as his never leads to good things.'

'Still..'  Cyrus's mind was reeling at the implications.  'Why on earth would he need to use a translator?'  he asked curiously.  'Or indeed commission a necromancer to actually make the stones.  He is surely skilled enough to have done those things himself.'

'Pfft.'  Odette was scornful.  'Have you not listened to a word I said boy?  The man is a charlatan.  He leeches off others, his own skills are negligible.  I tried to point this out time and time again before he was appointed and I was shot down.  He had friends somewhere on high..'

'Well I guess that his home here warrants a visit.'  Cyrus mused.

'Indeed, but I think we stop for lunch first back with the others and advise them of our plan, and you can check on your girl.'  Odette suddenly looked keenly at her companion.  'I nearly died when you suddenly got all understanding with Dominic.'  She said pointedly. 'Your usual method of extracting information is much more to interrogate than empathise.  What's all that about.'

'You can't spend time with Ophilia and not learn a thing or two about human nature and compassion.'  Cyrus looked surprised.  'Have I not always been understanding?'' he asked balefully.

'Um.. not when chasing down something you need.'  Odette smirked.  'How many people have you upset in the past with your questioning?'

'Oh, well I suppose I have changed a little.  I hadn’t really considered it.'  He admitted.

'No.'  Odette had turned thoughtful.  'I don’t think you have changed so much as you are becoming more of the person that you have always had the potential to be.'

'Rather insightful Odette.'  Cyrus was grinning at her.  'Are you feeling quite well?'

'Meh, I blame the shock of Yvon's duplicity.'  She grumped.

.

When they arrived back at the tavern, they found Captain Bastralle seated in a huge chair by the fire recounting daring tales of his pirating days.  Tressa was sat by his feet, her eyes blazing at the adventures and treasures that he was describing while Olberic and Erhardt appeared to be arm wrestling with H'aanit and Alfyn at a nearby table.  Therion was closer to the fire with Ophilia's head in his lap, gently stroking her hair as she slept.  Primrose was sat up on a table looking bored. 

'Oh you're back.'  The dancer jumped down and pushed out a seat for Odette.  'The Captain certainly likes the sound of his own voice.'  She added sourly as her friends sat down.

'Don't fancy your chances at the arm-wrestling then?'  Odette smirked as Z'aanta went over to the competitors to throw in his own challenge.

Primrose rolled her eyes.  'Please tell me you discovered information and have something interesting to do this afternoon.'  She begged the Scholars.

'Well, we did make a discovery and we do have a plan.'  Cyrus grinned at her.  'Are you looking for some adventure Lady Primrose?'

'Anything is better than listening to that insufferable man.'  Primrose admitted.  'I met plenty of his kind in the course of my work.  Unable to tell a story without embellishment and making himself the hero.' 

Odette chuckled.  'I have never known Leon to exaggerate.'  She said firmly.  'Indeed, he is one of the most balanced men I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.  If he says he did something, then he did it.'

Primroses eyes narrowed.  'Are you jesting with me Mistress Odette?' she asked.

'No child.  He is simply a rather remarkable man.'  Odette sighed lustily.  'If only I were ten years younger.'

Cyrus went over to where Therion was sat with Ophilia. 

'How has she been?'  the Scholar asked quietly.

'Very unsettled until the Captain took matters into his own hands and offered to tell her stories.'  Therion admitted.  'She fell asleep a while ago, but even surrounded by all of us her fears started almost immediately.  Had to hold her to get them to stop.'

'They do seem to be getting worse.'  Cyrus looked concerned.

'Reckon it's the Kindling.'  Therion looked up at the Scholar, frowning.  'I felt the pain of holding the Ember.  It ain't like anything I ever felt.  That she is still healing only to have to do it again so soon..  I know it would bloody scare me too.'

Dinner was ordered.  Cyrus gently woke Ophilia when it arrived and they all sat and listened to Odette as she filled the companions in on what they had learned that morning.

'So you are going to check the house out then?'  Olberic asked.

'I doubt very much Yvon will actually be here.  His role at the University will keep him there, but we may be able to find something useful stashed away at his home.'  Odette looked angry.  'I don’t think it will require much for the task.'  She added.

'Well, I would like to come along.'  Primrose said firmly.  I could use a change of scenery.'

'Breaking and entering is my forte!'  Therion added with a grin.  'May as well make use of the thief skills.'

'I will come too then, for the inevitable moment Therion does something stupid and requires healing.. yet again.'  Alfyn sighed, flinging his arm round his friend who had thrown a punch in the Apothecary's general direction.

'Should be more than enough.'  Odette said.  'The rest of you can stay here.'

'...and babysit the Cleric..'  Ophilia muttered under her breath.

'We talked about this..'  Cyrus squeezed her tight.

'I know.'  She sighed.

'We will be back before you know it.'  He kissed her soundly as they got up and went to gather their things.

'C'mon sis.'  Erhardt came up and swept Ophilia off her feet.  'How about me and Olberic tell you some real daring stories of Knightly conquest.  Beats the hell out of pirating tales any day!'

'Is that a challenge, Sir Knight?'  Leon was grinning broadly.  'Perhaps we could take this one into the yard?'

'Interesting!'  Z'aanta cheered.. 'Can I play?'

'Oh no..'  Ophilia hid her face in her bandaged hands.  'Please take me with you!'  she begged Cyrus.

Chapter Text

'Are you sure that's the place?'  Primrose asked doubtfully.  'It looks like no-one has been anywhere near it in years - hardly how I would expect the Headmaster of the University to live, even if it is just occasionally.'

'Don't look particularly safe either.'  Therion muttered.

'Well, the kind gentleman we spoke to outside the guard station said this was it.  I have no reason to doubt his accuracy.'  Cyrus replied enthusiastically.

The house they had been directed to was set back from the street with what would have been an impressively large garden - if the land hadn’t been wildly overgrown and obscuring the pathways to the premises.  A heavy iron fence ringed the property which did indeed look particularly run down with heavily peeling paint and the windows boarded against intruders.  Masonry was crumbling and there looked to be a hole in the roof.

'Even if this is the correct abode, I doubt very much we are going to find anything actually left here, let alone anything useful.'  Odette grumbled as they creaked open the front gate and made their way cautiously up towards the door.

'Oh!.. Gravesweed!'  Alfyn exclaimed suddenly, dashing into the dense vegetation, donning gloves and picking at a plant happily.  'Rare!'  he added, gathering as much as he could.

'Isn't that highly toxic?'  Odette asked,  'Because I think there is some Morningslumber over to the left - and that is a rather potent poison too.'

'Shuck's!'  Alfyn's excitement grew.  'It's also great as an anaesthetic if you get the dose right.  Wow!'

Odette had joined Alfyn in the undergrowth.  'Hmm, there are more here.. Heartsbane,  Auldwort.. I think that is Silversong too..'

'No!  Really?  'I've only read about that!'  Alfyn was grinning broadly.  'Can't be that anyone knows this is here.  These reagents are worth a fortune.'

'It's a poison garden...'  Odette said thoughtfully.  'Pretty dangerous to have in the middle of a town.  Why the hell aren’t the gates locked properly?'

Therion wandered back down the path to take a closer look at the gate they had come through.  He moved to the side and searched the foliage.  Finally he found what he was looking for.

'This is what secured it.'  He said, holding up a heavy chain.  'It ain't been cut and there ain't no scratches round the lock so it was opened with the proper key then just discarded.  Recent too I'd say - it wasn't buried down,  just lying on the top of the scrub.'

'Maybe we should adopt some caution then.'  Cyrus looked up at the rambling building thoughtfully.  'With the windows shuttered up like that it is impossible to tell if there is anyone home.'

'Cyrus,'  Odette said suddenly.  'I'm sure that there were a number of these plants in the Necromancer's lair, in the urns - dried.   Are they mentioned in the translation?'

'I know there were some botanical's listed, but I didn’t know anything about them..'  Cyrus took the book from his pocket and flicked through.  'Yes.'  He confirmed.  'Those and a few others.'

'I guess we are in the right place then.'  Primrose said grimly.

The companions made their way towards the front door, keeping to the overgrowth as much as possible.

'I'm gonna scout round see if I can find an alternative way in.'  Therion murmured and scooted off at pace.  He was back fairly shortly later.  'Can't see anywhere we could access without tearing down the shutters.'  He admitted.

'Well, let's see if you can get the door open?'  Cyrus suggested calmly.  'If that's our only option I suggest we go with it.'

Therion moved forward to examine the door.  He pushed on the handle experimentally, surprised when it swung open smoothly and quietly. 

'Okay, wasn’t expecting that.'  He looked at the others.

'Does this smack of a trap to anyone else?'  Odette frowned.

'My Thief senses are tingling.'  Therion admitted.

'Perhaps we should come back with reinforcements.'  Primrose suddenly looked nervous.  'Big scary house, mental evil Scholars.. poisonous plants..'

'Just a quick look round?'  Cyrus suggested.  'If we come across any signs of occupation we can leave, but it would be pointless to drag everyone all the way out here if it is empty.'

'Famous last words Prof.'  Alfyn said with a chuckle, slapping him on the shoulder.

The gloom in the building was oppressive, largely down to the obscured windows although interestingly there didn’t appear to be the same signs of decay or even dust in the hallway that they entered.  There were no furnishings, just a large staircase leading up and several doors off the long corridor.

'This is locked.'  Therion had tried the first door he had come to.

'This one too,'  Alfyn added, rattling the next handle along.

'Guys..'  The door that Primrose had walked up to had opened soundlessly.  When the others joined her they saw darkness and the vague outlines of furniture in a medium sized room.  Leaving the door open they tried all the other entrances on the level but it none of the rest would budge.

'Let's check it out then.'  Cyrus created a small ball of fire for illumination and moved forwards into the open room.  It appeared to be a sitting room of some kind with a large hearth and a number of huge stuffed seats arranged in no discernable pattern.

'Bloody hell!'  Alfyn was suddenly moving forward, pushing past the Scholar and rushing over to one of the chairs.

'What..?'  Cyrus was hot on the heels of the Apothecary.  'Therese!'  he cried.

A slight blond girl in fine clothes was laid out on some cushions, bound and gagged and with a large bloody bandage wrapped roughly around one of her arms. Her eyes were wild and wet and she began bucking wildly against her bonds as she saw the two men rushing towards her.  She was trying vainly to speak, nodding her head towards the door.

The others followed into the room, looking around carefully for threats.  Alfyn managed to get the gag off the prone girl.

'Watch out!'  she cried as it came loose, then everything went dark.

~0~

When Cyrus finally awoke it was to Alfyn roughly shaking him.  He stared up groggily at the Apothecary in confusion.

'You okay Prof?'  the lad asked quietly.

'I feel.. rather light headed.'  Cyrus admitted trying to sit himself up.

'Can I take a quick look at that?'  Alfyn nodded at the bandage wrapped around the Scholar's arm.

'Uh.. sure?'  Cyrus blinked, trying to clear his head but it remained stubbornly muzzy.  As Alfyn unwrapped the bandage, Cyrus pushed himself up unsteadily to a sitting position and looked warily around him.  It appeared that only he and Alfyn were currently conscious, everyone else seemed to have collapsed where they had stood and Therese was still in her binds, unconscious now on her chair.

'Oh, my poor darling!'  Cyrus gasped, trying to stand.

'Take it easy Prof.'  Alfyn grabbed his arm.  'Don't try to get up yet.

'What the hell happened?'  Cyrus sounded more angry than confused.

'Dunno..'  Alfyn had taken the bandage off to reveal a large slashed cut on Cyrus's arm that had obviously bled heavily if the dried stains were any indication.  '.. Just woke up myself.  The others look okay, although they're still out of it - seems it's only you and the girl have these slashes on your arm.' 

Cyrus noticed a lamp and water had been left on a table by the fireplace.  'I'm rather thirsty.'  The Scholar noted,  'But I am loath to imbibe anything that was left by our unknown host.'

'Yeah I agree.'  Alfyn said quietly, getting his water-bottle from his satchel.  'Don't seem like anything was taken from us, my stuff is all intact including my weapons.'  He mused.

Cyrus took a long drink, his mouth tasting like ashes.  Alfyn fixed a new bandage to his arm swiftly, then sat back on his heels.

'I was gonna try and make the others more comfortable.'  The Apothecary motioned their companions on the floor.'

'Indeed.'  Cyrus managed to stand with Alfyn's help but his head still didn’t feel quite right.  He carefully staggered over to where his former student lay and collapsed down next to her, tugging at the ropes that bound her.  'What are you doing here my love?'  he murmured to himself. 

Alfyn came over and handed a knife to the Scholar to help him to cut away at the bindings, then he went back to where Primrose was slumped on the floor.  As he tried to move the Dancer her eyes suddenly flew open and her dagger was instantly in her hand.

'Peace Primrose, it's just me!'  Alfyn reassured her quickly, taking her by the elbow and helping her to sit.  The Dancer looked disoriented for a short while, and was silent as she drank the water that Alfyn had taken from her pack and urged her to sip.

'What the bloody hell?'  Primrose suddenly exclaimed, her face angry.

'Not sure what happened,'  Alfyn began.. 'Seems that..'

'What are you doing Cyrus?'  Primrose ignored Alfyn and her voice was outraged.

Alfyn looked round to where Primrose was staring.  'Oh.. what?'  The Apothecary looked stunned.

Cyrus had taken the girl he had been freeing onto his lap and was holding her rather intimately close to his chest, one arm around her waist and his other hand cupping her face tenderly.  He was laying a light kiss to her brow.  At his gentle touch her eyes fluttered open.

'Professor?'  She whispered faintly.

'Oh my darling..'  his fingers caressed her cheek as his arm tightened around her.  'How can you possibly be here? What has happened?'

'Yeah Prof,  what's happened?'  Therion's voice was dripping sarcasm as he sat up, frowning at the Scholar.

Cyrus looked towards his friends, his brow wrinkled in confusion.  'This is my student, Therese.'  He told them as if that explained everything, then turned his attention back to the girl as she reached a hand to his face and brought her lips up to his rather passionately.

'I was so worried Professor.'  Therese eventually simpered, tears welling in her eyes.  'I travelled all alone from Atlasdam to warn you that you were in danger, but it seems I was too late!'

'Hush darling, please don’t concern yourself - we will work it out.'  Cyrus consoled her, wiping her tears then stroking her hair comfortingly.

'Shit-on-a-bloody-stick...What the hell Albright?'  Odette had woken and managed to stand as everyone was staring incredulously at Cyrus and Therese.

'Odette?'  Cyrus looked confused.

'Since when did you start fraternizing with students, Cyrus?'  she asked acrimoniously. 

Cyrus's puzzlement seemed to grow.  He ran a nervous hand through his hair and rubbed the back of his neck, his brow wrinkling as he thought.

'I wouldn’t...'  he began, but Therese grabbed his hand and took his attention, looking deeply into his eyes.  His confusion turned into a gentle smile.

Primrose moved quicker than lightning towards Cyrus and Therese, her hand raised, but Therion was quicker still and caught the irate Dancer before she could connect with either of her targets.

'We can sort that out later.'  Therion's voice was hard.  'Right now we should concentrate on getting ourselves out of here.'

Primrose looked like she was going to argue, then she nodded curtly.

'Don't think this is over.'  She glowered at Cyrus, whose attention was far too rapt on Therese to notice Primrose's ire.

Therion had moved to the door.  'No handle this side.'  He said before joining Odette at the shuttered window.  'Probably our best bet,'  he appraised the wood that had been hammered over it.  Reckon you can get through this with your axe?'  he asked Alfyn.

Alfyn hadn’t moved from his spot, still watching Cyrus.

'How could you Prof?'  The Apothecary sounded distraught.  'Why would you do this to Ophilia?'

Cyrus's attention was dragged from Therese at Alfyn's words.

'Ophilia...'  the Scholar shook himself then closed his eyes and his hand went to his forehead as if it pained him.  'Ophilia..'  he repeated and suddenly he scowled.  'No!'  he exclaimed, his hand coming away from his face quickly as a ball of raging fire burst out on his palm. 

Therese squealed and jumped from his lap as the hand that was holding her heated up in flame too.  Both fireballs released and smashed into the wall opposite in an explosion of embers, only to be replaced immediately by more fire growing in his palms.

'Focus Cyrus!'  Odette was straight over to the Scholar who had stood, his face contorted in what looked like rage.  She grabbed his arm tight, digging her fingers mercilessly into his flesh.  'Damn you Albright, get a bloody grip!'  she shouted at him.

'Get out the way Odette!'  Cyrus' voice came through gritted teeth as the second volley spilled from him, dotting the walls and the fireplace.

'Professor?'  Therese whimpered.  'Please, stop.  You're scaring me!'

Almost instantly, the flames died away.  'Oh my darling!  Please.. forgive me!'  Cyrus knocked Odette's grip away as he grabbed Therese by the shoulders and drew her too him, his expression turning soft again.

'Hmm.'  Odette pushed her glasses straight and thoughtfully tapped her chin.  'Interesting...'  she added.

'What's all that noise in there?'  a loud voice came from the other side of the door to the room.  'Are you trying to break out Albright?  I assure you, I oversaw the preparations myself.  You are completely secured.'

'Yvon.  You arsehole.'  Odette went to the door and hit it hard with her fist.  'Too bloody chicken-shit to face us directly?'  she taunted.

'Ah, the unlovely Odette.'  Yvon chuckled.  'Can't say it was a pleasure to see you, but leaving you here to die horribly will be.'

'Say that to my face, I dare you!'  Odette spat.

Yvon chuckled again.  'Albright?'  he called out again.  'I would speak to you lad..'

'What do you want Yvon?'  Cyrus had seated Therese down on an armchair and made his way to join Odette at the door.  'I'm fairly sure we have nothing to say to each other.' 

'Not so dear boy.. not so!'  Yvon's voice had become friendly, almost wheedling.  'We may not have seen eye to eye in the past Professor, but I do admire your brain.  It would do us both well to collaborate.. just think of it.. what we could achieve together.  I would not be adverse to having you apprentice to me lad..'

'Hmm.'  Cyrus chuckled humourlessly.  'I think it fair to observe that I am philosophically opposed to your entire stance on knowledge Yvon.  It should be shared, not horded for personal gain.  That is without taking into consideration your willingness to use dangerous magic to further your ambition - regardless of the pain and suffering it causes to others.'  He leaned his aching head against the door, looking sad.  'No, Yvon.  I would never join you.  Never.'

'How very unfortunate.'  Yvon said quietly.  'Then I guess you will just have to starve to death along with your companions.'  The Headmaster sighed.  'Truly a waste.'  He bemoaned.

'Hey!'  Therese came running towards the door, her voice shrill.  'Let me out at once!'  she demanded.  'This is not what I agreed with Lucia..'

'Oh really?'  Odette raised an eyebrow and caught hold of the girl.

'Let me go!'  Therese snarled.

'Unhand her at once Odette.'  Cyrus demanded.

Yvon was chuckling to himself again.  'Have fun all of you..'  he laughed.  'Do enjoy dying!'  They heard his footsteps walk away.

'Well now - we are in a pickle.'  Odette scowled at Cyrus as he pulled Therese to himself protectively.  'What exactly did you mean Therese?'  she asked the girl in a deceptively light tone.

Therese suddenly looked nervous.. 'I didn’t mean anything..'  she said, grabbing hold of Cyrus and burying her face in his chest.

'Lucia is Yvon's assistant at the University these days I believe.'  Odette observed.

'She is.'  Cyrus was leading Therese back to a chair in the far corner of the room, as far away from his companions as he could manage.

'I see,'  Odette was tapping her finger against her cheek thoughtfully.  'Figured there had to be brains behind Yvon.  He is too damned dense to plan all this on his own.  Lucia now, skilled in her own area's..'

Alfyn had started to take a swing at the wood planks covering the windows.  His axe rebounded sharply even before it connected showering him with vicious sparks.  He dropped his weapon with a pained cry.

'I wouldn’t bother.'  Cyrus noted.  'The room is sealed magically, aside from the door.  If you want to chip away at anything try that.' He went back to his whispered conversation with Therese.

'The others will find us soon enough.'  Odette observed, then put out a hand to restrain Primrose who looked as if she was going to move towards Cyrus and Therese again.  'I wouldn’t bother my dear.'  She said sourly.  'There is something wrong there, I believe he is under a compulsion of some kind.'

'Are you sure?' Primrose spat.  'It looks pretty natural to me..'

'I'm positive.'  Odette cocked her head looking at her former student.  'Cyrus has only ever truly loved two things.  Knowledge and Ophilia.  It would be impossible to detect an alien magical signature with all of his own personal skill, but I don’t doubt it's there.'

'Hope your right.'  Therion was scowling heavily.

'Might be better if I'm wrong..'  Odette admitted.  'A mind compulsion on someone with the kind of power that Cyrus wields?  If he is fighting it, and I am sure that he will be - I fear what that will do to his focus and control.'

'Oh... crap.'  Therion breathed.

'Indeed.'  Odette agreed.  'He seems calm enough when he is with Therese, wouldn’t be surprised if it was a love spell of some kind based on his behaviour.. Best let him be until we are safely out of here and can explore it in a controlled manner.  Challenging him - mentioning Ophilia.. it didn’t go so well.'

'Don't wanna watch them though.'  Therion turned his back.

.

Time passed slowly.  Everyone was hungry and thirsty and they pooled whatever they had in their packs to make a meagre meal.  They had all settled into an anxious silence, unsure how many hours they had been away on their mission, not knowing how long they had been unconscious for.

Eventually muffled voices sounded in the corridor and there were several loud clicks.  Olberic opened the door and pushed his way in, followed by Erhardt with Ophilia held in his arms.

'Thank the God's!'  the Knight exclaimed as Tressa and H'aanit entered.

'No!'  Odette had stood and moved quickly forward.. 'Don't bring her in here!' 

Erhardt had already put Ophilia down on her feet and the Cleric was making her way towards Cyrus at the back of the room who was reclining with Therese asleep against his chest.

Therion had flown so fast towards Ophilia he was almost a blur.  He grabbed her round the shoulders and turned her roughly away, pulling her into his arms.

'Therion?'  she said, confused.

'Our rescue is here my darling,'  Cyrus was saying to Therese, waking her gently.

Erhardt was hovering protectively next to his sister his face a mask.  Ophilia turned her head back to look at Cyrus just in time to see Therese catch the Professor in a deep kiss.

'Oh!'  Ophilia blinked.  She struggled against Therion's grip, but he kept his hold tight.

'Come away Phili.. Cyrus ain't himself, it's some kind of spell..' Therion murmured to her reassuringly.

'Hey Prof..'  it was Tressa that challenged him.  'You cheating on Phili?  How dare you!'

Cyrus looked up at the roomful of people glaring at him.  His eyes fell on Ophilia, wilting in Therion's arms.  His face went through about ten expressions one after the other then settled on pure rage as his hands cracked electricity violently.  Their eyes met for the briefest second - desperate pain apparent on both their faces, then the Cleric noticed Therese and her jaw dropped in shock.

'That's the woman that brought me the poisoned brandy in Wellspring!'  she pointed at Therese. 'What is she.. why is she.. Oh dear..'  Her legs gave way completely and Therion had to hold her up.

'How dare you accuse my love?'  Cyrus's face went blank, his voice harsh and the built up lightning spewing from his hands directly at the stricken Cleric.  Therion turned her away as Erhardt leapt in front of them both, taking the full hit of the attack and going down heavily.  Weapons were drawn everywhere as Therion went down under the next bolts, taking Ophilia with him, but managing to cover her as they fell.  Olberic had moved in, his sword poised menacingly.

'Stop it Cyrus.'  He said evenly.  'I don’t want to hurt you, but I will if I have to.

Therese had grabbed onto Cyrus's arm.

What the hell is wrong with you Professor?'  she screamed at him.  'Forget them, let's just get out of here!'

Cyrus pulled his arm roughly from Therese's hold and she shrank back in shock from him.

'What?.. the girl simpered... 'Why?'  she asked, trying and failing to get his attention.

'By the God's, You couldn’t even just die quietly could you?'  Headmaster Yvon walked back into the room quite calmly.  'Looks like I am going to have to finish you all myself..'  he said with a smirk.

'You?'  Odette pushed herself forward laughing harshly.  'You couldn’t kill an insect with your pitiful magic Yvon.  Oh.. look at me.. I'm trembling..' 

The smirk never left Yvon's face.  'Odette.. I'm going to save you for last.  I might even keep you a while.  I was going to bide my time, savour my success a bit first but you have pushed my hand.  Now that I have mastery over life and death, I wonder if I could actually kill you many times.. it would keep me amused for at least a century of my powerful, eternal epoch.'

'You have used a bloodstone?'  Cyrus looked stunned for a second, then the lightning that had built following his last attack at Ophilia was flung directly at the Headmaster,  bouncing off him easily.

Absolute chaos followed.

Alfyn dropped to his knee's to where Erhardt, Therion and Ophilia lay stunned from Cyrus's attack,  Olberic moved forward resolutely to physically engage Yvon and Therese headed swiftly towards the door.

'Oh no you don’t.'  Primrose was after the girl, nimbly dodging the lightning that Cyrus was spinning wildly at Yvon.  Therese made it out of the room and was heading towards the front door swiftly.'

'Going somewhere?'  Captain Bastralle stepped out of the shadows behind her and Z'aanta and Hagen blocked the doorway.  The girl screamed for Cyrus but Primrose had caught up with her and clamped a hand over her mouth. 

'You and I are going to have a little talk.'  Primrose said conversationally.  'I'm not sure you are going to like it much, but..'  the Dancer shrugged.

Alfyn was trying to dodge the random lightning thrown by Cyrus and keep his patients covered at the same time.  Therion was already back on his feet but Ophilia was deathly pale and blood was seeping from the gloves she had used to cover her already injured hands.  Erhardt was awake but not making much sense, still in shock at the attack that he had absorbed.

'Don't you bloody dare!'  Alfyn said to Ophilia as he felt for her reach for the power of the flame.  'Your body can't take any more healing.. I have told you this.  What were you thinking coming here?'

'Well someone had to track you idiot, you had been gone more than a day - what did you think we would do?'  Tears were pouring down Ophilia's face.

'Sorry Li.'  Alfyn looked horrified at her expression.  'God's this is all a mess..' he reached a hand to cup her face and kissed her brow gently.  'Please Li, don't cast.  For me..'

She nodded tightly.

The fight with Yvon was still raging.  His strength was unbelievable, each hit that Olberic took from the man seemed to knock him back a few paces. Cyrus's unfocused lightning seemed to be having no effect at all and was hitting Olberic as often as it seemed to hit their foe. 

H'aanit was having better luck with her arrows that were peppering the Headmaster from behind, but even so, the man was still on his feet.  Tressa was trying to channel wind to push Yvon back from his assault on Olberic and give the Warrior an opening but it was Hagen, along with Linde double charging at the headmaster that finally gave them all a break, knocking the man to the ground and overpowering him with teeth and claws.

There was a horrible roar and a ripping sound that echoed around the room.  Headmaster Yvon was on his knees and trying to protect himself from the beasts attacking him but he had also started slowly to change.  He seemed to be growing larger, his skin stretching and turning almost purely white as it expanded.  Muscles bunched under the skin, he opened his mouth and he howled as the transformation took hold of him and he almost shimmered when the change sped up and completely engulfed him.

Cyrus had stopped casting in the shock of what was happening and Odette took the opportunity to grab him firmly.

'You need to focus boy.'  She told him angrily.  'I don't care what's going on in your head right now - if you don’t manage to control yourself you are going to kill us all.'

'Get everyone out of here Odette.'  Cyrus's voice was quiet, desperate.  'I have to finish this and I don’t know..'  his glance went to Ophilia and his eyes rolled as he swallowed hard and his face went blank.  'Just let me finish this.' He said harshly.

Odette stared at him a moment.  'Agreed.'  She said heavily.  She patted Cyrus on the arm and went to speak to Alfyn.  'We need to get everyone out.'  She told him quietly.  'Cyrus doesn’t  know if he can hold on to his focus.. if he loses control completely..'  Alfyn nodded and picked up Ophilia, beckoning to Therion to follow him.

Yvon had got to his feet, an enormously long arm swiped out in a large arc and physically pushed everyone back and down.

'Corrupted!'  the Headmaster screamed.  'The witch gave me a corrupted crystal.. Damn her!'   He moved in on Olberic in a huge volley of thrusts.

Alfyn was back to his feet with Therion's help, the Thief having taken Ophilia himself and starting towards the door.  Alfyn went back for Erhardt and started to move him too.

They had just managed to get into the corridor when Cyrus started channelling fire.  He stood in front of the monster that had been Yvon, his eyes wild and his hands moving in crazy gestures as the fire fell relentlessly.  Olberic was caught up in the conflagration, throwing himself towards the exit, H'aanit and Z'aanta grabbing him under the arms and pulling him out.  Linde and Hagen were running from the house already, even they were spooked by the incredible heat that Cyrus was producing.

All of the furniture in the room was alight now, the fire catching along the walls and spreading out viciously.  Again and again Cyrus cast, unable to target, but relentless in his confusion and fury.  Yvon finally seemed to realise that it was over.  Under the weight of the assault he was back on his knee's looking at the claws that had replaced his hands with pure horror on his bestial face.

'Lucia..'  Yvon stared up at Cyrus, trying to get through to the Scholar.  'She betrayed me.. her and that witch she adores.  They used me.  She has the book Albright and she has Therese's blood.  The blood of a royal.  You need to stop them!'

Cyrus's face became an agony of concentration, trying to pull his mind back together.  With one final enormous fireball he blasted Yvon and the Headmaster exploded into dust which burned up instantly in the raging inferno. 

'Ice.'  Cyrus murmured to himself, his power flowing through him intoxicatingly.  Ice exploded out - dampening the flames and freezing the room as his casts danced from him in a greater and greater frenzy.  The room was almost a completely encased ice by the time his energy finally ran out and he collapsed to the floor with a beaten groan.

'You did good boy.'  Odette was still at his side, holding onto his arm, scorched and covered in ash and frost but grinning wildly.  'We'll sort it out lad.  By the God's, I promise you.'

Chapter Text

'Are you alright Professor?'  Ophilia asked softly, having appeared in the doorway of the room to find Cyrus collapsed on the floor - slumped amid pools of rapidly melting ice.  Therion was hovering behind the Cleric protectively, his hand on her shoulder gently restraining her.

Cyrus looked up at her.  'Sister Ophilia.'  He acknowledged.  'I can honestly say that I have been better.'  He looked rather chagrined.  'I have also looked an awful lot better.'  He added, picking at a large burn hole in his cloak.

Odette was watching the Scholar closely. 'What about you Ophilia? Therion?'  she asked pointedly.  'You both took some really heavy lightning.'

'Oh my, yes of course.'  Cyrus's brow creased into a frown.  'I'm really very sorry - I have no idea how I lost my control quite so thoroughly.  I do hope I didn’t cause you any damage.'

Ophilia had started moving towards him but Odette motioned her back with a tense shake of her head.  Ophilia nodded slightly and complied.

'We're just fine.'  She told him gently. 

'Yet it would appear that your hands are bleeding.'  He observed politely.

'Oh.. just the old damage, I knocked it when I fell.  Nothing of note.'  Ophilia was searching his face, looking for any sign of recognition of their relationship.  She saw none - he just stared back at her slightly bemused and obviously a little embarrassed by her scrutiny.

Odette had made her way over to Therion.  'Where is the girl?'  she asked him quietly.

'Prim and the Captain have her outside.  She tried to get away.'  The Thief grimaced. 

'Can you ask them to take her back to the tavern,  keep an eye on her.  I think we need to keep her separated from Cyrus.  He hasn’t actually asked where she is or mentioned her at all but on the same note he doesn’t seem to recall his attachment to Ophilia either.'

Therion nodded and slipped out of the room as Olberic and Alfyn made their way in.

'How you doing Prof?'  Alfyn went and knelt by Cyrus, checking him over.

'Very tired and more than a little confused.'  The Scholar sighed.

'Well I don’t think sitting in puddles of ice is gonna do you any good.'  Alfyn peered closely at his face.  'I think we can wait till we get back to the tavern to sort you out though, can you walk?'

'I'm not sure.'  Cyrus took Alfyn's offered hand and got unsteadily to his feet, pressing his fingers against his temple and closing his eyes against a sudden wave of dizziness.  'Odette, we still need to search this house.'  He said when he managed to focus again.

'We will get on that tomorrow.'  Odette's tone was firm.  'We haven’t eaten in forever and you could definitely use some rest.'

'Need a lift Prof?'  Olberic offered.  'You're looking a bit unsteady there.'

Cyrus considered then agreed.  'My thanks.'  He replied at the same moment that Therion returned and nodded to Odette.

'Okay then, let's get moving.'  Odette took a last look around the room.  'What a bloody mess.'  She lamented quietly to herself.

~0~

'Let me go!'  Therese exclaimed, her voice painfully shrill.  'You have no right to keep me captive.  There will be consequences..'

Primrose was scowling heavily, she'd had more than enough of the girl already.  Therese had caused a scene when they'd attempted to walk her back to the tavern,  digging in her heels and refusing to move whilst protesting.. loudly.  Eventually Leon had simply picked her up and thrown her over his shoulder - grinning at her outrage and her attempts to bite, kick and scratch him.  He was currently lounged against the door of the empty bedroom they had brought her to - still looking amused by her continued protestations.

'If I were you, I would be wary of raising the Lady Primrose's ire any further.'  He advised with a chuckle.  'I very much doubt that in a battle of wills you are going to be the victor.'

'Quite.'  Primrose said stiffly.  She sat herself down next to Therese on the bed, her jewelled dagger twirling in her fingers.  'So tell me Therese, exactly what did you do to the Professor?'

'I didn’t do anything.'  The girl retorted.  'It's not my fault if he's in love with me is it?' 

'Well, not if it's by his own free will.  We all know that's hardly the case though.'  Primrose leaned forward menacingly.

'I insist that you take me to him at once.'  Therese ordered imperiously.  'He can tell you himself!'

'Oh no my girl.  You will not be seeing him any time soon - in fact never again to my mind.'  Odette had quietly let herself into the room and stood appraising Therese coldly, her mouth pursed in anger.  'Do you have any idea the problems you've caused?'  she asked.

Therese glowered at the Scholar but didn’t answer.

'Whatever you did..'  Odette continued, '..You completely failed to take into consideration Cyrus's extensive elemental mastery and the sheer will and focus that it takes to manage such an ability.  By messing with his head you have dangerously undermined his control.' 

'I didn't..'  Therese tried to protest but Primrose grabbed her arm tight and the girl shut up.

'The result..'  Odette looked her direct in the eye. '..Well you saw the result first hand..  Honestly, child it was lucky you left when you did.  Once you were out of sight he managed to get a grip, but he was damned close to over-extending and bringing the entire house down on top of himself and us. 

Therese's eyes had grown big.  'I didn’t do anything.'  She whispered again.

'Hmm.'  Odette mused.  'Actually, I believe you - there is no magic about you whatsoever.  So I'm guessing it was Lucia who constructed the love spell for you?'

Therese finally looked scared.  'How did you..?'

'Well, it's pretty obvious darling.  I can't see a man like Cyrus being interested in a sop like you without magical interference.'  Primrose's grip tightened.  'You were the student he mentioned to us before weren’t you.  The one who got him fired by starting the rumours about him and the Princess?'

'I..I.. don’t know what you're talking about.'  Therese's voice was shaky.

'You might as well tell us everything.'  Primrose said calmly.

'If you refuse..'  Odette added. '..You will simply force me to cast a truth spell and we will get our information that way.  Of course that's very tiring for me -but with your weak will I can have you singing like a bird in no time!'

There was silence for a few minutes.

'I didn’t mean to get Professor Albright fired from the University.'  Therese finally admitted sullenly.

'What in the hell did you think would happen?'  Primrose looked incredulous.  'Even the hint of a scandal involving the Royal Family can be disastrous.'

'I thought he would just be warned to be a bit more distant with Mary.'  Therese sniffed unhappily.

'Not very bright are you?' Primrose observed then scowled up at Leon who was chuckling at her words.

'Professor Albright knew it was me.'  Therese admitted sadly.  'On the day he left Atlasdam with you he apologised to me, said he was sorry he hadn’t realised I was jealous of the time he spent on Mary's study and that he wished he had encouraged me more.  He still didn’t get it.  He thought my interest was academic.'

'If you actually knew him at all,'  Odette interjected harshly  'You would have realised that his own personal integrity would never have allowed him to fraternise with a student, or even consider the possibility.  He was completely clueless of your true intentions you foolish child.'

Therese shrugged.  'I wouldn’t have been a student forever.' 

'You would always have been vapid and uninteresting though.'  Primrose muttered.

'Ouch!'  Leon beamed at Primrose in admiration, causing yet another annoyed looked from the Dancer.

Odette was frowning at the both of them.  'So what did Lucia want in return for the spell?'  she turned her attention back to the girl.

'Blood.'  Therese looked unhappy.  'Lucia came to me not long after I'd spoken to the Headmaster about .. well, when I started the rumours..  She was kind to me, sympathised with my position and told me that there was a way I could have him love me and only me forever.'

'Royal blood.'  Odette was thoughtful.  'Yvon said something about that before he exploded.  Do you know why she wanted it?'

'It's not like she was particularly friendly once we actually got on the road.'  Therese said sourly.

'You must know something.'  Primrose gave her an incredulous look.  'Are you actually as dense as I think you are?'

'No!'  Therese shot back.  'Look, all I know is that there was something Lucia and the Headmaster had been working on forever but it was only recently that they realised that they had been missing the right kind of blood to make it work properly.  I provided it for them.  Repeatedly.  Then they hit another snag - their experiment in Quarrycrest was attacked so production was halted.  Lucia and I travelled there and she ransacked a house for some stuff that had been taken from their lab, then she burned the house and all the remaining evidence.'

'Indeed.'  Odette's voice was even.  'That was my house in fact.'

Therese's look of sheer panic was almost funny.  'I didn’t have anything to do with that!'  she qualified quickly.

Odette waved her hand.  'Carry on.'  She instructed.

'Yes, right.'  Therese suddenly seemed eager to help.  'We were planning on attending the Kindling, but when we arrived in Saintsbridge there was a load of trouble what with the assassination and Lucia got hold of information that the Professor was going on to Wellspring next so she decided to get down there first and wait.'

'Why?'  Odette looked puzzled.

'She needed some items to create the spell for me.  Personal items belonging to the Professor.  She wanted to gather them before he got to Stonegard to ensure that the binding spell would be ready to go immediately - just requiring his blood to finish it off.'

'What I don’t get is the attempt on Ophilia's life in Wellspring.'  Primrose said quietly.  'What was Lucia trying to gain by that?'

Suddenly Therese looked angry.   'They were sharing a room!'  she spat.  'When we took the items from the Professor's bags, the Cleric's pack was there too.  I could hardly believe what I was seeing! I was so angry.'  The girls fists had clenched reflexively.  'It was me that bought the bottle of spirit and took some random herbs from Lucia's backpack then delivered it, nothing more than she deserved for actually daring to...'

'You do realise that your actions killed two men?'  Primrose said deceptively lightly.

Therese stared at the dancer in horror.  'No!'  she breathed.  'I assumed it would just make her a bit ill..  Lucia was really angry though, said we had to leave straight away.  I never knew it actually killed....Oh God's.'  She moaned.

'So what happened when you got to Stonegard?'  Odette motioned impatiently for the girl to carry on talking.

Therese gulped as tears began to spill down her face.

'It was really strange.'  She managed between her sobs.  'At the University Lucia was the Headmaster's assistant, but when we arrived at his house it honestly seemed like she was the one in charge - she was really rude to him, calling him an idiot and worse - he seemed a bit scared of her.'

'He was always threatened by strong women.'  Odette grouched.

'Lucia gave the Headmaster something she had promised him and that made him extremely happy but then she told him that their association was over.'  Therese's voice became angry again. 'She set up some spell in that room in which we were trapped and told me I was the bait.  She was to take the Professor's blood while he was unconscious, finish the binding then wake just me and him so that we could leave together.  That was the plan.  She didn’t though.  She left us there.'

Odette started to chuckle darkly to herself.  'Clever..'  she finally admitted.

'What do you mean?'  Primrose looked puzzled.

'I'm quite sure Lucia would have known the effect a mind spell would have on Cyrus.  What better way to eliminate her loose ends?  Him, Yvon and Therese wiped out when he lost his control and rained destruction down on them all.  Very devious indeed.'

'Where will we find this woman?'  Primrose was scowling deeply.

Therese shrugged helplessly.  'She has a place she keeps as her workshop and personal library - she mentioned it loads of time, called it 'The ruins of Eld' but I have no idea where it is.'

'I need to think about all this.'  Odette was tapping her cheek.

'W..w..what are you going to do with me?'  Therese asked in a small voice.

Odette looked between Leon and Primrose, then she sighed.  'For now you will be staying to this room.'  Odette decided.  'If you start calling out or creating a scene I will have you bound and gagged.  If you try to escape, I will be sending Z'aanta straight after you.. remember him and his very large dire wolf?  Hagen will hunt you down and deal with you in his own manner and that will be our problem solved.. Remember that before you make any rash decisions.'

Therese gulped and nodded quickly.

~0~

When the companions finally made it back to the tavern, Ophilia and H'aanit went straight upstairs to gather the Cleric's belongings from the room that she had been sharing with Cyrus.  They moved quickly, relocating Ophilia to H'aanit's room which had been a larger one due to Linde and at the Huntress' insistence stating that Ophilia still required help due to her injured hands. 

Ophilia was grateful for the kindness of the gesture and the quiet support from her friend, but she wished she could have been left alone.  The very sudden change in circumstance was killing her even though she was desperately trying not to show it.   The past week had been hard enough with everyone treating her like she was made of glass.  It was simple kindness and care from her friends but it gnawed at her and now even in the short time it had taken to return to the tavern, the sympathetic looks and compassion were already overwhelming.

'Can I come in?'  Alfyn's head peered round the door just as H'aanit had finished settling Ophilia's belongings into their room.

'Have you seen to everyone else already?'  Ophilia asked mildly.

'Yes Ma'am.'   Alfyn grinned as he came in.  'I know better than to try and prioritise you Li.'

'I wilst give thee some space for thy work.'  H'aanit grasped Ophilia on the shoulder.  'If thou needen me I wilst be downstairs.  I wilst arrange for food for thou both.'  She added before calling to Linde and leaving the two healers alone.

'So...'  Alfyn said with a hint of disapproval in his tone as soon as the door was closed.

'Spare me Alf.'  Ophilia grimaced at her friend.  'You guys were gone all night, we were all frantic by morning - we didn’t actually know where you were, so I needed to locate you.'  She tapped her head.

'Hmm..'  his mouth was still set in a rigid line.

'I let Erry carry me and everything!'  Ophilia grumbled.

Alfyn had taken up one of the Cleric's gloved hands, turning it over with his usual gentleness.  'Gonna have to soak these for a while, make sure there ain't no dried blood before we try and cut the gloves off.'  He mused.  'Don't wanna do even more damage.'

Ophilia suddenly smiled, 'Why Alfyn, does that mean you are going to finally exact your revenge and bath me?'  she started to giggle.

Alfyn's eyebrows raised and he snickered.  'Pleasant as that sounds Li, I think a bucket of water should suffice in this instance.  I will get my revenge of course, but not when you ask for it.'

Tressa knocked at the door with a cheery holler and brought in the bucket of water that Alfyn had already planned.

'Look at me, all Apothecary assistanty and useful..'  Tressa grinned.

'I was a bit desperate for some back-up.'  Alfyn deadpanned then laughed and ruffled the Merchant's hair when she took a swing at him.  'You're doing great!'  he told her.

'Your brother is being a complete pain.'  Tressa groaned to Ophilia as she set the bucket down and helped the Cleric to settle on the floor by the fire to plunge her hands in.  'He keeps insisting he's coming to see you but the man can barely walk after the lightning blast he took.  Also.. I told him in no uncertain terms the last thing you need right now is Captain Tragic bringing you down.  I mean - he's nice and all that - but he is a champion at brooding...'

'I admit her bedside manner does need a little work...'  Alfyn added with a chuckle as Tressa swatted at him again.

'You know what I mean.'  She laughed.  'We have been completely outnumbered by old people recently.  I reckon Ophilia needs a bit of fun tonight, rather than spend the evening lamenting her woes.'

'Then surely we are missing the chief jester?'  Ophilia raised an eyebrow at her friends.

'I heard that your Holiness!'  Therion grouched banging through the door with a tray resplendent with food and drink. 

'Ahh, here he is.'  She grinned up at him.

'I'm not the one sat on the floor with my hands stuck in a bucket.'  he observed with a smirk.

Ophilia opened her mouth to retort but Therion put up a warning finger.  'If I were you..'  he advised with a smile, '..I'd remember that in a second someone is gonna have to help you eat.  Now Alfyn would usually be the first choice, but he's pretty mad at you for hurting yourself yet again plus he will definitely make you eat more than you want to.'

'Hey!'  Alfyn protested when Ophilia nodded her agreement.

'So,'  Therion continued.  'That leaves you with me or Tressa.  Not a great option either way...'

'Yeah,'  Tressa said thoughtfully.  'I'll step up if you want me to Phili, but I ain't sure I will have much patience.'

Ophilia appraised Therion.  'I've lost my appetite completely.'  She told him straight faced.

'Not an option.'  His smile had become unusually tender as he brought a plate over from the tray and sat down next to her.  'So do you want your daily dose of energy before or after?'  he enquired.

'Who'd have ever thought Therion would win the prize for biggest sap in the room?'  Tressa  grinned at the Thief.

They were halfway through their meal when there was a polite tap at the door.

'May I come in?'  Cyrus called.

Tressa jumped up and opened the door to him. 'What's up Prof?'  she asked with just the faintest hint of hostility.

'I'm terribly sorry if I'm interrupting.'  Cyrus managed to slip his way into the small gap the merchant had opened the door and scrutinized the scene before him.  'It's just I found this in my room..'  he held up a hairbrush,  'Judging by the colour and length of the hair on it - I have surmised that it belongs to you Sister Ophilia,  although I am frankly bemused as to how it came to find its way under my bed.'  He added with a small frown.

'Oh..um, thank you Professor.'  Ophilia blushed hard.  'Ah.. I guess,  um .. I must have dropped it there when you..um.. offered to help me with my hair the other morning?'  she half lifted her hands from the water bucket as if to illustrate her explanation.

'Ah.'  Cyrus's face became frustrated and his hand pressed to his temple..  'I do apologise Sister, I am finding that since my unfortunate episode of unconsciousness there are elements of my memory that seem particularly vague or missing completely.'

Tressa held out her hand and took the brush from him.

'However,'  the Professor went on in a more cheerful tone.  'It is most certainly true that I find an enjoyment in hair management.  It pleased my Mother greatly to have me attend to hers when I was a child.  Please - if you find you need assistance again, do not hesitate to seek me out.'  He smiled handsomely at the Cleric.

'Thank you.'  She murmured, her eyes cast firmly down at her hands.

'Not at all.'  Cyrus nodded at the others.  'I will let you get on with your meal.'  He made his way back out of the door.

'Awkward!'  Tressa exclaimed after she had watched the Scholar safely retreat back down the corridor and she had slammed the door shut.

'He is frighteningly astute.'  Ophilia looked up from her contemplation of her hands.  'I don’t doubt he will find evidence of me all over our.. his room that I never even considered when I packed up.'

'He doesn’t seem to remember your time together at all.'  Tressa was frowning.  'That's some scary bad mojo.  No wonder he's looking so.. weird.'

'Ain't just in relation to Li either I reckon.'  Alfyn said thoughtfully.  'When I was tending to him he was unlike I've ever known him - even when we first met.   He's always been kind,  interested and engaged in what you're saying to him.  Guess that's what made him a great teacher.  Today he was just polite and a bit distant like his personality had been sucked out and the rest of him was just going through the motions.  Didn't like it one bit.'

'I thought we were supposed to be having fun.'  Therion pointed out sourly, his arm sliding around Ophilia's waist.  'Do I have to do something outstandingly stupid already?'

'You're breathing.. it's only a matter of time anyway..'  Tressa said smugly.

'Is that honestly the best you've got small-fry?  Have I taught you nothing?'  Therion laughed when she poked her tongue out at him.

'Let's get done eating, then I can sort out Li's hands, then we can plan fun stuff.'  Alfyn picked up his fork again determinedly.

'Gods, when Oafyn is the mature adult in the group, I reckon we are all doomed'.  Therion smirked.

~0~

It was well after midnight that Odette made her way upstairs to finally go to bed.  She had spent her evening in her cup's both with companions and with her own thoughts as she struggled to make sense of what was happening and in planning a way forward.  In all honestly she hated feeling out of control and she needed to get some clarity in place and soon.

Odette was not overly surprised to note a light still burning from Cyrus's room as she went past.  At first she considered going and telling him to get some bloody sleep, but she shrugged to herself and carried on along the corridor towards her own door instead.

'Odette.'  Cyrus's voice drifted to her just before she reached her destination.  When she turned he beckoned to her.  With an annoyed 'Tsk' she made her way back and ito the room he had retreated into, sure in the fact she would follow.

The first thing that struck her was the sheer mess, not only of the normally immaculate Cyrus, but also the room itself.  It looked like he had searched the space in its entirety paying no attention to leaving things thrown wherever they landed.  His desk was covered in scattered papers, all uniform in his own elegant handwriting but the paper now rather crumpled and random.

'What the hell happened here Albright?'  Odette asked tetchily.  'Did you lose control again?'

'Odette.'  Cyrus had been standing by the roaring fire, looking intently into the flame but now he stared at her with a crease in his brow.  'You are the person who singlehandedly gave me the opportunity to learn, to become a Scholar.  Everything I have ever achieved comes back to that.'

Odette's eyes narrowed at his scrutiny and she opened her mouth to retort.

'Of all the people in the world..'  Cyrus began again before she could speak.  '..You are the one that I should..I must.. feel something for.  Why don’t I?'

'Ain't like we have ever been into that touchy-feely crap boy.'  Odette said defensively.

'Odette,'   Cyrus's voice had become softer.  'When it looked like I was going to completely lose my control back at Yvon's, you got everyone out and then stayed by my side.  I have respect and .. admiration but I can catch no depth of emotion.'

'Well..'  Odette was actually blushing.

'Point is, that got me thinking.  I can find no actual emotion for anybody.  Not my mother, you, my work colleagues or my companions on this adventure.'  Cyrus was pacing now, his hand rubbing at his chin.  'This seemed unnatural so I started looking for clues.'

'Oh?'  Odette swept another look across the devastated room.  'And did you find any?'  she asked.

'Oh yes.'  Cyrus stopped and looked at her again.  'Firstly I examined the only emotions that I can actually remember feeling.  Ever.  They both occurred today.  Firstly there was an overpowering love for Therese, my student of all people.'  He frowned.  'The second, and by far the more powerful of the two, was the overwhelming anger I experienced when Sister Ophilia accused Therese of trying to kill her.  Both of these emotions make no sense to me at all.'

'Right.'  Odette mumbled.

'When I came back here I could literally smell Ophilia as soon as I entered the room.  Once Alfyn was finished with me I started searching and I found not only her hairbrush rolled under the bed but her hair in my bedding and on my pillows - her scent unmistakeable everywhere.  And the overwhelming essence of her from this.'  He held up the finger on which her little gold ring was sat.

'And what have you concluded?'  Odette asked curiously.

'I really didn’t have to conclude anything.'  Cyrus finally sank into a seat at the desk and closed his eyes, rubbing at the pain in his temple.  'I wrote pretty much all of it down here in my notes.  They are supposed to be my preparation for the telling of the Flamebearer journey, but honestly - they read more like one of my romance novels.'  He looked up at Odette with pure misery on his face.  'I guess from this, I was very much in love with her and..'  his eyes closed again and he shook his head sadly '..she felt much the same way.'

There was a long silence.  After a while, Cyrus started to gather up his papers and stack them in a pile.  'I went to see her.'  He finally said without looking up from his job.  'I took her brush to return to her.  I guess I wanted to see if actually seeing her and knowing.. what I had learned would bring the feelings back.'

'I'm guessing it didn’t.'  Odette said flatly.

'No.'  Cyrus's voice was so soft it was hard to hear.  'She was sat with her hands in a bucket, thanks to the damage that I caused her, looking as vulnerable as a day old kitten and the only response I could muster was to feel a bit sorry for her pain.'

'Do you know anything about the magic that was cast on you?'  Odette asked suddenly.  'Therese called it a 'binding'.  I've not come across anything personally but we think it was probably some kind of love spell.'

'A binding?'  Cyrus looked up, his frown a lot deeper.  'That was completely banished from practise hundreds of years ago because of the dangers it..'  he broke off thinking hard. 

'What do you know?'  Odette pushed him.

'There is a story that illustrates the dangers of binding a will.'  Cyrus said thoughtfully.  'A nobleman fell in love with a widow, inherent of a fortune from her husband.  The Widow had many courters based not only on her money but also on her striking beauty and her wit, but she quite scandalously decided that she needed not take a new husband and instead enjoy her life with as many lovers as she could manage.  Our nobleman was angered by this - wanting the woman for himself so he organised a binding spell so that he could have her.  The spell meant that not only would her love be 'bound' to him through magical means, she would be incapable of feeling such emotion for any other, thus ensuring her fidelity.'

'Well that sure sounds familiar.'  Odette murmured.

'Everything went as planned with the binding and the two married,  the woman's devotion set solely on him and he was happy, right up until the day she produced his son and heir.'

'Oh..Oh dear..'  Odette said thoughtfully.

'Quite.'' Cyrus nodded at her understanding.  'She was unable to find any feeling for the child and in fact her jealousy that the man she was bound to loved their child was overwhelming.  In the end she killed both the child and herself unable to reconcile her emotions.'

'Tragic.' 

'Binding any mind is magic of the darkest kind.'  Cyrus agreed.  'It is also a rare and powerful magic.  I simply cannot believe that Therese was capable of such.. oh..'  he looked at Odette suddenly with a half smile.  'I don’t say that through any residual feeling for the girl.  I seemed to shed that compulsion rather quickly as soon as she was out of my sight.'

'It wasn’t Therese that cast it.'  Odette explained.  'It was Lucia, she was working with Yvon.'  She quickly filled Cyrus in on what they had gleaned from his former student.  'Can you fight this spell Cyrus?'  she asked finally.  'Without killing yourself preferably.'  She added with a smirk.

'Fact is, I can actually feel the compulsion in my head.  A pain in my temple that is trying to distract my mind.'  He sighed.  'Of course I can fight it - I'm aware of it which is half the battle won.  How to beat it safely is the question.  I simply can't lose my control in the way I did today.'

'You have to fight it though Cyrus.'  Odette said quietly.  'Your care for others gives your moral compass it's direction.  It's always been clear and strong but even more so with the gentle influence of Ophilia.  I would be loath to see the very real damage someone with your ability could do if they were not restrained by positive feeling for their fellow man.  You could quite easily become a monster.'

'I find myself wondering if that was Lucia's intent all along.'  Cyrus mused.  'The 'love' aspect of the spell was very weak - cast aside ridiculously easily.  Could she have hedged her bets in case I did survive?  Morally bereft I could make a strong ally and she must realise that I am going to go looking for her.'

'An interesting point.'  Odette agreed, 'And one that we could use to our advantage when we find her.  Once you have actually got your emotions back of course.'  She added.

'Quite so.'  Cyrus agreed with a smile.

Chapter Text

It was going to take five days of travel to get to Goldshore and after their second day of rest in Stonegard following the events at Yvon's house most of the companions were more than ready to be on the move.

Eliza had shown up the day before they took their leave having followed them in order to meet up before the next Kindling however she found she had a Royal prisoner and a deceased Headmaster she had to deal with instead.

'Honestly?  I was just a few days behind you.. You couldn’t stay out of trouble that long?'  she moaned when she was presented with the events that had unfolded.

'Not my fault.. for a change!'  Ophilia beamed at the Knight Ardante.

'Well, I am going to have to get Lady Therese back to Atlasdam and hand her over to the Royal Family and then quite probably get pulled into the University business as well.'  Eliza shook her head.

'I'm gonna sort the University out.'  Odette said firmly.  'I need to see Susanna anyway about these 'Ruins of Eld' and gather any more information I can about the binding spell, so I guess I will be travelling with you.'

'What about you Professor, will you be returning to Atlasdam?'  Eliza turned to Cyrus who had been silent throughout the whole conversation.

'Me?'  he looked around at the faces of his friends and he shrugged.  'My choice would be to stay and continue on my original course.  Obviously I cannot provide any guarantee that it is safe or indeed the best option for my companions to have me along - so I will leave that decision up to them.'

'For my part..'  Odette was scowling at Cyrus.  'I have no doubt that the wisest option for him is staying in this company and that his best chance at being able to beat the effects of the spell is with their unique help.  As I have told him.'

There was a small silence.  Eventually Ophilia looked up and smiled gently at Cyrus.  'I don't believe there is a single one of us that would ever forsake another member of our family when they needed us Professor.  I have no doubt whatsoever that you can overcome this affliction and... anything that you need.. anything that would help.. you only have to ask.'  She flared the tiniest flash of pain when their eyes met as he gravely nodded his thanks.

'Quite right, Ophilia.'  Olberic added quietly.  'I have no wish to see you go Cyrus.  We have managed many dangers together - this is no different.'

'Yeah,'  Therion added jovially.  'No matter how screwed up you are right now - I reckon you still have a ways to go to catch up with me and no-one's kicked my arse out yet!'

'Yet..'  Tressa smirked at the Thief, then turned to Cyrus.  'You're a complete dork, and by the God's.. your lectures sometimes...'  Tressa looked at Leon who was chuckling at her comments. 'You know - him and Phili once spent an entire afternoon talking about how great Church Libraries are...'  she shook her head sadly.  'Well, despite all that - I'd miss you if you were gone.  Not the lectures though...'

Alfyn had been considering thoughtfully.  'I reckon I could concoct something that might knock you out pretty quick if, you know ..you lost control or anything.  Could have it on hand ready for any unfortunate eventualities..'

'I was planning on a more direct approach - with the butt of my spear!'  Olberic admitted with a grin.

'Olberic!'  Alfyn grinned.  'Y'know I can't help but be fascinated by the spell as well and how your gonna bust it.  Might even be some kind of elixir that would help.  I'll write to Ogen and see what he has to say.'  The Apothecary slung his arm around the Scholar sat next to him.  'Don't worry bud, we'll get you sorted.'  He smiled.

'Well, quite aside from not wanting you gone,'  Primrose had looked up with a steely glint in her eyes. '..I find that I am also rather eager to be with you when you face this Lucia woman.  I have a few choice points I wouldn’t mind carving on her backside if I'm honest.'  Leon's grin broadened at her words and he looked about to comment.  'Just..don't.'  Primrose frowned at him furiously.

'I agreeth with Lady Primrose.'  H'aanit added.  'I too wouldst liken to hath a turn with this woman.'  She reached to pat Cyrus's hand reassuringly.  'Just because thou art muddled Professor, doth not mean thy wisdom and thy wit are not stilleth as sharp as ever.  It wouldst be unwise of us to losen such.'

'Erhardt?  Anything to add?'  Olberic poked his fellow Knight who had been sat silent.

'Me?  I have a say?'  Erhardt looked stunned, then pleased.  'Well..'  he sat back in his chair and scrutinised Cyrus who was looking at him enquiringly.  '..Course I want you to stick around.. I'm looking forward to having you as a brother-in-law..'  he took a sideways glance at Ophilia who was blushing fiercely and then at Cyrus who's jaw had fallen open.  '..after all having such a nerd in the family can only make me look way cooler by comparison...'

'The only way to make you look cool brother.. would be if Cyrus turned you into an icicle - which right about now I wouldn’t be against..'  Ophilia mumbled.

Odette was laughing loudly.  'Maybe I was wrong Cyrus, perhaps you would be better off coming back to Atlasdam with me instead...'  she exclaimed as Olberic launched himself bodily at Erhardt wrestling him to the floor connecting punches.

'Should have known better than to let you speak..'  Olberic snorted as he drove a fist into Erhardt's chest.

'Heh, call that a punch old man?  I've been more damaged by having to look at your face every morning than by your fists..'  Erhardt grinned smacking his attacker around the head solidly.

Eliza was on her feet looking at the two Knights incredulously.  'What the hell...?'  she asked.

'Oh, don’t mind them.'  Primrose purred.  'They can't keep their hands off each other for more than an hour.'

'Yeah!'  Tressa agreed enthusiastically.  'We think it's some kind of flirting or weird warrior mating ritual - although they insist it's just sparring..'

Alfyn went and physically split the two Knights apart with H'aanit's help.  'Enough lad's!'  he laughed.  'You are only giving the ladies extra ammunition to fuel their speculation!'

'Not like we needen extra ammunition!'  H'aanit chortled at Olberic's sour grimace.

'Pfft.  Only a mother could love that ugly mug...'  Erhardt protested, which nearly started a second round of wrestling.

'Peace!'  Ophilia got to her feet and admonished them sternly.  She turned back to Cyrus.  'Despite these reprobates antics, I believe we have all spoken true and would very much like for you to continue your travels with us Professor.  If you still wish too.'  She added with a scowl at the Knights.

Cyrus blinked and looked up at the Cleric, his face unreadable.  'Thank you Ophilia .. everyone.  If I .. had any kind of control over my emotions right now..I think I may be crying.'

'In despair... over your choice of companions maybe!'  Ophilia smiled at him softly.

'Indeed my dear!'  Cyrus raised a small grin and found himself unable to drag his eyes away from the Cleric's tender gaze.  He suddenly felt a burning on his palms and clenched his fists firmly, gritting his teeth and closing his eyes in concentration. When he reopened them Ophilia had looked away and no-one else had seemed to notice his lapse save Odette who nodded at him encouragingly.

'So..'  Leon stepped forward from the fireplace against which he had been lounging.  'I will provide passage to Atlasdam tomorrow for Odette, Eliza and their captive, then I shall endeavour to get back to Goldshore for the Kindling.'  He went and knelt in front of Ophilia, taking one of her bandaged hands in his.  'I would very much like to witness the ritual, as well as be available to help if there is trouble, but if the winds are against me arriving in time Ophilia, please await my return.  My ship will be yours and your companions to take you safely across towards Flamesgrace so that you may return the Ember and complete your task.'

'Thank you Captain Bastralle.'  Ophilia said a little breathlessly.  'I admit, I would be most excited to travel with you..'  her blush was brilliant.

'I thinken I wilst be travelling with thou on the morrow too Captain.'  Z'aanta said thoughtfully.  'I wouldst visit mine home, tis been a long year set in stone and it wouldst pleasen me to see our village again.  I also believeth a visit with Susanna wouldst not go amiss.'

H'aanit sudden looked fraught.  'Musten I travel with thou Master?'  she asked meekly.

'By the terms of thy apprenticeship thou certainly musten accompany thy Master, Hany.'  Z'aanta looked harshly on the Huntress.  'Thine quest hath completed and ist time for thou to take up thy instruction again ist not?'

'Aye Master.'  H'aanit inclined her head to him.  'However, I findeth Z'aanta that I shall not.'  Z'aanta looked sharply up at his apprentice as she carried on stoically.   'If mine disobedience in this matter doth enden our agreement Sir, then so be it - but I wilst not abandon my companions, without whom I wouldst not be standing here today.  They hath given their all to mine endeavour and they hast given their friendship to mine soul and until their hunt is over and done, I findeth that mine must also continue at their side.'

'That ist thy final word Hany?'  Z'aanta asked deceptively lightly.  The Huntress nodded firmly.  'Then thy apprenticeship ist over.'  Z'aanta declared regretfully.

There was suddenly a lot of noise as her companions leapt to her defence, but H'aanit quietly raised her hand to stem the protests.

'Explain thyself Master.'  She demanded having noted the brilliant grin that had spread over his grizzled face.

'Why, if thou hast learned thy final lesson child, there ist no more for me to teachest thou and thou art a Master thyself and apprentice no more.'  His grin broadened.  'The greatest lesson that thou will ever learn is that of truest friendship and commitment to the causes of not only thyself but others.  I findeth that thou hast surpassed thyself in this learning Hany.  I am so proud!'  He gathered the Huntress up an a huge hug, taking her from her feet whilst Linde and Hagen gambolled around them like spring lambs.

There was a huge surge to congratulate the Huntress who looked rather stunned. 

'Thou wilst have to undertaketh thy first hunt this afternoon, whilst I am still hereth so we can formalise your graduation.'  Z'aanta  decreed.  'Picken thy team Hany and we wilst set out after lunchen.  Tis a formal proceeding.'  The Master informed everyone.  'The first beast that Hany kills as a Master musten be brougheth back and prepared by her hand for her family.  It wilst mark the starten of her feast where we wilst invoken the goodwill of Draefendi, the Huntress with wine and ale and merriment.'

'And thou wilst invite Natalia to attend.'  H'aanit insisted.  To everyone's surprise the old Hunter blushed bright red under his beard.

'If thou wishest it.'  He agreed meekly.

.

After a quick lunch, Olberic, Primrose and Alfyn offered to attend H'aanit on her hunt, whilst Erhardt was requested to aid Tressa in gathering supplies for their onward journey.  Everyone started to get themselves together.  Ophilia went to Odette and Eliza and spoke quietly with them for a few minutes their conversation hushed but appearing lively.  Odette finally nodded, although she didn’t look particularly happy and the three of them, followed by Therion made their way to the stairs. 

Cyrus gathered his book and made his way towards his room a few moments later.  Entering the corridor, the Scholar noted Therion stood with his ear to the door of where Therese was being held.  Cyrus had been in to speak to his erstwhile student the day before along with Odette mainly to confirm that the compulsion he had felt towards the girl was truly broken and was relieved to find himself holding no residual feeling upon actually being in her presence.  Therion had noticed the Scholars approach and beckoned to him quietly.

'Ophilia wanted to speak to Therese.'  He whispered when Cyrus reached him.  'Think you can manage listening in?'

'I'm not sure its altogether polite to listen at a keyhole...'  Cyrus began but his interest quickly got the better of him as he heard Therese shrilly exclaim that she had nothing to say to the Cleric.'

'Please Lady Therese.'  Ophilia's voice was soft.  Patient.

'Are you here to gloat?'  Therese asked scornfully.  'Go ahead Sister.'

'No child.'  Ophilia shook her head as she sat down on the bed beside the girl.  'I have had some time to think about your predicament, and the Lady Eliza has also requested that I present a report for her investigation that she will give to the Crown.'  Ophilia paused thoughtfully.  'Therese, I think I understand you much better than you may realise and I would like to help if I can.'

'What can you possibly know about my situation?'  the girl snarled at her. 

Ophilia looked at the girl steadily.  'I grew up in the Church, the adopted daughter of the Archbishop and companion to his daughter - much as you have grown up in the Palace, ward to the crown and companion to Princess Mary.  I know how being in that sort of position can lead to the jealousy and suspicion of others - and indeed how this can isolate and entrap you even more than the position itself.'  Ophilia paused to gather her thoughts.  'I also see in you the same kind of passionate nature and imagination that it has been my own trial to carry.'  The Cleric sighed.  'I have always found the restrictions that my role put upon me almost impossible to negotiate wisely.  I wanted to be with people, often sneaking out in the night to get up to mischief, a thorn to the heart of my father who only ever treated me with kindness.'

'I still fail to see..'  Therese interrupted rudely but shut up when the Cleric put a gentle bandaged hand on her arm.

'I would wish to suggest in my report that you be given some good works to do.'  Ophilia looked closely to at Therese to see if she could gauge a response but there was none.  'If you are anything like I was, as I believe - then an actual outlet for your nature will help you immensely.  Your have now tasted freedom, the journey that you have made with Lucia will have opened your eyes to the world outside the four walls of the Palace.  Returning now will be even harder than it was before.'

'You mean the journey upon which I was responsible for the death of two men?'  Therese laughed harshly.  'I very much doubt I will be allowed any freedom after that comes to light - do you Sister?'

'That depends on you I think.'  Ophilia replied quietly.  'It is a fact you will always have to carry, your actions cannot be undone.  You can however seek atonement if you are truly sorry.'

'Why?'  Therese suddenly sounded unsure.  'What are you trying to achieve here Ophilia?'

'I see a young, beautiful girl who should have the whole of her life ahead of her and the passion and imagination to actually do something useful.  However that girl is at a crossroads where she could very easily lose all of herself to bitterness and regret.'  Ophilia looked up and her tone became firm.  'I am going to be honest with you Therese.  I am marked for death and living under that threat gives me an insight into just how futile it is to waste any time that we are given.  I do not want to see your life wasted because you made a mistake, trusted in the wrong people and took a wrong turn.  If anything I can say to you, or I can put in my report to the crown can change that outcome then I will do it.'

There was a long silence.

'Do you have faith in me?'  Therese's voice was very quiet.  'Do you honestly think there is something worth...'

'Yes.'  Ophilia nodded emphatically.  'I know also that the Professor had only kind words for you, regardless of your actions costing him his position.  I believe not only in my assessment but his as well.'

Therese looked up at Eliza.  'Do you think that something might be done?'  she asked.

'I think the words of the Flamebearer would be listened to child, especially as she was the one that you attempted to hurt in the first place.'  Eliza said thoughtfully.  'The Princess Mary's esteem for you is well known and that will  go a long way in your defence.'

'You also answered all our questions and helped as much as you could.'  Odette muttered, her eyes on Ophilia rather than Therese.  'I can add that to my own report if desired.'

'Maybe. I will think on it.'  Therese tone was cold as she turned herself away from the Cleric and shut her eyes.

'That's all I can ask.'  Ophilia murmured, but her expression was sad.

.

Outside the door, Therion poked at Cyrus.  'Best move, they are coming out.'  He said pushing at the Scholar guiding him quickly to his own room and shutting the door behind them.

'You okay?'  The thief noticed the flames licking up Cyrus's fingers as soon as they had reached safety.

'Yes.  I have it under control.'  The Scholar was intent on the flame, shaping it and making it dance as tears rolled down his cheeks.

'Are you sure?'  Therion's concern was evident.

'I get hit with sudden random feeling, then the pain and the battle for control begins.  It is hard to be around Ophilia, to feel her right there and to know that I love her and yet not be able to access the emotion.'  Cyrus said tonelessly.  'It's completely logical that I would love her after all - who wouldn’t?'  He snapped his hand shut and the flame disappeared, leaving just the roaring ache in his temple.

'Well, all the people trying to kill her I suppose.'  Therion scowled.

'Quite.'  Cyrus agreed.

'If your fine, I kinda need to get back to her.  I'm on Ma duties, wanna make sure she gets some rest if we are celebrating tonight and back on the road tomorrow.'  Therion started heading towards the door.

'Look after her Therion.  If something happens to me, if I lose control or my mind - please..'  Cyrus reached and took the Thief by the shoulder.  'There is no one into whose care I would trust her more.  I know that you love her too.'

'Course.'  Therion replied without looking back.  'Who wouldn’t.'

.

H'aanit returned triumphant from her hunt, staggering under the weight of a large boar.  As the beast was cooking Z'aanta regaled everyone with tales of the hunt and the Huntress Goddess as wine and beer flowed freely.

They celebrated late into the night, enjoying simple camaraderie and laughter when Olberic and Erhardt regaled them with some rather naughty stories of their days in Hornburg as trainee knights and later when Odette let slip a few of the more embarrassing tales of Cyrus as a student.  Z'aanta not to be outdone talked of H'aanit as a child much to her obvious chagrin, and she retaliated with a few of Z'aanta's excesses over the years.

Therion fell asleep quite early, his head on Ophilia's shoulder.

'What a lightweight!'  Alfyn laughed coming over to poke the Thief and try to wake him.

'Leave him be.'  Ophilia scolded.  'He has given me so much of his energy since he returned to us, I'm amazed he can even function, let alone mother me as effectively as he has.'

'Aww,  shucks Li,'  Alfyn was grinning from ear to ear.  'He's the only one you let mother you, he ain't had a choice in the matter!'

Ophilia laughed.  'I guess it's the novelty,'  she admitted.  'Do you think you could carry him up to bed Alf?'

'Yeah, I'll see him safe and warm.'  Alfyn took her hand.  'Gotta say, having the extra energy really made a difference.  Thought these would never heal up if I'm honest.'

'Not looking forward to doing it all over again in Goldshore.'  Ophilia admitted.

'Bloody Kindling.  Last time though Li, thank the Gods.'

'Yes.  It can't be any worse than Saintsbridge, at least this time there will be no crowds and festival.  Just a quick slip in and slip out.'

'Hmm.'  Alfyn looked thoughtful.  'You know, I am pretty sure we have had a similar conversation before.. a few times.. and somehow things always managed to go a whole lot differently than we were expecting.'

'Then surely this time luck must be on our side.'  Ophilia said hopefully.

'Well you'd think so wouldn’t you.'  Alfyn agreed.

Chapter Text

The trip along the Moonlit Coast towards Goldshore was really one of the most pleasant journeys the companions had made thus far on their travels.  The scenery for the first few days was breathtaking since the path was high and afforded a wonderful vista of the bay and they were also overlooked by the lights of Stonegard as it retreated behind them.  The breeze from the water meant that despite the warm sun the air was fresh and briny during the day and cleanly crisp at night.  In the darkness the sky was so very clear that the arrangement of the stars and the moon above them was simply divine.

The companions managed to flush out many monsters and beasts along their path but the enthusiasm of the Twin Blades alongside the new Master Huntress and a Scholar who welcomed every opportunity to test his control and focus meant that the rest of them had a very light workload, even the healers since the four who were relishing the fighting had become so honed into their roles that nothing they encountered really stood a chance.

When they awoke on their third morning out of town the weather had taken a change for the worse.  A dense fog had drifted in over the night and although it wasn’t particularly cold the visibility was poor, the air was damp and lightning could be seen out over the water breaking through the gloom at regular intervals.  Despite the conditions when Tressa rose from her bedroll she was unusually bouncy - even for her.

'I read in my diary last night that we are very close to the Shrine of Bifelgan, the Trader.'  She enthused.  'I would really, really like to visit it.. can we? Please...'  she begged.

'Oh my - how interesting!'  Cyrus immediately got out his map and created a small pillar of fire in his palm to see by.  'You are completely correct Tressa!'  he agreed, pointing to a spot not that far from their current location.  'By my reckoning we should find the site right about there.  It would only be a very small detour from our intended route.'

'If we can find anything in this fog.' Primrose grouched.  'To my mind the only good thing about this weather is that none of you can actually see the disaster that the moisture has made of my hair...'   

'Well, in fairness the cave that houses the Shrine would make a good rest stop if this weather prevails or if the storm that's currently out over the sea makes its way inland.'  Olberic said thoughtfully.

As they travelled through the morning the weather did indeed worsen.  The fog seemed to blanket them tighter and the sky became darker rather than brightening as the morning passed.  Progress was slowed right down and everyone was wary of the potential of a sudden surprise attack out of the shadowy mist.  Early on Therion had grabbed Ophilia and stuck her firmly in the back of the cart telling her in no uncertain terms to stay put.

'I'm pretty sure that if you are given the freedom to roam you will end up lost.'  He insisted.  'You have form your Holiness and I really don’t wanna be stumbling around the bluff's trying to find you in this shit,  I've fallen from enough cliff's already in this lifetime thank you very much!'

Wind and torrential rain started to blow in just as the companions managed to find the cave they were looking for around early afternoon.  They pushed their way in quickly and realising the structure was a large network of chambers they set up a fire and food in the first large area - well away from the opening and the elements.

'Are we sure this is the right place?'  Tressa asked doubtfully as they were eating.  'Only there doesn’t seem to be any indication of the Shrine from here - or which way to go to find it.  I would have assumed it would be better attended than this.'

Ophilia had unhitched her lantern and lifted it up to show the Merchant.  The Ember was blazing in its glass housing, a roaring conflagration of brilliant blue.

'I think this would suggest the presence of something.'  She said mildly.  'In honesty - while I am interested in seeing the Shrine itself, I am finding the Ember's response rather.. draining.  I might just stay here while the rest of you explore.  I imagine the closer we come to the place of power, the more the Ember will react.'

'I reckon I should stay with you too!'  Therion grinned.  'You know - Bifelgan the Trader and Aeber, Prince of Thieves - never been the closest of bedfellows... I think I'd prefer to avoid a Godly smiting for my thieving ways today.'

When the rest of the party started their exploration of the caverns,  Ophilia rested herself against a wall and closed her eyes in evident relief.

'Are you being drained badly?'  Therion asked in concern coming to sit beside her and peering at her closely.

'In truth,'  she admitted quietly. 'It's not all that bad, but I do so hate enclosed spaces and caves are not my cup of tea at any time.'  She grinned at the Thief.  'I know.. I'm a wimp.' 

'Pfft.'  Therion grinned back.  'Who wants to go see a Merchant Goddess anyway..'

They sat in companionable silence for quite some time.  Eventually Ophilia got up and made her way to the entrance of the cavern.

'The storms seems to have moved from overhead.'  She reported back, standing just far enough inside to protect herself from the rain and the worst of the wind that was still lashing.  'It's actually quite beautiful, the lightning in the sky and the rolling clouds.'  She added thoughtfully.

'Yeah well, lightning isn’t so great when you take a full blast of it from a master mage!'  Therion muttered pulling his scarf tighter as he came to peer outside alongside her. 

There was suddenly a very loud odd sound - a series of ominous creaks and groans quite unlike anything either of them had heard before.

'What the hell?'  Therion was looking behind him into the dark cavern for a source of the noise.

'I think it's coming from outside..'  Ophilia frowned. 'It's indistinct because of the wind but..'  she started moving forward into the lashing rain.

'Ophilia!'  Therion groaned at her as she disappeared into the murky dimness outside.  'Oh by the God's.' he grouched, pulling his scarf fully over his head and following the Cleric who was moving rapidly ahead of him.

Once out of the cave it was quickly apparent that the noise was coming from  somewhere not too far away.  Ophilia stopped with her head raised and her eyes closed trying to locate the direction and the source.  Therion already had an idea of the cause now that it was louder and his hunch was strengthened when there was an unexpectedly loud and dreadful crashing crunch.

'I think it's a ship running itself aground.'  He called to Ophilia over the clamour of the inclement weather.  He grabbed a hold of her hand firmly and together they traversed around the mounding of the cavern and towards the edge of the low cliff top that looked down to a small sandy beach and the bay.

'By the God's!'  Ophilia swore when they reached sight of the waters below.  A large ship was floundering and breaking up on a ring of rocks that protruded from the water a little way out from land, the wind rocking it relentlessly and the fiercely choppy waters ebbing the stricken vessel further and further into trouble.

'There are people in the water.'  Therion's face was grim.  'We need to get help.'

'Can we get down there?'  Ophilia had removed her necklace and grabbed at the fiery blue ring that was threaded on the chain, freeing it and slipping it onto her finger.

'I think I saw a path when we were coming along to the cave - it led in the direction of the cove but I'm not sure if that's where it actually leads.  We would be far better off raising the alarm Ophilia..'  Therion started trying to pull her back towards the road.

'Wait Therion.  Let me try something first.  I don’t know if it will work, I've not used it before.. but..'  Ophilia caressed the ring on her finger, touching it with a tiny amount of light energy.  'Cyrus?'  she called out loud.   Abruptly all of her senses seemed to be assaulted at the same time as the ring pulsed brilliantly blue.  A wave of pure emotion flooded the Cleric, threatening to overwhelm her, but with effort  she pushed it aside and called out again.  'Cyrus!'

'OPHILIA?'  Cyrus's voice roared into her head, bringing with it a second burst of feeling that she was completely unprepared for.  'Are you alright?  What...?'

'I'm using your ring.'  Ophilia spoke out loud.  'Cyrus, there is a ship that is wrecking down in the cove and there are people already overboard..  Are you all still deep in the caverns?'

'No..no..'  Cyrus's voice wavered.  Ophilia indistinctly heard him speaking urgently to the others but couldn’t quite make out what was being said.  Therion was staring at her as if she was mad.  She grabbed the Thief's hand and started dragging him along to where he had said he had earlier spotted a trail.

'I'm speaking to Cyrus..'  she explained to him quickly as they moved.

'Of course you are.'  Therion shrugged taking the lead pulling her along.

'Sorry my darling.'  Cyrus's voice was back in her head.  'I had to explain to the others what was happening, they were rather concerned since I just erupted in flames...'

'Oh God's .. is everyone alright.. I didn’t even think...'  Ophilia was mortified.

'It's fine.  I have it well under control.'  Cyrus said quickly.  'We are nearly back at the cave entrance now Ophilia.  Tell me what's happening.  I can see you and Therion but I can't make out very much else.'

'Send for help.. the nearest village.. the ship is breaking up completely.'  Ophilia's voice was urgent as she looked out over the appalling scene in front of her.  'We need to get down there and help them..Therion and I are looking for access to the beach.'  she added.

'Okay, I will get it organised here.'  Cyrus's voice went remote again as he conversed with the others. 

Therion and Ophilia quickly found a path leading down steeply in large rough-cut steps to the beach.  Therion's grip had moved from her hand to a firm grip on her arm as he helped her to negotiate the slippery incline.

'Primrose and Tressa are going to take the pony and ride to a village that's marked on my map - it's not too far away.'  Cyrus came back to her.  'The rest of us are on our way to you now to help out as we can.'  There was a pause.  'Ophilia...'  Cyrus's voice was soft.  'I think the charm on the ring, the one that I cast to be able to find you..  It appears to be stronger than the binding.  I can.. feel.. everything.'

'Will it last?'  Ophilia was breathless, trying hard to stay on her feet as she continued to rush down the treacherous steps.

'I don’t know - but I don’t think so.  The charm only lasts until I find you.'  Cyrus's voice was desperate.  'Look, I know there is a lot going on right now..probably not the best time, but I need to.. Oh Ophilia, I love you so much, I am so very sorry..'

'I know Cyrus, I can feel it,  I did as soon as I activated the ring.'  Ophilia felt tears flood to her eyes and fall to her cheeks lost in the heavy rain that soaked her to the skin.

'I never considered the rings.  I should have.  Stupid of me really, I have spent so much time letting the essence from yours provide me with comfort and yet never once thought of actually activating it.'

'Cyrus.'  Ophilia said gently as she and Therion reached the beach.. 'I need to get to work now.  We will contemplate this later.  Together.  God's I've missed you.'  She added simply.

'Don't do anything stupid!' Cyrus's thought came to her wryly. 'Please..'

The first few survivors had made it to the shoreline.  Ophilia and Therion ran up to help to them struggle to the beach out of the surf. 

'You don’t know me..'  A familiar voice abruptly whispered into Ophilia's ear as she was bent over a sailor with a nasty gash to his arm.  Startled the Cleric looked up and straight into the face of Alaic, soaked to the skin and bleeding from a number of cuts and scrapes.

'Um..l..l..let me help you sir..'  Ophilia stuttered in surprise, sending out a gentle heal.

'My thanks.'  The man murmured.  'I am quite fine, but my fellow here requires attention.'  He gestured to the man he had hauled from the water.  'If I can leave him with you I can get back out and help others.'  he added.

'Of course.'  Ophilia quickly finished her ministrations on her current patient her mind racing at the unforeseen appearance of Alaic.  She actually cried out in shock when she realised that the unconscious man that Alaic had brought to her was none other than Mattias.

'Ophilia?  What's wrong?  Is that... it can't be!'  Cyrus's voice was back in her head, sounding as surprised as she was.

'Alaic is here too.'  Ophilia thought quickly back to the Scholar.  'He asked that we don’t let on that we know him.'

'Right.  I will warn the others.  Ophilia, be careful with that man.  We are nearly to you.'  Cyrus sounded tense.

Therion had obviously been appraised by Alaic because he came running over quickly and stood staring as Ophilia turned Mattias over carefully trying to gauge his injuries.  He had a large wound to the back of his head that was bleeding profusely.

'I don’t see anything other than this.'  Ophilia mused to herself and conjured another heal focusing on the prone man.

'Careful Phili..'  Therion had come closer, looking anxious.  Ophilia hefted the man onto his side to get a better purchase on the wound grabbing a salve from her healing satchel and applying a generous amount as well as she could, adding a bandage to try and keep it clean until it could be properly looked at.

'Ophilia?'  Mattias' eyes had fluttered open as she laid him back down.

'Shush, careful now.  You have taken a nasty blow to the head.' She said kindly reaching out to take his hand.

'I..what?..Did you heal me?'  he asked his eyes going wide and trying to sit up.

'Please Mattias.  Lay still.'  Ophilia put a hand to his chest, her tone firm.  'I have only been able to do a rough patch and I have to see to others now.  Don't try to move for a while.'

Therion helped her to stand and she began to stride resolutely away to look for her next patient.  Before she could get more than a few feet Cyrus came bounding across the sand to sweep her up in his arms.  His lips were warm upon hers for a few short seconds before he had to put her down and turn away as fire broke out of both of his clenched fists.

Ophilia put a hand softly on his arm.  'Perhaps you could use that to get some bonfires lit.'  She suggested gently.  'We are all desperate for some warmth.'  He nodded abruptly and walked away without looking back.

The rescue efforts took several hours.  Men and women from the local village joined with the companions bringing much needed labour, supplies and food.  H'aanit, Erhardt, Cyrus and Alaic were in and out of the water, searching for those struggling to make it back to shore, while Olberic, whose swimming skills were not particularly strong was transferring people from the shallows up to the fires where the healers were attending them.  Primrose and Tressa were making hot drinks and handing out blankets along with some of the women from the village. 

The rain stopped at some stage during the proceedings and the number of survivors being plucked from the waves dried up.  Ophilia and Alfyn continued dealing with the wounded and waterlogged long after Alaic disappeared into the unknown and the others had finally managed to get some rest and some food.

Eventually, as the evening stars were starting to appear and nearly all of the rescued had been transferred to the village Ophilia collapsed on the sand shivering violently next to one of the large roaring fires that was still burning.

'Ophilia, a word.'  It was Mattias.  Ophilia looked up surprised by him once again, she had thought he'd left with the first of the men to make their way up from the beach.  He was holding a blanket which he wrapped around her tightly, then sat down next to her.

'How are you feeling?'  she asked politely through chattering teeth.

'Surprisingly well.'  His voice was solemn.  'Your healing is... exquisite.'  His eyes were looking stoically out at the remains of the ship propped against the rocks.

There was a small silence.  Ophilia noted that most of her companions had stopped whatever they were doing and were watching them closely.  Cyrus was scowling furiously.  Erhardt was hovering very close behind her whilst trying to appear that he wasn't.

'I need to apologise to you Ophilia.'  Mattias broke his introspection, turning to look at her and reaching to take one of her hands in his.  'I have treated you appallingly in our last few meetings and I thoroughly regret my words and my actions.'

'It would certainly ease my heart if we can at least be civil.'  Ophilia said quietly.  'I have no wish to argue with you or my sister.'

'Yes. Well.. Anna.'  Mattias turned his face away once again, a sad look creeping over his handsome features.

'Is something wrong with her?'  Ophilia asked anxiously.  'I know that the Archbishop's death will have weighed heavily on her - I had hoped that having time with him may have eased her misery at his passing somewhat...'

Mattias was shaking his head.  'I will be frank Ophilia, and I hope that you will not think ill of me for speaking my mind to you - however from what Anna has revealed over my time with her, I believe that you of all people must understand her .. difficulties.'

Ophilia nodded wordlessly.

'As soon as you left Flamesgrace with the Ember,  Anna was troubled.  Even whilst tending her father most solicitously she was consumed with a bitterness born of you assuming the role of Flamebearer.'  Mattias looked up quickly at Ophilia's hissed intake of breath.  'Please, understand she was thankful for the chance to spend the time with Josef, but that part of her that.. well.. that isn’t always so clear-minded was disturbed at losing not only her role in the Kindling  but her sister's company as well.'

'I understand.'  Ophilia's voice was dull.  'She has always taken issue when I have attended a duty that she was not part of.'

'In my own misreading of the situation I'm afraid I sought to win the Ember back from you in order to facilitate her desire.'  Mattias gripped Ophilia's hand tighter.  'I failed to see the light in you Ophilia, the flame of strength and duty.  I desired only to settle Anna's mind.'

'Understandable.'  Ophilia smiled wanly up at the young man.  'Love makes us strong Mattias but sometimes it can also cloud our vision to sense.' 

'She left me Ophilia.'  Mattias said suddenly.  The Cleric looked at him in astonishment.

'She left?  Where did she go?' 

'She is in Goldshore, waiting for you.'  Mattias looked away to the horizon once more.  'Anna became..quite difficult when Josef passed.  She has some bizarre notion that he may be resurrected, of which I obviously I tried to dissuade her, however she is adamant.  We... argued.  She left.  She travelled with a Knight Ardante to await your arrival for the Kindling.'

'Anna? Really?  She actually chose to leave Flamesgrace?'  Ophilia sounded incredulous.

'Such is her firm belief that her father can be returned to her.'  Mattias sounded angry.  'She seeks your input I believe.  She has been in contact with a figure known as 'The Saviour' who appears to have made these promises to her, but she fears to approach him alone.  When I refused.. well, I think she seeks to drag you into her madness.'

'I see.'  Ophilia looked troubled.

'I was travelling to Goldshore to try and speak with her.  Since you will be there too - I genuinely think we may make her see reason.'  Mattias' eyes were shining hopefully.

'Well.  We will have to do our very best.' 

'You have such a gentle and kind heart Ophilia.'  Mattias smiled for the first time.  'I admit,  I cannot help but be impressed by your spirit.  My own travels in the world have given me a weariness that I do not see in you despite the trials you have faced in your time abroad.'

'Oh?'  Ophilia asked.

'Everywhere my work takes me I see people in pain.'  Mattias' expression turned pensive.  'There is disease, poverty, war and natural calamities such as this wreck..  There is no shortage of suffering in this world Ophilia, and yet sadly people are turning their back on the Church, shunning the Light and the Sacred Flame - led by people such as this 'Saviour'.'

'That is sad.' Ophilia murmured.

'Again, I apologise.'  Mattias looked contrite.  'I do not mean to trouble your heart any further when you have such important matters already at hand.  Please, forget my sombre words and focus yourself on the Kindling and helping your sister..  I will  be sure to offer a prayer for your success.'

'Thank you.'  Ophilia said seriously.

'I will be in town.  It is my hope that we can meet there.  If I can assist with Anna, with anything, please.. allow me, I only desire what is best for her..and for you.'  Mattias brought Ophilia's hand to his lips lingeringly before standing and wordlessly joining himself to the back of a line of people making their way up the cliff path.

'Is it just me..'  Cyrus said as soon as Matthias was out of earshot.  '..Or was that just weird and a bit creepy?'

'It wasn’t just you.' Ophilia said finally allowing the scowl that she had been repressing to break forward and to wipe the hand that Mattias had kissed roughly on the blanket she was wearing.

'Bloody hell Phili, I thought you had fallen for it!'  Primrose was staring at the girl with a new appreciation.  'Who knew you were such a fine actor!'

Ophilia grinned at her.  'It's all thanks to Therion and his expert tuition in lying!' she chuckled as Therion took an ironic bow.

'I think I'm missing something here.'  Alfyn looked perplexed.  'You guys think Matthias was being insincere in his apology?'

Ophilia started to giggle.  'Really? Alf...really?'

'Oh God's it's just so adorable how you see the good in everyone!'  Primrose smiled fondly and went to wrap the surprised Apothecary in a huge hug.

'Shucks..well.. just..shucks.'  Alfyn blushed furiously.

'It would also appear that there is an emotion that is actually acceptable to this confounded binding spell.'  Cyrus said coming to sit next to Ophilia, placing an arm around her shoulders and folding her into his cloak up next to his chest.

'Oh?'  Ophilia said breathlessly, intoxicated by the sudden warmth that crept over her.

'Yes indeed!'  Cyrus smiled down at her.  'It appears that extreme anger and wishing to punch someone hard in the face is just fine.. by the God's that man makes me want to commit wanton violence!'

'I'm sure hoping he doesn’t actually end up as my brother-in-law.'  Erhardt growled.  'I seem to have a desire to smack him too... could make for interesting family gatherings.'  He clapped Cyrus on the shoulder.

The companions started to make their weary way back to the Cave of Bifelgan where they planned to spend the night out of the elements. After a little deliberation on the idea,  Cyrus insisted on carrying Ophilia who was stumbling in tiredness as she walked.

'Are you managing okay with this?'  she asked curiously after a short time whilst happily snuggled against his shoulder.

'I have a headache like you wouldn’t believe.'  Cyrus admitted almost cheerfully, 'But no inclination to draw power at all.'

Ophilia thought about it for a second.  'Do you think you could handle a small heal.. see if that helps?'  she asked.

'Well, I have become quite used to the warmth of the flame from your ring.'  Cyrus mused.  'I may have to drop you if I start getting firebally though.'  He warned.

Ophilia chuckled.  'Is that a real word Professor?'  she admonished in an attempt to take his mind off the heal that she cast quickly.

'No..I apologise profusely for my lazy language.'  He smiled at her healing.  'That was... nice.'  He said quietly.  'Didn't really help I'm afraid, but.. oh!'  he blinked a few times, looking shocked.  'Actually it did help.. my goodness, it's almost bearable!'

They moved along in silence for a while.

'You know..'  Cyrus sounded puzzled. 'The charm I put on your ring.. to be able to find you.  It shouldn’t have.. well.. in fact I had no idea that you would be able to speak to me using it.  I nearly exploded when your voice suddenly popped into my head - I did blaze right up and scare just about everybody!'

'Really?'  Ophilia pondered for a second.  'In honesty, I just expected that it would work like that.'

'I genuinely don’t know how it did.  There was nothing in the casting to allow it, indeed I didn’t even know it could be possible!'  Cyrus' brow was wrinkled in contemplation.

'I wonder.. do you think it might be something to do with me?'  Ophilia asked quietly after deliberating for a short while.  'I mean, I am able to feel you all in my head after a time spent healing you - which is an effect I have never heard of before - and I was able to speak with Therion .. possibly linked through.. well our marks of Aelfric I suppose.'

'Hmm.  A very interesting hypothesis Ophilia.'  Cyrus sounded fascinated.  'Also a very useful skill to have however we made it work.  I think it definitely warrants further exploration.  Your mind is rather unique after all.'

'I'll take that as a compliment.'  She grinned at him.  'Although I think what you're actually saying is I'm just a bit crazy.'

'I think what I'm saying is that I have missed you Ophilia.'  Cyrus replied seriously.  'Even though I can't actually feel what I know logically I do, you are extremely invigorating to interact with regardless of fond emotion.'

'Aww Cyrus, are you saying you like me!'  Ophilia teased, smiling broadly.

'Why yes Sister.'  Cyrus smiled back.  'I do believe I am.

Chapter Text

'I think your gonna have to start giving me lessons in roguery.'  Alfyn said miserably to Therion as the companions were finally walking up towards the gates to Goldshore.  'I felt like a proper idiot over that whole Mattias thing.  I keep replaying it over and over and I still can't work out how you all came to the conclusion that he was being insincere.'

'Is that what's been worrying you the last two days?'  Therion raised an eyebrow at his friend.  'Seriously Alf, it ain't a big deal.  That loser was doing his best to try and appear genuine and concerned.  Reckon he realised that being threatening was getting him nowhere so instead he'd try the soft glove approach.'

'Yeah, but you all got that didn’t you.  I was stood there thinking that it was so nice - him trying to make amends for getting it wrong..'

'Well there's the point.'  Therion grinned at the Apothecary.  'Men like Mattias, y'know.. all rich and pompous - they'd rather set themselves on fire before they'd admit to being wrong about something.  Add it to all the grovelling he did about how wonderful Phili is ... nah, no way a shit like him would change that much in any space of time.'

'I suppose it's 'cause I never met people like that in Clearbrook.'   Alfyn looked uncomfortable.  'Point is - I was totally taken in by Miguel too and .. well.. you know..I think I need to get my head firmly round the idea that some folk just ain't nice.'  He decided glumly.

'Don't beat yourself up Alf.'  Therion wound an arm around his friends waist and squeezed him.  'I dunno that I want you to change that much.  I'm cynical enough for the both of us I reckon.'

'Still, I'm supposed to be able to understand people right?  That's part of being a healer.'  Alfyn started to look properly distressed.  'I always thought I did a fair job of relating to others until recently.'

'It ain't that you don’t understand people Alf.'  Therion said quietly.  'When it comes to the important stuff like putting people at their ease and making them comfortable - even understanding their emotions - you're right up there with the best.  Stop doubting yourself..'  Therion grinned again. 'Hey, until you get a bit more experience with the arseholes in life, I promise I'll be there to give you a full and honest bullshit report!'

'Heh,'  Alfyn couldn’t help grinning back at the Thief.  'I'll be learning from the biggest arsehole I know then!'

'Ouch.  You wound me!'  Therion laughed.

.

The guards at the gates of Goldshore were lounging at their post looking strangely weary despite the fact the traffic was non-existent which in itself was odd as it was mid afternoon and the weather was clement.

'Ho!'  Olberic called as they walked up.  'What news in the City?'  he had a puzzled frown on his face both at the lack of activity and the demeanour of the sentries.

One of the men pushed himself forward to attend his duty.  'Illness still rife all over town, Sir Knight.'  He said.  'Feels like at least half of folk have come down with the fever.  Been pulling double shift for near on a week now.'  He added with a grimace.

'Serious?'  Alfyn asked.

'No casualties as yet sir but it's been pretty indiscriminate - running fast through both the vulnerable and the strong alike.  Some gets through it in a day or so - others are lingering and getting weaker..'  The guard shrugged.  'Ain't been many coming in for fear of catching it.  Like a ghost-town compared to normal.'

Ophilia had come up and taken Alfyn's arm.  'Best we can do is get to the Cathedral, they will likely be heading the aid effort although this kind of sickness isn’t likely to be something that Clerical healing is much use for.'

Alfyn nodded.  'Good job I got our stores up together.'  He said as they made their way into the city.  'Sounds like I'm gonna be busy even without the Kindling.'

'May have to put that off for a few days.'  The Cleric mused.  'I will be fairly useless in terms of Apothecary work with a newly burnt hand.'

'Hey!'  Alfyn frowned.  'Getting the Kindling done is the number one priority here.  I know..'  he cut off Ophilia's protest. '..I know your inclination is to help everyone Li, but you are in danger every day till it's done.'

Ophilia still looked like she was going to argue.  'Li..'  Alfyn stopped walking to gather the startled Cleric in his arms.  'I am gonna be completely distracted till I know you're safe.  Best thing for the people in this City will be to get your job done so that me and the others can concentrate on ours with clear heads.  Understand?'

She nodded at him reluctantly.

'Good girl.'  He ruffled her hair, grinning when she batted his hands away.

.

Despite the lateness of the afternoon, it was decided that Ophilia would go up to the Cathedral straight away to let the Bishop know they had arrived to sort the schedule for the Kindling.  Alfyn accompanied her in the hope of finding out more about the fever epidemic with Erhardt,  Therion and Cyrus chaperoning them.  The others set about securing lodgings for the group.

'What in the world is that?'  Erhardt, who was leading their group through the streets suddenly came to a halt, starting up at a tall stone pillar set in a small plaza off the street they were walking.  There was a tiny but vivid blue flame glowing at the apex of the structure, reaching up brilliantly towards the sky.

'That's the Sacred flame!'  Ophilia pushed her way forward towards the monument.  'My word, I have never seen the like.  What on earth is it doing out here... I assumed it would be in the Cathedral - how am I going to Kindle it if it's all the way up there?' 

'It's a very small flame..'  Therion was looking at it appraisingly.  'Err.. no offence or anything.'  He added quickly, just in case.

As they were staring - a small girl ran past them towards the pillar but lost her footing on the cobbled paving.  She fell heavily to her knee's and something skittering out of her hand and coming to a rest in front of Erhardt's feet.  The girl was back up and examining the scrape on her leg before Alfyn even reached her.

'Are you okay?'  The Apothecary asked kindly when the child looked up at him.  'I'm always tripping over my own feet too.'  He added with a friendly grin.  'But every time you pick yourself up you find yourself tougher for it!'

'I'm bleeding!' the girl pronounced proudly.  'Don't hurt much 'cause I'm already tough!' she added.

'So you are!'  Alfyn smiled as he crouched down to take a look at her knee.  'It would be a good idea to have something on it though.  We wouldn’t want you to get an infection.'

'Are you a medicine man?'  the girl asked, her eyes huge.

Alfyn chuckled as he reached into his satchel for a soothing salve.  'I am indeed.  My name is Alfyn.  I'm an Apothecary.'  He gently swabbed the scrape with his balm then grinned at the child.

'Thanks Mr Pock-a-Therry.'  She smiled brilliantly at him.  'It feels much better now!'

'You're welcome!  Alfyn will do though.'  He added, hearing Therion trying to stifle a laugh.

'My names Ellen.'  The girl had started to look around a little anxiously,  'I think I lost my seashell.'  She said sadly.

'Is this it?'  Erhardt approached slowly and handed the shell to Ellen with a smile.  'It's quite beautiful.'  He said as she took it from him shyly.

'It's the best one I could find.'  Her eyes were downcast, embarrassed at the attention from the Knight.  'I'm gonna leave it for the God with my prayer.  I hope he likes it.'  She added seriously.

Ophilia's eyes misted over.  'I am sure he will sweetheart.'  she came and took the child's hand.  'Would you like me to pray with you?'  she offered.

'Oh..'  Ellen breathed looking at the Cleric in awe.  'You are so pretty!  Even prettier than my shell..'  she added.

Ophilia smiled gently and led the girl towards the stone pillar.  'What is it you are praying for Ellen?' she asked quietly as they both knelt on the cold ground.

'My sister.'  Ellen was looking intently at the shell in her hand.  'Flynn caught the fever and she's been in bed all week.  She's always crying..'  Ellen sniffed as her own tears welled in her eyes.  '..don't matter how much she sleeps, she just seems to get worse and worse.'  The girl snuggled against Ophilia's side when the Cleric put a comforting arm around her.  'I really wanted to go up to the Church and pray at the big flame.. but the guards wouldn’t let me.'

'What?'  Ophilia's tone was outraged, but seeing the girls startled look, she squeezed her shoulders and smiled.  'This right here is a true Flame, Ellen and Aelfric is listening even if you aren’t in the presence of his fire.  Speak to him from your heart and he will always hear your prayer.'  Ophilia closed her eyes and murmured a simple but sincere devotion then prompted the girl gently to repeat the words.  Once they were done Ellen laid her seashell at the base of the column and wiped at her eyes.

'If you show me where you live I could come and have a look at your sister, see if I can help her.'  Alfyn put a soothing hand on Ellen's shoulder.

'Thanks..'  the girl mumbled.  'Can't though.  Since our Da died we are pretty poor.  We don’t have the leaf for any medicine or stuff.'

'It won't cost anything, promise.'  Alfyn replied gently.  'Most of the medicines are just flowers.. and you can go and pick them just about anywhere!'

Ellen looked up at him, stunned.  'Really?'  she breathed.

'Of course.'  Alfyn swallowed hard at the grateful look on the tiny face.  'Is your home close by?'

'Right there.'  Ellen indicated a small building just the other side of the street.

'Shall we go see what I can do then?'  Alfyn asked holding his hand out to the child.  She nodded emphatically.

'No - not you Li.'  Alfyn said quietly as the Cleric gathered herself together to go with them.  'You ain't as fully recovered from all that healing as I'd like, I'd rather you didn’t get directly exposed to this illness if possible.'

Erhardt nodded his agreement and Cyrus put a wary hand onto Ophilia's arm.

'I wonder, my dear.. what are your thoughts on this structure..'  he asked turning her gently back to the Pillar before she could argue with Alfyn.  With a heavy sigh Ophilia directed her attention back to the shrine to exchange ideas with the Professor.

Therion followed behind Alfyn and Ellen as they went over to the child's house.

'Ma!'  Ellen called as she banged open the door, ushering the two companions in as she did.

'Oh Ellen there you are..'  an older and careworn woman came rushing out of a room off the main one then skidded to a stop at the sight of the Apothecary and Thief.  Her eyes narrowed in alarm.  'Ellen..'  she said warily, 'What are you doing bringing these scruffy looking strangers into our home?'

Alfyn raised an eyebrow at that but stepped forward with a kind smile on his face.

'Ellen told us that her sister Flynn is unwell with the fever and I happen to be an Apothecary.  I thought perhaps I could take a look at the child and help.'

'Really.'  The woman's look was a little scornful.  'Well luckily my daughter has already been seen by a professional not an hour ago, and even now her fever is breaking.  We will not be needing your service thank you.'

'Still,'  Alfyn frowned slightly, 'A second look surely can't do any harm.  I ain't charging or nothing Mistress, just I promised Ellen here I would take a look.'

The woman pursed her lips and looked like she might refuse, but Ellen tugged on her Mother's arm.

'Please Ma.'  The girl begged.

'Just a quick look.  I don’t want you disturbing her.'  The woman gestured towards the door she had come through earlier.

Alfyn went into the tiny bedroom and straight to the small girl bundled up in the narrow bed.

'Hello Flynn, my name is Alfyn.  I'm a friend of Ellen's, is it okay if I have a quick look at you?'  he said softly to the pale child.

'Okay.'  Flynn's voice was hoarse and she looked past Alfyn to smile wanly at her sister who was crowding behind him.

'S'okay Flynn.  Alfyn's the best!'  Ellen said reassuringly.

Alfyn ran a hand along the child's brow and peered closely into her eyes.  Although she was clammy to the touch her gaze seemed lucid and she was not uncomfortably hot.

'How you feeling?'  he asked taking up the girls hand.

'Better!'  Flynn coughed gently, but kept smiling.  'My head doesn’t feel half so strange now and it don’t hurt hardly at all.'

'That's real good Flynn.'  Alfyn beamed at her and lay her hand back down on the bed.  'Looks to me like you are well on the mend.'

'Can she get up tomorrow?'  Ellen asked excitedly.  'We collect shells at the beach together most days so that Ma can sell them for some leaf.'

'That's enough Ellen.'  Her mother cut in.

'I think Flynn probably will need a couple more days of good rest.'  Alfyn reflected.  'But the way she is going I reckon it won't be long before the two of you will be back at the beach together!'  He stood and made his way to the door.  'It seems to be very positive.'  He noted to the girl's mother as he went past.

'Well, Mistress Hysal has been working herself into the ground seeing to everyone this past day.'  The woman said.  'She took no payment either, said that our thanks was more than enough and seeing my girl get better made her job worthwhile.  A true lady that one.'

'She certainly sounds it!'  Alfyn nodded to Therion who was waiting by the front door.

'Thanks again Alfyn.'  Ellen tugged his hand as Therion opened the door for them both.

'You are very welcome Miss Ellen.  Make sure you look after your sister now, and she will be right as rain in no time.  You'll see.'  He smiled down at the eager face looking back at him.

Alfyn and Therion rejoined their companions at the pillar in the square.

'Seems there is another Apothecary in town and she has things well in order.'  Alfyn grinned at the others.  'Takes a load off really, not like we ain't got other important things to think about and all.  Wouldn't mind meeting up with her though.  Whatever she used seemed to work mightily quick, be good to compare notes!'

'To the Cathedral then.'  Erhardt looked up at the huge building towering over the city some way in the distance, and started to usher everyone forward again.  As they made their way through the rather quiet streets, the buildings gradually became less crowded and larger, more affluent and the nearer they came to the bridge that spanned the gulf that ran out to the church, the more and better provisioned guards they saw too. 

'Hey!'  Just before they got to the bridge one of the liveried guards reached out and made a grab at Therion who neatly and effortlessly dodged the man's hand.  'Where do you think you're going?'  the man added belligerently.

'Don't see as that's any of your business mate.'  Therion's voice was quiet but there was an undertone of threat.

'Well, that's where you'd be wrong see guttersnipe.'  The guard had motioned for another to make his way over.  'The council pays us well to keep undesirables like you out of the better side of town.'

Erhardt started to move forward menacingly but Ophilia pushed past her brother, her face livid.

'How dare you?'  she said coldly.  'This road leads to the Cathedral, which is open to all people at all times.'

The guard looked her up and down, noticing her Clerical robe but not backing down.

'Apologies Sister.'  It was almost a sneer.  'You are free to move on of course.  This one though..'

'He is with me.'  Ophilia drew herself up to her not terribly impressive full height and stared the guard down.  'Even were he not, his right to travel to the Church as I have already stated..' she spoke clearly and crisply as if to a child.

'The Church don’t pay my wages Sister, the Council does.  I wouldn’t be trying to make trouble with them if I was you.'  The guard was openly derisive now and Erhardt made a lazy grab at his surcoat, twisting it in his fist and pulling the man to him.

'You will have respect sir, or I will have my pleasure in teaching it to you.'  Erhardt's tone was dripping in easy threat and his hand had reached to rest on the pommel of his sword.

The guard only had to take one look into the cool and unconcerned eyes of the Knight before he backed down completely.

'You are all free to pass.'  He muttered.

'My thanks good man.'  Erhardt replied cheerfully, dropping his grip and patting the man's crumpled clothes.  The Knight turned to take Ophilia's arm and pulled her away quickly towards the bridge before she could come back with any more angry retorts to the guard.  'Peace little sister.'  He murmured.  'We will be at the Cathedral shortly, calmly now.' 

'I'm.. angry..'  Ophilia huffed.

'You have a job to do honey, be a big girl now.'  Erhardt was smiling at her.

'Are you trying to make me thump you?' 

'Anything that will get that aggression out is good, I can take it!'  Erhardt winked.  The tension evaporated out of the Cleric as she started to laugh.

'I love you, you know.'  She told him sweetly.

'Is that revenge?'  he asked raising a doubting eyebrow.

'Not telling.'  She smirked at him.

'Ah Ophilia, you are a most vexing woman.'  Erhardt put his arm around his sister and pulled her close.

The companions crossed the large bridge and made their way up to the impressive Cathedral just as a harried looking Cleric was fussing around at the doors looking to shut them up.

'We are closing for the evening.'  The man said impatiently when he spied the group coming towards them.

'You are what?'  the sharp edge was back in Ophilia's tone once more.  'Since when does a church lock its doors to the needy?'

The Cleric peered closer at her.  'Since half our number are stricken with the fever and the other half out ministering to the sick.'  He said sourly.  'Who are you?'

'I'm the Flamebearer.  I'm here to see the Bishop.'  Ophilia said quietly.  The Cleric's face went through several emotions all at the same time.

'I see.'  He said finally.  'Please.  Wait here and I will summon his Excellency.'

'We will wait inside.'  Ophilia said firmly.  'I wish to see the Sacred Flame.' Erhardt gently moved the Cleric aside to allow Ophilia and the others to pass through the doors.

'Of course.'  The man pushed by them all and hurried off into the Cathedral.

Inside the Church was every bit as impressive as on the outside.  Ophilia walked swiftly down towards the High Altar where the cauldron bearing the living Flame was situated.  Much as the one in Saintsbridge the Flame was low, probably even lower than the last one had been.  Ophilia couldn’t prevent the murmur of distress at the sight of it.

'Do not be troubled my dear.'  Cyrus had come up beside her and taken her hand in his as they hurried down the aisle.  'As pitiful as the flame looks now, I have every faith that you will restore it to great glory, much as you did the one in Saintsbridge.'  He gave her hand a light squeeze.

'Without as much drama this time I hope.'  She smiled at him, grateful for his words.

'Well quite.'  He smiled back.  'Although as I seem to recall - not all of the proceedings at the last event were entirely unpleasant.'

Ophilia's eyes went wide and she looked up at him blushing.  'Professor,'  she said a little breathlessly. 'Are you flirting with me?'

He considered her question with a rather serious expression.  'I.. well..yes..  I suppose I am - although I do believe my words to be factual rather than merely philandering - at least, they are from my perspective.  How very interesting.'  He mused.

They were interrupted by a tall blond man in Bishop's attire rushing up to them.  If the Cleric on the door had appeared harassed this man looked truly  troubled.

'Your Excellency.'  Ophilia inclined her head respectfully to the new arrival.

'Sister Ophilia?'  the Bishop's voice was as strained as his face.  'Apologies for the lack of a proper greeting, I only received your letter yesterday saying that you were leaving Stonegard.  My name is Bishop Donovan.'

'I regret that we were unable to give you any more notice your Excellency.'  Ophilia said sincerely.  'I trust that you received word from Bishop Bartolo in relation to the events in Saintsbridge, and the reasons as to why we are trying to keep the Kindling here as low key as possible.'

'I did child.  Indeed I have liaised with Bartolo on a number of occasions in relation to the situation.'  The Bishop said sombrely.  'In truth, I am grateful that the requirement for secrecy is in place.  There has been some unrest from the town council about your undertaking the Kindling here.. your reputation..'  he petered off looking embarrassed.

'I am fully aware of what is said about me.'  Ophilia said kindly, looking to ease the obviously anxious man.  'Can we get the ritual done sooner rather than later?'  she pressed.

If anything, the Bishop's look turned almost scared.  'At the moment, that would be simply impossible.'  He said faintly.  'We are not prepared.  The flame is not prepared, the illness in the city has hit us hard here...'  he refused to meet Ophilia's eyes.  'It may be a number of days before we can even consider the ritual.'

'I see.'  Ophilia looked a bit lost.

'What exactly do you have to prepare your Excellency?'  Cyrus asked curtly.  'I know that you will have a consultation, as Bishop Bartolo did, with Ophilia about the role of the Flamebearer - but aside from that.. what exactly needs to be done?  We are hoping to have no audience or ceremony as such, so that doesn’t need arrangement.'

'Right.'  The Bishop looked as though his legs might give way.

'Please your Excellency..'  Ophilia took him gently by the arm and steered him towards the front pew of the choir to sit him down.  'Is something troubling you?  Is there something I can help you with?'  she asked, her voice full of concern and compassion.

The man looked at her finally, and a shadow seemed to pass over his face.  'Please don’t be concerned.'  He said quietly.  'I am simply tired and a little overwhelmed at present.  With so many of the Brothers and Sisters abed with fever we are heavily pushed...'

'I understand.'  Ophilia patted his arm.  'I have no wish to add to your burdens, but please let me aid your efforts in any way that I can.'

He shook his head.  'You have enough concern Sister Ophilia, and thankfully our people have been seen this afternoon by a wonderful Apothecary and do now seem to be on the mend.  I need tonight to think but please come and see me again tomorrow.  Alone.  We can go over the Goldshore advisement at least and get that out of the way.'

'I cannot attend alone.'  Ophilia relied simply.  'If you have taken the information from Bishop Bartolo to mind, you will understand why.  Besides, I feel that Therion at least should be in attendance.'  The Thief looked up in surprise.

'Me?'  he asked, confused.

'Yes.'  Ophilia nodded seriously.  'Therion is the one that carries the mark of Aelfric, just as I do.. and should I fall before the Kindling is done, he will take the Ember in my stead and complete the ritual.  The advisement of Goldshore relates to that completion, so I feel that he needs to hear it too..'

The Bishops shoulders had slumped at her words.

'Of course.'  He agreed weakly, shutting his eyes and trying to gather strength.  'I'm afraid I must be away Ophilia.  I have to go down to the lower town and provide a sermon at our other flame.'

'Oh!.. yes about that..'  her interest suddenly peaked.  'I have never seen its like before, what..?'

Again the Bishop drooped as if crushed by a huge weight.

'It is a long story I'm afraid, but suffice it to say that I had it installed to bring the flame to those that are regularly being turned away by the Town Council guards and those employed by some of the richer families.  Many of the poor folk are struggling to be able to access the Cathedral.  I try to get down there daily to bring a sermon to them if I can.' 

'Surely the Council of the Church can over-rule a Town Council?'  Cyrus sounded incredulous.  'Thwarting access to all by private guards cannot be allowed!'

'The Church Council are aware of the situation, but the wealthy of this city donate heavily to the Church and..'  The Bishop finally looked angry.  'The Church officially supports private families to allow their guards to turn away the poor from this area of the city.. which unfortunately means turning them away from the Cathedral as well, based on our location.'

Ophilia was shaking her head sadly.  'It comes down to leaf?  I honestly wish I could say I was surprised but..'

'Don't be down-heartened.'  The Bishop's voice was suddenly soft, with a compassion they had not heard from him before.  'If Bartolo has spoken true -then your heart and the power of your soul in this Kindling may effect a huge change on this City.'  He stood and walked to the Altar.

'How so?'  Ophilia looked confused.

'Our Flame is almost burned out, it's power completely waned.'  The Bishop rested a hand on Ophilia's shoulder.  'If you bring that which you brought to Saintsbridge..  Child, Bartolo has written to me not only about the way in which the now Fire roars in his Cathedral, but about how much of an influence it's made on the land and the people.  A new kindness and gentleness in the citizens.  More tolerance, less fighting.  He attributes the changes in attitude to you and your companions.'

'Oh.'  Ophilia looked troubled.  'That is a heavy burden to live up to.' She muttered.

'By the God's, let's hope I don’t have to be the one that does the Kindling..'  Therion whispered to Erhardt.  'Who knows what the mood would be like if it takes on my soul!'

'We will talk tomorrow Ophilia.'  Bishop Donovan nodded to her.  'Take rest from your travels, Sister.  Are you going to take accommodation with us here?  I can have arrangements...'

'No your Excellency, for safety it was agreed I would stay with my companions.'

'As you wish.'  He nodded his understanding.

'One last thing..'  she said quickly just as the man was turning to depart. 'I believe my Sister.. Archbishop Josef's daughter Lianna is in town.  Do you know where I might find her?'

'Oh!'  The bishop turned back to Ophilia.  'I am so sorry, I forgot!  My condolences on the passing of your father.  Josef was a good man, who stood strong for the ideals of the church.  He will be sadly missed.'

'Thank you.'

'Your sister though.'  Bishop Donovan frowned slightly.  'She has been in town a while and was offered accommodation in the Cathedral but also turned it down.  She stays in an Inn in the City but I don’t know which one.  She does come up to the Church most afternoon's however - usually to ask about word on you.  I would expect tomorrow to be no different.'

'I will be here tomorrow then Bishop Donovan.'  Ophilia inclined her head to him as he left them.

.

Darkness had fallen by the time they made their way from the Cathedral.

'How did it get so late?'  Erhardt moaned.  'No wonder I am so hungry!'

'You are a bottomless pit, must be why you're getting so fat.'  Olberic's amused chuckle came from behind them.  'Come, I've been waiting for you to direct you to the Inn.'  He added poking Erhardt hard in the belly.

It was only a short walk to their accommodation.  'We booked a floor,'  Olberic told them.  'It's usually a shared space, but it's large and I think while we are in town sticking together is a good thing.  I want to post a watch too just as we do on the road.'  He added.

'Do you really think...'  Ophilia began.

'Yes.  I do.'  Olberic frowned at her.  'We will keep you safe.'  He insisted.  'Alaic showed his face for a short while.  Mattias has secured himself in the best Inn in the City, right up near the Cathedral.  He has had several men visit him there already - most likely business associates, but Alaic is keeping a close eye on him and warns us to be wary.  Which we will.'

Ophilia sighed heavily.  'Never easy is it..' she muttered.

'Not when you're involved.'  Erhardt grinned.  'I swear I have never met anyone who attracts trouble like you sis.  It's quite a talent you have!'

When they arrived at the Inn it was obvious that Tressa had been set as look-out.  She came rushing towards them as soon as they entered the bar.

'You got a visitor.'  She said breathlessly to Ophilia.  'You better come..'  she grabbed onto the Clerics hand and started pulling her towards the stairs.  Everyone followed close behind.

Their accommodation was the whole of the third floor.  As they reached the doorway at the top of the steps, Tressa flung it open dramatically.

'She's here.. she's back!'  the Merchant exclaimed.  Ophilia entered the room, her heart thudding in anticipation.

In a large comfortable chair by the fireplace a young woman sat up straight, her pale face and huge blue eyes staring intently at Ophilia as she came in.

'Hello Ophilia.'  The girl said tonelessly.

'Lianna.'  Ophilia replied, her voice trembling - unable to mask her anxiety.

Chapter Text

Ophilia and Lianna were motionless, staring at each other in silence for an uncomfortably long time.  It was Lianna that finally broke. 

'Fathers..dead!'  she suddenly wailed, tears rolling down her cheeks as her shoulders heaved, sobbing.

Compassion immediately replaced reticence and Ophilia raced crossed the room to swiftly to gather her sister in her arms.

'I know darling.'  she crooned, closing her eyes against her own flood of emotion.

'C..c..can we talk?  Alone?'  Lianna sniffled into Ophilia's chest.

Ophilia shook her head.  'Not alone.'  She murmured then looked at Erhardt.  'Would you stay?'  she asked him.

'Me?'  the Knight looked a bit embarrassed. 'Of course.  Whatever you want.' 

Everyone else quietly made their way to the door.

'We will send some food up.'  Olberic, who was the last one out said before he closed the door behind him.

Ophilia nodded her thanks.

The taproom of the Inn was busy but muted.  The companions managed to get a table all together in a quiet corner and ordered the rather basic food on offer that evening.

'Apologies.'  The Innkeeper muttered.  'My wife normally see's to our kitchen, but she was taken with the Fever.  The Apothecary is with her now, so hopefully there will better to be had tomorrow.  I have heard that the remedy is working miracles all over town and quickly too.'

'Ah, she is here?  The Apothecary?'  Alfyn asked.

'I offered her free bed and board for her trouble.'  The Innkeeper nodded.

'Shuck's hopefully I will get to meet her then!'  Alfyn looked pleased as he put in the group's order.

'So what did you make of that?'  Primrose was asking Therion as Alfyn arrived back at their table with their drinks.

'Lianna wasn’t what I imagined at all.'  Therion replied thoughtfully.  'Dunno what I was expecting if I'm honest, but I can't see such a mouse of a girl being of interest to a man like Mattias.'

'That was my thought too.'  Primrose was frowning.  'For all that he is an arse,  Matthias is rather good looking and very rich to boot.  I'm sure he has never suffered from a lack of romantic attention.'

'Perhaps he had the good sense to prefer someone who wasn’t merely interested in his wallet.'  Olberic said stoically.

'Wow, you guys gossip like old women!'  Alfyn smirked placing the drinks down.

'Lianna was pretty odd Alf.'  Tressa was thoughtful.  'She came bursting up to our room with him in tow..'  the merchant discreetly gestured to a lone man wearing the uniform of a Knight Ardante sat at the bar. '..Loudly declaring that she knew Ophilia was travelling with 'that woman with the cat' and insisting on seeing her immediately.'

'It seemeth that I am the one that hath given away Ophilia's location.'  H'aanit looked upset.  'I hath never considered that mine presence may'st cause her note when we wishen to keep her whereabouts a secret.'

'Don't trouble your mind Huntress.'  Olberic insisted.  'We are a large group and noticeable just for that.  You are a very striking woman H'aanit, but I would much rather have you and Linde with us than not.'

'Thanken thee.'  H'aanit mumbled with a blush.

'Anyway..'  Tressa continued. '..Obviously we let Lianna in straight away, and I suppose we tried to engage her in conversation but she just sat herself down and wouldn’t talk.  Not a word.  It was awkward..'

'She hardly even looked at us.'  Primrose added.  'She merely stared at the fire looking all big eyed and vulnerable.'

'And fearful of Linde..'  H'aanit growled.

'Ophilia rarely ever spoke about her family at Flamesgrace.'  Cyrus had the heel of his hand massaging his brow wearily.  'When I had access to her feelings, those for Lianna were very confused.  Deep love and yet an odd anxiety.'

'Access to her feelings?'  Alfyn looked confused.

'Oh.'  The Scholar looked up.  'Yes, the ring that she made..'  he brought his hand from his head to show the others.  'A unique piece of casting, tied to her soul.  Very impressive, elegant really.  It allows an imprint of her feelings if it is activated with her true name.'

'Her true name?'  Primrose asked sharply, 'Whatever do you mean Professor?'

'The name her mother gave her.'  A shadow suddenly passed over Cyrus's face.  'I think that was something I really wasn’t supposed to say.'  His hand flew back to his brow.  'I am truly having trouble keeping my head straight with this pain..'  he mumbled half to himself.

'So what is Ophilia's real name then?'  Tressa was leaning forward in excitement.

'If she ain't said anything I'm guessing it's not something she really wants to be known Tressa.'  Therion put a hand on the girl's arm. 

'Yes..but..'  Tressa sighed.  'You're right I suppose.'  She admitted.

'The herb's I gave you not helping with the pain Prof?'  Alfyn was looking concernedly at the Scholar.

'Oh, yes they are Alfyn.  Thank you.'  Cyrus had shut his eyes.  'The healing I am administering also helps a bit too.  I am finding however that as I am exerting more control over casting, the pain grows stronger.  Indeed the more time I spend around all of you the worse it becomes.  I guess it is simply the struggle of my regard for you all trying to express itself.'

'Would it help to spend some time alone Professor?'  Primrose asked.  'We could book you a separate room here.'

'I'm sure it would help Lady Primrose.'  Cyrus admitted.  'However I worry that finding relief in solitude would be the wrong solution.  I fear that it might induce me to spend more and more time apart on my own and thus allow the binding to achieve its purpose - isolation from others.'

'You need some relief though.'  Alfyn looked worriedly at the Scholar.

'I think not.'  Cyrus grimaced.  'Odette made the point to me that if I cut myself off from my friends - my strength, my skills.. without the moral compass of being able to care .. could make me a monster or at least induce me to commit monstrous acts through thoughtlessness.  That is the last thing I want.'

'Still, I think downtime is in order Professor!'  Primrose looked grim.  'If your tongue is slipping, then your mind is hardly settled.  A compromise must be found I feel.'

'Hmm.'  Therion looked thoughtful.  'Maybe some relaxing activities.  It's not exactly been the easiest of times recently.  How about instead of concentrating on all the shit for a few days - until the Kindling actually takes place.. you get in some study - with one of us in attendance so you're not alone..'  he added quickly when Cyrus looked like he was going to protest.

'Shucks, I reckon that's a mighty fine idea Cyrus.'  Alfyn agreed.  'Need to balance yourself careful Prof.'

'Let's take in the baths tomorrow.'  Olberic patted Cyrus' shoulder reassuringly.  'Then maybe we could find somewhere nice and quiet and we can follow up some more on your questions about Hornburg.' 

'And tonight I will give you a mild sedative, help you sleep without dreams.'  Alfyn added nodding at the Knights plan.

'Thank you.  All of you.'  Cyrus said quietly.

Just as the companions food was being served a young, well dressed woman came down the stairs and made her way to the bar.  Alfyn watched her with some interest, noting the familiar satchel that she carried and the confident aura she exuded.

'Reckon that's gotta be Mistress Hysal, the Apothecary.  Prettier than I was expecting!'  He grinned to Therion, 'Gonna go see if I can grab a word with her!'

Alfyn sauntered up to the bar, a friendly smile on his face.

'So you think she will be up by tomorrow?'  The Innkeeper was wringing his hands as he questioned the woman. 

'I'm positive.'  The girls voice was warm as honey and extremely reassuring.

'I can't thank you enough Mistress.'  The relief on the Innkeeper's rugged face was palpable.  'Are you sure you will only accept such a modest fee?  Your help has been quite invaluable...'

She raised a delicate, gloved hand to cut him off.  'Please, say no more good sir.'  She inclined her head demurely.  'It is quite reward enough to see your wife react so well to my treatment and her condition improve.  We Apothecaries have a sworn duty to ease suffering wherever we go.  I am pleased that I have been able to provide help here in Goldshore.'

'Oh, well said!'  Alfyn beamed as he joined the woman.  'May I buy you a drink Mistress Hysal?'  he added.

The woman looked a little surprised and appraised Alfyn keenly with her startling blue eyes.

'Are you in need of my service?'  she finally asked pleasantly.

'Not at all Mistress.'  Alfyn chuckled.  'I am simply an admirer of your work.'

'How kind.'  The woman's close inspecting gaze had settled on Alfyn's satchel.  'Oh.'  Her brow creased slightly.  'Are you in fact a fellow Apothecary?'

'Just started out travelling to get some more experience.'  He nodded.  'Name's Alfyn.'  He held out his hand.

'Vanessa.'  The woman murmured moving back slightly and giving his hand only the very lightest of squeezes.  'Are you in town for long?'  she enquired.

'A good friend has some business here, so a few days at least.'  Alfyn replied.  'When we got here I thought I was gonna be busy, but it soon became apparent that you have this fever epidemic well in order.  I have heard many good things on my travels today!'

'The people here have been very kind.  In truth I believe the worst of it was already over for most.'  Vanessa's expression had become veiled.

'All the same, I can't help but be impressed with the speed at which your mixture has been working.  I been wracking my brains trying to think what you could possibly have used, but I'm afraid I've come up with nothing viable.'  Alfyn looked abashed.  'I'm wondering if I could take a look at your work, I sure would like to take any teaching you could give!'

Vanessa's eyes widened.  'I see.'  She said faintly.  'I'm sorry Alfyn but.. well it's business isn’t it?  Trade secret and all.  I don’t mean to be rude, but we can't just go around giving out our recipes just like that...'

'Shucks.'  Alfyn's hand started to rub at the back of his neck as he blushed to his roots.  'I'm sorry if I've caused offence Miss Hysal.  It was just your words - about our sworn duty and all.  I figured we were of like mind and that knowledge shared can only help more people in the future.'

Vanessa tinkled a sweet little laugh and patted Alfyn's arm.  'My, you are a diligent one aren’t you.'  She said, making the lad blush harder.  'A nice outlook to have of the world, but all the same we do have to make our way somehow.'

'Of course.' Alfyn whispered, thoroughly mortified now.

'Well, I must take my leave Alfyn.  I hope your friend's business goes well, but do rest assured that I have the health of this town well under control.'  She smiled at him as she walked away.

Alfyn was still red when he shuffled back to his seat and grabbed the plate of food that had been left to him.

'Well that was embarrassing.'  He muttered to Therion.

'Did the pretty lady resist your charm?'  the Thief was grinning at Alfyn's expression.

'Didn't wanna play nicely at all.'  Alfyn grimaced.  'Don't really understand why people wouldn’t wanna share knowledge, especially in summat like healing.  Ogen certainly wasn’t like that.'

'I agree whole heartedly Alfyn.'  Cyrus spoke up quietly.  'Knowledge should be used for the good of all.'

H'aanit had taken food upstairs for Ophilia and Erhardt, but she came rushing down - her face rather pale.

'Alfyn.'  She said seriously when she reached the table.  'Couldst thou attend Lianna,  it appeareth she ist hysterical.  Ophilia asketh if thou might go up and aid her?'

'Oh right!'  Alfyn was on his feet immediately and rushing to the stairs.

Olberic was looking at H'aanit, his eyebrow raised.

'It looketh as if Ophilia hath taken a number of hits from her sister.  Erhardt hath her restrained but the girl ist raging uncontrollably.'  H'aanit's eyes were huge.  'I hath not seen the like before.'  She admitted, 'Although from Ophilia's reaction I do not believe that it ist altogether uncommon.'

'Damnation.'  Olberic scowled.  'Yet another issue for the poor girl to deal with.'

'Perhaps I should have gone instead of Alf.'  Primrose mused thoughtfully.  'I've always found a good slap to be an effective cure for an over-emotional woman.'  She half rose from her seat.

'Let's see if they can sort it out without violence.'  Olberic suggested putting a restraining hand on the Dancer.

'Think I might go have a peek at what's happening.'  Therion looked concerned.  'Back in a bit he added heading for the front door.'

'Therion!'  Tressa called after him but he ignored her.

Once outside the Thief scaled the side of the building with ease and headed to the third floor.  The window he settled at was on the other side of the room from where Erhardt was sat in a chair with Lianna held rather securely in his arms.  The girl was still crying but seemed calmer than he had been expecting, while Ophilia and Alfyn had their heads together and were talking earnestly to each other.

'She hasn’t said anything.'  Ophilia sounded exasperated.  'She's pretty much been crying since you all went downstairs, then all of a sudden when H'aanit entered with food she just started yelling incoherently and fighting me.  Erhardt took a hold of her and she calmed down somewhat..' 

'Is this usual Li?  How often does she have these sessions?'  Alfyn asked.

'Like this?  Rarely to my memory.  She could be difficult at time, nervous, jealous, a little abusive.. but I have never known her to be this violent.'  Ophilia handed the Apothecary a package containing a powder of some kind.  'I looked in her bag to see if she had any medicine.  We used to give her something to calm her nerves when she was afflicted, and I'd hoped she maybe had thought to bring some with her.. this though.. I have no idea what this is, but I'm sure I can smell Janus Oil.. what do you think?'

Alfyn took the packet and smelled at it.  He immediately looked confused and dipped a finger to taste a tiny amount of the powder.'

'Agree Li, I'm pretty sure that is Janus Oil but what earthly good would that do for a nervous condition?'

'It's a stimulant right?'  Ophilia was frowning.  'It would make her feel a whole lot worse to my mind.'

'Well, yeah.  In large doses it could really muddle the emotions too.'  Alfyn looked thoughtful.  'Look, let me make up something to calm her and see how it goes.'

'Thanks number one.'  Ophilia looked relieved.  As Alfyn started to go through his satchel and grind ingredients, the Cleric went back to Erhardt and Lianna.

'How you feeling now Anna?'  Ophilia asked gently.  Her sister didn’t reply, just buried her face into Erhardt's chest sobbing quietly.

'Hey Anna.'  Alfyn came up behind Ophilia and knelt down so that his face was practically level with the girl.  Lianna looked up at the new voice.  'I'm an Apothecary,'  Alfyn continued.  'I'd really like to help you if you'll let me.'  Anna looked up at Erhardt, who nodded at her encouragingly.

'Okay.'  The girl whispered.

'I got a medicine here for you.  Do you think you could swallow it down for me?  I have some water here to help if you need it.'  Alfyn offered forward the powder he had ground up with a reassuring smile.

'I took my medicine this morning.'  Lianna smiled tentatively at the Apothecary.  'I have been very careful not to forget.'  She added.

'Well, that's real good Anna, but you seem a little bit upset at the moment so I reckon it might be an idea to have a little bit of this too.  What do you think?'

Lianna looked between Alfyn and Erhardt.  'I did get a bit angry.'  She agreed.  'That girl with the cat helped her..'  she gestured at Ophilia '..to steal my Lanthorn.'

'Right.'  Alfyn grimaced as Ophilia's shoulders drooped and she had to turn away to hide the tears that had sprung to her own eyes. As Alfyn and Erhardt wheedled the girl into taking the mixture, the Cleric wandered over to the window where Therion had been peeking, wiping at her eyes and trying to regain her composure.

'I know you're there Therion.  I can feel you.'  Ophilia whispered after the Thief ducked away from view.'

She heard a wry chuckle drift through the glass panes.

'Damn that location thing in your head.'

'You are so bloody nosy, you rotten rogue.'   Ophilia couldn’t help a weak smile.

'Just making sure you're okay your Holiness.'  Therion's face popped up briefly.  'Are you okay?'  he asked.

'Hmm.. are you lying to me Therion?'  Ophilia reached and poked the glass as if she was smacking his forehead the other side of it.

'Only partly.'  He grinned at her.  'Obviously I was concerned - but yeah, I'm damned nosy too!' 

'Li, you wanna come here?'  Alfyn called her back to her sister.

'Thanks Therion.'  Ophilia lent her head against the window briefly, before turning to go face Anna again.

Alfyn had managed to get the girl from Erhardt's lap back into the chair by the fire, drinking the glass of water he had provided and holding onto one of his hands tightly.

'You wanna tell your sister where you got your medicine from?'  Alfyn prompted gently.

Lianna scowled, her face distorting completely in the expression.

'Why should I?'  she replied belligerently.

'You're the one that came here to see me.'  Ophilia said mildly.  'Why did you bother if you didn’t actually want to talk with me?'

Lianna sat back in her chair and her look became puzzled.  'I did come here for a reason.'  She mused to herself.  'How odd that I forget.'  She looked up at Ophilia and suddenly she looked lost.  'Ophilia why did you leave me?'

'I took the Ember so that you could spend time with Father in his illness.'  Ophilia reminded her gently.

'Yes.. Father..'  the girls shoulders started to shake again.  'He was so ill Phili.  I wish you had been there - you always know what to do.  I was afraid!'  a single tear ran down her cheek.  'You promised me you would always look after me, but you lied!' 

'Somebody had to take the Ember.'  Ophilia's face was blank.  'We talked about this before I left.  You were grateful you got to remain with your Father..'

'Yes.. I was there for him.'  Lianna looked weary.  'Every day was hard Phili.  If it wasn’t for Mattias I think I may have died too.'

'Why on earth did you leave Flamesgrace Anna?  Why did you run from Mattias and come here?  I can hardly believe you would do it.'  Ophilia crouched to look her sister directly in the eye.  'Did Mattias hurt you?'  she asked tensely.

'Mattias loves me.  We are going to be married.'  Lianna's voice took on a dreamy tone.  'He will always look after me.  He won't leave me.'

'But you left him.'  Ophilia pointed out softly.

'The Saviour said that I had to come here!'  Lianna reached out a hand to Ophilia.  'You have to come to Wispermill with me and help us to bring Father back.  That's why I came.  That's why I am here.'  The girl started sobbing uncontrollably again and threw herself at Alfyn.

'Err, there there.'  Alfyn rubbed Lianna's back comfortingly, bringing his arms around her to engulf her in a big hug, and looking quizzically at Ophilia who shrugged helplessly back at him.  'The medicine should start working soon Lianna.'  Alfyn reassured the girl.  'Let's just sit quiet until you're feeling a bit better hey?'

Outside the window Therion was frowning to himself.  He had just decided to climb down to get back to some beer and report to the others when he noticed movement round the corner of the building through one of the windows on the far side.  Looked like a human sized shadow.  With careful consideration,  Therion started to make his way along the face of the building, going up to the roof level to be above what he was assuming was another person. 

The moon was thankfully obscured with dense cloud cover so the Thief was almost invisible when he rounded the corner of the building to spy a lithe hooded man perched solidly to a window frame exactly where Therion expected him to be.  He appeared to be listening intently, absolutely motionless as if this activity was taking up all of his attention.

Therion shimmied down to the same level and started to move towards the man, silent as a ghost making use of the other's obvious distraction in his task to get almost on top of him before the intruder was even aware what was happening.

'Peeping are we?'  Therion whispered when the man's eyes suddenly flew to the Thief who had seemingly just appeared out of thin air next to him.  With a desperate reflex the stranger whipped his hand out, knife palmed to slash at Therion, who had been expecting exactly that.  Using the man's own momentum he got a grip on his wrist and pulled hard, unbalancing his foe and causing him to lose his grip on the masonry to which he was clinging.  With a cry the stranger began to fall, his arms wildly windmilling, trying to grab onto anything he could to save his fall.  That anything turned out to be Therion's foot.

'Oh crap.'  The Thief managed to say before he too was dragged from the ledge and plummeted along with the stranger to the ground below.

Ophilia and Erhardt were at the window in seconds upon hearing the distressed yelling followed by a sickening thud. 

'Therion!'  Ophilia flung open the glass and swung herself out and was making her way rather skilfully down to the ground.

'Sis!'  Erhardt stood in complete shock for a few seconds at the sight of his Sister scaling down the building as if it were something she did every day. 'Alfyn ..  Therion's hurt.'  Erhardt too went out of the window, a lot less gracefully than Ophilia had but he managed to get himself to the ground without injury.

Ophilia was helping the Thief to sit up, he was bleeding from somewhere but he looked a whole lot better than the man he had fallen on top of.  As Alfyn came rushing round the side of the building with the others in tow,  Ophilia was fussing over Therion and Erhardt was turning over the very dead stranger.

'He was listening in at the window.'  Therion's voice was breathless as he tried to explain. 

'Shush mate.. I think you got some rib damage.. again..'  Alfyn had joined Ophilia in her ministrations.  'Looks like it was a good job you managed to get a soft landing.'  He added with a brief look at the mushed up stranger.

'I am smelling some magic.'  Cyrus was looking thoughtfully at the dead man.  'It's going quickly though, I don’t think it's actually from this fellow here.'

'You think there was a second person?'  Olberic asked looking around.  He nodded wordlessly at H'aanit and they moved off looking to see if they could pick up a trail.  Erhardt was going over the pockets of the dead man. 

'Some lock picks, some leaf and a very crushed bread roll.'  The Knight reported sourly, 'Nothing to indicate who he was or his intentions.'

'Just what do you think you're doing madam?'  Cyrus has wandered back round to the front of the Inn, trying to follow the very light magic trail.  He came back to his companions, his hand firmly on Lianna shoulder.  She looked terrified and was holding onto Aelfric's lantern.

'I..I.I was scared!'  she whispered, 'So I brought the Lanthorn, in case somebody tried to sneak in and I came to find you all.'  He voice was almost lucid.

'Thank you Anna.'  Ophilia said - carefully taking the lantern from her sisters hands.  'I'm sorry we left you alone.  We weren’t thinking straight.'  Anna spotted the body on the floor and her eyes grew huge.'

'Oh my God's'  she breathed.  'Is he.. dead?'

Ophilia couldn’t help a small gasp of annoyance.  'Yes dear.. come on let's get you back inside.'

Olberic and H'aanit arrived back shortly after they managed to get Therion inside and up to their room.  Anna was pacing the floor unhappily mumbling to herself under Ophilia's watchful eye.

'We didn’t manage to trace the man.'  Olberic admitted.  'But one of the guards noted a Knight Ardante acting strangely not far from here.  Where is your chaperone Anna?'

'I don’t know.'  Anna admitted.  'He was supposed to wait for me here.  Whatever am I to do ?' she wailed.

'We are just going to have to make do the best we can tonight.  It is so late!.'  Tressa was sat next to Therion who was looking fine after his healing.

'You will have to stay here with us, until we get this sorted.'  Ophilia agreed.  She put an arm around her sister.  Welcome to the real madhouse.'  She muttered unhappily.

Chapter Text

Everyone was tired by the time they managed to settle down and start to take stock of the events of the day.

Therion fell asleep first, the healing he had been administered lulling him into a deep slumber as the energy he'd expended in mending his ribs and the cut he had taken to his arm wiped him out.  Lianna was also quickly asleep, her earlier hysterics and the calming elixir from Alfyn exhausting her completely.  Tressa was next - nothing really being able to come between the girl and a good night's rest.

Cyrus has initially been reluctant to take the sleeping draught that Alfyn prepared for him.  He had requested to speak to Ophilia when they had returned to the room and had admitted to her that he had mentioned to their companions that she had once had another name.

'I'm terribly sorry.'  He said.  'I was aware as soon as the words came out that it was something I wasn’t supposed to say but my mind.. I am finding it difficult at times to think logically.'

'It's fine Cyrus.'  Ophilia smiled softly.  'I am just amazed Tressa hasn’t begged me to tell her yet.'  She added wryly.  'I am pleased that you remember how to activate the ring though.  When you think you are ready..'  she looked at him hopefully.

He sighed.  'I am curious.'  He said.  'While I can quite understand why I held such deep affection and esteem for you,  I admit I am at a loss to explain your own sentiment for me. I can remember using your ring that first time and I can quite clearly recall the imprint of your feelings for others, but those you held for me.. they are simply gone from my mind.' 

Ophilia reached out a hand to take his.  'My endearment is really rather simple to explain Professor.'  She said quietly.  'Your generous wisdom has guided me true from the very day that we met whilst your calmness and kindness soothes both my mind and my heart.  I also find that your sheer mental strength and dedication to knowledge.. it's really quite inspiring..'  She paused for a second then grinned brightly and lent to his ear.  'You are also exceedingly handsome Cyrus.. and your kisses.. oh my darling, they are very nice indeed..' 

'Oh my,  I..well..oh.'  Cyrus stuttered as a large flame licked at his free palm.  He quenched it with difficulty and a rueful smile.  'Possibly I should hold off on exploring that in any greater depth for a while longer - I fear I may completely combust.'

Ophilia blushed prettily but offered a genuinely fond smile. 'I am in agreement with Alf that you need some quiet respite time my love.'  Ophilia squeezed his hand supportively.  'Take the draught and get some quality rest.  It can only serve to help you.' 

'After the events of this evening I really feel I should be ready in case anything else...'

'Cyrus.'  Ophilia's voice became firm.  'I appreciate your desire to help but I have learned that taking care of oneself is important too, especially when you have others that love and rely on you.  Sleep and rest then you will be better prepared to continue the fight to get your full self back to us.'

Cyrus stared at her intently for a few seconds.  Finally he nodded.  'Of course - you are quite right.'  He agreed, picking up the concoction that Alfyn had left for him by the side of the bed.  He swallowed it in a single gulp then quickly set himself down comfortably.  Ophilia was still smiling at him as she got up to take her leave and let him sleep, the space she had occupied by his side suddenly seeming unkindly cold and empty.  His expression turned thoughtful.  'Ophilia..'  he held out his hand to take hers again.  'Would you..  I mean.. do you think you could stay with me.. for a while?' 

Ophilia swallowed hard, fighting back the tears that threatened.  'Always.'  She agreed sincerely, settling herself next to him, never once letting go of his hand.

.

H'aanit, Olberic and Erhardt had decided that they would take watch between the three of them during the rest of the night refusing to allow anyone else to sacrifice any sleep despite the protestations of their other companions.  H'aanit took the first shift - thoughtfully placing a nest of blankets by the door for Linde to relax on and effectively covering the entrance securely.  

As the Huntress soundlessly paced the large room she found herself smiling gently at the welcome sight of Ophilia and Cyrus sleeping peacefully next to each other - a small distance between them but their hands tightly woven together.  

Her soft feelings turned to outright amusement when she realised that Olberic and Erhardt were also sharing a bed - back to back but pressed close to each other in what the Huntress recognised as a defensive stance but that she was sure would herald much fun and lively comment from Primrose and Tressa in the morning if they saw them.  Finally having something to tease the stoic Olberic about was proving to be enormously entertaining and H'aanit was secretly sure that both Knight's fuelled the speculation purposefully even whilst being confident that their affection for one another was quite genuine.

H'aanit was shaken from her introspection when Linde unexpectedly emitted a low growl, wary but not altogether threatening.  Instantly alert, the Huntress went over to the door just as there was a quiet tap.  Linde at her side, H'aanit opened the door a crack, then relaxed when she saw it was Alaic the other side.  She stood back to allow him entrance before posting Linde back in position.

'I heard there was trouble here this evening.'  Alaic said quietly as they moved to the farthest corner of the room so as not to disturb their slumbering companions.

'Wast someone trying to listen in to Ophilia's conversation with her sister.'  H'aanit gestured to Lianna who was curled up in a tight ball on one of the bed's.  'Therion dealt with him, but it seemeth that the Knight that travelled with Lianna wast also a part of the event.  He seemeth to have fled.  It also seemeth that he had some small skill in magic.'

'Mattias has not left his Inn at all since his arrival in town.'  Alaic said thoughtfully.  'He has had many visitors, but it may just be business.  He does not appear to be inclined to look for Lianna in the slightest - unless he has the others working for him in that regard.'

'There ist also the issue that the Bishop doth not seemeth keen to perform the Kindling as swiftly as we wouldst like.'  H'aanit frowned.  'It wast expected from the reassurances of Bishop Bartolo that it wouldst be quickly and quietly done.  I finden myself disturbed that ist not the case.'

'I think I will leave the watch on Mattias tomorrow and have a nose round other places.'   Alaic put a hand on H'aanit's arm.  'How are you doing?' he asked, his steely eyes softening slightly.

'Vexed.'  H'aanit smiled.  'Hast been a long time since we hath spent time together.'  She admonished lightly.

'If all is well, should I come for you tomorrow night?'  he asked intensely.

'I will do mine watch, but yes - if it pleasen thee I should be able after.'

He nodded once, caressing her arm firmly before he silently went back to the door and negotiated himself effortlessly around Linde to slip out.

With a happy sigh, H'aanit settled herself by the fire to finish off her watch until it was time to wake Olberic for the next.

~0~

Breakfast seemed to come much too soon for most of the companions the following morning.  Cyrus was still deeply asleep, Alfyn admitted he had heavily dosed the Scholar to give him as much rest as possible.  Olberic was intent on staying with him so that when he woke they could spend the day together in relaxing activities.  Lianna was also still slumbering, looking far more peaceful than she had the previous evening and Alfyn offered to babysit her, particularly to try and persuade her to take another dose of the medication that he had concocted for her.

Ophilia and Therion had an appointment with Bishop Donovan which the thief had started grouching about from the moment he awoke.

'In honesty..'  Ophilia admitted as she poured herself her second cup of thistle tea '..I could have just told you all that you needed to know after the meeting.'

'Then why are you subjecting me to hours of misery your Holiness?'  Therion asked piteously.

'Well, it was agreed that I shouldn’t go anywhere unaccompanied,'  the Cleric reminded him, '..And I really got the impression yesterday that something wasn’t quite right with the Bishop.  I don’t expect you to actually listen to the lecture Therion, but your input on the man.. If you think I am just imagining things.. I'd truly appreciate it.'

'Why didn’t you say so in the first place.'  Therion perked up immediately.

'Having you there is completely beyond suspicion as well.'  Ophilia added.  'Marked as you are you do have every right to attend the advisement.'

'I agree there was something that smelled off yesterday.'  Therion mused.  'Yeah, I get it Phili.  You concentrate on the churchy things and I will concentrate on the shifty stuff.  Good plan!' 

'I will come and hang around the Cathedral I think.'  Erhardt added.  'Close enough to provide aid if required.'

'Do you need a hand babysitting Lianna?'  Primrose asked Alfyn thoughtfully.  He raised an eyebrow at her.

'Seriously?'  he asked mildly.  'How much trouble can one tiny girl be?'

'Really Alfyn?  You ask that even though you know Prim, Phili and Tressa?'  Olberic laughed heartily.  'You're a braver man than me, my lad.'  He added.

'I'm pretty sure I will be fine.'  Alfyn grinned.  'I think she likes me.. she said I had kind eyes.'

'Just don’t make her any promises Alf, even in jest.. she can be.. persistent when she gets her mind stuck on something.'  Ophilia looked a little perturbed.

'Well, if you're  sure..'  Primrose motioned to the other ladies.  'We thought we would get out and about in town and listen to the rumours doing the rounds, since our usual rogue is skipping off to church like a good little boy.'  She smirked at Therion who glowered back at her.

'I thinken what Primrose means ist that we are going shopping.'  H'aanit said with a perfectly straight face.

'Busted!'  Erhardt chuckled at Primrose's look of despair at the Huntress.

'Well obviously we need a cover..'  she muttered rebelliously.

'I kinda enjoyed sniffing out stuff when we were in Wellspring.'  Tressa declared.  'I reckon me and H'aanit were pretty darned good at it too and Prim will just flash her... heh... smile and we are bound to do even better!'

'By the Gods, can we just go..'  Primrose moaned, her face flushed.

The ladies left, followed shortly after by Ophilia, Therion and Erhardt.  Olberic began his usual ritual of weapon maintenance as he awaited Cyrus to wake up and Alfyn opened his satchel and started to take stock of his inventory, whilst mixing up a second batch of the relaxant he had provided Lianna the day before.  Ophilia had removed the sachets that her sister had been carrying, adamant there was something suspicious in their application.  Alfyn was pretty sure he agreed with her assessment.

Olberic was the first to become aware of Lianna's scrutiny when he looked up from his task to switch from his whetstone to his buffing cloth.  The girl was still laid in her tightly defensive circle but her eyes were open and she was regarding the two silent men with large fearful eyes.

'Good morning lass.'  Olberic said gently, looking back down at his sword again as he made long smooth strokes down the length of the blade with practised efficiency.

'G..g..good morning.'  Lianna's reply was so quiet it was hardly audible.

'Ah you're awake!'  Alfyn looked up with a friendly smile and a half wave.  Lianna sat herself up slowly and looked around the room, her face panicked.

'Where's Ophilia?'  she whispered, clasping at her throat.

'She had an appointment to meet with Bishop Donovan this morning about the Kindling and you looked so peaceful we didn’t want to wake you.'  Alf keep his smile beaming reassuringly.

'I see.'  Lianna reached for her bag and started to root through it.  Her expression turned even more alarmed as her search became more urgent.  'My medicine!'  she wailed.  'I need my medicine.  I mustn't forget to take it!'

'Don't worry Anna,'  Alfyn rose calmly and approached the girl with deliberate amicable gentleness.  'I have medicine for you here.  It's the same that we gave you last night.'

Lianna shrank back from the Apothecary, a look of fear on her face. 

'Mattias said I must always remember my medicine.'  She whimpered.  'He got it for me specially.  Please, do you know what she did with it?'

'Who?'  Alfyn asked, stopping where he was and putting his hands up to indicate no ill intent.

'Ophilia!'  Lianna's eyes narrowed and she frowned.  'She took it didn’t she?  Of course she did.  She has always been jealous that Mattias loves me.'

'Pfft.'  Olberic snorted.  'I seriously doubt that!'  he looked up from his sword again, his scowl fierce.

'Peace Olberic.'  Alfyn flashed a grimace at the Knight who shrugged and went back to his cleaning.

'Everyone always has to love Ophilia best.'  Lianna went on sourly.

'Well it isn’t Ophilia that Mattias wants to marry is it!'  Alfyn said kindly, inching himself forwards towards the girl again, the mixture and a fresh glass of water held out in front of him.

'I should think not!'  Cyrus had woken whilst everyone's attention had been focused on Lianna.  He was sat up on his bed with a frown marring his handsome face.

'Ah, Professor - you are back with us at last.'  Olberic lay down his weapon to put away his tools with a relieved smile.  'Shall we get you something to eat downstairs and then away to the baths?'

'Indeed Sir Olberic, that would be greatly appreciated.'  Cyrus inclined his head.

'Oh!'  Lianna pushed away Alfyn who had reached her side and stared at Cyrus as if seeing him for the first time. Her eyes narrowed.  'Professor... you are Ophilia's lover.. Mattias told me about you..'

'All completely awful things I expect.'  Cyrus said heavily.  'And likely all untrue.  Except punching him of course.  I did do that.  I rather enjoyed it.'  He looked up at Lianna shrewdly, noting her look of distain.  'I do object to the term 'lover' as well.'  He added with some dignity.  'I think a more factual reference would be 'intended', although..'  he lapsed into a short, thoughtful silence, '..in truth Ophilia has not yet actually accepted a proposal.'

'Semantics, Professor.'  Olberic snorted.  'She asked Erhardt for permission to marry you, that's an acceptance in my books.'

'She can't marry without Mattias' agreement and she will never get that.'  Lianna smirked.

'Nope your completely wrong Lianna.'  Olberic was smirking back at her.  'Erhardt is Ophilia's brother by blood - not paperwork.  If guardianship of her belongs to anyone - it would be him.'

'D..d..don't be silly..'  Lianna's shoulders had started to shake as tears welled to her eyes.

'Guys...'  Alfyn was shooting desperate looks at his two companions.

'Time to go I think Cyrus.'  Olberic stood and moved to the Professor to offer a hand. 

'Agreed my friend.'  Cyrus clasped Olberic's arm and stood a little shakily, the effects of his sleeping tonic still not completely worn off.  'I wonder Sir Olberic if before we hit the baths you would consider giving some instruction in the art of pugilism.  I feel it may be apt in case I feel the need to punch somebody again sometime soon.'

'Why Professor, it would be an honour.'  Olberic grinned as they made their way out of the room.

Alfyn gingerly sat himself down on the bed next to Lianna and held out his compound to her again.  She took it silently and then the glass of water which she swilled down quickly.  When she handed him back the glass he patted her encouragingly on the shoulder and walked back over to the fireplace where his satchel was hanging.

'Is it true?'  Lianna was staring at her hands.  'Is that blonde Knight truly Ophilia's brother.'

'Ah.. well.'  Alfyn looked uncomfortable.  'Li wanted to tell you about that herself last night but you were a bit overwrought and then the incident with the ... well.. you know.'  The Apothecary scratched at the back of his neck.  'But yeah, it's true.  Your Da got Eliza to search into Li's heritage and she was the one that found out - but your Da - he never told what he knew.  Li only found out when we were in Wellspring.'

'He was kind to me.'  Lianna sniffed, wiping at her tears dully.

'Course he was.'  Alfyn offered a tentative smile.  'Erhardt was mighty pleased to find out he had a sister, so I reckon meeting his second one is great too!'

'But I'm not...'

'Hey!'  Alfyn raised his hand to cut her off.  'You are Li's sister and she loves you.  That makes Erry your brother too.  Shucks, he's a fine brother to have Anna, you should be properly happy.'

'Maybe.'  Lianna smiled tentatively back at the Apothecary.

They were interrupted unexpectedly by a sharp and frenzied knocking at the door.

'Stay there.'  Alfyn warned Lianna as he grabbed his axe and made his way across the room.  'Who is it?' he called.

'The Inkeep sir, Is the Apothecary there?'

Alfyn opened the door carefully, his weapon relaxed but still present.  The Innkeeper looked extremely anxious.

'I'm terribly sorry to disturb you sir, but I'm wondering if you might come and have a look at my wife.  I have sent someone for Mistress Hysal, but I fear she may be too late..'

'Of course!'  Alfyn raced back to grab his satchel.

'You're not going to leave me here alone are you?'  Lianna's eyes had grown wide.  'Please Alfyn.. don't you forsake me too.'

'I gotta see to a patient Anna.  You'll be fine.'  Alfyn barely looked at the girl as he rushed his way back to the door.

'Well I'm coming too then.  I am a healer after all.'  Lianna got up and followed Alfyn.

'Right.'  The boy looked a little startled but nodded. 'Let's go then.'

The Innkeeper led them down to the private suite he occupied with his wife and ushered them hurriedly to her bedroom.

'My wife had the fever for at least a week,'  he was telling them tersely.  'She tends to be pretty weak when it comes to illness due to a malady she had in childhood.  Always takes it hard when she gets something nasty.'  He grimaced.  'Honestly, last night after Mistress Hysal saw her it was almost like a miracle - I have never witnessed her respond to anything that quickly - but this morning.. well.. see for yourself.'

Alfyn made his way quickly to the bed.  The deep coughing had been audible all along the corridor and the poor woman's face was bright red with the effort to breath between her chokes.  Her neck and her nose were swollen up and her eyes were running steams of viscous tears down her cheeks.

'By the God's.'  Alfyn swore quietly.  He quickly made up a light mixture to ease the swelling.  'Do you happen to have the vial that contained the medicine she was given last night?'  he asked the Innkeeper who was hovering by his side restlessly. 'This tincture is fairly neutral, but I would be concerned to concoct anything to try and combat the cough without knowing what she has already ingested in the last twenty-four hours.  It could do more harm than good.'  Alfyn looked up for Lianna who was stood back in the open doorway, tensely wringing her hands.  'Do you have any thoughts?'  he asked while the Innkeeper went to look for the discarded vial.

'Not really no.'  Lianna whispered.  'She looks contagious..Alfyn are you sure it's safe?'

The Apothecary had to work hard to conceal the flame of annoyance that burned in him.  He ignored the question as the Innkeeper came back empty handed.

'Sorry.'  He said.  'Don't look like we have it.'

'Well then, I will give her this to help her with her breathing and to take her out of immediate danger.  I think I need to hunt down Miss Hysal and get some constructive information off of her before we can come up with an effective remedy.'  He grasped the man's arm comfortingly.  'I'm sure she will know what to do sir, is just a shame she was reluctant to show me her elixir yesterday.'  Alfyn felt the burn of resentment flood through him again.

Alfyn stayed long enough to ensure that the woman's breathing was less laboured before he took Lianna firmly by the arm and led her downstairs.

'W..w..where are we going?'  the girl stammered as they made their way out of the Inn.

'Like I said to the Innkeeper, I need to speak with the other Apothecary.'  Alfyn replied shortly.  'I ain't willing to leave you behind, so you will just have to come with me.'

'But I don’t want to..'

'Sorry Anna.  You ain't getting a choice in the matter.'  His voice was harsher than he intended but the girl was really starting to get on his nerves.  He could hardly believe that she had grown up alongside Ophilia.

They hadn’t made it very far when they ran into Primrose and the other girls in one of the trading squares in the town.  With a huge sigh of relief, Alfyn ran directly towards them, pulling a reluctant Lianna behind him.

'Have any of you seen the woman that I spoke to in the bar yesterday, the other Apothecary?'  he asked them without preamble.

'Haven't seen her no.'  Primrose replied,  running a surprised eye over the scowling Lianna.  'There was a large crowd outside one of the Inn's closer to the Cathedral earlier though.  Seemed they were waiting for that Miss Hysal to make an appearance.'

'Can you show me?'  Alfyn requested, filling Primrose, H'aanit and Tressa in on the issue at the Inn as they moved quickly to the location that Primrose had mentioned.

The crowd was still surrounding the building as they made their way up to it.  Vanessa had come outside at some stage and she was being questioned on all side by very distressed citizen's.

'Please!'  Vanessa was saying as the companions came close enough to hear.  'Listen close.'  Her face was pale and her eyes rimmed as if she had been up all night.  'When I dealt with the fever yesterday I had my suspicions that there may be more to the illness, although I did hope that I was wrong.'  The girl was wringing her hands looking quite distressed.

'Why did you say nothing?'  a voice rang from the crowd.

'Simply because the malady that I suspected is so incredibly rare, I was sure that I couldn’t possibly be correct.'  Vanessa looked down humbly.  'For most the tonic that I provided for the fever would have been enough, this illness I suspected is only severe in the infirm or very vulnerable.'

'But what is it?'  A very well dressed man asked angrily.  'My daughter is only five and she can barely draw breath through her coughing!'

'The illness hails from a land far to the south and is named the Gaborra Whooping Cough.  It starts with a fever that, as I have said is easily remedied with no further effect in the healthy - but for others it mutates and develops as unfortunately some of you have seen.'

'But what can be done?' the man moaned. 'My daughter... will she...?'

Vanessa looked up with a small smile for the man.  'Luckily sir, I am in possession of a tonic that will cure this ill literally overnight.'  She said softly.  'I have not slept at all, my fear of my diagnosis prompting me to prepare vials of the remedy just in case I was correct.'

'Heavens be praised!'  the man acclaimed, others joining in with murmurs of relief at her words.

'I must warn you however..'  Vanessa's voice became quiet, serious.  'This tonic is brewed from a very special type of moss that only grows in a remote and very treacherous location.  Because of the rarity of the key reagent I am afraid that I must charge a rather substantial fee.'  She reached into her satchel and brought out a glittering vial, its contents shimmering the brightest blue in the sunlight.  There was an awed murmur from the crowd.

'Mistress, 'tis only fair that you charge what is required for your work.  You barely took a leaf for your cure of the fever.  Money is no object when it comes to the health of our families!'  The man who had spoken had pushed to the front of the crowd eagerly.

'I am genuinely happy that you feel that way.'  Vanessa smiled graciously at him.  'The price is one hundred thousand leaves per vial.'

There was a stunned silence.  Alfyn rubbed his ears in confusion sure that he had heard wrong but the reaction from the crowd seemed to suggest that he hadn’t.

'L..l..like I said.  Money is no object.'  The man now at the front stuttered reaching out for the glowing liquid.  This stirred the rest of the crowd to start pushing forward.  Vanessa gestured to the two men that had been standing unnoticed behind her and they brought out large leather ledgers to take the purchasers details for payment.  A queue started to form.

'Shucks.'  Alfyn was still standing open mouthed and a puzzled look on his face.

'Clever..'  Tressa murmured in appreciation watching as the queue grew ever longer.

'Eh?'  Alfyn turned to the Merchant in surprise.  'What's clever about charging .. charging...'  he couldn’t even get the amount out of his mouth.

'Well,'  Tressa looked at him shrewdly.  'She's lucky enough to have the only thing that can cure these people's vulnerable loved ones.. she can literally charge what she wants to do it, and she has the balls to follow through.  She's gonna make more in one day than most of us will see in a lifetime.'

'She is putting a price on people lives Tressa!'  Alfyn exploded, his frustration too much to handle.  'What becomes of those who can't pay the ridiculous price?  They are just left to suffer and die?'

'I ain't saying it's morally right Alf.'  Tressa scowled at him.  'I'm just saying she has her market cornered and she is milking it for all it's worth.'

Alfyn was shaking his head angrily.  The Cathedral took his notice suddenly.

'Oh by the God's, Ophilia!'  he exclaimed. 

'What about Ophilia?'  Primrose asked him tersely.

'She said there were Clerics that had the fever, one of the reasons the Kindling was being held up.  If they have developed this illness what's the betting she is up to her neck with the sick right now?  Dammit!'  He started to push through the crowds, then remembered Lianna who was stood looking unsure what to do.  'Prim, look after Lianna for me.. I need to.. I'll be back in a bit!'  he turned and started sprinting towards the church.

Alfyn found Ophilia, as expected tending to the sick.  Both Erhardt and Therion were waiting in the corridor of the Cathedral dormitory pacing and anxious.

'Thank the God's your here.'  Therion exclaimed as the Apothecary raced towards them,  'A couple of the Cleric's who had the fever have some kind of...'

'Yeah, I know.'  Alfyn cut him off abruptly.  'Where is Li?'

At that moment Ophilia came out of one of the rooms with a bowl of water in her hand.  She spied Alfyn and rushed up. 

'Alf, do you..'

'What the hell do you think you're doing?'  Alfyn shouted at her.  'How many times do I have to remind you that you are not at full health?  That you have a bloody vision of death hanging over you?  That exposing yourself to sickness is bloody stupid?'

Ophilia calmly handed her bowl to Erhardt then took the Apothecary in her arms.

'What's happened Alf?'  she asked gently.

'You are as stubborn as a mule woman!'  he tried to push her away but she held on tight.

'You are far angrier than my conduct alone warrants.'  She noted patiently.  'What's going on?'

With a frustrated growl Alfyn told them about Vanessa and her cure.  The Cleric's face was also furious by the end of his telling.

'Seems mighty convenient to me that the woman happens to have on her the only cure for some rare and unheard of malady.'  Alfyn fumed.

'Agreed.'  Ophilia murmured.

'You're developing your own bullshit monitor Alf.'  Therion added sourly.

'I dunno know what to do Li.  I dunno what she gave people yesterday - if she ain't gonna help the people who can't afford her miracle they are gonna die!'

'The child.. the one who was praying for her sister!'  Ophilia suddenly remembered.  'Is the sister okay?  They won't have the coin to pay for the remedy..'

'Flynn.'  Alfyn mumbled.  His eyes suddenly brightened.  'I'm sure that there was a vial of the medicine still in the house when we visited.  Do you remember Therion?'

The thief frowned.  'On the sideboard in the bedroom, still had some liquid in it.'

Erhardt raised an eyebrow at Therion's recall. 

'Thief's skill,' the boy told him.  'There was also a brass candlestick and two crayons next to the vial.

'Impressive.'  The Knight rumbled.

'What did you give to the Innkeeper's wife?'  Ophilia was asking.  'I can get some made up here for the time being.' 

'You will get someone else to administer it.'  Alfyn insisted as he listed his ingredients.  She nodded at him unhappily.

'Li..' he warned.

'Yes Alf, I will remove myself from harm's way, just for you.'  She kissed his cheek.  'Now you need to take a few deep breaths and get yourself down to those children and get this worked out.'

'God's I hope I can.'  Alfyn looked lost for a moment.

'I have every faith in you number one.'  Ophilia insisted, gently pushing him towards the door.