Adult-FanFiction.org : Books

Tears of the Phoenix	By : serialcabbit78 Category: S through Z > Valdemar Series Views: 1397 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do NOT own ANY of the rights to the Valdemar Series, those all belong to Mercedes Lackey, who has given me the inspiration. I make no profit from this or any writing.

Chapter List
- 8
- 9
- 10
The sky had the pale gray hues of pre-dawn when Stefen woke Luna. She grumbled a little as she eased herself out of the bed. She stifled a yawn and went to get dressed.   She was tying the laces on her boots when Stefen handed her a warm pastry. It was stuffed with cheese and spinach. The look on her face when she bit into it caused Stefen to chuckle softly.

“I take it you’ve never tasted something that good, huh? They do make some really good food here, sometimes little delicacies like this make our guard feel better about being away from their families.” Stefen said as he ate his own pastry.

“It’s really good, I’ve never had anything like this. I guess there will be better food for me in the future though. I think I’ve put on a little bit of weight since Surya chose me, I don’t feel as tired as I used to.” She smiled as she finished the pastry and licked her fingers.

They swiftly packed up what little they had out and went down to the common room. Luna set her packs down near the table and moved to find the privy, hearing Stefen do the same. When they came out, Eric waved them over to the table, where two places were set.

“I know they gave you a little tasty but I can’t let you go without a good hearty breakfast. The cook’s making up something to take with you so maybe you won’t have to wait to find a good inn or use the dried rations more than necessary.” Eric said as they tucked into the breakfast. “And there are some extras as I know growing children are always hungry. I don’t want to hear that you are skimping on your meals, little lady.”

Luna blushed as she ate, but paid more attention to the food before her. Stefen poured more tea for her when he noticed her mug was getting empty. They finished about the same time and Isa appeared by the table.

“I got your mounts ready, I’ll take your packs out and get things ready for you to leave.” She gathered up the packs, leaving the one pack Luna liked to carry with her and Stefen’s gittern case. She disappeared out the door, and Luna blinked in surprise.   She got up and picked up her little pack, slinging it over her shoulder. Eric reached over and stopped her.

“It has been a joy having you here, little one. Don’t ever worry about needing a hug, there will be plenty around to give you one. This young lad here will make sure things go good for you along the way and when you get to Haven.” He gave her a gentle hug. “I’m glad that my girl gave you that flute of hers, I’m sure you’ll make it sing. Don’t let them fools at Bardic tell you it’s not a sound instrument, and if they try have Stefen play it for them.”

Luna giggled and hugged Eric back. She patted her bag and found her flute there. She looked around the room as the cook came out with two fat bags. He handed one to each of them and smiled down at Luna.

“There’s enough there to get you halfway to the boarder without having to dip into your rations. Those meat pies should stay sound a good couple of days.   I don’t think it will take you more than a week or so, that steed of Stefen’s is almost as good as a Companion.” The cook wiped his hands on his apron and went back to the kitchen.

They shouldered their packs and went out to where Isa was waiting with Mel and Surya. She took the packs the cook had given them and fastened them to places on their saddles. She gave Luna a boost into the saddle, noting the girl seemed to move much easier than she had when she’d arrived.
“You both look like the rest has done you well. I think the weather should stay clear, but you know the roads as well as I do, Stefen. Stay safe and I hope to see you again soon, little sister.” Isa gave them both a smile. “Now off with you both, I should be about moon or so behind you. I’ve got to go into the hills with some information for Treven.” With that, she slapped both rumps of Surya and Mel, sending them off into the mists of early morning.

It was early afternoon when Stefen called a halt, dismounting with a wince.   Luna followed suit, leading Surya off the side of the road. She looked after Mel as Stefen ran into the bushes, but she could still see him. She tied Mel to branch then found her own little spot. After she found a cool little spring and led both mounts to drink of the cool water. She found a nice bush of blueberries, just almost ripe. She touched the bush and watched as several branches of berries turned from a dusky red to the deep purple blue of ripeness. She smiled to herself then began to pick some. She felt a touch to her shoulder and Stefen handed her a small pouch. He gave her a broad wink then took their mounts into a shaded area. She came to their little area when the pouch was almost full.

“I see how that gift could have unsettled some, but if the food situation was that bad in your village, why would they be upset that you could induce crops to bear fruit.” He said taking a handful of berries. “Sweet and juicy as any berry ripened naturally, that gift isn’t unnatural, it’s just unusual.”

“I think it had to do with the bad people. They wanted to be the ones in control of how food was distributed. They wanted us cowed under their boots, and even though they’d been there for years, I don’t think they managed to do that.” Luna shrugged and Stefen handed her a meat pie to eat. “The fact that I could make plants bear fruit, in any season was something they didn’t like. They tried to keep me out of the village and tried to tell everyone I had to be a demon because no one else had hair or eyes like mine.”

“Your parents didn’t have blonde hair or blue eyes?” Stefen looked Luna over. “Or was it the particular shade of your hair or eyes?”

“My mother had sunshine golden blonde hair and deep blue eyes. My father had hair like yours and blue eyes. How I came out with this silver-blonde, I don’t know. I think some who have never heard of the Hawkbrothers thought that their real baby had been stolen and I was left in its place. That’s completely absurd because I look like both my parents. They held some kind of power over the people, but I couldn’t ever sense what it was though. When Vanyel taught me to shield I was able to hide my gifts.” She took an apple from her bag and began to cut it up, giving the slices to both Surya and Mel.”

:You are quite lucky to have been born in his forest, Luna. Many of the children with the gifts you and Cody had were killed.: Surya took the slices. :Thank you, I think I’ll graze on this lovely grass , too.:

“I hate to say it, but once we get you to Haven, you’re going to have to meet with the King. That will have to happen before we see the Dean.” Stefen said. “The reasons being, those in your village will need the Guard’s help.”

“I can save the outfit I wore yesterday for when we ride in, I guess. Maybe we can find a stream or something so I don’t look completely filthy.” Luna watched at their mounts seemed quite happy to graze on the grasses they were sitting in.

“Well, first off you are newly chosen, they won’t expect you to come in looking like a princess, they know you’re likely to be dusty and tired. Second, there is an inn about half a day outside of Haven so maybe we can time it right to get there the night before we have to ride in.” Stefen seemed to be lost in thought. He didn’t seem to be in any hurry to get on the road.

Luna lay back in the soft grass, watching the sunlight through the leaves of the tree that shaded them.   They’d not traveled as hard as they had in the days before they reached the post, or she was getting more used to riding. She definitely didn’t hurt today, not like she had before. She watched as Stefen leaned against the tree, just seeming to enjoy the quiet and coolness of where they rested.
She didn’t realize she’d fallen asleep until Stefen gently shook her shoulder. She looked up, noticing the sun was much lower on the horizon. She sat up with a gasp, and started to stand when he stopped her.
“It’s ok, Luna. It’s not as late as you think it is. I think we can get a bit further down the road before we’ll have to make camp. I think the ladies have eaten their fill, I gave them some of the fodder the guard sent with us. Let’s get going or we’ll have to sleep here.” He smiled as she got up. They both tended to needs of nature then set off again, Surya seemed to feel frisky and took off on the fastest pace Luna had ever experienced in riding her. She ran for several moments, then slowed to a walk, then paused to allow Stefen to catch up. She heard Mel pounding up behind them, then they both seemed to find a fast pace that suited each other. Surya veered off the main trail and down a slightly overgrown path. It was obvious it was meant to look overgrown to the casual traveler. They traveled down a narrow path single file until they came up to a small building. Stefen could tell it had been built fairly recently, possibly in the past few years.

:No need to camp, they built this here about six years ago.: Surya said. :There is another young one chosen staying here and he needs help. He’s worse off than you were.:

“It’s a Way Station, and there’s someone here who needs help.” Luna said as they got closer and saw a Companion come up to Surya. They nuzzled each other in greeting and Luna dismounted and ran for the station’s door.

Inside, a boy sat on the floor in front of the fireplace, trying to start a fire. His thin shoulders were hunched and shook with fatigue. She gently took the tinderbox from him and soon had a roaring fire going. She looked over the boy, smudged head to toe with dirt. She reached over and lightly touched his hand.

“I’m Luna, my Companion told me you might need some help. I think your own Companion is worried about you.” She said softly. “I have a friend with me, and we have some food. Have you eaten today?”

The boy’s eyes widened and he shook his head. Two fat tears slid down his face. It was obvious he was newly Chosen and was completely frightened. She reached into the pouch she hadn’t realized she’d even grabbed and pressed a meat pie into his hands.

“Here, eat this and I’ll help you get cleaned up. We’ll see if we can find something for you to wear. Don’t worry, you are among friends now.” She patted his arm as he started to eat, not quite believing what was happening to him.

Luna ran outside and saw Stefen tending to the four footed members of their party, she helped him with the Companions and they closed off the coral he’d placed Mel in. She looked around the area around the station and found a small pond, complete with soap root planted nearby.

“What’s the situation, Luna?” Stefen leaned against a tree with his arms crossed. “What did you find?”

“There’s a boy in the station, and he’s frightened. I don’t think he understands what is happening to him. The poor thing is filthy and starving. He was trying to start a fire, I got one going and gave him one of my pies.” She shook her head. “I’m not sure he feels safe enough to speak.”

They heard someone coming though the brush and the boy came up to them. In the dying sunlight, Luna could see his clothing was tattered, but nothing a good hand with a needle couldn’t fix. He had streaks on his face where tears had fallen. She smiled softly to him and reached to touch his hand and he shyly smiled at her.

“Miss, do you have any more of those pies? That one was very tasty, but I don’t know if I’ll be able to get more food. Could you please help me?” He said quietly, as he gave Stefen a wide eyed look. “Are you a Bard? I heard that they wear outfits like that.”

Stefen chuckled at the boy, giving him a winning smile. He took the boy’s other hand and Luna could feel that he wanted the child to trust him as well.
“Why, yes I am. I used to be the former King’s personal Bard, now I just travel around telling the tales of our land. I’m Bard Stefen, and who might you be?” Stefen spoke with feeling, and Luna felt his gift being exerted. “I’m sure you don’t want to refer to you a ‘hey you’!”
“I’m Trey. Mama told me about the Bards, that they were good, even though many like to sing the drunkard tales.” The boy laughed. “But isn’t that part of what you do, singing the fun songs along with the serious?”

“That is true, Trey. We also work with the Heralds to preserve the history of Valdemar and her heroes. We spread news and share information amongst the people and the Heralds, as well. You’ll learn more when you got to Haven. How about we get you cleaned up? Luna can get us some dinner started while you are here with me.” Stefen smiled and pointed to the pond. “That water looks mighty inviting and I’ve had a long hot ride.”

“There is no one here to notice if she bathes with us, I’m sure she’s as hot and dusty as you are. Besides, she’s a lady, and my mom always taught me that we allow ladies first choice to most things. Everyone says the men should get food first, but I don’t think that’s polite when everyone else is just as hungry.” Trey shrugged. “I don’t care if she’s a girl, it’s not going to hurt us to wait a bit for food.”

“I can go get our packs, Stefen. I think one of the outfits Nana packed for me should fit Trey. They are a bit feminine, but when you don’t have anything else to wear, it’s better than nothing.” Luna turned and ran off to fetch what was needed. While she was away, she gathered some of the dried meats and vegetables and started a stew, one that could cook unattended for a bit. She ran back to the little pond, noticing that Stefen and Trey were already in the water. She pulled out a few rags and pulled soap root. She stripped to the skin and waded into the sun warmed water.

“I can imagine, with the time it took you, you started something to eat?” Stefen asked as he pulled Trey’s clothing into the water. “Some women know how to multitask, Trey. Luna is one, and she’s lived on her own for most of her life.”
Luna had braided up her own hair last night, and she pulled the braid up so she didn’t get her hair too wet. She turned her back and began to scrub away the sweat and dust from her skin, reveling in being able to just be clean. She guessed that they’d started washing before she did, as Trey looked much better.

“I did, it’s not much, but it should be enough to feed us. I set out your sewing kit, Stefen. Once those clothes are cleaned, I think you can repair most of the damage to them.” She said, stepping out of the water and picking up a towel. She wrapped it around her, and started to pick up her clothes when Stefen reached for them.

“Since I’m still in the water, I can wash our clothes and we can hang them to dry.” She picked up both their clothes and handed them to him then went back to the station to dress. She was brushing her hair by the fire when they came back.   Stefen hung their clothes up on a line outside, then came inside and sniffed the air.
“Something smells good, I can say I’m glad we don’t have to sleep under the stars after all.” He went to stir the stew and smiled. “I think our new friend may like to sleep by his companion though.   That outfit you set out fits him good.   When his stuff is dry I’ll mend it.”

:Trey and his Companion, Corden, are fairly well bonded. Corden says that he’s not normally so scruffy looking, it’s just that he’s had the same clothes on for days. Oh, and Brightstar said to tell you Cody is thriving with his new parents and brother. It won’t be long until the child chooses a use name.: Surya’s mind voice sounded slightly awed. :It seems Trey is from the lands protected by K’Treva. That could be interesting.:

:How so, Surya? Surely Starwind and Moondance will be happy to welcome a Herald, doesn’t that mean something good?: Luna asked her Companion. :I would hope that his people would welcome him back.:

:It’s not that, he knows a totally different set of laws than our own. The Clan would be proud to have a Herald from their Territories, it just means that something really bad is on the horizon, where we’ll need to be in communication with those people. They had to move the Vale once already due to those bastards. There’s been mages of Krebain and Leareth’s ilk interfering with too many places. Maybe we can get this to die down without more lives lost.:   Surya sounded worried. :Vanyel’s protections should be enough, for now.:

“I hope my mother isn’t too worried about me. I didn’t exactly get to tell her bye. Corden says he sent a call to those who hold protection of our lands, and that they’ll let her know what’s happened, but they don’t usually leave the Vale unless it’s to trade or if there’s problems.” Trey shrugged. “My grandpa told me of a young mage was taught by the Clan, he said some bad man who was terrorizing our village, that this young mage nearly killed himself taking him out. It was only due to Moondance K’Treva who managed who keep him alive. I hear he later became a Herald. I wonder if I’ll ever meet him.”

Stefen and Luna both looked at one another, shock on their faces. They both know who the boy was speaking of, the pain in Stefen’s eyes was so intense Luna went to pull him into a hug. Trey’s eyes got wide, then a look of shock and sadness filled his features.

“I’m sorry, Bard Stefen, I didn’t know. My grandpa, he never told me the boy’s name, just that he was a hero.” Trey moved over to Stefen and put his hand on his shoulder. “You see, my people and theirs held him in very high regards. Corden tells me that he was a hero to many, many people. He never cared for borders, just that if someone needed help, he would, any way he could.”

“Trey, unless it came from your Companion, there is no way you could have known. Your grandpa is right though. Vanyel was one of the most extraordinary people I’ve ever known. I love him and I miss him so very dearly. Your words didn’t make me sad, I just miss him. It’s been ten years. Thank you for honoring my ashke.” Stefen wiped a few tears away, then patted Trey’s hand.

“You’ll learn more about him when we get down to Haven, Trey. I guess it’s a good thing that Corden brought you this way. Dinner’s ready, I think we should eat then try to get some sleep.”

Two days later, they came up on a small village, and Stefen let the two youngsters take the lead. He watched as the Guard greeted them, and spoke to them, though he was still out of range to hear what was being said. The guard sent a child running for the inn likely to find provisions for the two newly Chosen. He nudged Mel up the road and tried to nonchalantly pass the two on Companions when the Guard hailed him.

“Hey Bard Stefen, we’ve got a little issue here. You and I both know these Companions know the way back to the Palace, but if you are heading that way, would you mind keeping an eye on them? I can make sure we get food for you as well.” The Guardsman looked up at him, with an almost pleading look on his face. “It’s not all that safe for two this young to be out on the road and if you are going that way.”

“I am heading back to Bardic, I guess it would be ok if I tagged along. Not sure how one skinny Bard can protect two younglings, I am sure their Companions would be far better than me.” Stefen sounded doubtful. “Though, they do look rather young.”

“Please sir, if it wouldn’t be too much trouble, I would feel safer with an adult traveling with us.” Luna made her eyes go wide and her voice sounded very small. “I feel like I’ve been traveling for days, I’m awfully scared.”

“Would you please come with us?” Trey wouldn’t look up, and he seemed to be quite scared.

“Their Companions can get them to where they need to go, and there are Guards at the Palace who will direct them.” Stefen still sounded doubtful.

“Please sir, please. We’re scared and alone. Having someone like you with us we can at least feel like someone is looking after us.” Luna burst into tears, causing the Guard to shoot him a dirty look.

It would have taken someone with a much harder heart to ignore those tears. Stefen looked from Trey to Luna and shook his head. He made a rather gusty sigh and nodded. The Guard looked relieved, but the children still didn’t seem aware.

“Please, little one, no more tears. Yes I’ll travel with them, you were good to ask me, Guardsman. It would be a pleasure to escort these newly Chosen to the Palace.” He smiled at the kids and Luna turned to him giving him a wink that was covered from the guard by her long hair.

The child that had been sent to the Inn came back the Inn keeper. He was carrying a rather large bag. Luna detached the now empty packs that had held food when they left the post and handed them to the man. He took them and hung them on the snaffles on the saddle and began to pack each of them with some parcels that had wonderful aromas. What shocked them was when he turned to Stefen, and asked for his pack. He stuffed some of the parcels into it as well. He looked up at Stefen and winked.
“It’s a good thing I always make sure to pack a little extra, never know when a Herald or a Bard will show up, especially when there’s the newly Chosen coming through. I guess old Bart here talked you into traveling with these younglings?” He asked.

“Yeah, but it’s no big deal. It’s on my way, so I can make sure they get where they need to go.” Stefen said.

The guard handed each of the children a small scrap of metal as the Inn keeper took their water skins to fill. This was the first Village they’d come to since leaving the way station that seemed to have a Guard and an Inn. Most of the small places were little more than a collection of homes with fields.

“Since we’re likely the only place with a Guard post and an inn that you’ve come to, this is a town chit, give this to the person who asks for them. We’ll be getting taxes back just for helping you. If you have any questions, this scallywag here might be able to answer them, or direct you to who can once you get settled.” The guard shocked them all by admitting something, after the inn master had given them back their water skins and went back to his trade. “I knew this scamp was up to a ruse, but he was right to have you enter first. Had he entered first, everyone would have wanted him to perform, this way you all get to leave in peace.”

“I guess we can’t fool you Bart. Thanks for understanding!” Stef saluted the guard and they rode off down the road.

“I honestly didn’t think he was going to buy it at all, I thought he was going to ask us why you were a bit behind us as if we didn’t know you were there.” Luna said once they left hearing distance of the village. “For a moment, I really thought we were going to be in trouble.”

“Nah, I told him when I passed through I had a feeling when I came back I’d have a newly Chosen with me. He was the one who suggested that, and for me to pretend not to help. I just didn’t expect to have two.” Stefen laughed. “Not every newly Chosen has the benefit of having someone who knows what’s going on to talk to until they get to the Collegium, and they tend to like to keep you less informed so you don’t get the wrong information. Considering who I was Lifebonded to, I understand why.”
“It seems rather unfair. I can understand why they don’t want us to have the wrong information, though are there many who are outside of Haven who get chosen?” Luna asked. “I guess they would, considering those chits.”

“They do, and all guard posts have them. Every village and town within the boarders have them, and usually they’ll get a bit of their taxes at for provisioning young ones like you. I think this year will be a rather happy year for quite a few towns, as we’ve seemed to get a large influx. That’s something that Vanyel always worried about because when we fill up, things are going to get bad. We’d lost quite a few in his time, and we’re just now filling back up.”

“What happened to the Heralds, the Herald-Mages? Grandpa told us about a Herald that came to the village with Vanyel. Wasn’t she a Herald-Mage, she learned to better her craft with the K’Treva.” Trey asked

“Herald-Mage Savil, yes she was. She was Vanyel’s aunt and good friends to both Starwind and Moondance. Unfortunately, I doubt there will be any Herald-Mages like them for a very long time as my ashke was the last.” Stefen said. “You’ll learn more of the history when you start classes. We’ve lost many Heralds, in the wars in the south and simply in the line of duty.”

“Corden has told me that had I the right abilities, I’d have been taken into the Vale to learn with them, but my gifts are different. I could speak with some of the people in the Vale, and it was quite far from where our village was. I think Brightstar called it FarSpeaking. He said I had a few others, and that Corden choosing me was a big honor. He said if they’d detected the right gift, he would have trained me, but he Saw that I belong to Valdemar. They help the land, and the Heralds help people.” Trey smiled at both of them.

“Starwind told me if I’d had the Mage gift, I would have been trained by them too, but because of the Gifts I do have, I belonged as a Herald. Though I do have one or two gifts usually unique to the Tayledras, I can see and hear things that others usually do not. I can see things about them, no matter how tight their shields are. I’ve learned how to not let the gift use me though, but that’s my secret.” Luna smiled. “I could see their touch on you though. It’s sort of the like wings of a raptor.”

“I see that on you as well, but I can tell they did healing on you. You also have sort of a touch, a glowing blue swirl. I can’t see whose touch that is, but I guess it’s the person who trained you. Brightstar said I can learn to not see it if I choose. I just have to not want to see it.” Trey laughed. “I think we’re boring Stefen.”

Stefen chuckled and shook his head. He liked the conversations that the two had, and he didn’t mind when they talked around him about their Gifts or their Companions. He’d gotten used to it when he’d traveled with Savil and Vanyel. He wished that they could see these two, they would love them. Well, he knew Vanyel did care for Luna, he had made sure that the girl had survived the many horrors of her childhood. For the first time since Vanyel had passed, he didn’t feel the empty place so achingly. Oh he still felt it, but he could bear it.

“No, you aren’t boring me, just bringing back some very fond memories. I just wish that they could see you now. Both of you are less like the scared children I met, and more like the Heralds you will one day be. Don’t ever worry about being afraid of what being a Herald means, because a moment of fear can cause you distraction, and sometimes that distraction can get you killed.   If you ever feel doubt, talk to your Companions, because chances are they’ll be a source of wisdom.” Stefen said. “If they are unsure, they will make sure to guide you to someone who will help you. There has been a time or two that Heralds have been repudiated by their Companions because they blocked them out in times of crisis or refused to speak to them about the things that bothered them.”

Stefen looked a touch confused at what he’d just said. He felt as if he’d just had a touch of Luna’s ability, like he’d seen into the past life of someone. He couldn’t put his finger on it and trying to think on it distracted him from the looks the children passed between themselves, as if they knew something he didn’t.

:Don’t say it Trey, it’s not our secret to share.: Luna mindspoke to Trey. :You and I both see it, but we cannot tell him. It is something that he will learn when it’s his time and not until then. It has to be that way.:

:But, he just saw something from his past life’s eyes. He was a Herald-Mage, and his love was… oh Gods of my fathers…that’s something that never happens.: Trey sounded as if he was in disbelief. :How does someone find their true love twice over. He’s in Vanyel’s place when Tylendel died.:

:Exactly, and Vanyel knows this. Vanyel had to learn the secret on his own, and so does Stefen. I am sure that if they were still in your range, even with FarSpeaking, Brightstar would tell you the same thing. You saw the same touch I have on me on him, didn’t you. He has it for a very different reason though.: Luna winked at Trey, then looked back at Stefen, who still looked slightly troubled.

“Are you alright, Stef? You look like you are troubled.” Trey asked.

“I’m ok, I just had a rather strange feeling. I is just something I haven’t experienced in a very long time and had me somewhat shocked.” Stef shrugged. “Luna, would you mind playing us a few tunes on your flute?”

Luna blushed, but pulled out her flute and began to play. Trey had gotten used to hearing Luna play, and feeling the power behind her playing. They rode for a time, just listening to her play when Stefen stopped them. There was a small grove of trees off to the side of the road, and they decided to take a rest there, and have a meal.

“Stefen, is it just me, or was there something in her playing? I felt something, that one tune she played, though there was no singing, I could almost feel the lyrics.” Trey asked.

“That’s because she has the same gift I do, the Bardic Gift. Once she gets better training on it, and she will have to have it, they can’t let that gift go untrained, she’ll be far better. I do see her having all three requirements, too. Talent, Creativity and the Gift, anyone who can adapt a melody they learned on an instrument like mine to a flute has to have both talent and creativity. If she hadn’t been chosen, I’m sure they would be leaving her boots on the ground, she’d be snatched so fast.” Stefen chuckled as Luna blushed as bright as his tunic. “It’s true, little one, you’re damn good for your age, and for never having touched an instrument before a half moon ago.”

“I still think you are just flattering me, I can’t be that good.” She demurred.

“You had the entirety of the Guard on shift at that post in tears, little one. What they felt when we played was all your doing. You just wait, I’ll have you play for a few of the teachers there. Eric’s right, if they think that old flute is not a worthy instrument, I’ll play it, then make them eat it.” Stefen pulled her close to him, holding her tightly. “Part of what I do is help identify gifts, I was told you could have it, when I tested you, I was absolutely sure. As sure as I’ll love Vanyel until time ends, as sure as I’m sitting right here talking to you, that’s how sure I am.”

“I felt it too, Luna. You’ve got amazing gifts. I can see why Surya adores you, as well. I may have had a far better life before I was Chosen, and how you found me is not how I was raised. I got caught up in a bad rain storm and both Corden and I had to wade through so much mud I thought I’d never get clean. You had literally no one, you are someone with a good heart and such a sweet personality, I know who helped you, and I’ll never betray your secret.” Trey smiled at her with such kindness, she burst into tears.

“We do need to get back on the road; we should be about two days from Haven, on ordinary horses. Mel is fast so I think we might make the next town just after nightfall. I can get us in the Inn if need be.” Stefen said and they packed up to ride. They packed up their things and got on the road, continuing the conversation as if they’d never stopped.

“It’s true, little one. Anyone who knew him will see that. Once he realized that he had the power to help others, the fact he probably do many things ordinary people do, but they couldn’t do something he could. It’s a hunger, you have to help others, or you won’t be satisfied.” He looked to Trey who nodded in agreement. “Think about this, you have the one gift that kept you alive and your first thought was to help others with it.”

“You mean with plants, it’s not just food plants, it’s any plant. Ones that are dangerous, I can kill with just a touch, but ones that are good or produce food, I can make flourish.” Luna said.

“Wow, you have THAT gift, I haven’t seen that one outside of the hertasi or some of the Adepts. That had to knock your friends back a few paces!” Trey sounded slightly jealous. “Maybe there are other types of Clans that have that gift, but outside of the Tayledras, it’s almost non-existent.”

“No, actually they seemed pleased I have it. I guess the Goddess decided that I needed to do something to survive so she allowed me to have it. I’ve been able to use it since I was very small” Luna admitted. “I never really thought about it though, I didn’t know it was rare until after I was chosen.”

“It’s an extremely rare gift, outside of the Tayledras. Like I said there are other types of clans, like the hertasi that have it and use it regularly, but outside of them it’s almost unheard of.” Trey explained.

“I can see why, it unsettles people. They thought I was a witch or something, I guess. It was just another reason for them to treat me like an outcast. I’m just glad I’m on my way to learn how to help others. My people didn’t want me to help them because of some very bad people, but now they may have to pay for that. They’ll have to learn to accept help from strangers, after they let those bad people control them for so long, but these will be good people. Maybe Way’s End can survive, but maybe they should change the name of the village or move it all together, too much bad feeling.” Luna said thoughtfully. “I did go back, to get help, and they greeted me differently, but that is because I rode Surya in. They knew what she meant, and that I would become something special.”

“They should have realized that in the first place. I’m still having problems understanding how those in your village allowed those men to take over, without argument. They had to have started years ago.” Stefen said, shaking his head. “I don’t know the history of your area and neither do many of our Heralds.”

“From what Nana Margaret has taught us, the first of the men came quite a few years before she began to notice the way people began thinking. She said that later on after that, a few families came, and no one thought to not welcome them. They seemed to be like our own people and it is quite hard living up there. The winters are longer and harsher than down in southern areas. They were gradual changes, not at all obvious.” Luna blinked as a butterfly flew and landed on her hand. “Around the time my parents were old enough to wed, that’s when things started getting real bad.”

“When Vanyel first came to our lands, there were many strange things happening all over, it wasn’t just within the lands protected by the Tayledras. Children outside of the lands held in their protections disappeared or died in mysterious accidents. I think some even within them were taken, it’s something that was spoken of though.” Trey shook his head and looked at Luna. “The mage that Vanyel fought in our village had done some very bad things; he harmed so many people that some never recovered their sanity.”

Luna seemed to think things over; trying to put the thoughts she was having in some sort of order. She seemed to see things from both her own point of view and that of Stefen. She never understood why her village was so willing to just let strangers lead them. They were not stupid sheep who let any shepherd lead, they were bright and smart people. They were strong and sturdy who had seemed to enjoy the benefits of free will.

“If the Gods and Goddesses gave us minds to think with, why would one feel right allowing someone else to make their decisions? It seems to me that it could look attractive to give control to someone, but when that very power controls darkness, why be blind to it?” Luna asked.

“That is something we all would like to know, little one. It is something that can happen anywhere. Both Queen Elspeth and later King Randale wanted their people educated because they felt that if people could think for themselves and learn to trust their own judgment they could make decisions on what they believed. They didn’t want to lead people around by the nose, forcing them into one way of thinking or another.” Stefen explained.   “Anyone can be manipulated into blindness, and that’s not something they wanted for their people.”

“Is that something we try to prevent, as Heralds?” Luna asked, watching as the butterfly that had landed on her fly off.

“I think that would be a question you can answer yourself, once you enter training, little one. As a Bard, I can tell you that we try not to manipulate people in that fashion. It is considered a grave offence to misuse your gift in that way. If a Bard is caught misusing their gift in that way, they will have it blocked and they are stripped of all their accolades. I have never seen it happen, but I think it could be compared to being repudiated by one’s Companion. It strips something away from you.” Stefen tried to explain, feeling a little out of his depth. “These would be good things to bring up in your Orientation classes.”

The moon was beginning to rise when they rode into the town. The guard that stopped them and checked the Companions, then personally escorted all three to the Inn. Luna slid from Surya’s back and her legs buckled from exhaustion. She landed on the ground with a soft grunt. Trey dismounted and rushed to scoop her up.

“You go on in and get sat down at a table. I’ll go on in and get your food and rooms ordered.” The guardsman said. Luna shook her head and staggered off towards the privies.   The guard nodded to Stefen and Trey. “Can you two handle the beasties? I can get a stable hand for your horse, Bard, if you’ll tend to the girl’s Companion.”

“That will be fine, I’m used to handling a Companion, and it is no trouble.” Stefen said then yawned.

“Aye, lad, I don’t doubt you do, Bard Stefen.” The guard chuckled as a stable boy dashed up to lead them to the stables.

Luna came into the main room of the inn and sat down at a place at the table, obviously being held for them. She felt slightly guilty for not tending Surya, but she felt so tired she wasn’t sure if she could stay awake long enough to eat.

:It is quite fine, Luna. You guys had some hard riding today, and Stefen is tending to me just fine. It seems you may only have one room, but there are two beds. Trey has already said he’d be ok with you sharing with Stef.   He knows that you two are fast becoming good friends and he sees him more as a big brother to you both. However, I think he’s uneasy with the fact that he’s Shay’a’chern.: Surya said softly. :They’ll be in, they are just washing up after tending their own needs.:

Luna looked up as the door opened and they came into the room and spotted her. They came over and sat with her, both looking as tired as she felt. A serving girl came over and left food and tea with them and the inn keeper followed her handing them a key.

“The hand will take the packs up to your room, the others will stay with the young ones Companions. I doubt anyone will mess with them, but they’re safer with them than anywhere.” He handed Stefen the key, then slipped back to the kitchen.

Luna began eating slowly, finding that as she ate, she felt better. She was still tired but she wasn’t feeling like she would fall asleep at the table.   She finished her meal and stretched. The serving girl came back over and leaned down to Luna. Luna noticed the other two were taking their last bites.

“Boss says the bath house is clear if you would like to bathe before the men. Some of us girls were going to go bathe, but if you don’t mind you can come with us, unless you are ok with them.” She shot a look at Stefen and Trey.

“Thank you for your offer, but I don’t mind bathing with them. I’ve spent the last so many days with Stefen and Trey, they won’t harm me.” Luna flashed the girl a smile and she nodded.

“Well, the serving girls were going to use the baths, but we’ll wait so you three can get a hot bath. We’ll keep it free for you, but you might want to hurry before others decide to go jump in. We can hold them off by the virtue of the young ones being chosen.” The stable hand brought their packs and they took their key and picked them up to follow the girl to the bath house.

Luna was somewhat surprised, she had not figured on it being as big as it was, it held several tubs,   Each with a small divider between it and the next. Luna chose one and ran a bath. She eased into the heated water and sighed. She washed quickly, making sure to wash her hair. She got out and began to dry off, and realized that she didn’t fell all that tired she waited by her tub for the other two to finish, and she noticed they both felt as she did.

“I think I wouldn’t mind playing a few tunes for the crowd, what say you, Luna?” Stefen asked. “I taught you Demonsbane on that flute, how about we see what they make of you?”

Luna nodded shyly.   She pulled her flute from her pack and shouldered it. They went back into the inn, and heard the crowd cheer at the sight of Stefen, looking slightly fresher. He took his gittern and sat by the fire, tuning it quickly. Luna sat beside him, playing a soft melody until he was ready. She winked to Stefen.

“We’ll play you a few tunes, then I think Stefen might take some requests. He’s taught me a few melodies, but first, he wants me to accompany him on Demonsbane.” Luna watched the crowd with a smile. Stefen nodded and they launched into the tune.

Trey watched the pair as they played. He’d heard Luna learning the melody on the flute, but he had yet to hear the lyrics. The song was about Vanyel, at a battle in a place called Stony Tor.   The emotion Stefen put into his voice was a combination of sadness and of pride. Pride of the man he loved, doing what he did best, helping those in need. Pride of the man who had laid his life on the line many times over, with no promise of reward, the sadness of the man taken from his side way too soon.   He looked around the room and could see pride of a different kind in the faces of those listening. They also had sadness, of having lost the legendary hero.

Soon, they began a series of bawdy tunes that had Luna blushing deeply as she played along. Some of the tunes just listen to, as she’d never heard them before. Trey had the feeling that she was a bit shy to join in on the more rowdy songs due to the lyrics than not knowing the melodies. He couldn’t blame her, Stefen could handle playing them as he could steer the mood away from the obvious, but she hadn’t been trained enough to do that. All too soon, Stefen began to look quite tired and Luna started a gentle lullaby in the quiet he left. Many of the patrons smiled at the girl, feeling an apologetic sadness, as if she wished to keep entertaining them, but she was weary. Stefen joined in, and the feeling grew. When they finished, someone called out for another musician, that they had kept the Bard and the newly chosen youngsters from their beds far too long. They retired to their room, falling asleep as soon as their heads hit their pillows.
- 8
- 9
- 10
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Tears of the Phoenix