A Dwarf's Tale: Will of a Silver Coin

I felt comfortable, warm. I felt a bed, and warm clean sheets. A dark haze was starting to lighten. I heard myself groaning. I also felt that I was naked-again.

“He is starting to come around.”

“No, I’m around. I just don’t wanna wake up.”

I heard someone laughing. “He’ll be all right. He’s acting like one of the kids when they do not want to do chores.”

“Calvin, shut up. My ears are still ringing. Ugh, I feel like death grabbed me.”

I opened my eyes. I saw Talma and Calvin there, along with Falish. “Ok, I did die. No way I can be here.”

“Tor, you are here. In the Randoss house.”

I tried to move, but couldn’t. I was tied to the bed. “Um, why am I tied up?”

“We were having our way with you.”

“What?”

Talma giggled. It was nice to hear her giggle once again. “A joke Tor. You were poisoned, badly. You did almost die, several times. It amazes all of us you are still alive. You were in such a state of delirium, that we thought it best to tie you down. You broke the ropes once-and the bed posts. We had to use heavier ropes.”

“I, broke the bed? Delirium? Poison? Oh, the spears.”

Falish interrupted. “Yes Tor, the spears. Manticore poison. Enough to have killed six men over.”

Calvin took a somber tone. “Ok Tor, no more for you. We really did think you were going to die on us.”

“How’s Torid?”

“He is fine, and so is Bremis.”

“Ah good. Wait, how the hell did I get here? And how long have I been out?”

“Four days. Tyna relayed to us the whole story.”

Four days? That means, there is time. Good.

“You bonehead. What made you think you could take on that many?” Calvin cuffed me lightly up beside my head.

“I didn’t care. I thought Torid died because of me. Because he believed in me. I was in rage.”

“That much was obvious.”

There was a knock on the door. The door opened, and there were three elves, man, woman, and a boy. But I could tell they were not elves. Those were the dragons.

“Good evening. Tor, I am Vex, my wife Vexia. I would like to thank you for saving our son.”

“You are welcome sir and madam.”

“Please, I appreciate your formality. But we are beyond that point. Vex and Vexia will do.”

“Very well. You both are most welcome.”

All three sat on the opposite bed. “You Tor, have done for us a favor that it would be hard to repay.”

“I ask for no payment. It is obvious your efforts got us back here. That is good enough for me. Bremis, how are your wings?”

“Good as new Tor! Oh, and here. This belongs to you.” He came forward and offered the silver ring. He put it on my right ring finger.

“Tor, you are a dwarf of pure courage, honor, and kindness. We have taken these past several days to remain here. All have spoken of your deeds. I do not think you realize just how well valued your name is among all of these people. And now, your name is valued among our people. The Council of Elders have just been informed. My father, Stormstrike, should be here any moment.”

“Wait, your father. Bremis’ grandfather? Council of Elders? I’m lost.”

“The Council of Elders would be akin to what you call royalty.”

My head swam. Ok, three silver dragons here, another on way. Royalty. At this time, there was commotion outside, and I could hear flapping of huge wings. It sounded like a huge wind storm outside. I heard then the door open, close, and then my door open. There, was an elderly elf. But I could tell this was no elf. This was Stormstrike. I looked over to Calvin, Talma, and Falish. They were somewhat dumbstruck. Dragon awe. That had to be it. Why was I immune?

“Greetings to everyone. Children, it is good to see you well. And I believe this is Tor is it not?”

“It is sir. A pure pleasure to meet you, to meet all of you.”

He came up and shook my hand. The elderly elf façade belied the strength of this dragon. His hand was like a vice, carefully tempered to shake my hand. I have not felt that type of strength ever. I returned it back the best I could.

“You have been quite busy I see. I have the complete reports as sent to me by my children. We are grateful and extremely impressed by the mettle of you and all of these people. Therefore, the council has decided. What aid do you need from us in the coming battle?”

Aid? From dragons? “Pardon me sir, I am still trying to absorb it all, as I just woke up a few minutes prior.”

“There is no problem. Take your time warrior Tor.”

“Papa Storm?”

“Yes Bremis?”

“Are we going to fight the bad people? Are we going to help Tor and all of his people he is protecting?”

“If that is what Tor wants of us, then yes.”

“Good. Papa, these are really good people. Papa, I was scared, so scared. He saved me Papa, not just my life, but my despair. He has the heart of a dragon Papa.”

Stormstrike laid his hand on Bremis’ head and nodded. “I understand Bremis. Tor, it seems you have the approval of Bremis. And, as if I needed further convincing, that is good enough for me. The council has authorized us to aid you and your people in whatever is needed.”

My head swam again. Dragons? Never in my wildest thoughts did I think we would have the help of dragons. Powerful dragons to say the least. There is always a debate among scholars whether the gold dragon or the silver dragon is the most powerful. But I didn’t care a whit about the debate. What I cared about, is that, we have now more of a chance to survive this whole damn fiasco.

“Sir, could I ask of your family to lessen your auras? It seems that Calvin, Talma, and Falish are afflicted with your awe.”

“I apologize, we all do. Wait, Calvin and Talma? Randoss? This is a house of celebrity status indeed.” Within moments, Calvin, Talma and Falish could function again.

“Sir Stormstrike, welcome to our home. I am sorry for saying that a bit late.” All of them bowed respectfully.

“Please, no need for formality. Not now. I thank you. It is good to see you both again.”

“See them both again? You know each other?”

“Why yes Tor. Stormstrike was in the battle we spoke of years ago, where Calvin almost lost his life. Just prior to that, he was the one who freed the chains binding Stormstrike.”

“Yes, Calvin did that. And I was in gratitude.”

“Yeah well, couldn’t let him get ferried away.”

“Calvin, are you in command?”

“Yes I am Stormstrike.”

“Most excellent choice. What plans have been made thus far?”

“Excuse me, everyone? I hate to be rude, but, I would like to get up from bed. However, I am quite without clothes?”

Everyone was silent a moment. Then, there were chuckles and laughter. You know, it is good to hear that even if it is at your own expense. “Of course. Let us adjourn to your main room?”

Everyone nodded. But before they left, Bremis came to me and hugged me tightly. Even as a boy, I can tell the strength of a dragon. I hugged him back. The dragon elves smiled. They all left the room and Talma closed the door with a smile on her face. I laid back in bed and thought about everything that was told to me. Ok, we have now three powerful dragons and a hatchling. And the council authorized to give us help because of Bremis being of some type of royalty. For some reason, I knew a fair amount about dragons. I know there is always debate on whether the gold dragon or the silver dragon is more powerful. I don’t give a damn about debates. With the help of the dragons, we might just turn this whole nasty fiasco around and survive this. Of course, if the horde army tries to go back to the verbeeg, and found out that a chief and many others were killed by me and me alone, they will think twice about joining.

Speaking of finding out, I imagine the ‘Leader’ is soon to find out if not already found out that the undead army at Alifax has been destroyed. A good commander will sit back and put up defensive positions. They haven’t had to have defensive because of the sheer size of the army. But now, with their defeats at Sigur, the vaults, and now Alifax, a good commander will sit back and regroup. Somehow, I do not think the vampire will do such a wise thing. The complete opposite may be coming about: moving up the time table. The vampire will be concerned that the whole plan will fall apart. He will require fresh undead if the vampire is to maintain the plan of having a necromantic kingdom. The troops, if the timetable is moved up, will move double and triple time. The troops will be exhausted. Again, I do not think that a vampire will care about issues like that. Tired troops with bad morale and fear will only lead to our advantage. But the vampire is not stupid either. No, the vampire will have tricks at the ready. What those tricks were, was the key. I best get up and see about getting ready. I imagine there will be some sort of council held here.

I looked at myself in the mirror. “Wow!” I can see why they were worried. Those spear gash wounds were huge and nasty. Since they were spears wielded by giants, the heads were more than double than a normal spear. The wounds were nicely sealed already and healing quite well. That was even before the ring. The ache in my ribs were already dulled. Hell, I am just lucky that none of us lost our lives. Who gives a damn about scars at this point. I put on my pants and boots when there was a knock at the door. “Come in?”

The door open, and Torid was there. He nodded and closed the door. He grabbed my shoulders and looked at me. “Glad you ok. Have one thing to say. You may did challenge, but I chose this life. Never feel guilty. I don’t.”

“You must have been talking to Talma.”

“And Falish. Tor, remember what I said. My life, is yours.”

“No Torid. Your life is your own. I thought you dead when that spear hit you.”

“Nah, I tough. Tough like you. Look at you. You took four spears. Now Torid will have to take dozen arrows to match that.”

“No you won’t you brute!” I chuckled and hit him lightly on the shoulder. “Torid, it isn’t about the scars, it is about the outcome of battle.”

“I know. I joke with you. You look like you need drink.”

“Soon but later. We have guests who are now allies with us. We must speak with a clear mind.”

“You speak with mind, I smash with fists. But we both will drink.”

“Ok, a little.”

He produced the two huge goblets that he was carrying for Kosser. “Kosser said these are ours now. You have one, I have other. Does same thing as small ones do.”

“He didn’t have to do that.”

“You just said my life my own. His life his own. We do what we want.”

“Heh, ok fair enough Torid.” I filled mine with a gentle ale. Torid had ale as well. We knocked our goblets together and drank. Ok, I have to admit. Torid had a damn good idea. It was refreshing. “Torid, give me a couple of minutes more. I will be outside then.”

“Ok Tor.” He then left my room. The ale was soothing my muscles slowly. I looked at my armor. It was already restored. All of my weapons were stacked in the corner, including the silver knife. I took this and hid this. Kosser said to do this. Putting on a light shirt and a jacket, I left my room to go into the common room. Everyone that was there nearly a week ago, except Durak and Yimnak, were there, as well as the dragons in elf form. I was getting greetings and additional terms of endearment. These were good people. They deserved my efforts-even if they were foolhardy sometimes. I sat down in one of the chairs.

“So, how are our plans so far Stormstrike?” Calvin had refilled Stormstrike’s glass full of tea.

“They are fine plans. I can find little improvement and no faults.”

“Thanks. The majority of plans Tor came up with.”

“Oh no, I only came up with the chains idea. And I had help with that one.”

“What really intrigues me, is this blast barrel idea. King Samos, any chance you could make these barrels let’s say, bigger? Much bigger?”

“I suppose we could. You are thinking you and yours can rain down larger explosions?”

“Yes. It is a wonderful idea, and one that would put us in very little danger.”

“I think we can make about eight or ten of them.”

“Good. That should really be effective at the bottleneck area outside of this wall.”

“Samos, what about the chains?”

“The catch side is complete. In two days, we’ll have the crank side complete too. And Stalvinport already have the smaller blast barrels to bombard the ships.”

“Oh, Tor. Stalvinport is at ten thousand troops. They are sending an additional three thousand here, and the navy is at five thousand troops.”

“Well, looks like we will be as ready as we can be.”

“Vexia, Bremis, and I will be here. Vexia and myself can carry the blast barrels and drop them from above. Bremis will be able to help with getting the wounded back. Father, you say you are going to be at the river?”

“Yes. Once that operation is done, I will arrive here to lend further support.”

Thompson cleared his voice. “The archers are ready. They each have double quivers of thirty six arrows each. And Tyna, from your earlier concerns, the several trees that were cut, five more grow for each one that was used. I agree that we haven’t been the best stewards for nature. We are trying to change that.”

“Wonderful! Nature will always look with kindness when you give her respect!”

I put my head in my hands. My head was starting to swim again.”

“Tor, what is it?” Vex was asking me. I looked up and there was genuine concern in his eyes.

“Nothing. Just a headache. I really am amazed at all of this. I truly thought we were done in at one point. Now, I can see that we have a fighting chance. Truly everyone, I can see nothing amiss. My head just hurts.”

“Perhaps we should give Tor some quiet and rest?”

I held up my hand. “Nono. Please do not. It is times like these that must be treasured. Heck, what are we all fighting for if not for times like these. No, I just need to walk about, clear my head. I’m going for a walk outside to get some air. I’ll be back in a little while.”

“Are you sure?”

“I’m sure. Please, carry on.”

I waved and left the house. Actually, my head was pounding me. Was it because I was getting ready to regain my memory? Or was it that the blows I suffered with the manticore poison did more of a job on me than I care to admit? Well, I went off to the barn. Someone I haven’t seen in a long while, was Griff. I opened the door and entered. She wasn’t in just yet. I went over to her nest. Her eggs, had actually doubled in size since I last saw them. It looks like they will be getting ready to pop soon enough. I heard a clatter above and the familiar claws and hooves coming down the ramp. “Hi Griff.” Griff looked at me and pranced over to me. She cooed and put her head on my chest. I rubbed her feathered head and scratched the back of her head. “You got a fine family happening here Griff. I’m no expert, but looks like they will be hatching soon.” She squawked once softly. It still amazes me that she is able to understand me. I have no idea why. She just does. Some of the dwarf children came into the barn. They came up to use, and started petting Griff. Several of the older children were getting a couple of brushes and a blanket. “Oh I see, you have the children taking care of you. Smart girl.” She pulled her head away from my chest and bent down low for the dwarven kids. They stroked her and combed her. “Take care of them Griff.” I left her and the kids and walked out the door. The makeshift homes, were not really makeshift. The tents of archers and of the soldiers, really made it a home type feel. I went to my spot at the brook, and there was my tree with the small lean to with the netted chair. I sat down in the chair. It was cold here, but I didn’t care for the moment. I looked up at the setting sun and the stars starting to come out.

Yes, times like these, were important to hang on to. Soldiers and archers, with dwarves, and with farmers. Add to this now, dragons here. Each person never quarreled with another, beyond friendly jest that is. There wasn’t any crime here. They were not any troubles other than what was looming before us in just over a week. Yes, this is what makes life worth fighting for. Even Fris and those several thousand humanoids realized it. They wanted nothing to do with the maniacal conquest of land with the dead.

“What’cha doin?”

I will never get used to Tyna’s ability to be invisible on a whim. “Trying to clear my head.”

“That shouldn’t be hard for you.” Tyna jabbed me a bit with her elbow into my shoulder.

“Harder than usual it seems.”

Tyna dropped her joking demeanor. She had her serious one. “You are worried aren’t you. It is starting to be overwhelming?”

“I do not think that is it Tyna. I got to thinking that life wants to promote life. Even those who would murder and plunder, even they want to have life. What motivates something like this vampire to all of this chaos is really on my thoughts. That, and a splitting headache. I wasn’t lying about that part.”

“Tor, be glad you have a head to ache. When you dropped in the cave, I thought we lost you.”

“Well you know, we dwarves have stones for heads right?”

Tyna came up to me and placed her tiny hand on my chest. “That may be true, but this dwarf has a heart. And that stone head of yours protects a brain that is able to transcend what has been tradition. You have to understand something Tor. I am about to turn seventy years old. I have seen other ‘heroes’ come and go. And of all types: humans, dwarves, elves, even some humanoid types. Men, women, didn’t matter. All of them succumbed and failed. Oh, maybe not by others’ standards, but by mine. So far, you haven’t failed my standards Tor. You are genuine to the core. I know I know, you don’t remember yourself. But whatever your self is, it is genuine in every fiber of your being. You may not know this, but you are becoming a symbol. Look at Torid. He wants to be like you. The people of Stalvinport think highly of you. And the dwarves here, they think of you as a living god. Now the dragons are with us.”

“Tyna, I never asked nor cared about things like that.”

She put a hand on my cheek. “That, is what makes you so precious Tor. I never thought I would have such affection for a dwarf. Of anyone really. Even my own people. They are too frivolous, too uncaring. That’s why I left them. There had to be something more to this world than parlor tricks and joking around. There had to be something more than pain and greed. There had to be something more than just living and dying. And, I think I found that something. Don’t go getting yourself killed you big lug. You have too much to offer.”

She kissed my cheek and started to flutter off. “Shake yourself off Tor. It will all work out. Why do I know this? Because you are here. Doesn’t make sense to you. I don’t even know why it makes sense to me. I just accept it. Maybe you should too.”

She caught me speechless. Just accept it? A symbol? To what? For what? Leaning back in the netted chair, I looked up into the stars. Just what am I supposed to do? What I am doing? Is that enough? I guess everything will be ok. We have our plans, we have our tactics. We will have the personnel. Now, we just need to follow through. That is probably what is bothering me most: knowing that this battle will come in just over a week. And there is nothing we can do to prevent it. Just meet it head on and head long. And how many people are going to die that day? The alternative is what though? Fleeing rather than fighting? A vampire with undead has all the time in the world. Yes, it is better to battle. It does need to end. We already have been starting to end it. I think I would feel better if the battling started tomorrow. Yes, it is the wait that is killing me. I cannot be alone in those thought though. Everyone here has been working so hard for that day of battle.

I got up from the chair. It is time to not be so unsociable. I walked back to the house and opened the door. Cheers came to me and I waved back. “Sorry about that everyone. I guess I just needed to get my wits about me.”

“No need to apologize Tor. We did descend upon you without giving you a chance to recover. You came just in time for dinner.”

“Ah, glad to have not missed this.”

Talma had outdid herself this time. There were racks of ribs that were smoked and cooked, basted in sauce, with several salads and several breads to go with. Kosser presented the Randoss family with their own goblet set, and to each person in the room the same thing. These goblets were great. Whether at home or on travel, they bring a small bit of comfort when there is no comfort to be had. For dessert, Falish pulled out several different pies as well. I didn’t realize just how hungry I was. I downed a rack of ribs by myself. “Tor, slow down. You act like you haven’t eaten in a week.”

“Half a week actually by what I’m told.”

We all chuckled and laughed. “Talma, I have to ask. How do you keep vegetables fresh? It is still winter.” Falish wanted to know.

“Kosser showed me tricks long ago of how to keep items to not age. It works very very well.”

“Really? Kosser, would you mind showing us these tricks? It would work out well for us.”

“Of course Queen Falish. I would be happy to. We can start tomorrow.”

“Splendid!”

This is how everyone else kept from going crazy. Living each day. Instead of dreading about the day of battle, they worry about how to keep going and improving with everyday life. So, for the next week, I have to find something to do to keep me from going crazy.

“Kosser, do you mind if my family and I can stay with you for the coming days? I am also interested about these ruins and the studies you have been doing.”

“Not at all Sir Stormstrike. Although, I cannot cook and keep house like Talma can.”

“Don’t let him fool you. That old man shown me tricks.”

We all chuckled again. Well now, something for me to do. But what? A thought just hit me.

“Samos, in all of the constant situations, I completely forgot to ask. Months ago, when you have been sending out scouts, do you know which dwarven clans you contacted?”

“Of course.”

“Well, I never got to ask you. Which clan I am from? I mean, I know Stonemore. But I have no idea about Stonemore.”

“Ah. Your clan was far south of here, south and west I think. In the lands of Peligor. It is an old clan, one that is a couple of thousands years old. Many generations have grown old there.”

“How far away?”

“A thousand miles I think. Maybe more.”

“Peligor you say King Samos? I know of that land.”

I turned to Stormstrike. “Really? Could you tell me?”

Stormstrike frowned at me. “You do not remember?”

I guess I had a look on my face. “No, I do not.”

“I see. Your memory was lost to you?”

“Yes. For months now, I do not know who I am or even my name. Tor is a name I came up with.”

“I see. Well, tell you what. There is a clan of bronze dragons that live fairly close to Peligor. After all of this business, and at the next council meeting, I will ask a favor of their representative to see if they can help you out.”

“Stormstrike, you have my deepest thanks.”

“No thanks is needed Tor. Your name suits you perfectly however.”

“Well, I chose it out of convenience.”

“Perhaps. It still suits you perfectly.”

“Speaking of perfection, Talma, Falish, you both have outdone yourselves.”

“Thank you. It is amazing how something as dreadful as battle can bring about the smaller niceties of life.”

We all nodded at that. It is true. It is times like these that ideas and talents are shared, and friendships found or rekindled. The evening continued on with various topics and small talk. We all shared stories. Even Thompson’s was quite interesting. He came from a northern town where he was a knight at a small kingdom. At the conclusion of this battle, he is going to return. Now that he was well again, he and a princess there were in love. They are going to marry come spring time. All of us gave suggestions for his wedding, and how to have it proceed. I think it would be a good vacation to travel with Thompson to witness this marriage. Also, I have the possibility of going home to Stonemore. I found that all of this, did take my mind off of things. The evening turned into quite late into the night. We all bade each other good night and went off to our respective homes and beds.

The night came and went, and morning arrived. I woke up feeling much better and refreshed. I took off my shirt, and saw that the spear wounds were nearly gone. Putting my shirt back on, I went for coffee. Talma was already there with coffee just finishing. “Morning Tor.”

“Morning Talma. First, thank you for repairing my armor.”

“Of course you are welcome. And the second?”

“The second, is that, I’ve come to a conclusion. Unless I am so desperately needed back in Stonemore, I think I’m going to reside here in the area. It’s grown on me.”

“That’s how Calvin and I felt.”

“Yeah. And now, to find something to do. I’ve been going crazy, that it has been bothering me. Last night, was great. It took my mind off of things for a while.”

“Well, I could have you cleaning the house if you want.” She giggled at that.

“Actually, I would accept. I feel like I would break something though.”

“I wanted to ask you Tor. When you were there at Alifax, did you notice any undead dwarves there? I was curious if there were.”

“To be honest, we didn’t look. It would not of matter though. I still would of done the same thing.”

“Of course. I just wanted to know if that part has been settled inside of your soul.”

“Hmm. Well, Kosser and Woodard plan to go back. There is still the matter of the trapped souls. I think they are planning that after this business with the horde. I could always look then.”

“True. It isn’t like they are going anywhere. I agree Tor. You need to find something to occupy your time. It is the main reason why I got burned. I always felt like I needed to do something. I thought it was something grandiose. I found out, it is the simple things that keep all of us going. So, what is your simple thing?”

“Well, I learned tanning, trapping, fletching, and bow making. Those skills are hard to do when there is snow on the ground.”

“True. You know, the dwarves also decided on making a wall around the farm. Their idea of helping to ward off animals and critters. Maybe you could help on the wall making.”

“That is another option. I think Talma, I’m going to take the morning and figure out what to do.”

“Sounds like a plan Tor.”

I nodded and kept drinking my coffee. There was a knock on the door and Woodard entered. “Good morning to you both.”

“And good morning to you. Coffee?”

“That would be wonderful thank you. Tor, I was wondering. I am going to go to Stalvinport in a bit. Would you like to accompany me? That is, if you are not busy.”

“I am not. Actually, I have been trying to figure out what to do today. So, this is a good opportunity for me. May I ask why?”

“Valice. Now that you are out of danger, I promised Torid I would see what I can do for Valice.”

“Ah, yes. You did say you would, and it is a worthy endeavor for today. By all means, yes, I’ll go with you. When are you planning to go?”

“In an hour or so. I can check to make sure things are ok with my church too. We should be back by the evening.”

“Excellent Woodard. I’ll go and get a small wagon ready.”

“Are we going to need a small wagon?”

“Well, you never know. We may be asked to haul something back here too. Food supplies are always arriving. I can check with Thompson if there are any specific needs or wants by the soldiers.”

“Sounds good to me.”

“Tor, if you don’t mind and I give you a list, would you mind getting some items for me?”

“Not at all Talma, not at all.”

“Good. Give me a couple of minutes. Food we have plenty, but we are running low on some spices.”

I nodded. “I’ll be back in a couple of minutes.” I went to my room. My backpack was in the corner. This would be a good chance on getting Goper’s help with the gems I have. I took my bastard sword. The other weapons, I left there. For some reason, I feel put off if I do not have my sword with me. I also grabbed a good thick coat and cloak too. Satisfied, I left my room. “I’ll go get the wagon ready, and I’ll come back ok?”

“Sure thing.”

I went to get my chestnut filly. She is not really mine, but since the scouting brothers have my steppe pony, I have grown fond of the filly’s speed and energy. I chose a small wagon, and hooked her up to it. I grabbed a blanket, and roped it around her body. She neighed and nickered at me. “Ok, ok. I’ll get you a carrot or an apple.” She pawed the ground and snorted. I went inside of the house. There, Talma had a list, and a small bag of apples. “That was Autumn. I recognize that neigh anywhere. Here you go.”

“Thanks Talma. Oh, and please, no money. I got this order.”

“Um, ok. Thank you.”

“Woodard, the wagon and Autumn is ready. I’ll go check with Thompson. In thirty minutes?”

“Sounds good to me. I’ll be ready.”

I left the house. I walked for about a mile. I saw Thompson training with several of the soldiers. “Thompson. Got a moment?”

“Sure Tor.”

“I’m going to Stalvinport with Woodard for the day. Anything you or your men need or want?”

“Nothing of food and drink. The men are quite well satisfied.”

“I hear another type of want.”

“Nah. I have been rotating the men with about three hundred going for the day and night in Stalvinport. And then, when they return another three hundred go. It helps keep the morale up.”

“And what about you?”

“I have what I am looking forward to. You know that.”

“Yes I do. And I assume that the ring and other jewelry is already taken care of.”

“Indeed. I am quite well Tor.”

“All right then. Til this evening.”

“Good journey Tor.”

Thompson was indeed an excellent leader. That is when I found Yirrik sitting nearby. He had a look on his face. It puzzled me. “Yirrik, is anything wrong?”

“Oh, hi Tor. Not really.”

“Not really means there is something wrong but you do not want to trouble anybody.”

“Can’t hide anything from you. Yes, there is something wrong.”

“Well, walk with me for a spell. What is troubling you.”

We walked for a small distance. “Well, in two days, we have our founding festival. Since we left Sigur in such a hurry, my instrument was left behind. I would like to bring some cheer in a couple of nights.”

Well well, a dwarven bard. “What instrument?”

“My fiddle. I would hate to ask, but could you see if there is a fiddle? A violin would also do if that is available.”

I nodded. “If it is there, it will be yours.”

“Thanks Tor. Truly thank you.”

“No trouble. Now, let me see if Woodard is ready.”

“Ok, bye!” Yirrik went bounding off with a spring in his step. I returned back to the house. Autumn was fretting a bit. Oh yeah, the apples. I gave her a couple. She took them from my hand and chewed on them. Woodard came out of the house. “Ok, I’m ready. Let’s go.” We went on the wagon, and headed off to Stalvinport.

We arrived several hours later. I let Woodard off at Valice’s place. Pulling out the list, I steered the wagon over to the grocer section of the city. Looking over the list, there were many spices on it. I looked over the prices of the spices. Individual, seemed to be somewhat high. But small barrels seemed to be the better bargain. In getting with a grocer, I told him I want a barrel of each spice on the list. He nodded and motioned for an employee to load the barrels. The price was two hundred gold. I gave him that, and gave twenty gold to the hand that loaded it. His eyes went wide as he thanked me. I also asked him where I could look at musical instruments. He said the best place would be to look for shops around the woodworking district. I nodded and went there.

I entered the woodworking shop, and there were a couple of men working on a fine cabinet. “Excuse me, I was directed to shop in this area. I am looking for a fiddle or violin.”

“Sorry sir. We do not have any. But the shop four places down towards the main hall may have.”

“My thanks to you both. Be well.”

They nodded as I left the shop. I took Autumn by the halter and led her down to where they suggested. It was a shop that looked like it had second hand items and knick knacks in it. This may work. Tethering Autumn, I went inside the shop. There was an elderly man with spectacles on. “Ah, what can I help you with?”

“Hello there shopkeep. I am actually looking to see if you have a fiddle or violin in your possession.”

“They are one in the same. I have two for sale.”

“Excellent. May I see them?”

“Of course.” He led me to an area of the shop that had several other instruments there as well. Showing me one of them, I picked it up. I was no judge of instruments, relying on just inspecting the quality of the wood. It seemed acceptable. I looked over the second violin, and that seemed acceptable too. The second one was a bit larger than the first. The bows for both seemed to be in good condition too. “Do you have extra strings for the violins and extra, I do not know what you call it for the bow part?”

“It is called the ribbon, and generally made from horse hair.”

“Ah. I’m glad you know these things. I am buying both of these for a friend of mine.”

“I see. And yes, I do have extras.”

“Great. I will take it all.”

“Sir the cost will be considerable. It will around seven hundred gold. And that is because the wood is made from a real old mahogany.”

“It is acceptable to me.”

“Very good sir! I will have these wrapped and packaged for you in just a few minutes!”

“Great. Meanwhile, I shall peruse around your shop.”

“By all means sir!”

I did go looking around what else he had in his shop. There seemed to be fine clothes and attire for men and women. There were nice woodworked furnishings as well. Several antique weapons were also residing here. Something that caught my attention however, was a staff. The staff was on the wall, with a shiny silver headpiece with a peculiar symbol on it. The symbol, was a serpent coiled around a ball. Where the headpiece was shiny, the wood, was of a soft glowing vibrancy of darkness. It is extremely difficult to describe this darkness. It is the best I can do. “Shopkeep, what about this staff?”

The shopkeep came over. “Ah, that staff. That staff was actually sold to this shop about twelve years ago. Hardly anyone ever inquires about this staff though.”

“Why is that?”

“I don’t know sir. I have the staff out in plain view for all to see, but I swear, people do not seem to notice it. I have sold quite a many weapons and bought some since, but this staff, only two other people ever noticed it. And when they do, they do not inquire further about it. Are you interested in this staff sir?”

“Very much so.”

“I see. Well, it is magical, but what kind of magic I have no idea. I bought it for two hundred gold. Would it be fair of me to ask for three hundred gold for the staff.”

“One thousand total? I can accept that. Please wrap that as well and make it non descript.”

“Yes sir! It will take me a few minutes.”

“That is fine shopkeep.”

Why did the staff appeal to me? I do not know for sure. Maybe it is the business of Cloverdale and Alifax. Maybe it reminded me something deep within my still hidden memory. Maybe it was just to give to Kosser as a gift for the fine goblet he made me. Whatever the reason, I could see no harm in purchasing this staff.

After some time, the shopkeep was ready. I handed him the one thousand gold, and he handed me my packages. “Thank you sir. I’ll be able to close early today.”

“Thank you shopkeep. Be well.”

I left and loaded these items into the wagon. The staff I kept hidden from sight by the other barrels. Something about that staff gnawed at me. I left this area, and headed for the town of records. I had business to do with Goper. It took some doing and some patience to get there. With the vast increase in the soldiers and the navy, the streets were very crowded. This was ok with me since I was of no particular hurry. I made it to the town records. The same two youths that were here before were here again. I floated ten gold pieces to watch my wagon. They agreed. Even with them watching the wagon, I still took the staff with me. Almeria was not at her desk, but no matter. I knew where Goper’s office was. Coming to the door, I knocked on it gently. “Come in?”

“Ah Tor! A pure pleasure to see you again.” He got down off of the desk and came up to shake my hand, which I shook gently. “Is this business or other?”

“Business actually. No mean or nasty business. Just business.”

“Ah, very good. What can I help you with?”

“Appraisals.”

“Well, I do not do staves Tor.”

“Oh, not the staff. Give me a minute.” I took off my coat and un-slung my backpack. I rummaged through and pulled out a huge emerald. It was nearly the size of my fist. Goper’s eyes went wide. “Is that for real?”

“You tell me Goper.” I tossed him the emerald. He quickly went back to his desk and pulled out several jeweler glasses. After several minutes, he exclaimed “This is real! I would say this gem would be worth at least twenty five thousand gold!”

While he was talking, I was taking the gems and putting them in a rather large sack. I put the last of the gems in the sack, and dumped them on his desk. The poor gnome nearly had his heart stopped I think. He looked up at me. “Take your time Goper. I want a true value on each gem and a combined total.”

“Tor, there is no way I can pay for these.”

“It’s ok Goper. I want to know the worth.”

He nodded, and set about the task of evaluation. He was furiously scribbling notes. After about thirty minutes, he paused. “Tor, I have a good enough value for these gems. There is about one million four hundred thousand gold worth sitting on my desk.”

“Good. I want you to secure these gems then. Take out your normal fee, and then, pick one of the gems for your personal troubles.”

“Tor, I cannot do that in good conscience.”

“What, taking a personal gem.”

“No no. That I would gladly do. However, we are not secure.”

“What do you mean you are not secure.”

He brought out his gnomish spirits and offered me a mug. He poured a healthy supply for me and an ample supply for himself. “Tor, we had a robbery here two nights ago. To make matters worse, the thieves guild is at a complete loss of how the robbery was done.”

“What was taken?”

“Only one thing surprisingly. Remember when you and Calvin were here months ago? The chest of old coins were taken.”

What? Why would the chest of old coins be stolen, and nothing else?

“And the thieves guild is at a loss of how it happened?”

“Yes. Bedeviling thing it is. While valuable, there were a score of other items worth a lot more than that and less troubling to take.”

“Was magic checked for?”

“Yes. No magic was detected.”

That was odd. No magic, and whoever stole it was beyond the skill of the thieves guild to discern.

“How were the vaults opened?”

“Again, that’s another bedeviled thing. The vaults are magical. All of the magic is still intact. Nothing was destroyed or disrupted. It is opened with a phrase. Only I and two others know that specific phrase. The other two who know it are not here, haven’t been here. One is at the farm with you and your lot, and the other, is in the naval fleet.”

“Have you checked yourself? Maybe you were beguiled?”

“Hard to beguile me Tor. But, I did have myself checked. No magic beguiling involved. Or any other type of beguiling. I know what you are thinking: vampire enthrallment. No, I was checked for that. I was under no such influence. Woodard was already here and checked me.”

“This is a puzzle. That also leaves a riddle. When is a thief not a thief? When treasure is left behind. This was a theft yes, but with a purpose. It was not just random theft. That chest means something to someone.”

“Yes. I thought the same. But what does it all mean?”

“Well, it means one thing so far. That chest worth, choose a gem to compensate. It will be for the payment you made earlier in the year.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, quite sure. There is other business. All of the costs of the troops and the supplies that the dwarves have been paying for. Do you have tallies?”

“Yes, a moment please.”

He ruffled some papers around. “The troops are costing us seventy thousand gold and the payment from the dwarves have been ten thousand. All in order too.”

“Good. Choose several gems totaling that amount, smaller gems if you will. Make it one hundred thousand.”

“Why are you doing this Tor?”

“Stalvinport and Sigur never asked for this war. I am making payment on it. Believe me. I am sure. I am also sure of your security here. There are going to be losses, heavy losses, in the coming battles. Take another one hundred thousand in gems to make payment and reparations.”

“I still fail to see why you are doing this Tor.”

“I have my reasons Goper. And I trust you that you will make all of the necessary adjustments and see that things are handled. That still leaves me with well over a million gold worth.”

“True enough.”

“Goper, I am going to help restore the port towns to the east after this war is done. For that, I will need troops and money. Well, I have the money. Then, I will just need the troops.”

“Tor, at this point, you could buy Stalvinport and all of the lands surrounding it if you want.”

“I don’t want that. I only want to put the lands and the towns back into rights.”

“Ah, reclamation and restoration?”

“Exactly.”

He came down, and toasted my mug with me. “You yourself are a gem Tor. I’ll make sure all gets done the way you would want it.”

“Good. Now, I will take some of the gems back, but, the rest, I want to keep with you. If your vaults you feel are not secure, then, I’m sure you will find some place that is secure.”

“I could engage the thieves guild. Sorry, scout guild.”

“One in the same, and could be a good idea. I leave that to your judgment. For me, I have a war to soon fight. Actually, I have been fighting that war on smaller fronts. The large scales, are soon to come. Also, should something happen to me, I want you to use the gems I leave behind to reclaim those lands.”

“Nothing better happen to you.”

“You never know Goper, you never know.”

I chose some of the gems and put them in the sack and then putting the sack into my backpack. Goper was already securing the other gems in place and making notes in his ledger. “Tor, who or how do you think the chest was taken?”

“Logically, you say there are three people that know the phrase to the vaults. I say there is a fourth person.”

“Impossible.”

“Not impossible, or you would not of been thieved from.”

Goper sat there thinking for a minute. “But that’s not right. This phrase is always secured by three people.”

“And when a person dies?”

“Then, another person is selected and taught the phrase. And no one has died in thirteen years.”

“And how long has this been going on?”

“For generations.”

“Generations. So, technically, in the past several hundred years, there can be up to one hundred people.”

“But they are all dead.”

“But to a vampire master mage?”

Goper seemed like he got struck by lightning. “Of course! This vampire mage could speak to the dead!”

“Exactly. Death is no barrier to this vampire mage.”

“So, what do we do?”

“Change the phrase.”

“That requires a lot of action to be done. The others would have to be here, a phrase to be agreed upon. Then the mayor would have to decree it. Then mages and priests would have to enchant us.”

“What choice do you have Goper?”

Goper had a somber look on his face. “None. I will send messengers out. This needs to happen.”

“I would recommend, that the phrase be changed with each new mayor too. I know the mayor doesn’t know the phrase. But, changing those vault phrases can prevent a lot of damage.”

“We thought that before, but never thought that it could be circumvented like this. We are also protected from magic on revelation of the phrase.”

“But the enchantments obviously do not last when a person dies, therefore, leaving the vulnerability.”

“How did you figure it out?”

“Goper, I have been fighting against the plans of a master mage vampire for quite some time. I’m getting good at puzzling out this magic and dead stuff.”

“So, why only the chest?”

“I said I am getting good. I didn’t say I have all of the answers. Sometimes, you have to first figure out the proper question. The question here is: What would a vampire mage want with a chest of old coins? That is something I am going to have to bring to Kosser’s attention. Maybe he will have a clue.”

“Well, you seemed to have figured this one out. It fits the conditions.”

“Also, you have a plan to fix it.”

“Yes I do. Tor, do you think the vampire mage will come back?”

“Who knows. In a week, I hope never to hear about the bastard ever again.”

“I’ll drink to that.”

We toasted to that, and I drained the spirits. Now, I had to find Woodard. This is a mystery indeed. What was so special about this chest? I left Goper and went to my wagon. I led Autumn to Woodard’s church, and went inside. I gently grabbed one of his aids. “Excuse me, but is Woodard here?”

“Yes. If you are Tor, he told me he will be ready in a few more minutes.”

“Thank you. Please let him know I am out front.”

He nodded and went off. I returned back to the wagon. Something was afoot. It is a human saying, however it fits. Something is happening. I could not tell anyone why I felt this way. I actually started to fret on the wagon. I am not one to give in to fretting and I refuse to have it happen now. Woodard came out about a minute later. “Let’s go Tor.” I nodded and started Autumn to go out of the city.

“We need to talk Woodard.”

“Yes we do.”

I looked at him. “You know something don’t you.”

“As I suspect you do too.”

Now, the crowded streets was gnawing at my patience. It wasn’t their fault at all. I wanted to leave the southern gate as soon as possible. After some time, we finally headed out of the southern gate, and I gave Autumn the freedom to run. She responded well as she now went into a slow gallop. I checked back with the small barrels of spices. They were secured.

“Ok Woodard, I was with Goper. I know you were there. What did you find out.”

“Good, I do not have to start at the beginning. When checking out Goper, I didn’t notice anything was amiss. My aides told me that a couple of days ago, hundreds of dead fish were bobbing on the water. This was strange to me so I investigated the harbor. On a thought, I did an evil detection prayer. I was nearly knocked out by the powerful result of that detection. The fish, were not just dead, but they were drained. In checking with the harbor guards, they did say that a small trading vessel came from the east in the evening, and left that night. The ship, was heading back to the east. I raced back to my church and performed several divination prayers. It seems that Stalvinport had an evil and undead incursion. I was getting specific items together when my aid told me you were waiting on me. The rest you know.”

“I understand. Well, I pieced together most likely what happened with Goper and the vaults.”

“Goper wasn’t affected.”

“Yes, he told me that. He also told me about the pass phrase into the vaults. What do we know so far? The ‘Leader’ is a vampire. He is also a master mage. I remember there are spells that allow one to talk to the dead. We already know he can raise an undead army. What if the vampire found out one of those who held the pass phrase, and at least spoke to that person? What could be worse, is that person could have been raised as an undead, and went to take the chest?”

“But why were there not prints or footsteps?”

“Whatever undead was, it was of some sort that did not need physical form? You said the fish were drained. What kind of undead that doesn’t have physical form can do that and that can pick up items?”

Woodard thought hard for a minute. “A spectre or wraith can do it. But if you are right, that means that the vampire is one extremely powerful mage.”

“Woodard, this vampire was in control of forty five thousand undead. I don’t know much about magic or divine. In my view though, if you can command strength by sheer brute numbers like that, and that force is now destroyed, what is to prevent the vampire from conjuring a powerful undead foe such as you mentioned?”

“Very little I’m afraid. Of course, a vampire can do the same thing by learning the pass phrase and opening the vaults.”

“A vampire, from what I understand, would not cause hundreds of dead fish to appear in the water when they were departing.”

“Good point. Ok, so the vampire mage raised a former keeper into a powerful undead.”

“What would stop a vampire mage from recreating his undead army?”

This time, the silence lasted minutes. “The living.”

“Correct. How do you get rid of the living? By making them flee or dead.”

“I do not think I like where you are taking this.”

“Woodard, the undead army, we destroyed it. I assumed, as probably we all assumed, that the forty five thousand number, a fantastical number, was the amount of undead to be created. What if, that amount is just the amount that the vampire can control? What if there is more to be created from?”

“I know how undead can be created, be they from evil divinity or from arcane. There is no way that one, or even several beings, can recreate that amount of undeath.”

“Undead cannot create undeath?”

Another long period of silence. “Yes, certain ones can. So, what you are suggesting, is that the vampire will create specific undead, captains and lieutenants if you will, so that these undead will create more, and they all will ultimately be under the control of the vampire mage?”

“Whether alive or undead, people are people. How does a king rule others? Or a mayor? Through a hierarchy. Can the same principle not be applied to undead? If a spectre or a wraith can just simply be boated through water, and fish are drained, what is to prevent the same spectre or wraith to go through a town and drain the living?”

“Tor, we have to destroy this thing. This nightmare will last forever if we do not stop it.”

I nodded, and urged Autumn a bit more speed. “Tor, you are planning. What are you planning?”

“Well, the vampire with this spectre-to keep it simple I’ll say spectre, is on boat. We destroyed the portal system, so, there is only the option on water. Land would not be feasible. From talking to Kosser, it took a matter of days for them to sail from Stalvinport to the nearest port town. If we can get back in time, and get the dragons to help, their flight should be able to overtake that boat. The boat is singular on the water. We find that boat, and destroy that ship. If the vampire leader is on that boat too, then, we may be able to end this whole conflict before it starts. If the vampire is not on that boat, but the spectre is, it will foil another aspect of his plan, or contingency plan, or whatever. In every aspect, we need the help of the dragons and find that boat. It is crucial we do so.”

“Good plan and reasoning. Let’s hope that it holds. The closest port town is Angler’s Village. And, it is three days away from Stalvinport by boat. We have mere hours before the sun sets. Spectres and wraiths cannot go out into sunlight.”

A couple of hours, and we were back at the farm. I grabbed hold of a dwarf and asked him to send this bundle to Prince Yirrik. He nodded and went off. I took the staff, and went to my room. I put the staff under my bed, against the frame of the bed and secured it there. I left my room and that is when Talma came in. “Tor, thank you! That was a lot more than I was expecting.”

“You are welcome Talma, but no time. Where are the dragons?”

“Off at Kosser’s house I imagine. What is wrong?”

“No time. Ask Woodard.” I bolted for Kosser’s house at the top of my speed. Several minutes later, I arrived and knocked frantically at the door. “Come in.”

“Kosser, where are, oh good, you all are here. We have a big problem we need to fix now.” I relayed quickly what we had discovered and what we think will happen. Stormstrike arose from his chair. “Let’s go Tor. You and I will meet this filth. Everyone else, remain here in case something goes foul. Tor, follow me.” We left Kosser’s house and went to the back side of the field. Stormstrike revealed his true form. As a silver dragon, he was huge, a full one hundred and sixty feet from end to end. “Climb on my back, and hang on Tor.” Clambering up on his back as he bade of me, I found a relative good position. “Ready.” Stormstrike rose with his mighty wings beating against the air. We rose, higher and higher, until the whole farm was so small in my field of vision. “Northeast Stormstrike. Woodard told me that the closest port town is Angler’s Village. That is where we should head first.

In response, we sped forward to the northeast. I did not care about the cold biting against my skin. This was absolutely breathtaking. The landscape below was something to behold. Stormstrike turned his head to face me. “I know of a town that is fairly close. It could be this Angler’s Village. I flew by it when I was arriving at the Randoss farm.”

“How far away is it?”

“An hour’s flight. We should have ample opportunity to search for this lone ship of yours. Nightfall isn’t for three hours from now.”

“I hope so Stormstrike. Since we have some time, I wanted to ask Kosser a couple of questions. Perhaps it would be better to ask you.”

“Speak Tor.”

“It has to deal with earlier in Stalvinport. A chest of old coins. The vampire came back for that chest. Nothing else was taken. Any idea why that could be?”

“Several. One could be a specific spell component for a specific spell. Of what kind of magic, I do not know. Two, the chest could have been magical in nature. The chest could be a beguiling tool or an enticement tool. Three is affinity. Vampires do not have much to tie them to the world of the living.”

“I see. Any one of those reasons could fit.”

“Yes. You have pierced much of the vampire’s schemes. That vampire could be in extreme rage, insanity, or both. Vampires are a lot like red dragons. Red dragons, spend years perfecting plans and strategies. They become enraged when plans are disrupted. Vampires act very similar in those regards.”

“Stormstrike, there is a fourth possible reason.”

“That is?”

“Diversion. Steal the attention to another matter while the present course proceeds. Is that possible?”

“In normal circumstances, it is a worthy thought to consider. If the vampire is in rage, rational thought and strategy would be less likely.”

“What if the vampire wants all of us to believe that he is now acting out of rage and wanted to set up a diversion?”

“Tor, that is a dangerous cycle you are proposing. If we continue to think that way, we would not know how to proceed next.”

“And leaving us at indecision and inaction while he makes his next move.”

“I have to think on that for a minute Tor. Let us entertain that it was a diversion. What is to divert?”

“The navy for one. Displace the navy away from Stalvinport, and lure into a trap. They obviously left a large trail of dead fish.”

“But the navy is two days away on tactics and maneuvers to the west. If he does have spies in and around Stalvinport, he would know it.”

“Ok, so, what about army diversion?”

“Without a navy, pointless.”

“Well, diversion is ruled out. So, that’s a good thing.”

“Yes it is. It was a good point on point discussion.”

“Stormstrike, what do you know about the Lord of Alifax?”

“I know a few things. It was founded by a red dragon lord called Alamaris. Our council, unlike other councils, contains representatives of all dragons, not just those who are good, but those who are evil and those who are indifferent. Alamaris, had un-dragon ambitions however. He consorted with other beings for assassinations of members of the council. Two such assassinations had succeeded. When it was found out that Alamaris was behind all of it, the council of elders banished him. Alamaris took what few beings remained loyal to him and had Alifax built. Beings who sought power of all types, were lured and drunk with what Alamaris promised. Other dragons, those much younger and more brash, he had gathered as well. There were several that were also lured by Alamaris to join him. When Archmage Stalvin reached out to us and explained the plight, we readily agreed. For we felt a measure of guilt that such a blight was put on the lands indirectly by us. Alamaris should have been destroyed. During the final fight of the Great War, Alamaris was destroyed.”

“Alamaris was not destroyed.”

“What?”

“We were told. There is a huge dragon skeleton of a red dragon in the central hall where we destroyed the portal system.”

Stormstrike relaxed a bit. “Ah, that is the corpse of Alamaris then. I thought he was still alive. Ah, the river is below. And there is a village.”

I peered down. The landscape was too small to discern anything really.

“My eyes are good Stormstrike, but not that good.”

“Sorry. My eyes see well. And there is no singular ship in the area of this village. I say we head west.”

“Sounds good to me.”

Stormstrike turned slowly and we started to follow the sun. It is true, there were a couple of hours left before nightfall. I was trying to be helpful and peer down, but I couldn’t make out much. We travelled for about thirty minutes with a sign of a ship.

“Time to search east Stormstrike.”

He performed a magnificent one hundred and eighty degree turn. We came to the village again, and flew past it. About thirty minutes have went by. Suddenly Stormstrike spoke with a hint of excitement. “There is a ship heading east.”

“Can we take a closer look?”

Stormstrike lowered. I could make out the ship. “Tor, there is dead fish in the water, scores of dead fish. It seems this is your spectre ship. The crew, is populated by hobgoblins.”

“That’s the ship then. But how do we take out the ship?”

“Easy enough. Hang onto my scales.”

I did so, and Stormstrike lowered until we were about two hundred feet above the ship. The hobgoblins were yelling and pointing. I saw another darkened figure appear on deck from the solitary cabin. If I needed convincing, that convinced me. Stormstrike buffeted his wings so we were in place. He was nearly upright, causing me to grip his scales harder. I had no desire to fall from this height. I heard incantations of magic, when a huge fireball erupted from Stormstrike and landed on the ship. The combination of flame and explosion utterly destroyed the ship, killing everything on board. We heard another shriek and a blackened form arose in a wisp. The ship sunk into the water in mere seconds.

“Situation solved.”

“We need to make sure. I saw either the vampire, or one of this puppets. We need to confirm it.”

Stormstrike went even lower. I found the darkened robe. It was the same size as from the vampire version of Steve. So, an underling. It is a shame that it wasn’t the vampire himself. However, this would have to do.

“Well Tor, situation averted. I assume this is one of the vampire mage’s puppets. The puppet arrived in Stalvinport, through the puppet created the spectre, stole this chest, and they were escaping by water back to Alifax. It seems that all is well now. It is time to head back to the farm.”

“I agree. It seems that which you said is what was going…what the hell is that?”

I looked to the east. There were scores of ships some distance away. It seems like, they were heading this way.

“The horde fleet! So, this vampire did push ahead of schedule!”

“Stormstrike, we need to head back and fast!”

“Wait Tor. Something is not right. Look at how fast the ships are moving-against the current!”

He was right. The ships were moving at a speed akin to a horse trotting. “How can that be? How can the ships move like that?”

“Magic. Or,” Stormstrike went in closer for a look into the water. The goblins on the boats started shooting their arrows. He may not be affected by them, but I kept a watchful eye for the arrow aimed at me. “That’s how. There are hundreds of zombies in the water pulling the boats by chains. Aquatic zombies move quite fast in water. Water currents do not affect them.”

“Stormstrike, they are going to attack Stalvinport tonight! And you just said the navy is away on maneuvers and training tactics!”

“This is not good. We need to head back now! Hang on!”

Stormstrike wheeled around, got some distance back in the air, and sailed even faster back to the Randoss farm. I had to think. We could muster and get the chains pulled, but then what? The navy was two days out, and these ships will reach Stalvinport in a matter of hours. Damn, why is it that the best laid plans often go wrong?