"Lilly and the Dragon"

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The Smith began walking very quickly and Lilly was hard spent to keep up with him. She wondered about what manner of man could run so quickly in the heat and sand of the desert. He seemed to glide over the small dunes leaving only faint footprints. As he went faster, Lilly slowed, the armor was weighing her down, but there was no way she could leave it.

-"Well lady knight, once we reach Thedric I will ask you your name, but for now we must move faster, it is already a few hours into the dawn. Come take my hand."-

Cautiously she reached out her hand, and then in one fluid motion, he moved his pack from his back to chest and pulling her towards him, spun around hoisting her onto his back. He told her to hang on, so she wrapped her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck. Then he began to run and Lilly was amazed. She seemed hardly a burden to him at all, yet she had to be added weight on him, both she and her armor. The sand beneath her rolled by at such speed she could not see any signs of their passing. He was truly an amazing man. Looks were so deceiving at times.

When the sun was high in the sky, he slowed, and then stopped. He bent over so she could open her arms from around his neck. Unable to speak, she looked at him with astonishment. He took pity on her and explained his family were travelers and his mother had taught him how to move quickly. Lilly could only imagine what his mother was like. When he asked if she had any gold on her so that they could rest and eat, she shook her head.

“No gold, but I do have a very nice dagger I can sell. I have three so can do without it…and I am hungry.” Lilly removed the dagger from her boot and held it out for the Smith’s inspection. He nodded and said, “Aye, that should fetch a fair price.”

The Oasis of Calishar was quite beautiful. There was a large pool of blue water in the center and surrounding it, many large palm trees. Parked outside the ring of trees were many brightly decorated wagons. Wonderful smells were wafting through the air, making Lilly’s mouth water. Roasting meats, sweet confections, freshly baked breads. Lilly walked over to a wagon selling weapons and silks. How odd. After a few moments of haggling, she settled on 325 gold pieces and a beautiful red shawl trimmed with small golden bells for her dagger…the dagger was well worth double that, but what choice did she have, her stomach was making loud growling noises.

They bought some meats, cheeses and fruits and then found a quiet spot near the water. After she spread out her shawl, the both sat down and started to eat.

“This tastes so good, Smith. Try some of the candied figs, they are delicious. Perhaps after we eat we can talk a bit? I have something to ask you.”

 

Nice story!
Go on dont stop now.

OK I know you guys probably have the story all in front of you , in which case ignore this
Else here goes

Farad prowled the streets of the oasis looking for any kind of trouble. Farad was a sipahi. Actually he was The Sipahi ,the greatest of all the guards of the palace. And he had been nominated to be the prince's safety. It was an honour to be trusted so , but the constant complaints of the whiner had driven him out in desperation. He needed a break. A poor lamb which would slake his nedd to use his fists ,and maybe his sword.
Farad smiled as he thought of how good it felt to crush a grown man's head with his sheild , his sheild of all things. As he neared the center of the oasis , where the market stood his eyes picked up a sight of an odd couple. An old man and a young human girl. Her armour ,though not half as strong as his plate still looked far better than the leather that the white haired gizzard wore . They were not a team . Good! Then he would use the darwf as a punching bag and the girl for ...
Thinking so he marched up to the pair , all wrapped up in their food. This should be fun.

Use it if u wish , but do continue the story.
Good Luck!!

[ July 29, 2003, 12:40: Message edited by: Shrikanth ]

 

Lilly made herself as comfortable as she could on the blanket that she had hastily spread over the sand. As she unbuckled her breast plate, she looked around at the many strangers that were selling wares and foodstuffs from their brightly decorated wagons. She also scanned the sky, looking for the dragon, but she saw nothing.

Turning her attention back to the Smith she studied him silently while he ate some dried figs. How was she going to ask him to forge her armor and weapons? What was the best way to approach him, with deception or honesty? Sighing softly, she picked up an orange and began to peel it.

“Are you hungry, Smith? When you have had your fill, perhaps we can talk? I do have a request to make of you.”

The Smith nodded his head and continued to eat. Seems this was a man of few words. Well, that should simplify matters, since she only needs a yes or no. Finishing the orange, Lillie gathered the rind up and then dug a hole in the sand and buried what was left from her meal.

Leaning back against the trunk of a palm tree, she once again watched the merchants and their customers. An old woman, who was selling jewelry, was in a heated debate with a young man, but after a few minutes Lillie realized they were haggling over the price of a ring, and she also realized they were enjoying themselves. Finally, the old woman nodded her head as the young man handed her some coins. Lillie glanced at the Smith and saw he was finished his meal…it was time to bring up her request. But, just as she was about to speak, she was interrupted by the arrival of a man, a guard of some sort by the look of his dress. Had they done something wrong? His face was dark and he was scowling.

Lilly looked up at him and smiled while motioning with her hand to the space beside her, “Greetings, Sir. Would you like to join us, we have more than enough to share.”

 

As Riccan sat and ate, the conversation could be summoned up in a word, quiet. Riccan was a man of few words but a strange past. Memories are abound in his head his story was not of the norm. as he ate he thought of his earliest days and about the days of his family before he came to be. If this lady knight knew who he was, would she still offer him simple meats or would he bribe him even more or be repulsed. It was clear she wanted something from him, this much he knew, but that was unimportant now. His thoughts were of days long gone and his story…

Resatona Elorna Torte, hailed far from the northern regions. She easily stood at 6'5" tall, good foot over her endearing husband Thadar. She was thinner than a willow sapling with very pale, near summer cloud white skin and pink eyes. Her hair was almost as long as she was tall, falling just below her calves. She often wore in a single thick braid. Her beauty was very alien to the people and to Thadar, a reason why he had to make her his wife. Her features were sharp, but she was not elven, she was dao'qualshin. Dao'qualshim are mortal kin to their namesake.. the Dao who are of the genie race. Dao dwell in the elemental plane of earth and are cousins to such races like Efreeti, Djinni and Janni. It was a full year after they arrived to their home before Thadar and Resatona's first child was born, this seemed odd for the people that lived there, for Resatona was already looking very pregnant when she came into town. What they did not know she had carried their child for 4 years prior to settling down. The child was born and looked like any normal human child. He was small and frail, but he took his mother's complexion and eyes. They named him Zaha.

Zaha grew as normal human children do. He had growth spurts, puberty the whole thing. He only reached the height of 5'9", a bit above his father, but not near his mother. His skin never darkened, his hair grew long, thick and white as his mother's. He lived in a good home raised by good parents.. good being a relative term.. even the "not so good" and even "evil" people of the world can be "good parents. It became clear though on the eve of his 15th year, that the life of a blacksmith was not for him, and he refused his father's, who was getting up there in years, request to take up the trade. Saddened by this Thadar did not push the issue and vowed to support whatever Zaha wish to do. By doing so Zaha remained in the village waiting for something.

Resatona would have done anything in the world for her husband and her family. so that night she consoled he husband's heart and body. The next morning she told him that their second child was now in her belly and would come in 5 summers. The eased Thadar's mind and heart, which in turn eased Resatona's, and even Zaha chose to stay and help his family until his sibling found its path in the world. So for 5 years they waited, until on the eve of Zaha's 20th year his new baby brother came. Zaha really liked the fact that their births happened on the same day, 2 days after the harvest festival. They named the baby Riccan. Riccan, also took his mother's complexion, but had pale blue eyes instead of pink. This made his mother very happy for some reason. Zaha immediately fell in love with his new baby brother and was all a big brother should be.
At the tender age of 5, Riccan was already being taught the trade of his father, and he took to it like a fish to water. Even at 2 years old, he would smack pieces of ore and said bad.. bad.. at first it was just cute, but soon it turned out he was right and the ore was bad in the end ruining whatever piece his father was working on. When ever he hit "bad" ore with his hand and said bad, his father would use it for something else. It was very clear to all, what path Riccan was heading down, and this made Thadar, Resatona and even Zaha happy. Happy that his father's legacy would be passed on, after all Thadar was a "good" father.

At Zaha's 25th year and Riccan's 5th, Zaha hugged his little brother who worshipped him, as most little brothers do with their big brothers, and left the village to see the world and in a way carry on his father's legacy of adventuring. Riccan, for the next 10 years, was sent away to live with a friend of his mother. A dwarf named Yeber Silvershine and his clan. It was not normal for dwarves to take a human, but they made an exception for Resatona and the fact that Riccan was more in tune to the under earth than most dwarves. He learned their ways of craftsmanship and even the bending and crafted in mithril and other rare but beyond precious minerals and metals. After returning his father sent he with an old friend from his adventuring days, Sabreal O'thaninan. Sabreal was a high elf still very much in his prime and still adventuring. Seeing his old friend Thadar withered with age, accepted his request to take his son and learn from the secret elven crafters, and that he did. Riccan learned from the elves and the way they used mithril and other metals. Riccan, by the age of 15, knew more about blacksmithing and metals and everything connecting them, he was a true master blacksmith.

Riccan returned home in his 16th year, at the request of his mother. When he got home with stories to tell his father, he found Zaha had also returned and his father was on his deathbed. In the presence of his mother and brother, Riccan's father told Riccan to go get the chest that was always locked. Riccan did this and then was given a key. He opened it up and the room became very cold, flames that danced along the candlewicks went out. Thadar said he found this far north, about the time he met Resatona. Since becoming a blacksmith he had tried to forge this metal into something, but he never could, and now he passes on the mystery to his son Riccan. That night Thadar Torte died. Resatona still mourns for him, but gives the love and devotion she once gave him completely to her two sons.

For a year Riccan's sole intent was to full his father's wish, and he tried, and tried and tried a hundred times over and still he could not forge this metal. It actually put out the hottest fires and cooled any molten metal he used. He took it to the dwarves who had never seen anything like it before, it put out their dwarven forges. He took it to the elves, which again had never seen anything like it, and it put out their magical elven fires. Riccan fell into a deep depression, unable to fulfill his father's last wish. This all changed on the 1 year eve of his father's death. He was working in his father's shop, and again failing when Zaha walked in. He did not say a word as he took off his mantle and hung it on a hook on the wall. Riccan just watched him. Then Zaha started a fire in the forge and looked sternly at Riccan. Riccan place the metal in the forge and the forge began to die out. Zaha pulled out, what looked like a pure black pearl and began mumbling some strange words and fire began to glow brightly. Riccan went to work immediately. as the fire would begin to die Zaha would pull out another pearl and the fire would blaze again hotter than anything Riccan ever felt before. Little did Riccan know that it was lost souls Zaha had taken which fueled the fire, but in a way, even if Riccan did know he would not have stopped though he would have cared. Zaha is Zaha, and more importantly his brother. Riccan hands moved like they were possessed and he hammered and folded, hammered and folded, poured, hammered and folded, mixed, poured, hammered and folded.

He mixed small amount of mithril which was a gift from the elves, platinum and more mithril from the dwarves, and then he mixed in the some of his father's own stock. He fashioned for some reason a spear. Not a spearhead, for a full metal shaft single piece spear. Its tip was wicked and barbed. Normally, such a spear is a bad idea, for it would weigh too much to be used well, this spear weighed even less then it's wooden counterparts. On it's completion, Zaha drew out a final pearl, one he said was very special, in fact it was a soul of a high elf, and chanted a final spell, which sealed the tortured soul into the spear for eternity. Riccan never understood why, when he twirled it made a low sorrowful wailing noise. Riccan called the spear, "Sorrow's End", for finally he and his brother fulfilled their father's wish. Zaha left as quickly as he came.

for the next 12 to 13 years Riccan perfected his craft in his village along side his mother who never seemed to age. He asked her if she was going to live forever and she would chuckle and always give the same answer. she would when she held his great grand children in her arms, she would know her time was near. Zaha did not visit much, but massagers would bring word from him. It is one of these massagers that made Riccan leave his home. Zaha had requested his brother's help in crafting arms to equip a captain and his crew. The captain had planned to fight an army and would need the best of weapons. Riccan packed up his things, said goodbye to his mother and went on his way.

Riccan is 6'0" tall. He is muscled but not brawny as many blacksmiths tend to be. He has very pale skin and light pale blue eyes. His white hair is long and thick like his mother, and like his mother he usually wears it in a long thick single braid, which ends near his mid back. He is very old, but looks early 20s. He was educated by many sources, his mother, dwarves and elves and can speak each of their languages fluently. He has a natural, not magical, talent with metals, minerals, gems or just about any substance that comes from under the ground from his dao'qualshim blood. He is an accomplished and very skilled blacksmith and able to work with just about any such substance. His wares are usually lighter and stronger than their counterparts. His weapons do not nick as much and keep their keen edges much longer then the finest steel. His armor is light and flexible and much less cumbersome then the bulkier types still are use most frequently.

Riccan is very devoted to family, and has a very strong respect for women. Like his mother always told him, A man can build a world and even rule it, but it is because his woman helped him do it. When working Riccan is also very dedicated and takes pride in everything from a simple horseshoe or arrowhead to a great jeweled long sword or full suit of platemail, all is the same to Riccan. Riccan has traveled in his day, but is not a traveler. On every trip he bring his pack. It contains her personal tools as well as some small quantities of special metals, like mithril, which a faint amount will great improve the strength and quality of a steel or iron piece. He also carries his spear, "Sorrow's End". It is a full metal spear about 6'5" high. It is freezing to the touch of anyone who tries to grip it, other than Riccan. A reward of sorts from the metal that was used to break it. In essence it acts as a Frostbrand, which means it can put out most normal fires by just contact, and even helps somewhat ward Riccan from even the most scorching magical dragon's fire. It also makes a low wailing noise, from the elven spirit trapped inside, when he does wield it. At times the wailing as made even the most veteran fighter lose his bladder. He is not a warrior by trade or even serious training, but he can fight if need be, though he rarely does.

Riccan was snapped back into reality at the lady knight’s comments to another. A guard, thug or some combo of the that had paid them some attention. Riccan was not worried though, his services were often used in this place, he had no enemies here or pretty much anywhere as far as he knew.

 

Farad looked at the girl in wonder. Beautiful!!
It had been a long time since he had seen such a fair maiden in Calishar. He hadn't thought it possible that a day would come when he would appriciate the beauty of another woman. Not after seeing the end that befell his wife Sara.

Sara! The thought of her filled him again with the fury that had been his constant companion for these last 5 years. Five years of searching for the people who had extinguished the light of his life, while he had been away in Daman driving back the mauraders from Elsahir. Five years of going about his duities in the best possible way he could and giving the appearance the he had forgotten all. He had forgotten nothing. Farad searched the kingdom for his vengence. But he knew his destinatin lay within the Palace. And that was the reason he still endured that prick, the crown prince. For he could no longer afford to be away at the front lines while those cowards lived within the palace.

Farad snapped back to the present. The Bright green Eyes of the girl were looking up at him. She said something which seemed like an invitation to join them. "Little Lady. Why do you do us all a disservice by sitting on the sand. Are the chairs and tables of our oasis not sturdy enough or are they so full of barbs that you won't deign to use them. Please! we try to keep our Oasis in order and who are you that you will ignore local customs so blithly." Though he tried to sound gruff, he just could not help being affected by the sight his eyes held.
The girl quailed at his words. She replied "We had no idea that we were offending the locals. No one had come up and explained that we erred." A voice as sweet as she was beautiful.
"I had no idea that the people of Calishar ever had any problem with a man taking his honest meal young man."The voice came from his right. Farad tore his eyes off the girl to look at the old man who hod now finished his figs. Looking at him gave Farad his second jolt. He had never seen anyone like this man. His thick long hair was completely white. But his face was that of a boy barely out his teens. As he appraised this man Farad took his time before speaking.
"Who or what are you? Your face is that of a child but your hair and your hands tell a different story? Who are you two?" In his biwilderment Farad's gripped his sword.
"I am Riccan Torte.A simple blacksmith on his way to Thedric to earn a little while he can."
"And I am Lily."
"Come now Lily, surely you are no apprentice to a blacksmith. What are you doing with him? And what kind of blacksmith are you? Do you have some wares to show me?"
Lily faltered before answering Farad as his eyes bored into her. She was aware that Riccan too now surveyed her as they waited for her to speak. Lily wondered what she should answer for surely she could not let the stranger into her secrets, yet she must ensure that the Mystic Blacksmith had no reason to mistrust her or refuse her...

 

As she waited for the Stranger to answer her invitation to join them, Lilly studied the man carefully. He must be a warrior by his dress or perhaps a guard? He was looking at her very intently, and the Knight blushed under his close scrutiny. While he explained to them that the merchants of this oasis might take offense at their apparent disregard of the local customs, Lilly hurriedly explained they had no idea they were offending anyone.

"I had no idea that the people of Calishar ever had any problem with a man taking his honest meal young man."

When the Stranger turned to look at the speaker, Lilly saw the surprise on his face. The Smith was unusual in appearance with his long white hair and youthful face, and she was still amazed that he could run so far with her riding his shoulders.

He looked at them both in bewilderment and then said, "Who or what are you? Your face is that of a child but your hair and your hands tell a different story? Who are you two?"

Lilly did not miss the quick movement of the Stranger’s hand as he seized his sword hilt. Nor did the action pass by the Smith as he answered quickly explaining who he was and where he was going. When Riccan was finished the Knight smiled and said…

“I am Lilly.”

"Come now Lilly, surely you are no apprentice to a blacksmith. What are you doing with him? And what kind of blacksmith are you? Do you have some wares to show me?"

Now both men were looking at her, waiting for an answer. Lilly’s thoughts spun as many explanations raced through her mind. She could not tell either of them the truth, but she could tell them half truths and hopefully that would satisfy their curiosity for the time being.

“I am on a quest for my Queen and I needed the services of a smith, so I traveled many miles to seek out Riccan Torte, a smith of some renown in my homeland. Now, Sir, may we know your name?”

Lilly looked up at the Stranger wondering if he could be of use to her. Her gaze moved from the Stranger to the sky. She could see a dark shadow soaring high above them…Plethor! How long would he wait for her to convince the Smith to forge her weapon and armor? How long indeed?

 

"I am Farad, a Sipahi of this kingdom . What you would probably understand to be a royal gaurd." As he said these words he loosened his grip on his sword.

"So you are a smith. Have you any skill in weapon making or is just limited to shoeing horses. In either case we shall require your services. It shall be dusk in two hours. Come to the constabluary tomorrow at sunrise. If you try to leave without informing me, you WILL be imprisoned."
Saying so Farad swept away. Why had he called them to the constabluary? He did not understand himself. But he knew that his own limited knowledge of unique races hampered him. And he needed to know who those two were. For surely the girl could not be pure human either.
His friend Jamour could probably help him. His bardic lore skills were ofcourse far greater than those of a soldier.

He reached the western outpost while his ruminations were still frothing in his mind. The gaurds had seen him come from afar and arranged themselves hurriedly. He had a fearsome reputation. Farad's pride in being an acknowledged Sipahi was nothing compared to his fame and reputation as a warrior and disiplinarian. In this kingdom and its neighbours.
While he reached the outpost and completed his inspections he gave instructions to tail and protect the two strangers. He also called for Jamour to meet him at Pricilla's inn. He would neglect going back to the princes tent for as long as possible.

Jamour was a half-elven bard. He had not been accepted into the army due to his birth but still liked to think of himself as a fighter. Farad had pulled him out of a tough scrap in their teens and they had been fast friends since. It was providence that he was in Calisham as he never stayed put for long.
As soon as they were seated in a corner Farad told Jamour all that he had seen. Jamour asked him to describe the smith in detail which irked the sipahi, but he could not let his feelings slip. The more he asked about the smith the more his face shone. Finally after stretching his mind to the limits of his knowledge Jamour spoke so none else could hear.

"It is fate the you have met Riccan Torte today. He is a Mystic Blacksmith, one of only three on this earth. These mystics are an unknown quantity. No one knows how they came about or what their purpose is. But it remains that they are the perfect examples of their trade. They can make weapons which cut through steel and wood as it were so much loam. Their plate can withstand the hammer of Thor. Do not pick a fight with him friend for it would be very unwise indeed.I wish we could meet him soon" "Then come with me. I can use your wit while dealing with the prince anyway.The two will come to the constabulary in the morning where you can talk to him as you wish." "Im not sure that was a wise thing to do my friend. If the prince sets sights on your crush... No dont, I was only joking." Farad chased Jamour out of the inn where they burst out laughing. But there was a growing apprehension in the pits of both men's guts, though for different individuals...

 

Not being a combative or even very confrontational person Riccan remained quiet as the Sipahi barked out. He knew well the heraldry of this land and countless others by heart once he studied the man briefly. He then thought about the lady knight’s name that he had just heard for the first time. Lilly it is, a flower by any other name. This flower had a thorn though, which was not usual for a flower such as this. A mission from her queen, and what homeland Riccan wondered. A royal knight without a coat of arms is not a royal knight, why did she cover her identity by portraying another? All interesting thoughts and Riccan toyed with many answers, he decided then to find the answers he was looking for.

The command of the Sipahi was a bit troublesome, but in the end a job is a job. Thedric would have to wait, but in the end Thedric had not requested him to come. It was just understood that when he passed through they would employ him for however long they could afford. Riccan was well known for his aid to small hamlets to the largest capitals, he would equip an army ten thousand strong in months or shoe a dozen donkeys in a day, it matter little to him. To blacksmith is to love, to love is to blacksmith his father once told him with the side note, women are very good at picking up where folding metal over and over ended. Riccan’s last thought about the current event was, I wonder in the Prince is going to war yet again? He then looked to Lilly.

“It is a pleasure to meet you Lady Lilly knight of the Crown. Had I known you served a royal I may have left you behind.” Riccan said with a half grin marked with a serious tone.

“I am Riccan Torte, but you seemed to already know that. According to the Sipahi we are not to leave, figuring I tend to pass through this place every few years or so, I would not want to give myself a bad name here so I think I will heed his request. I think it is time you spoke straight with me Lady Lilly, why did you seek me out, you seem to know more than you let on?” Riccan finished and watched Lilly’s reaction.

 

"I am Farad, a Sipahi of this kingdom. What you would probably understand to be a royal guard."

As Farad spoke, Lilly saw his hand loosen on his sword and felt the tension in the air lessen. But the respite was short-lived as he continued speaking. He wanted, no demanded, that they go to the constabulary tomorrow morning.

Lilly’s thoughts were racing and the question that returned to her rushing mind over and over was…why? Why? Had they done anything? How would this affect her quest? She could not let anything or anybody stand the way of her completing her mission...not even a royal guard to an unknown Prince.

Both she and the Smith watched as until Farad was out of sight, then Riccan turned to her and said, “It is a pleasure to meet you Lady Lilly, Knight of the Crown. Had I known you served a royal I may have left you behind.” He said it with a small grin, but Lilly thought he might have been serious.

“I am Riccan Torte, but you seemed to already know that. According to the Sipahi we are not to leave, figuring I tend to pass through this place every few years or so, I would not want to give myself a bad name here so I think I will heed his request. I think it is time you spoke straight with me Lady Lilly, why did you seek me out, you seem to know more than you let on?”

Her face did not betray her uncertainty and she smiled sweetly when she answered, “I spoke the truth, Riccan, I am on a quest and only you can help me. I had thought about telling you a lie, but I can see, even though we have only been together a short time, that you would not be deceived. I need armor and a weapon forged for me…a weapon that will pierce the scales of a dragon and armor able to withstand the beast’s fiery breath. Of course you will be paid whatever you ask. Will you do this, Riccan Torte?”

 

A weapon to kill a dragon and the armor to withstand it’s attack, and you will pay me any price I say. Yes, I heard that request once before, before you grandfather’s grandfather was even born by the look of your age. Yes, I heard that request before and when I completed the arms this adventurer requested he took them, paid me, and sought his fame. Do you know who that adventurer was Lady Lilly?” Riccan responded in a very solemn, but stern voice.

“His name Mazaphine Deworth, yes the same one that killed Krynako the Wise, a dragon who spent it's years bridging the gap between dragons and mankind. With his death the Dragon Wars began and nearly destroyed everything man of any race and dragon of any race had ever built. We the Mystic Smiths as we came to be known as numbered in the hundreds, some died in the wars, some of old age, some died from other causes, each taking with them the lore of the Dragon Runes. It was after the war was over and we saw what the result was, did each of us made the pact to take our knowledge to the grave. So the question Lilly is does your quest for fame and power outweigh the lives of every other being, great and small? Maybe this is a test for me, and I can finally say no when I should have said no back then.” Riccan continued and stood up.

“I will forge you armor and weapons unlike you could ever gain in a hundred lifetimes, but will they be made to kill a dragon, no they won’t. I do not blame you for your quest or desire, we are in fact just a men and women living in these times on these lands. Tomorrow I go to the constabulary and then on to Thedric, you are welcome to travel with me as long as you desire Lady Lilly.” Riccan finished and walked off to shaded area and took and drifted off to a long sleep as Sorrow’s End watch all. The next morning Riccan woke and saw the lady knight next to him, he smiled a little and stood. After stretching he roused Lilly from her sleep, and helped her to her feet.

“Come time to go fulfill this Sipahi Farad’s request.” Riccan said with a grin and they went on to the constabulary.

 

As Riccan and Lily approached the constabulary, Farad finished his morning check while Jamoar loitered outside. He was the first to spot the odd couple and sped back to inform Farad. When Farad reached the front court, a guard was questioning the two. The guard quailed under Farad’s glare and quickly allowed these odd guests of Farad in.

Riccan wore his expression of quiet mirth. But Lily definitely looked fidgety. As Farad stared at her she seemed to withdraw into herself, unsure. This troubled Farad as he spoke “I had asked for the blacksmith. There is work to be done here. Are you his apprentice now, Lily Knight of the Queen? If not then I would ask you to return back to your inn or explore the oasis as is your want.” Farad had not forgotten Jamour’s words. The prince was a brute and an imbecile who might just decide that he liked Lily. That may cause problems, as it had done in the past.

“As for you Blacksmith, this man Sharun will show you around and give you your tasks. You may choose what you will, as we wait for artisans from our capital. There is a lot to be done and we do not trust the skills of the locals. I inferred you have skill when I saw your spear. Your pay will be decided at the end after reviewing your work. Do not fear, we shall not be parsimonious. How many days you shall require is entirely up to your speed. If required you shall be allotted quarters here for the duration of your stay here.”

While he finished Farad noticed Lily grow increasingly faint. Riccan too seemed to wait for her to say something before he did.

 

As Lilly listened to Riccan Torte she tried to understand exactly what he was telling her...would he forge the weapon and armor or not? His answer, whether he knew it or not, was ambiguous. Sighing softly, Lilly watched as the Smith walked away. He was retiring for the night with his ever watchful spear by his side. Not sure what to do, Lilly followed him and then after removing her sword lay down near him. Surprisingly, she fell asleep quickly.

The Knight opened her green eyes wide as someone shook her arm. It was the Smith telling her to get up; they had been asked to go to the constabulary, so to the constabulary they were going.

“Come time to go fulfill this Sipahi Farad’s request.” Riccan said as he extended his hand to help her up.

While walking to the constabulary, Lilly scanned the morning sky. There was no sign of the dragon, not yet. She was beginning to wonder if she had been wise to accept the dragon’s quest since the circumstances were fast becoming a problem. Her request had been simple enough; all she needed was a magical weapon and armor forged for her, and she was willing to pay. But now, the situation had somehow become more complicated. She was now being questioned by a guard, none too politely either.

Farad appeared, glared at the guard, and then escorted them to his office. He stared hard at Lilly and then told her to explore the oasis if she was not a blacksmith. Seems he needed the services of a smith very badly.

“Damn! How many days will this delay me? I cannot allow the Smith to be here indefinitely. But, what can I do? They are both making me nervous, they way they stare. What do they want me to say? Ummm, there may be a way to get out of this yet.”

“Riccan, I think we…” Suddenly, Lilly collapsed by the feet of both men.

 

The girl started to say something but she swooned. Immidiately the three men sprang to catch hold of her. Riccan touched her forehead and muttered "Strange. She was right as rain yesterday. Guess travelling and adventuring is not for her."
Farad grew impatient with Riccan and hefted Lily and stoodup. "I shall take her to the doctor now. Follow me." At this he walked out of the door. Jamour led, as he knew the place as well as Farad, opening doors for his friend as he went. Riccan brought up the rear.

When they entered the clinic on the floor below, Farad instantly knew this had been a mistake. The prince had had too much in the night and woke up screaming and in pain. Now he was in the clinic too, with the doctor desparately trying to push some medicine down his throat and failing miserably. The prince was being an ass ofcourse and in his drunken state was making advances to the doctor's apprentice.
Farad lay Lily down on a bed and bade the doctor to come near. He explained what had happened and the doctor immidiately got to work.

Meanwhile the prince noticed Farad and lurched forward. 'He never did like the pompus ass. Always telling him what not to do and reminding him that he was the prince. Ofcourse he was the prince! That is why the world must lie down before him as he partook of what pleasures he wished.' He was about to give the stuffed shirt a good dubbing down.
When he got near he saw that Farad looked not at him but at the bed where the doctor was fussing around. Then he saw the girl. 'WOW! She was beautiful. Now here is a cherry right for the picking. Yes! She would do very well indeed.'

Thinking so he moved forward to touch her. Farad saw him at the last moment and quickly interjected.
"These are guests of mine. They had come to visit me when she swooned."
"Yeah OK. Get aside! I wanna shee heh choshly." the prince leered.
"Your highness, you should not be roaming around like this. Your health has been affected. Take this medicine and go back to your room and sleep it off." He had placed himself between the prince and Lily by now.
The prince tried to get past the bear standing in front of him but couldn't."Get off! I wan see heh!"
He tryed to push his way past but Farad stood firm. He caught hold of the princes shoulders and and held him fast. "You may meet her later when the two of you are both in a better condition. Now please! Doctor have you give the prince any medicine?"
The prince feebly tryed to get loose but couldn't. "GET OUT!!"he shouted. Even Lily finched, entirely forgetting herself.
"Please Prince..."
"I said gid d hell out! I wan see this cherry. She beautiful. I will have her. Now you! I order you to get d hell off!" He tried to touch her.
Farad stiffened. This was exactly what he had feared. He could not allow that."PRINCE! I will now take you to your room. Later we shall discuss this matter."
"Ged OFF! I will do what I wan and when I wan hear me! I am the prince! I can do what I want! You are Nothing! Gad out!!"
"Prince I will not allow you to touch this girl. You wil now cease and leave." Farad raised his voice at which the doctor nearly dropped his potions. A couple of gaurds came running in at the noise.
"Who the hell you think you is! You cant stop me. Get outa my way."
"I am Farad Roshinnad. Imperial Sipahi and here as your desiplinarian at the request of your Father. I can and will stop you from any action I deem not worthy of a prince and a king."
"STop me will ya. Keep me from her? Well I am the prince. I own you. And I own your family. And I own this entire country. Now get off!"
"I will stop you prince."
"Stop me huh. Where were you when I went to meet your wife hey? You are nothing. Now get off!"

Sara. Noooo.
This is the one Ive been searching for! All these years I've been with your killer and didn't know it! Oh GOD! NOOO!!

"YOU! You killed my wife and child!"Farad roared. It made all flinch at the power in his voice, the prince couldn't care less.
"Yeah! I did! She wouldn't come quietly. So I took her. And then I killed her. And where were you to to stop me huh? Where? Serving ME at the far corners of the world. You did nothing then. You will do nothing now. Now ged off!"

Before he finished his sentence Farad gave out an anguished cry. Noooooooooo!
He then pushed the prince away from him. As the drunk steggered he unsheathed his sword and in one swoop severed the prince's head.

Sara! I have avenged you my dear! Now I will come to you.

As the red blood drained from his eyes he noticed all the people staring at him. As he straightened up one of the gaurd fled, no doubt to tell others of what had happened.
As he saw the others he realised he must get them to safety. He had said they were his guests and the king would certainly ask for their heads too, no matter their innocence.
Turning to Riccan he said, "I am sorry to have led you into this mess. There will be no more work here Im afraid. I shall take you to safety outside the oasis. I am sorry for having got the two of you into this trouble."

Two gaurds still stood at the door of the clinic gaping at Farad. "Draw your weapons if you wish to fight me or leave!" he thundered. The two immediately dropped their swords and ran. When the band of four emerged from the building a group of soldiers had collected in the courtyard. They stared at this bunch irresolutely. But as Farad approached them they automatically parted to let the band out.

Soon they made it to the streets where Farad continued on the main throughfare. But jamour stopped him. "Are you insane. We need to get out of here as soon as possible. Come. I know of another way."

 

Riccan watched the scene unfold before him. This Sipahi just killed the man he was to protect. In an instant it was reaffirmed why Riccan did not spend much time in the company of people. Riccan also realized that work would be scarce here now has Farad cleared the room.

"I am sorry to have led you into this mess. There will be no more work here I’m afraid. I shall take you to safety outside the oasis. I am sorry for having got the two of you into this trouble." Farad said still a bit disturbed at the events that just transpired.

“It would seem you are much more in a mess as you put it than I Sipahi. This lady knight has asked service of me, so until I can conclude if I will fulfill her request I will take her with me until she has the power to leave herself.” Riccan said a bit unemotionally. He then walked over to the table which Lilly rested on and scooped her up like a babe in his arms.

“If you can hear me Lady Lilly, hold tight around my neck and do not let go.” Riccan whispered to her. Lilly without word wrapped her arms around him and held as tight as she could.

“Lead on Sipahi, it seems I will be making way to Thedric sooner than I thought.” Riccan again spoke aloud and followed Farad out the door and to the courtyard. These guards let them pass but would that good fortune hold out. Being a Mystic Smith had some benefits in that he rarely worried about mortals being the death of him directly, but Lilly had no such luck, that he knew of. As they reached the streets of the oasis a man appeared and spoke to Farad. Before they could continue on a mob of local militia swarmed around them, weapons drawn.

“Hold your weapons or you will be judged, what has happened today is not what you may have heard, but in fact the death of a murderer. Let us pass and no harm will come to you, if you do not you will not remain among the living.” Riccan spoke loudly and made a slow wide arcing gesture to the guards with his spear. Four guards had heard enough it seemed and moved in to either take or kill the smith. Instantaneous their intentions were weighed and measured, and Sorrow’s End began to wail in a defining tone. Most the people around fell to their knees in pain, some of the stronger willed stood their ground but one could seem fear behind their eyes, and the four guards that came forward fell lifeless to the ground.

“I do not know what you plan Sipahi, but I suggest you leave in a quicker pace. Where Sorrow’ End kills he comes to collect. I do not have the power to protect Lady Lilly or anyone else should he choose to take them.” Riccan said and for the first time he had a general concern. Only he knew that when Sorrow’s End killed did it summon his brother Zaha to collect the souls of the departed to fuel his magic. A Necroscope, a type of necromancer that put true evil into the study of death, is not one to be trifled with ever. Riccan turned and waited for them to take the lead out of this maze of tents, carts and people.

 

After Lilly pretended to faint, she wondered what would happen next. She was hoping her pretense would give her some time to plan a way to escape from this Oasis, and the guard, Farad.

But before she hit the floor, Farad had scooped her up said he was taking her to the doctor. Lilly cringed silently as she thought, “Oh, this is not happening the way I wanted, damn that guard!”

When they entered the clinic, the Knight ears were assaulted by hideous screams. Lifting her head a little, Lilly looked toward the howling man. She could see no injuries and wondered what was wrong with him. Farad had laid her down on a bed and asked the doctor to tend to her. Could things get any worse? Yes! As Lilly was to find out very soon, they could get much worse.

Forgetting that she was supposed to be unconscious, Lilly listened to the Prince’s brazen remarks about her and was thankful Farad was there to protect her from the drunken man’s advances. Suddenly, Farad let out a tormented cry. After that events moved at high speed…Farad swung his sword and in one fell swoop he decapitated the Prince.

Things were definitely going from bad to worse. Lilly decided it was time to forget her sham and get the hell out of this place, but just as this thought went through her mind, she heard, whispered in her ear, “If you can hear me Lady Lilly, hold tight around my neck and do not let go.” Lilly needed no coaxing, she held on for dear life, and in fact it would be her life, all their lives, if the guards caught them.

She watched as the militia surrounded them and considered joining the fight, but was she willing for others to see what she was capable of doing?

“Hold your weapons or you will be judged, what has happened today is not what you may have heard, but in fact the death of a murderer. Let us pass and no harm will come to you, if you do not you will not remain among the living.” Riccan spoke loudly and then made a slow wide arcing gesture to the guards with his spear. As four of the guards moved in closer to Riccan there was a sudden and earsplitting wail, the same thing she had heard the first night she had met the Smith.

The four men dropped instantly to the ground. They were dead. Riccan then turned toward Farad and said, “I do not know what you plan Sipahi, but I suggest you leave at a quicker pace. Where Sorrow’ End kills he comes to collect. I do not have the power to protect Lady Lilly or anyone else should he choose to take them.”

Oh, yes, things were certainly getting worse. Who was this collector of dead men? Somehow Lilly did not want to find out.

 

As soon as they reached the the quadrangle in front of the constabulary, a horde of civilians and gaurds surrounded them. It did not take Farad any time to recognise the old coot Bandar as the leader. Safety in numbers. If thats what they thought they were wrong.

Before he could say a word the Mystic spoke:
“Hold your weapons or you will be judged, what has happened today is not what you may have heard, but in fact the death of a murderer. Let us pass and no harm will come to you, if you do not you will not remain among the living.” Riccan spoke loudly and made a slow wide arcing gesture to the guards with his spear.

Bandar ofcourse could hear nothing but the praise of the king ringing in his ears for delivering his son's murderer. He advanced with his gaurds. And then Farad saw what could only be a most foul magic.
The spear gave out a loud wail. The torment and agony in the voice was such that everyone stood transfixed. The four advancing gaurds fell in lifeless heaps. Others were shivering, weeping, clutching their hearts in terror. Few remained standing.

“I do not know what you plan Sipahi, but I suggest you leave in a quicker pace. Where Sorrow’ End kills he comes to collect. I do not have the power to protect Lady Lilly or anyone else should he choose to take them.” Riccan said. He seemed troubled and Farad knew enough not to question him. Jamour led them through several small streets and pats till they came out of the west bank on the oasis.Thedric to the north and Doga to the south.

"This is where we part. I would have volunteered to lead you on your path to safety, but you can obviously take care of yourself. Thedric is still seven hours off. There are no patrols in between but the news will obviously reach that town by nightfall. You will have been marked so I suggest that you change your appearance. The western borders with Klamfort are a three day walk, if you wish to leave this country. I promise you that you will no longer be persued by the end of the next moon. After that time you will be free to roam the country again without fear of gaurds. May fate be kind to you. Safe journey Riccan. Safe Journey Lily."

With this Farad and Jamour left on their way to Doga leaving Riccan to ponder his next course of action.

OK. Bye guys! Good Luck!

 

After the Smith’s magical spear “sang” and four of the guards that had been menacing their small party fell at their feet dead, Farad and his friend led them through the narrow alleys and passageways that led away from the oasis and from danger.

Lilly was surprised when Farad told them he would be leaving them, she had thought he might accompany them on their journey to Thedric, but the “singing” spear obviously convinced him that they needed no protectors. She wished she was as certain as Farad was about their safety.

“May fate be kind to you. Safe journey Riccan. Safe Journey Lily." Lilly watched the two warriors as they turned away and headed south. Before she spoke to the Smith the Knight scanned the sky quickly, but she saw no sign of Plethor.

Perhaps it was better she and the Smith were alone once again. It was going to be difficult enough to convince Riccan to forge her armor and weapon without the suggestions and thoughts of anyone else. Her time was getting short, she had to persuade Riccan to do this or her quest would be for naught.

“I think it would behoove us to put as much distance between us and this oasis as fast as possible. Well, Riccan Torte, shall we make our way to Thedric?"

 

After saying his good travels to the Sipahi and his companion, he agreed with Lilly’s suggestion to leaved this area quickly. After he readjusted his gear he started walking, a slower pace as if to allow Lilly to keep pace for a while.

“Lady Lilly, knowing my answer to your request, I wonder why you are coming to Thedric with me. I have not heard of any dragons on a rampage for a hundred years, and I do keep track. Even if there was one, I still would not make forbidden arms for anyone, not just you.” Riccan spoke after they walked for about an hour.

“Anyways, you are welcome to travel with me, as long as you know my answer. About six hours away is a camp site I like to use when in this area. I will stop there for the night in case anyone from Oasis is following us. I rather they make their attentions known there then take trouble to Thedric. That I will have some business to take care of tonight I think.” Riccan added before Lilly could answer back.

 

Lilly was relieved when Riccan Torte readily agreed to leave the oasis far behind as fast as possible. While they made the trek to Thedric, the Knight’s thoughts were full of ideas that might persuade the Smith to forge her weapon and armor. As each idea came into her mind it was examined carefully, and then discarded when it became obvious to her that it would not work. The Smith was an unusual man…

“Yes, a man, and as a man he has weaknesses, I just have to find what they are and exploit them to my advantage. I cannot fail in this quest the dragon has given me, for if I do, then my ultimate purpose will be beyond my reach. That cannot happen, no matter what I must do.”

Cupping her hand above her eyes, Lilly scanned the sky looking for the dragon. In the bright desert sky she saw a dark silhouette soaring high over the oasis. Plethor has not forgotten her quest it would seem.

“The dragon is another problem. How will he feel if I fail with the Smith? How safe would I be with him if I return without the armor and weapon? I sometimes feel a twinge of regret about my decision to fulfill the Queen’s quest, yet I know I must, because the rewards will be great. Great? They will be beyond belief.”

The Knight studied the Smith as they walked, thought about how to change his mind about forging the armor and weapon, thought of many ways, but only one would work. Which one? Perhaps the first thing would be to learn as much as she could about this man and go on from there.

Looking over at Riccan, Lilly said, “You said your Mother taught you how to be fast, is she still living?”

 

Since their first meeting, Riccan had began to notice a trend of this lady knight. She looked to the sky more often than most. After they fled Oasis and began the travel to Thedric, she looked to the sky again. Riccan tried to take a quick glance but did not seem to see what she was looking for. If she was not human, Riccan would most likely be worried about his well being, but with the cool grasp of Sorrow’s End, he did not fear her. Riccan then wondered how long she would travel with him, how long he could keep her. He walked with others at different points in his life, but this new companion was very attractive with a low seductive voice. It was nice to watch her when she was not looking. They walked for a bit when the silence of the desert was broken by a question. Lilly had chosen to start a conversation.

“Yes my mother is alive a well, though my father had past away for some time now. My mother is dao'qualshin, so her life span is much longer than a human’s. My father was human and died from his age. I use to ask how long she would live, and she always gave me the same answer. When she held his great grand children in her arms, she would know her time was near. I go to visit every so many years, when I am in that area. I usually spend a month or two before setting off again. So what of your family Lady Lilly?” Riccan finished and then looked over the lady knight.