Journey of Heroes: The Keys to Destruction

[EmilyAnnCoons 7]

JoH: KtD has finally come in story form to RMXP Unlimited. It has been on my deviantart for a while, but I feel like sharing my stories on here as well now, so you will see me posting more over time (I think anyway >>;; ). Like with OceanBlue, I am posting a table of contents for everyone, and it follows the same rules as OceanBlue (All current chapter titles will be posted, and ones without links are not yet posted, save for the prologue, which is in this post.) So, here you go.

 

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1: The Siege of Karagum

Chapter 2: The Meeting with the Council

Chapter 3: The Dark Eye Seeing Stone

Chapter 4: Shandria

Chapter 5: Caleb, Master of Earth

 

Prologue

 

Versumi, the world, once at peace, now at war. In the beginning, Jinsei – the God of Creation – looked down upon the desolate and dark world of Versumi. He saw it not as it was, but as he could make it. He descended upon the world, and he spoke to it, creating life. He created animals, plants, and many other things with only his words. He gave the world a grand power, the power of magic. No other world he had formed before was as rich in magic as this.

 

After he finished, he looked upon the world, and he knew it was good. He knew it would serve the purpose he had created it for. “Out of us, let there be a life upon this world,” Jinsei spoke. “One that can take dominion and keep it. Let them be many, and live strongly.” And out of Jinsei came the first races. With his words he formed the humans and the elves. “Now let there be those who they may look up to, and may teach them in the ways of magic, until they may teach it amongst themselves.”

 

With Jinsei’s words, a third race was formed. It was the Titans. Nine creatures that were created for a single purpose. Each one was given control of a specific magical element, and they would teach the other races to wield it. So was formed the nine Titans – Juggernaut, the Great Beast of Fire; Lily, the Elven Maid of Water; Gaia, the Earthen Mother; Garuda, the Great Demon of Air; Belia, the Elven Goddess of Light; Necroasa, the Elven Goddess of Darkness; Karok, the Great Lich of Bone; and Mari, the Spider of Blood.

 

The world was in peace for the first four hundred years of existence. The races all lived in unison with one another. However, the races had begun to view the Titans as gods, which began to cause a great uneasiness in the world. After four hundred years of peace, the peace was beginning to dissolve. It was at this same time that a great meteor crashed into Versumi, knocking the world off its axis, and forcing it to rotate at a different degree then before. The land where the meteor crashed grew up instantly into a large mountain range, and dark clouds appeared above the mountains. These clouds would never leave, and if one looked at them, they would notice the clouds seemed to shift and change, though they were always dark, yet never stormy.

 

When the meteor crashed, a rift in space was ripped open, and a beast unlike any other came from the rift. He was not alone, however. Shrouded in darkness, his minions began to come from the rift. These beasts became known as the Nightmares, and their leader became known as the God of Destruction. The peace had ended, and an invasion had begun. The Nightmares were determined to destroy all life on Versumi.

 

To aid in the process, the God of Destruction left the mountains and, with Nightmares at his side to guard him, met with the Titans. He tricked each and every one of them into thinking they were better then the others. This began a war between the nine, which brought upon the First Great War.

 

It was in this time, due to the war between the Titans, that the races separated. The Elves split into three, one group leaded by El’Tier, King of the Sun. He and his elves followed Belia, and separated from the others who didn’t to become the High Elves. The second group was lead by Melthanor, the King of the Forest, who separated from the Elves simply in a hope that doing so would keep them from fighting their brothers. The final group lead by Tamuril, the Queen of the Moon, separated from the Elves to follow the uncorrupted Necroasa. They formed the Drak-shal, which meant “Forsaken Ones” in their language. These Elves also later came to be called the Dark Elves by most races due to them going into darker lands, resulting in their skin growing pale and hair growing dark. In the end, all Drak-shal had black hair and pale-white skin.

 

The humans also separated, forming those who followed the Titans, and those who did not. Those who did not see the Titans as gods went into the mountains, where they dug homes and grand mines. In the end, they grew shorter from lack of sun, and grew long beards. When they emerged, they were no longer humans, but were Dwarves.

 

With the races separated and now at war with each other, the God of Destruction began to sell the Nightmares to the Titans, giving each an army. The war grew a hundredfold, and it seemed that the world was doomed. However, a light shined forth when four who would be heroes rose to fight. Saria, a human and the first Paladin; Scheris, a Drak-shal and the first Summoner; Dracon, a High Elf and the first Cleric; and finally Gladius, a Nightmare who saw the evils of the God of Destruction and separated.

 

The war progressed on, but the four heroes stood against the times, and battled their hardest. Using the magic Jinsei had granted unto them, they sealed away the nine Titans into Limbo, the Realm Between Dimensions. As they did, the races began to re-unite, now seeing the evil behind the war. In the end, the four heroes fought against the God of Destruction. It was in this battle that the Dragon Queen, Telenia, was brought to Versumi, and thus the world became populated with Dragons.

 

As the heroes fought, the God of Destruction became weaker, but as he weakened, they too weakened. In the end, they conjured the last of their power to seal away the God of Destruction into Limbo. However, they did not have the power to seal the portal they had forced him into. Using magic, the races united together and forged a statue that would hold the portal within it. From the statue was carved seven small objects, each having a unique power. It is said, that should all seven items be returned to the statue, the statue would crumble to dust, and release the God of Destruction within.

 

This story occurs fifteen thousand years later, after many other wars have come and gone, and new races have been created. This is the story of the Seven Keys to Destruction, and the journey one girl has with her protector.

[EmilyAnnCoons 7]

Chapter 1: The Siege of Karagum

 

Karagum was a peaceful town. It was settled in the center of the Desert of Illusions and was currently ruled over by the Council of Belia. Humans controlled the town, governed by their leader. It was in this town that one of the Seven Keys could be found. For here, in this quiet, peaceful town, a very dark, circular object existed, and was being cared for by the Council

 

There was a gust of wind that went by in the Desert City of Karagum. The wind seemed to whistle about an incoming traveler. As fate would have it, a portal appeared in the middle of the city, and a girl walked out of it. She wasn't too tall, somewhere in the five to six foot range. She looked around, her red hair waving as she turned her head. She had green eyes that seemed to search the city as she looked around. She wore a simple outfit, nothing extravagant. It was a simple, white spaghetti strap shirt, with a rather short, purple skirt. In her hand was a staff, just slightly taller then her. One of the straps to her shirt hung down on her shoulder, and it was fairly obvious the shirt was extremely loose on her.

 

A smattering of footfalls seemed to echo about the city street. Hushed voices flew by on the wind, confident and almost cocky. Suddenly both the footfalls stopped, and the voices ended with an airy chuckle. The footfalls began once again in earnest, growing louder with each second. The young girl twirled around and found herself face-to-face with a group of wild-eyed ruffians wearing old and sandy cloaks which draped down well below their hands, concealing nearly everything from the neck down. One, clearly the leader, had short blonde hair, grey eyes, and an obvious aura of over-confidence. The other two, dark haired and dark eyed, seemed timid but capable. The first spoke up, “What's a vision like you doing in the middle of a place like this?”

 

“Me?” the girl asked. “I have come here for nothing more then to speak with the council.” She grabbed her loose strap and pulled it back onto her shoulder. “That is my sole reason for being here. Now, if you will excuse me.” She turned and began to walk towards the Council building. The portal she had come from was still sitting open, as her partner had not yet come through it.

 

“No worries little lady, we can take you to the 'council',” the blue-eyed ruffian spoke. He jogged up to the young girl and put his arm over her shoulders, pulling her rather uncomfortably close. His followers, knowing the drill, took flank on either side and closed in, all three of the misfits grinning wildly, their eyes glowing with dark intent.

 

Just then, the slick sound of a sword being unsheathed cut through the laughter, stopping it dead. The ruffians turned to view a tall figure, cloaked completely from head toe, the only part of his body that showed was his chin, which bore a deep scar and a mangled goatee. Sticking out of the bottom of the cloak was the tip of a thin sword. He spoke with a low, almost disembodied voice, “Are you troubled, M'lady?”

 

The girl turned to see the cloaked man. “Ah, there you are. I was wondering where you were.” She looked to the ruffians. “Gentlemen, this is my protector, Jarod. My father sent him with me. Oh, and my name is Jessica.” She looked back at the cloaked man. “Well, these three here all decided to gang up around me. Personally, I wasn't worried. Even without you around, I still could have gotten them off my back easily enough.” She shrugged. “But, since you're here, I'll leave you to deal with these three. Have a nice day, gentlemen.” She bowed, and turned to walk off. However, before starting off, she made sure to raise her staff slightly for a single spell. One that would offer her protection, should any of the three decide to turn to attack her. She then sighed. “Oh fidget,” she spoke, reaching into a pouch on the side of her skirt, pulling out from it a rather large map, even though it was a tiny pouch. She then looked it over. “Now, where is the council?” she asked as she looked it over.

 

Without a word, Jarod approached the ruffians. The blue eyed man, no stranger to trouble, quickly drew a dagger and held it to the young girl’s throat, who, being bothered with more important things, kept her eyes on the map and took no notice. Jarod walked closer, steadily, and uncaring. The dagger in the ruffian’s began to shake, slowly at first, the more violently. After only a few seconds the spell forced a small shock of blue lighting from the tip of the girl’s staff and hit the ruffian’s hand. He yelped in pain and dropped the dagger.

 

Quickly the ruffian dropped to his knees and grabbed the hilt, but a massive black leather boot stomped down on the blade just as his fingers wrapped around it. He screamed and leapt back. Now side-by-side with his cronies, his cockiness returned. He drew two more daggers from under his long cloak, one crony drawing a sword and shield, the other a small leather pouch. “I think our large friend here could use a little nap, eh Gordo?” he said with a sneer.

 

The man with the pouch quick as lightning reached in and drew out a handful of what looked like shimmering sand and threw it into Jarod’s face, who, equally fast, drew up his cloak and swept it away, then dropping to his knees, sprung straight at all three, hitting each one in the gut with his foot, fist, and the hilt of his sword. The ruffians staggered back, not hurt so much as frightened. Wide-eyed and aware of the danger that had overpowered them without drawing a drop of blood, they turned and fled in a cloud of dust. Jarod sheathed his sword and stood silently by Jessica.

 

“Ah, here it is!” Jessica shouted. She pointed to the spot on the map. “The council is here...while we're over here...” she pointed to another part of the map. She blinked for a second, and then sighed. “Wonderful...we're that far away? Why can't they ever put councils in more convenient locations?” she grumbled. “It's not far...it's just...inconvenient to get to...” she pointed to the map again. “We have to take this road here, to that road there...then to this road here...” she sighed. “Well...we should probably go if we want to get there soon...” she turned and began to walk in the direction her map said to go. She waved her staff, causing the map to float in front of her as she used her, now free, hand to look around, and point to the different streets.

 

After going through a long, winding set of streets, they finally made it to the Council Plaza. “Finally,” Jessica spoke, grumbling. She looked around. “Lots of merchants here...the council is straight ahead, though.” Jarod’s shoulders tensed as his eyes darted about the busy marketplace. Not a ripple in his dark cloak did he make as his hand reached up to loosen his sheathed sword. His shoulders tensed. There had already been one encounter, and with a mob of innocents as a shield, there could easily be another.

 

Jessica began to walk, following her map as a guide to where they needed to go. The city was rather busy; it was true, though luckily they didn't run into anything else, at least, not at first. “They're coming!” a voice shouted from afar. “Orcs and Goblins are coming! They've even brought siege weapons!”

 

Jessica turned, hearing the noise. “Orcs?” she asked. “That's not good. We need to hurry to the council before-” her sentence was cut off when a large group of Orcs suddenly appeared in front of them. “Mages,” she spoke. “They must be teleporting in all over the city!”

 

The Orcs looked over at Jessica and Jarod, and one gave a grin. “Get them!” the Orcs shouted.

 

“Oh shit!” Jessica shouted, pointing her staff forward. “Let's get them.” A large hand emerged from Jarod’s black cloak and briefly rested on the young girl’s shoulder. With an effortless thrust, she was thrown behind her protector, who brandished a short, thin sword which glinted fiercely in the sun. His heavy body suddenly became light as a feather and in one quick leap he was amongst the Orcs. His sword sung as it flew through the air, dancing between the folds of their armor and slicing cleanly through their flesh. Within seconds, six of the Orcs fell, not even able to react.

 

Jessica smiled, watching the last Orc turn and run. “Well, that was rather entertaining.” she giggled. “Let's go. There's bound to be more, and we need to get to the Council as fast as possible.” Her voice had seemed to change to a serious tone once she was done giggling. She walked forward, as if maturing instantly.

 

A quick flick of Jarod’s expert wrist threw the Orc blood off his sword. It dived back into his cloak and sheathed, his arms withdrew as well. His calm composer restored, he paid no mind as he stepped over the corpses of his bloodied and hacked enemies to rejoin the young witch.

 

Jessica, seeing no immediate threat, soon began to skip through the city, as if her maturity had suddenly changed to that of a child's. It didn't take long for them to reach the council, but once there, she realized trouble was ahead. “Wait…if the mages can teleport into the middle of a city, then I bet they could teleport here into the council without anyone knowing about it.” she grumbled. “This won't be so easy...there's got to be several of them in there...like a hundred or so...” It was then that she heard a familiar roar. “Ah, perfect,” she spoke, looking up. “Down here, girl!” she shouted at the sky. A moment later, a large, Red Dragon swooped down, landing in front of them. She reached up and pet its head, which it had generously bowed down so it could be pet.

 

Sensing an opportunity, Jarod strolled quickly to Jessica’s side and spoke softly into her ear. “My Lady, so near to danger is not your place. Ride your Dragon to the sky and let me reduce the number of enemies.” His ferocity flared at the thought of slaughtering Orcs by the hundreds. He gripped his sword tight under his cloak, though it could not be see, the satisfying sounds of tightly gripped leather rattled into their ears.

 

“It is pretty close to danger, but I think I should be allowed to do something,” Jessica insisted. “I want to help, you know? It's pretty boring if all I can do is watch you kill things. At least let me kill one myself.”

 

“Bound to obey you I am, but bound to protect you as well,” Jarod retorted. “Might I remind you that there are ranged spells you can fire from the back of this mighty beast? Only, though, if you promise to not engage any Orc Mages.”

 

Jessica sighed. “Yeah...guess my Dad wouldn't be happy if he found out I was fighting Orc Mages...that, and it would be somewhat dangerous...” she sighed once more and hopped onto the back of her dragon. “Very well, I'll fight from above. Just be careful...I'm not the best aim from up there on dragon back.” The dragon began to flap its wings, flying slightly into the air.

 

Stepping forward and reaching out his arm as if to grasp a beloved kinsman, Jarod called to her, a strange faltering in his voice, “My Lady...” He paused, and swallowed, and spoke low and tender, a strange sound coming from one so hardened and scarred, “be careful.”

 

Jessica nodded. “Of course I'll be careful.” The dragon flew into the sky, flying up above where the council was. “All right, then, let's see...” she looked around. “Large city...the Orcs are here for some reason, or so I'd think...I doubt they'd attack for no reason...”

 

Jarod stood and watched, letting the feelings wage war inside him. The strongest sense within him, the loyalty to his protectee, had split and was battling amongst itself. He was sworn to obey her orders, and her orders were clear: Defend the Council, defend the city and the lives of the innocents within it. However, his feet were planted, as he gazed up at the young girl with whom he had experienced so much and could not seem to let her go off on her own like this. A distant scream pierced the city, followed by sounds of destruction and murder all around him. His heart was made up, his mind was ready, and his body steel. Making no attempts to hide his presence, he drew his sword, still stained with drops of Orc blood, and ran up the polished marble staircase leading up to the great wooden doors of the Council building.

 

Jessica watched from above, watching Jarod rush into the building. She sighed and pet her dragon some. “He'll be fine.” She turned and looked at the city. She saw an Orc nearby who was attacking an innocent person. Her eyes seemed to light up, a grin appearing on her face. The dragon rushed forward towards the site, and she pointed her staff at the Orc. “Faiatamas!” she shouted. A large orb of fire shot out from the top of her staff, shooting right the Orc. It struck him and shot him back. She laughed a bit. “This is fun,” she spoke.

 

Jessica then flew off on the dragon again, looking around as she did. Seeing more Orcs, she let loose both fire balls and dragon fire down upon them. She did her best to keep from injuring innocents, though. She looked up, seeing siege weapons parked outside the Karagum gates. This was definitely a full scale invasion. As if knowing what Jessica was thinking, the dragon rushed forward at the siege weapons. It smashed into one of them, smashing right through. It then began to unleash its fiery breath upon the weapons, as Jessica unleashed fireballs from her staff.

 

“Time for some fun,” Jessica spoke, grinning almost evilly. She rose her staff in the air, and dark clouds seemed to appear above her. It spread out, covering the area where the army was outside the walls of the city. “Faia Arashi!” she shouted. From the clouds, fire began to shoot down, like small meteors. They slammed into the ground, spreading the army out. “Gaia Jishini!” she shouted, and the ground beneath them began to shake. “Ikazuchi Arashi!” she shouted, lightning was now shooting down as well as fire. “Yes! Run, fools! Run!” she laughed, almost evilly, as if enjoying the fact the Orcs were frightened.

 

Meanwhile, at the council, a humbling wind blew across the dry market square and carried with it the sharp but quiet clangs of a battle raging at a distance. Jarod drew his sword slowly and silently and held it tight as he advanced up the polished marble staircase to the Council building and across the landing to the massive wooden doors leading to the foyer. He inhaled deep and slow, then turned to his side and kicked the door open with his heavy steel-lined boots. The wooden doors splintered as they flew open, revealing naught but a draft of air where there should have been a bustling atmosphere.

 

Jarod walked slowly into the lobby, sword drawn and ready. Under the shadow of his hood his eyes darted about, searching for any trace or clue which could explain the eerie silence. Suddenly the rich scent of death wafted into his nose and his gaze fell to the floor. A lone spot of blood was barely noticeable on the deep red velvet carpet leading across the foyer to the grand marble staircase on the other end. A cold chill shot down his spine as he realized that this was not the work of Orcs, but of something far more sinister. Then his mouth did something it had not done for three full years; it curled up into a smile most foul. He brought the hilt up to his broken lips and licked it to tighten his grip. He then proceed across the carpet and up the staircase.

 

Jarod approached one of the two wide doors leading to the Grand Hall where the Council met and where the townspeople gathered for assemblies and feasts. His hand reached out for the great brass handle but stopped a hairs breadth away; he could feel warmth radiating from it. It had been opened and closed not too long ago. His enemy was on the opposite side of that door.

 

Under his cloak Jarod’s mangled dark hair stood on end; not for 12 long years had he truly felt as if he was on such a deadly hunt, and the memories long past of slaughtering thieves one by one in their own stronghold, with naught but his bare hands. His icy smile broke into a full grin, baring his broken and chipped teeth, as he raised his heavy foot a second time and kicked the door open. He strode through, feeling every limb on fire and aching for the hunt. He was not disappointed.

 

Meanwhile, Jessica laughed again as she watched the Orcs scattering in fear. Her magic was still shooting down around her at her enemies. She and the dragon were also high enough up to avoid arrow fire. “Burn!” she shouted. “Faia Funkazeno!” she shouted. By command, the ground began to crack open beneath the feet’s of the Orc army. As it did, the meteors continued to rain down, some landing directly in the cracks, causing the ground to shake violently, causing a slight spit of lava from the ground.

 

Jessica laughed evilly once more. “Yes! Perfect! I feel your fear! Fear me, fools!” she laughed again. Her protector would also be noticing this sudden change in her. One thing he had been assigned to do was stop the demonic side of her from getting out. Unfortunately, it was trying to get out now.

 

At the Council, Jarod strolled more than walked into the Great Hall, an enormous room with long tables for town feasts, currently set against the wall for the Councils deliberations. The Council itself sat at the far end of the room at their long, oval table. Standing guard were three squads of Orc soldiers, each squad led by an Orc mage. By the table were two figures, one wearing a long black cloak like the one he himself wore, the other a sandy green poncho, very much like the ruffians from earlier that day.

 

As Jarod walked forward he could feel a magic charm burning on his forehead, a signal put into place should he be separated from his protectee. “Let's make this quick,” he said, “I have to save the immortal souls of the rest of your army.”

 

At the Karagum gate, the Orcs were frightened beyond belief. It took a lot to scare an Orc, and this had done way more then scare them. This was frightening them so badly that they were practically jumping out of their skins, just to try to last an extra second. Jessica’s eyes now began to glow a dull red color. A mark, an inverted cross, appeared on her forehead. “Bow to me in the name of Abolition!” she shouted.

 

Jessica rose her hand out, and the meteor showers became heavier. One came crashing down into a siege weapon, which caused it to literally shatter to pieces, the flaming, wooden pieces flying everywhere. The heat was rising, and the Orcs were beginning to collapse from the heat itself. The entire city was beginning to feel a massive heat wave coming from outside the walls. Her dragon roared, sensing what was going on. It could feel the mental connection with its rider slowly dying. It roared loudly, a roar that echoed over the destruction, and the city, reaching the ears of Jessica’s protector.

 

Jessica just laughed more, watching the destruction below her. She could feel their fear, and it was that, and the excitement of destruction, that was causing her eyes to change a brighter, more blood red color then before. However, that was just the beginning of the transformation.

 

In the Council building, dark blood dripped from the tip of a long, thin sword, the once mirror-sleek shaft now covered in Orc blood. A hum filled the air as the swords vibration slowly died out. A heap of Orc corpses were piled around Jarod, who's tongue slipped out of his mouth to lick the spoils off of his weapon. Across the hall, three Orc mages had fallen, their mouths still open and arms still risen as in mid-spell, but a small throwing-knife stuck out of each green forehead. The black cloak billowed as it walked over the pile of corpses; the face on the Leader of the Desert Thieves guild was paler than white sand, a stark contrast from the faces of the aged Council members, whose hope had risen with the arrival of this dark savior.

 

Feeling the charm burn hotter in his forehead and knowing it would soon begin to glow a blue color, Jarod glared hard at the other cloaked figure. His bet won, as the cloaked figure did not draw, but instead whispered a calm word, “Retreat.” The Desert Thieves leader shot him a quick glance, but accepted his judgment. Quickly reaching into his poncho he threw down a single smoke bomb which quickly filled the room and dissipated, leaving only the stunned Council members. With a gracious bow, the cloaked savior turned and walked away, flicking the blood off of his sword once more, and sheathing it. As he ascended the hill of corpses, he heard a distant roar. From that point on, even the wind could not keep up with his feet.

 

Jessica laughed as she watched the fear and terror from below her. The Orcs were dying, be it by fireballs, lightning, falling into large holes filled with lava, or even by the fact the area was at least three hundred degrees, if not more, it didn’t matter. The fact was that the Orcs could no longer survive under the current circumstances. Heat was rising from the sand, which was beginning to melt from the heat. Already, the heat had seeped into the city, setting a few of the buildings aflame. The very bricks the city was made of were beginning to crack, and give way to the heat, yet all Jessica did was sit there on her dragon and laugh. The dragon roared louder, feeling weaker by the second. Its wings were beginning to struggle to flap. It felt its connection with Jessica weakening further, as if its rider was dying, even though she wasn't.

 

Jarod leapt from roof to roof in tremendous bounds, his heavy boots shattering the ceramic shingles but not slowing him down. His eyes remained fixed on the distant dragon, slowly falling further and further. Flames shot up before him, and much to his dismay, shot up between him and his endangered protectee. His heavy feet pounded against the rooftops like a gattling gun, his cloak rippled so fast in the wind that it cracked like a whip. He was so close to now that he could feel the heat scorching his skin, yet his eyes remained locked.

 

Jarod saw the dragon fall behind the flames, but his trained eye knew where they were. At the last second, he leapt high into the air and soared through the flames. They licked his body and singed his skin, yet no sooner had he entered than he had left, and he saw his target before him. He landed on the dragon facing the young witch, her eyes as dark as his sword had been. Not hesitating a second, Jarod quickly drew a holy cross from his cloak and pressed it hard against the inverted cross on her forehead. He wrapped one strong arm around her held her close to him as he shouted, “Honores mutant mores! Non est vivere sed valere vita est!”

 

Jessica roared as the cross glowed brightly. She began shaking, trying to pull away, but it was to no avail. Slowly, her roars of pain died down, as her eyes slowly returned to normal. After a moment, her body slouched forward; the only thing holding her onto the dragon now was her protector. The dragon landed, gently, on a roof nearby. The clouds in the sky began to part, disappearing as fast as they had appeared. The heat began to die down, slowly, but it did. People rushed to quickly put out the fires around the city, and the ground cooled. As it cooled, some of the sand turned to glass, while other, lesser effected parts stayed as sand. The dragon roared lightly, as if saying “Thank you” before it closed its eyes to rest. It was re-connected, but after everything, both her and her rider needed a rest.

 

Jarod held Jessica long in his arms, longer than need be, with the holy cross held strong against her. He felt her go limp in his arms and the dragon under him. Dismounting, he lifted her up into his arms and laid her down on her loyal mount. Reaching up to his cloak, he removed his cape and draped it gently over her, causing her to stir for but a moment. The dragon purred as it slept, the young girl moaned softly as the physical and mental torment of transformation reversed and came to an end. Jarod breathed deep and sat on the roof to wait, occasionally glimpsing a fleeing Orc, occasionally stealing a look at the vision now curled up with his cloak.

 

A few moments passed before Jessica stirred in any way. The only reason for it, however, was due to her being in a major part of the detransformation when it occurred. After a moment, though, she went completely silent, it becoming obvious now that she was fast asleep, and that the process was over. She stirred once, though, the word “Papa” came from her mouth when she did. After that, a peaceful look was on her face. She looked sad, yet happy at the same time.

 

Jarod drew his sword, which slid out of its sheath silently due to the slathering of blood it had received. He put his ear to it and closed his eyes; it was still humming. Pulling out a cloth from his pocket, he wiped down his sword and cleaned his sheath of every last drop of the foul blood which had covered it. To remove every last vestige and restore his sword to its original sheen took well over two hours, after which he sheathed it and bent down to the Dragon. “Dragon,” he whispered, “I thank you for protecting her. Your task is done for now, I shall care for her. You may return to your cave.”

 

The dragon nodded her head, but grunted, as if saying “You better protect her.” She let him take her rider off her back, before she stood to her feet. She spread her wings, and, with one heavy push with her wings, flew up into the air, then flew off. The sound made the rider groan. She opened her eyes a little, finally waking up after what had happened.

 

Jarod lifted Jessica up in his arms, still wrapped up in his cloak, and carried her gently down the side of the roof. He dropped off and landed with astounding softness, then proceeded down the street with careful steps. His eyes rested on hers as they went and he whispered, “How are you feeling, my Lady?” Jarod asked.

 

“Horrible,” Jessica groaned. “My head is throbbing like no other.” She grabbed her head. “How is my dragon, is she okay?”

 

“She's fine, my Lady. The assault on the city failed. The council is safe. Do not concern yourself with these matters yet, you must rest.” Jessica looked around a little, the realization she was being carried through public now hit her and she blushed. Jarod approached a cozy Inn and tried to pull the door open, but it refused to move. Uncaring for anything other than the well-being of the young one in his arms, he stepped back and kicked the door open. It nearly flew off its hinges, and as he stepped inside, a sword leapt to his throat. Fortunately, the one holding the sword was the Innkeeper.

 

“I’m sorry,” the Innkeeper spoke. “I thought it might have been Orcs.” The Innkeeper turned. “It’s ok, you can come out. It’s just a customer.” The Innkeeper’s family came out from under the welcome desk and smiled.

 

“What’s going on out there?” the Innkeeper’s wife asked.

 

“It’s ok, the battle is over. The Orcs are gone,” Jarod spoke. “I need a bed for this young lady. I care not how much it is. I will pay anything to see that this young women gets the proper rest she needs.”

 

“Of course,” the Innkeeper spoke. The Innkeeper quickly looked up the best room he had, and Jarod paid the amount the Innkeeper spoke. Jarod then carried Jessica up to the room and laid her gently on the bed. Unable to stop himself, he gazed deep into her eyes for a moment, then brushed a strand of hair away and walked into a dark corner to stand guard.

 

Upon being placed in bed, Jessica sat up. “Thank you,” she spoke. She grabbed her shirt and pulled it off, letting her chest now sit, uncovered. She then laid back down and pulled the blanket up against her. She closed her eyes, then spoke, “Once I wake up, we have to see the council...they have to know about the Dark Hand...”

 

Under the cloak and within the shadow it was impossible to see that Jarod’s eyes were closed, but despite having murdered thousands, a gentleman he did remain, and his eyes were closed. “We shall visit them when you are rested, my Lady.” He rested his hands in his lap, palm up, right on top of left, the tips of his thumbs touching.

 

“Okay,” Jessica said, sleepily. It wasn't long before she had fallen asleep once more.

 

Jarod sat in silent meditation, but not before whispering a quick prayer to Jinsei for the sake of his protectee. “Requiescat in pace. May she rest in peace.”

[EmilyAnnCoons 7]

Chapter 2: The Meeting with the Council

 

The next morning soon found itself and Jessica stretched as she awoke from her sleep. A very dry and dull “Good morning, my Lady” drifted across the room, emanating from the cloaked figure still sitting upright in the corner of the room. Jarod rose to his feet and briskly strolled over to the window, pulling back the curtains to splash golden light onto the bedroom floor. He turned and looked down at the young girl stretching and yawning in her bed. Although hidden in the shadow of his hood, his eyes gazed long and searchingly on her, and when he spoke next, there was an obvious second meaning to what he said; “Did you have a restful sleep, my Lady?”

 

Jessica yawned and looked up at the taller, cloaked man. “Not really...” she groaned as she rubbed her eyes. “So many nightmares...” she muttered. In truth, she had awoken several times, about six or seven, just because of her nightmares.

 

Jarod grunted softly, understanding the reasons but not liking the bitter taste they left in his mouth. He gazed for a few more seconds while she slowly shook off the cobwebs and, knowing that he'd get nowhere once she had sprung to life, he instead chose to pursue their original business. “The Council has had a shock, but they should be available today. If we leave early we may be able to steal some of their time, but we must be quick with our business, they will have an ordeal setting things back in order after the attack yesterday.”

 

Jessica yawned again and nodded. “All right,” she spoke, stretching one last time. With that, she turned and got out of her bed. She walked over to her pack and pulled out some clothes. As was normal when adventuring with her protector, she turned her back to him and changed.

 

Jarod turned his hooded face to the window and gazed into the golden orb as it peeked out from behind the distant hills. He drew a long, silent breath and let himself feel a moment’s peace before turning toward his protectee. “Shall I inform the Innkeeper that we are ready for breakfast?”

 

Jessica turned as she finished getting her shirt on. “Yeah, that would be good. I am hungry.” She rubbed her eyes again. “I won't be awake until I get something in my system anyway...” she ran her fingers through her hair once. “Check and make sure they have my usual drink.”

 

“Xanthine root is not common in these parts, but I will ask,” Jarod spoke. “I shall return momentarily.” He bowed low and swept silently out of the room and down the stairs to the Inns common room, where the Innkeeper was standing behind the desk. A few families had entered the Inn overnight, needing a place to stay, and a scattered few were sitting at the tables eating a simple breakfast. He surveyed the scene and then turned toward the Innkeeper. “My lady is ready for her breakfast, and she wonders...” He paused for a moment, his voice lowering, almost embarrassedly, “...if you keep any cherry-flavored Guamath.”

 

The Innkeeper smiled and winked, “We do actually.” The Innkeeper quickly walked down the hall toward the kitchens, and the cloaked figure, now gaining a few worried stares from the families in the room, turned and walked quickly back upstairs.

 

Jessica stretched once more as she looked at herself in the mirror. At this time, she was now fixing her hair. She had managed to get it into a ponytail, like normal. She then turned, hearing the door open. “So, do they have it?” she asked.

 

Jarod bowed low once more. "Yes, my Lady. Breakfast is ready for you, whenever you wish it." He closed the door behind him and stood in silent attention.

 

The smaller girl nodded. "Very good," she spoke, turning around fully. She was now fully dressed, wearing a tight, black, spaghetti-strap shirt, along with a pair of tight, black pants. Her hair was up in a ponytail now as well. "Well then, let's get breakfast, and then we need to visit the council. If all goes well, we can head back home..." she sighed. "With our luck...we'll be thrust into some other battle..."

 

Jarod’s lips curled up into a slight smile. "It will be the bad luck of the poor souls who dare challenge us." He walked over to the young witch and hoisted her bag over his shoulder, then walked back to the corner where he sat. "I retrieved your staff last night, thankfully it was undamaged." He then walked to the door and opened it and stood waiting. "After you, my Lady."

 

Jessica nodded. "That's good. If that were to be get damaged, or even taken, we'd have some trouble on our hands." She brushed the remaining hair up onto her head and walked forward, walking out and down into the main room of the inn, where she sat down on a chair and stretched her arms out over it. "Ugh...I hate waking up in the morning..."

 

Jarod sat down across from her, causing several nearby people to scoot a bit further away. "Your favorite drink always seems to help with that. Speaking of which.." The Innkeeper’s wife arrived with two plates full of bacon, eggs, sausages, ham, and an assortment of other foods piled high. She laid down one plate in front of each, a jug of red, fizzy Guamath in front of the witch and a jug of milk for the other, and then trotted back into the kitchen. Jarod began eating at once, swallowing large bites with gulps of milk.

 

Jessica grabbed the jug first, taking and drinking some of it down. She then set the jug down, shaking her head, as if to wake herself up. With one final stretch and yawn, she was awake. With that, she turned to her food and began to scarf it down, as if she hadn't eaten in weeks. This, however, was normal for her.

 

Jarod gazed idly over a fork-full of egg and, with the air of a slightly annoyed parent, said "Chew your food," as Jessica nearly choked on a large bit of ham and had to chug down her drink in order to clear her throat. She naturally continued as if she had heard nothing, and Jarod continued eating in silence.

 

Once her plate was empty, Jessica slumped back into her chair. "That was good," she spoke, smiling. She stretched out her arm and summoned her staff. "Time for morning training." She stood to her feet. "I'll be outside when you're done." With that, she walked out of the inn, where she began to train herself. Spells could be seen flying around outside the windows as she practiced both magic and melee combat.

 

Jarod just continued eating at a calm pace, now and then glancing out the window to watch the spells and charms fly out of the staff. At last he finished and, hoisting the smaller girl’s bag once again over his shoulder, he walked out into the sandy street, slowly coming to life as the townspeople began their day, a few pausing to watch the beautiful young witch firing spells off at passing clouds.

 

Jessica stopped as she saw Jarod walking out of the inn. She twirled her staff around in her hand for a moment, before thrusting her hand to the side, the staff vanishing in a flash of light. She then ran back over to him, smiling. The way she was acting was almost child-like. "Ready to go?"

 

Jarod bowed slightly, still somewhat unaccustomed to her carefree and child-like attitude, despite their time together and his knowledge of her power and capabilities. "Ready, my Lady." He straightened up and the two took off once again toward the Council building.

 

Jessica smiled as she skipped her way to the Council building. It was truly odd how child-like and carefree this girl was. The thought of it sometimes boggled the cloaked man's mind. She couldn't be any younger then eighteen, yet she acted like a seven year old at times. It was true, in times where she needed to be serious, she was, but when she wasn't required to, she was carefree and child-like. One knew, though, that if she had her serious side up, then something very serious was about to happen, or was happening. She stopped skipping once they reached the grand marble steps of the Council building. She looked up. "So, this is the Council building." Her personality seemed to change instantly. A look of seriousness returned to her face. "Let's go," she spoke.

 

Jarod’s musings of her child-like nature dissolved as rapidly as the seriousness took over her face. Now was not the time. He glanced sharply about before leaving her side and walking up to the heavy wooden doors, still splintered from his boot last night. He pushed them aside, throwing sunlight into the marble entry hall with a single tall shadow of a beautiful young witch pulsating with a strong aura. He held the door as Jessica walked in, and as soon as she passed, resumed his place at her side.

 

Jessica walked forward, looking around the marble entrance hall. From there, she walked further on, entering the council room itself. As she did, she gave a bow to the council. "Members of the Karagum Council, I am Princess Jessica Elendil, daughter of King Jansson Elendil, the King of Shandria." She stood up straight. "I bring a warning from my father. The Dark Eye Seeing Stone is no longer safe here. This was proven by yesterday's event."

 

The council, shaken from the events of last night, harried from the fallout because of them, and shocked from this new news gawked in silence. Some turned to their peers and whispered amongst themselves, either worried or agitated. An old man sitting in the center of the table hushed his peers and stood up. He paused, finding the proper words, and spoke, "My child, we appreciate the part you and your...erm...accomplice," he made a small bow toward the man in the dark cloak, "played in the defense of our town. However, we can assure you that the Stone is under greater protection than a reckless band of thieves can ever hope to break." The whisperings stopped, and all eyes seemed to dart from the old man to the young lady.

 

Jessica growled. "You don't get it, do you? Do you not remember the prophecy? You fools!" she shouted and growled again. "'The Dark Hand shall come and steal away the Keys to Destruction' is what the prophecy says. That 'reckless band of thieves' we encountered yesterday was just a blunt force. It was weak as compared to what the Dark Hand has at its disposal. You cannot just sit idly by while they come! Use the damn thing and you'll see that! The Dark Eye Seeing Stone shows only the dark future ahead. If you use it, odds are, you'll see them coming. They will kill all of you and steal away the Stone. You must give it to my father. He can keep it in Shandria, the Floating City. No one can touch it there! You must listen to me." Jessica then turned and looked at the cloaked man at her side. "Jarod, tell them! Tell them that if they don't listen, they stand no chance against the Dark Hand!"

 

The cloaked eyes, which were fixed upon the Council Elder, suddenly darted to Jessica. Jarod hesitated, but obeyed. He strode quickly forward, pulling off the leather glove concealing his left hand. He raised it, fingers spread wide. It was so hacked and mangled that it could hardly be a hand at all, but most distinctive was that it was charred black, from wrist to fingertip. He spoke in a low whisper, his tone bordering on fear, "The Dark Hand always obtains what it desires. They will obtain the Stone, the prophecy foresees this. Our best chance for survival is to protect it as well as we can and destroy the army they have amassed, so that when we fight back, we will be less hindered. You have one week. They will return by then, with one hundred-fold troops. The attack last night was merely a scouting mission." He shoved his charred hand back into his leather glove and walked back to his position behind Jessica.

 

"You see? We must protect the stone to the best of our abilities!” Jessica spoke up. “They cannot touch it in Shandria, and without it, they cannot open the gate to their master!"

 

The council elder grumbled. "What of Karagum?" he demanded. "In a week's time, when they come, what will happen to our city when they do not find the Stone?"

 

Jessica sighed. "I'm afraid; there is nothing that can be done to save Karagum. Even if you were to leave the Stone here, so that they can get to it, they would still destroy your city. They will bring dragons, catapults, mages, warriors, everything, even Chaos Warriors!" Jessica sighed. "You must give us the stone so we may take it to Shandria. There is no other option. Either way, your city is lost. It is up to you on if you want to give the Stone away to the Dark Hand is all."

 

The Elders lower lip quivered as he searched desperately for a means of escape, but he knew his options were limited. Finally he spoke, but he addressed Jarod, "Will they return tonight?"

 

"No," said Jarod, "they will plan tonight. They can come as early as tomorrow night, but they will come no later than one week."

 

The Elder nodded and turned back to Jessica. "We will give you the stone," several of the other Council members gasped, "but we will not sit here to be slaughtered meaninglessly. We shall give you the Stone before nightfall, and you must take it with the promise that you will lead the majority of this town to Shandria." His voice cracked a bit before he went on. "We will find some brave souls to make a feint...so that the rest may escape. We request your assistance one more time, to aid us in this effort."

 

Jessica breathed in and let out a large sigh. "I can try. I can't guarantee the Silver Dragons will agree to this, though,” she spoke. “After all, no one gets in or out of Shandria without riding them, and I cannot guarantee they will be willing to ride most of Karagum up into the city. However, I can promise to find a home for the majority of your city, though I cannot promise it will be in Shandria." She reached into her pack. "Now then, please remember, you cannot touch the Stone with your bare hands. You will need this in order to hold the Stone." She pulled out a small cloth pouch. "Stick it in this, then give it to me. You will also need to choose who is to go, and who is to stay. I dread to say it, but anyone over fifty stands no chance of surviving the trip to Shandria. I dread to say it even more, but, I must request that anyone going is no younger then six. I'm sorry, but I fear I cannot be responsible for tiny children and babies."

 

Jessica closed her eyes. "I dread saying that, though. Truthfully, if it was my choice, I would allow all of you to come, but carrying a city with me will be hard enough, I don't need the extra troubles of tiny children, or old people who will slow us down. Again, I regret saying this, but I really have no choice." She bowed. "I hope you can understand."

 

The Elder nodded grimly. "I have heard of Silver Dragons and their temperament. I do understand." He sighed heavily. "Very well then…the elders, women, and children will make their way South to Shilan. The able men will follow you to Shandria, where they will aid in its defense. Our compliment of wizards will set up defenses around the city and those able will accompany you afterwards. Those unable will travel south as well. Merak," a graying wizard at the end of the table looked up, “spread the word to the town. We must leave before nightfall." Merak nodded and hurried out of the chamber. "Denebola," a witch sitting next to him looked up.

 

"Yes?" the witch asked.

 

"Choose your compliment and begin a plan of defense for the city,” the elder spoke. “Anything and everything you can muster. The rest of you…please come with me to retrieve the Stone." He gently picked up the cloth pouch and the Council solemnly departed the room.

 

Jessica gave a sigh of relief. "That went better then I thought. I was afraid that they wouldn't listen." She closed her eyes. "Now comes the hard part. We have to actually get the Stone to Shandria before the Dark Hand gets a hold of it. That won't be easy." She opened her eyes and waved her hand, a small map-like thing appeared in front of her. "Shandria is moving towards us, but it won't get here in time normally, so, we will need to go to it. At its current rate, it should only be a couple days journey." She sighed again and closed her eyes as she offered up a prayer. "Jinsei have mercy on these poor families that we leave behind." The map vanished and she turned, quickly switching back to her child-ish personality. "So, we have until nightfall then. What do you want to do?" she smiled, putting her hands behind her back and pushing herself up onto her tip-toes, pushing her body out more towards Jarod who sighed under his breath.

 

Yes, it had went better than it could have, Jarod thought, but I had hoped your serious side would have lasted at least a little bit longer. "My Lady, I would like to help the city in any way that I can. However, if my Lady wishes for something else, I must accompany her."

 

Jessica sighed. "You're right," she spoke, switching back to her serious side, and standing up straight, her arms moving around and folding up against her chest. "I'll contact my father and tell him our progress." She closed her eyes, going into a spell trance that would allow her to speak telepathically with her father, no matter how far from him she was.

 

Meanwhile, back in Shandria, a tall man sat on the throne. He had short, brown hair that was smoothed out on his head. As well he had a short beard and a moustache. His eyes were the same color as his daughter’s, though his face was different. It was his wife’s face that Jessica had inherited, and for that, he was happy.

 

It had been a very busy week since King Jansson’s daughter left. His hand-picked protector, a tall man in a long dark cloak, seemed able-bodied but somewhat dark. Despite the trust he had in the strength of the cloaked man and his own powerful daughter, he couldn't help but worry. He knew the situation was grim and that Karagum would be under attack at any moment. Everything around him seemed to remind him of his daughter, and the silence in the palace had begun to be rather upsetting, despite its re-assurance that nothing was being "accidentally" broken. The etched lines on his ancient but strong face seemed to fade when he felt the aura of his beloved daughter pierce his thoughts and speak to him.

 

"Father?" Jessica spoke through the connection.

 

“I’m here, my daughter,” the King replied.

 

"Thank goodness I managed to connect to you. I'm in Karagum. The council is getting the Stone as we speak. I promised the council, though, that I would find a home for the most of their city. I know not all of them will make it to Shandria, nor do I expect the Silver Dragons to allow the people safety in Shandria, but, if they cannot find a home there, I was hoping to send them off with a golem or two to Drandor."

 

"This is grave news indeed…but at least the Stone will soon be in our possession. Tell the Council that Shandria will of course be happy to accommodate as many as we can, and as many as the Silver Dragons are willing. We should be able to spare a golem or two to take the others to Drandor. I take it, then, that the Dark Hand has made its preliminary attack, and that your protector is fulfilling his duties?"

 

“Of course, Father,” Jessica responded. “He has protected me well so far, and with him by my side, I have no real worries at this time. However, I know the Dark Hand will be returning...We will be making our way to Shandria by nightfall. Please, Father, contact Jufar, the King of the Silver Dragons, he must know of our plans so that he may tell his followers that we are coming."

 

"I shall do so straightaway,” the King responded. “All of Shandria’s assets are at the disposal of the innocents of Karagum. Please, daughter, take care of yourself and return as soon as possible."

 

"Thank you, Father. I will see you soon, then." With that, the link to her father was broken, and Jessica relaxed. "Ok, Father is going to help us out,” she spoke now to Jarod. “I hope he can convince Jufar to let us take these people into Shandria."

 

"My Lady,” Jarod spoke, “the King of such a noble kingdom requesting help from such an ancient dragon for such a humble purpose should yield no difficulty. If it does…then we must pray that the Dark Hand takes no interest in this town, but calls off the attack as soon as it realizes the Stone has been removed." Jarod’s hand slid up from his side and gripped the hilt of his sword under his cloak. "If it comes down to it, I will slit the throats of the entire army."

 

Jessica sighed and nodded. "I do not think you would be able to stand against all of the Dark Hand's army." She closed her eyes. "Well, let's just hope we can deal with anything that comes. I know I can use my magic against them..." she looked at her hands. "But if I do...will my demon come out?"

 

A warm cloak, guided by a gentle arm, wrapped around her shoulders, and a large hand wrapped tenderly around Jessica’s. Jarod spoke with a soft whisper, more befitting a child’s nurse than a scarred mercenary. "As long as I take breath, my Lady, I shall protect you. No monster, beast or demon can hurt you as long as I am by your side."

 

Jessica smiled. "Thank you, that's very nice to know." She hugged him, rather child-like. It was the first true contact she had made with him in any sort of romantic way.

 

Jarod rested his hand on her head and returned her hug. They lingered for only a brief moment before they parted, and his serious demeanor returned. "Where, then, shall we go in the interim, my Lady? I would like to safeguard the Stone and the village as soon as possible, though if my Lady believes that the village is in good hands with the Council, we can…I suppose…erm…" he seemed to struggle with the last word as though the concept was as foreign as the stars, "…relax."

 

Jessica giggled. "Well, relaxing would be nice. I could use a bath at least..." she shrugged. "But, I'll leave it to you, I suppose."

 

"My Lady has accomplished the task for which she was sent.. I suppose she has earned a..." again, he seemed to struggle to form the word "…break. We could return to the Inn…or perhaps there are hot springs around."

 

Jessica nodded. "Yeah, I suppose you're right." She smiled, her child nature returning. "Well, then, let's go to the hot springs."

 

"I believe we can find the hot springs on the east side of town, in the forest at the base of the mountains." He turned and led her out of the chamber into the main hall, where wizards and witches, old and young, were bustling about in a great fever. They walked casually out into the bright sunshine and headed east, the mountains looming in the distance, the rolling hills and forests coming down to meet them.

 

Jessica sighed as she looked around. "You know, it's so odd,” she spoke. “These people live in a city right next to the Mountains of Nightmare, yet no one cares. It's the very source of demons, where the Great Portal is said to be, yet no one is afraid that demons may come through and destroy this town..."

 

"Humans are soft creatures,” Jarod replied. “They fear only what is right in front of them. The Demons have been quiet for the past few years, and the Great Portal has never been found. Unless they were emerging right this second, no one here would fear them. Is it bravery, or foolishness? How often one can be mistaken for the other..."

 

Jessica sighed and nodded. "I think them fools...but perhaps it is bravery...or perhaps...it is that they are pretending the reality of demons living beside their city is false. Even if the Great Portal isn't real...there are still demons in those mountains..." she looked over at the not so far away mountain range. She watched as the clouds above the mountains seemed to shift and change, but all the way never moving from their spot over the mountains. "Even if the Great Portal isn't real...the very darkness of the mountains should still frighten them, yet they live right next to it..."

 

"Perhaps my Lady believes all who do not live on a flying city to be foolish, with death on every side of those on the ground." Even though his hood and cloak didn't twitch, Jessica could tell Jarod had cast a sideways glance at her.

 

Jessica sighed. "Yeah, that's true...living here on the ground, anyone can attack you."

 

"Then my Lady believes me foolish as well."

 

Jessica gave a shrug. "Those I truly find foolish are those who do not believe in the Seer of Ages. I feel bad that they will end up in death or torment for not listening to him."

 

"There are those who hold fast to the belief that fate is not in the hands of the past, and that knowing our future is nothing but an opportunity to change it. Is that not what we are doing now? We all perish, my Lady. There are some who call it 'bravery' when one chooses to die by their own means, and foolish to play a part when we all, eventually, return to the earth."

 

Jessica nodded. "Yeah, that's true...who was it that once said 'Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it'?" She sighed. "So many worlds were created before this one...I fear what may happen should we forget what happened in the past with the others..."

 

"You contradict yourself, my Lady,” Jarod spoke. “You remember the past, that this world is not the first, yet you fear what should happen if this world should perish. It is not the first, and I'm sure Jinsei will see to it that it will not be the last. If Jinsei wills it to be so, then it shall be so. However, Jinsei does not play with us like we are chessmen. This world is his, but we are ours. Whatever grand fate Jinsei has for us, it is his choosing. The best we can do, my Lady, is work with what we have right in front of us..." Here he stopped, and looked up at the decorated arch over the path which leads to the hot springs resort. “And let the Gods decide the rest. Shall we?" He turned to her and bowed slightly.

 

"Aye, I guess you're right." Jessica now noticed where they were. "Let's go," she spoke, returning to her more child-like nature. They walked down the path, well beaten and cleared, one walking solemnly and heavily, the other skipping as lightly as a feather on a breeze. It wasn't far to walk; the resort was visible through the trees, before they reached the low wooden building, one main hall with two wings on either side. In the 'courtyard' was the public hot spring, separated by a high bamboo wall. They walked up the steps and through the intricately carved front door and approached the front desk, behind which stood a young woman wearing a bright smile who welcomed them as they entered.

 

"Oh! Good day!” the woman spoke. “Are you here for a bath or will you be staying in a room? Our Master Suite would be perfect for a young couple such as yourselves."

 

"I'm just here for a bath is all, thanks," Jessica spoke, smiling. She looked up at Jarod, almost as if wishing they truly were a couple.

 

The receptionist nodded. "Right this way then, I'll show you to the changing area." She walked Jessica over to a small doorway, where she could change in private. She then turned and looked at Jarod. "And what may I do for you, good sir?"

 

Jarod waited until Jessica had closed the door to the changing area before he lowered his voice and whispered to the receptionist, "You can provide my Lady with anything and everything she requests, and…you should expect a message from the Council soon. I suggest you inform your guests that they may have to move."

 

Jessica smiled as she hummed away a tune as she changed. She changed out of her normal clothes, and into a much smaller bathing suit. She then came out from the changing room and smiled. "Time for a nice bath." She walked to the springs and got in them, relaxing as she did. "It feels so nice."

 

The receptionist and Jarod shared a hurried and hushed talk, during which her bright smile faded, along with the color in her cheeks, after which she hurried off. Jarod walked to the springs as well, though he took up a spot in a shaded corner and sat down. Jessica looked up at Jarod, who wasn't far from her. "You just going to stay there, or join me?" she asked, pulling on a strap to her bathing suit. One thing Jarod would know was that, after she was comfortable in a spring, she would usually remove her clothes, as to feel the warm water on her whole body. Being a hot spring, not many wore clothes into it anyway, and Jessica was certainly not a conservative person when it came to her body.

 

"My Lady," Jarod sighed, "there is a reason those of my order wear dark cloaks. It's not to identify each other; it's to protect the tender eyes of those around us. A mercenary bears brutal scars of his violent life, and those of us who belonged to the greatest mercenary guild in known history are no exception. What lies beneath my hood should not be seen by anyone, especially not the tender eyes of a young lady."

 

"I see..." Jessica shrugged. "Well, all right, that's fine." With that, she pulled on her bathing suit a little more, pulling the straps off her arms, and then slipping the entire bathing suit off. She placed it next to the spring and closed her eyes. The water came to just below her chest, leaving her breasts exposed. Jessica, however, did not care.

 

Jarod shifted a bit in his seat, as would any man confronted with such beauty. He stuck to his duty however, and didn't move or speak. Jessica smiled as she just relaxed. She didn't say a thing, until, of course, a loud crashing noise was heard and Jarod sprung to his feet and gripped his sword. Jessica’s eyes shot open and her head turned. A small, black orb was rolling towards the springs. As if by reflex, she moved to the side of the spring, grabbing the orb with her hands. When she did, however, her eyes went blank, as if she had entered a trance. A dark aura spread out from the orb and covered her. Something terrible was happening. "Oh no!" a woman shouted. "She touched the Dark Eye! A terrible vision must be going through her mind right now. If only there was something we could do. The Dark Eye cannot be removed from her hands, though."

 

Jarod growled, but he knew the warning he had heard was truthful. Letting go of his weapon, he threw off his cape and laid it down on the edge of the bath, then carefully drew the naked and dripping sorceress out and gently laid her down on it. He gazed at her unblinking expression and watched her bare chest slowly rise and fall. Her breathing seemed amazingly slow. It was almost as if her body had mostly shut down.