Somewhere deep in the Illusion Woods...
Astroyanax was furious with his sister, and he had no qualms about showing it. "How COULD you, Sel?!" he demanded. "Defeated by a HUMAN?!"
"He wasn't a normal human, Astro! He had very powerful magic, and he knew how to use it!" Selenidae objected, still annoyed by her defeat.
Astroyanax sighed irritably. He was nervous. Selenidae had overcome many enemies for their people, and the thought that one had her beaten, if temporarily, was unimaginable. "Let's go see if our raid took care of one threat," he decided, going to the orb that held their magic to contact their home world.
Astroyanax and Selenidae were the children of the leader of their world, sent to Lunar to conquer it for a new homeworld. The elder there, a bit of a prophet, had seen that two would stand in the way of their quest.
"Astroyanax and Selenidae, reporting to the elder, requesting to know the status of the barriers to our quest," Astroyanax toned, activating the orb.
"Greetings, your Highnesses," a voice replied. "Checking status. The steel-eyed mage... alive. Green-eyed bearer of the silver sword... alive. You have failed."
"No! Who ARE they?" Selenidae screeched. "Why can't you tell us more?"
"Your impudence will be ignored for now," the voice admonished, "princess though you be. This world is protected by a strange power. Feel fortunate I can tell you that."
"I thought that we took care of the second one," Astroyanax remarked. "That golden-haired woman had green eyes, and a silver sword."
"She was not the one," the voice reported. "She was not the true one. I warn you, your father is becoming impatient. I would suggest that you get to work." The orb darkened.
Selenidae sighed angrily. "He's right, it has been a year. All these little raids, and our hard work now didn't do it," she moaned.
"Well, let's try for the mage," Astroyanax suggested. "That city, the one with all of those magical auras...Vane, I think? Likely the mage we're looking for is there."
Selenidae nodded thoughtfully. "Since we attacked a sword tournament, they'll think that warriors are the sole target," she mused. "Plus, they'll be busy investigating that."
"Let's make plans while our troops rest a bit," Astroyanax decided, and the siblings got to work.
Katiyana had been sunk in darkness, when a sudden light called her back to consciousness. She woke up slowly, looking around at her surroundings. She was in a comfortable bed, in a room she guessed was an infirmary. A kind-looking man and concerned girl were looking at her.
"That should do it, my dear," the man said. "That magical curse is gone, although I'm not sure of the source. Very strange magic, indeed."
"Who... who are you? Where am I?" Katiyana asked curiously.
"My name is Terrance, and this is Pearl. You're in the manor of Lord Restar. He brought you here to be cured," the man replied, looking at her with a trace of pity. "But, no more questions. You need rest now, after fighting off that curse."
"No... I gotta see if anyone... anything... is left," Katiyana contradicted, shuddering with memory. She tried to rise, tears coursing down.
"Pearl!" Terrance said. Pearl helped Katiyana to lay down again, while Terrance put his hand on Katiyana's head. "Forgive me, my dear, but I think this best. You're not back up to peak yet, certainly not to deal with what happened. Rest and be at peace," he apologized. Katiyana sighed and sank down under the sleep spell. Some time later, she awoke again, feeling more refreshed. Although a little angry at having it forced on her, she knew that the rest had been needed.
Pearl was sitting in a chair, busily knitting. She looked up, a little nervous. "Hi, sorry about that," she spoke quickly, "but, you looked as pale as a ghost before. You look much better now."
"That's... that's okay," Katiyana replied, "I knew he was doing his job. Oh, my name is Katiyana Neva, of the..." She swallowed hard, and finished, "...formerly of the Xong dojo of Zen."
Pearl got up and came to shake the older girl's hand. "Pearl Rossi," she said simply. "Um, my lord said I was to look after you. Would you like anything? Maybe a nice hot bath and some fresh clothes?"
Katiyana glanced at her Xong tunic and leggings and winced. She was very dirty and the cloth had been slashed many times. "That would be nice," she admitted shyly.
"Okay," Pearl said, getting up, "I'll get your bath going, and get you something to wear afterwards. We can fix what you've got. What's your size and style?"
Katiyana gave her size, then admitted, "I... really don't have a style."
Pearl snorted, adding, "Nonsense! I'll find you something smashing. We'll get you a style, don't worry!" She peered at Katiyana, then nodded. "Green," she decided. "I'll get you something green." Pearl helped Katiyana to her bath, then took off to find something.
Katiyana was grateful to soak in hot water, lightly scented with juniper. She remembered, now--Absalom's death, seeing so many of her neighbors slaughtered, the horrible demon woman who was not a woman. She was glad that she had not seen her parents killed, although she did wish she could have told them good-bye, and how much she loved them.
What could she do now? All her family was in Zen, and now everything was gone. Meribia? Katiyana paused. Should she go to Meribia and try to join the Knights? If she failed, what then? She would find something. Her parents and Absalom had taught her to be strong. She would make them all proud.
Drying off, she found Pearl waiting with a pile of clothes and a grin on her face. "Try this," she said cheerfully. "I'll do your hair, too."
Katiyana got dressed in a black short-sleeved shirt, black hose, and a green velvet tunic dress. Pearl had pulled back her long brown hair with a green bow. "You look great!" Pearl gushed. "Lord Restar is awake, and he wants you to join him for dinner, if you're up to it."
Katiyana clipped her sword-belt on, wanting to be ready. She looked at the other girl and nodded. Pearl smiled and led the way through the manor.
Katiyana was impressed. The man had some money, obviously, but was not extravagant. Pretty paintings were hung all over, showing a variety of Lunar life. Beautifully woven rugs covered lovely stone floors.
Pearl led Katiyana into a small dining room. Sitting in one of the chairs around a small table was the mage. His eyes widened slightly when he saw Katiyana, and he rose. Pearl smiled, curtsied quickly, and left.
"I don't believe we've been properly introduced yet," he began, smiling. "I am Restar McCloud, lord of this manor. And you?"
Katiyana smiled back. "Katiyana Neva," she replied. "I was a student at the Xong dojo in Zen."
Restar took Katiyana's hand and kissed it gently. "I'm pleased to meet you, my dear," he said. "You did well in the tournament."
Katiyana grinned proudly. "I did my best," she replied modestly. "I want to join the Knights of Meribia one day. I... still want to, even after what happened."
"Ah, yes," Restar sighed, sitting down again. "Chicken all right?" Katiyana nodded and held out her plate, letting her host fill it. Restar picked up a bottle. "Wine?"
Katiyana shook her head. "Too young," she explained. "Next year. Plus, I guess I don't ever want anything to happen. My... my uncle had a problem."
Restar put the bottle back down. "I am sorry," he said. "Katiyana, I am truly sorry for what you lost yesterday. Do you have any family or friends left?"
Katiyana shook her head tearfully, fighting to control it. "My plan was to travel to Meribia to try out for the knights," she answered. "All of my family was in Zen."
"I am sorry," Restar repeated. "Katiyana, you are welcome to stay here until you are ready as our guest. But, I wonder about those who attacked the place. It's odd that they went after everyone."
"Yeah..." Katiyana took another bite of chicken. Something... what had the green-skinned woman said? She couldn't quite remember. "I wonder what they want," she added.
Restar sighed. "Who knows? Katiyana, was Zen famous for anything in particular? Gold, gems, anything like that?" he asked curiously.
Katiyana shook her head. "No, our city was mostly warriors and sailors," she replied. "I don't know what they were after."
Restar thought a bit. "It's possible that they weren't sure, either," he hypothesized. "Normally, people would prefer to sneak into a place and grab what they wanted. It's just so odd for a full-scale attack like that."
Katiyana nodded in agreement. The two were lost in thought as they finished their meal. Restar rose and gestured to his guest. "I would like to show you something, if I may," he said. "Something very important."
Katiyana nodded and rose, then looked worriedly at the dishes. Restar smiled and shook his head. "They'll be taken care of," he said. "Although I do try to help with things like that when I have time."
Restar led her through a new part of the manor, to his study. He gestured to the painting. "My wife, Sharion," he said, smiling sadly. "She was a Knight of Meribia, a very strong one. She was killed almost a year ago."
Katiyana remembered the story from Absalom, feeling a pain in her heart thinking of him. She was amazed to see the green eyes that nearly mirrored her own, then examined the sword. The silver sword. Why did that sound familiar...?
She gasped in memory. "The woman! She mentioned that I had green eyes, but that my sword wasn't silver!" she cried out. Restar felt sick. Could it be...? Was there a connection...? Katiyana looked at the mage in shock. He looked pale as death, and swayed slightly. "Restar? Are you all right?" she asked, scared.
Restar shook his head, trying to calm himself down. He had a lot to ponder, but he didn't want to scare his guest. He had to think clearly at a later time. "Would you like a tour of the manor?" he asked. Katiyana blinked at the change in subject, then realized what the mage was thinking. She nodded thoughtfully.
"This land has a lot of farmers, sailors, miners, and trades that stem from those enterprises," Restar explained. "The weavers here are especially talented."
"I noticed; you have a lot of pretty rugs and things," Katiyana replied, thinking.
"We're lucky to be near a quarry of beautiful red stone. Besides being lovely, the stone is quite strong and seems to have some anti-fire properties. We're not quite sure why, although we suspect a strong magical aura is in play," Restar added, pointing at a smooth ruby-colored wall.
Katiyana shrugged, grinning apologetically. "I'm not too good at magical theory," she admitted, "although I agree, the stone is pretty."
Restar smiled and led his guest up a flight of stairs. "This is my favorite place in the manor," he explained. "You can see one of the villages and the sea from here."
Katiyana gasped at the view from the roof. The Minea sparkled to the east, beyond one of the villages in Restar's domain. The mountains reflected the colors from the sun setting behind them. "This... this must be the most beautiful view in Lunar!" she cried. She walked to the railing to get a better look.
Restar joined her. "Sharion loved it, too," he said softly. "After supper, we would come up here and talk for hours. But, she'll always be with me in her way."
Katiyana nodded, deep in thought. Restar looked at her. "All right, out with it. What's on your mind?" he asked wryly.
"I want to go to Meribia," she replied strongly. "I want to try out for the knights, and if that doesn't work... I have to make a new life for myself. I'll work for my fare."
Restar thought a minute. "How about this?" he began. "We have a shipment of cloth ready to go to two of Ramus's stores, including the one in Meribia. You can work with us for your fare, and I'll accompany you to the Knights' headquarters. They know me from my wife."
Katiyana shook her head in amazement. "Why, Restar? Why do this for me?" she asked, astonished. "I'm a stranger."
"Perhaps, but I know what you're going through, to a lesser degree. I know what it's like to lose the light of your life, and if I can help anyone going through that, to lessen their pain..." Restar broke off, then finished, "...it lessens my own."
Katiyana looked up. The mage's gray eyes were soft with pain and sympathy. She felt the tears come now, allowed, unleashed. They fell like a healing rain. Restar hesitated, then embraced her carefully while the girl leaned her head on his chest, sobbing. Katiyana was so grateful for the contact, knowing that someone else was there, and understood. She felt his tears join her own, in a river of release.
Katiyana sighed gratefully and moved away. "Thank you," she said simply. "I needed to get that out."
"I understand," Restar replied. "It's important to get the pain out. That's when true healing begins. Please, anytime you need to talk, you're always welcome to."
"Thanks," Katiyana said softly, "I shall. And I accept your offer for going to Meribia."
"Good," Restar remarked. "I'll have Pearl show you to a guest room to spend the night, whenever you're tired. We'll load the ship early tomorrow, to get a good start."
Katiyana thanked him warmly, and left the roof. Restar turned around and gazed at the Minea for a bit more. "You're helping me, Sharion," he murmured. "And this girl. She's a lot like you when you were younger. I'll do what I can for her." He turned away and returned to his chambers for the night.
Katiyana was up bright and early, eager to help with the boats. The sailors sneered, until they learned she knew what she was doing. When asked, the girl admitted that she had spent much time in Zen questioning the sailors and giving an extra hand.
Katiyana was also amused to see Restar, out of his mage clothes and in a sailor's plain shirt and breeches, helping with rigging and storing their goods like anybody else on board. He was definitely not a regular noble--at least, not like the ones she had heard of.
That night, Katiyana wandered up on deck. The air was beautifully cool, and the Blue Star glimmered like a huge sapphire. She sighed, remembering talking with Absalom of their plans for the future, watching the Blue Star like this.
"Oh! Sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you. I always like to come up and look at the Blue Star. It don't shine like this anywhere else but the Minea." Jordan came up, plopping down on a spool of rope.
"No, that's okay," Katiyana replied, grateful for the company. She thought a bit, wondering how to ask what was on her mind. "Jordan, I'm wondering about Restar. Why he's doing this," she mused.
"Oh, that's easy. Restar's a nice guy, and he cares for people, especially us. See, he grew up in Vane, and left after his mage training. He helped a lot in these villages here, keeping us safe. So, we elected him our leader," Jordan explained. "See, Restar is a strong mage, but his real strength comes from his heart. Which is why he misses Lady Sharion so much."
"What was Lady Sharion like?" Katiyana asked, curious.
"Oh, she was wonderful. Beautiful, shining, gold-hearted, dang, all of us were half in love with her!" Jordan rambled, eyes shining. "She was poetry with a sword, kind, and always eager to help. That's why they fell in love, our lord and lady. Whatever they can do for people, they'll do with a smile."
Katiyana pondered. She was grateful, to be sure, and would try to do what she could for Restar. She admired the man for his generosity--it would be something to remember as a knight. "Thanks, Jordan, I'm going to bed," she said with a yawn.
"No problem, honeycake," Jordan replied with a wink. Katiyana went to bed, putting her thoughts away until morning.
Upon arrival in the port town of Cassia, Restar gave orders for half of the load to be sent to Ramus's store, the other half to be packed up to join a caravan to Meribia. The ship would wait for their return.
Katiyana was amazed by the beauty of the scenery during the long trip. Lakes were scattered all over, and she gazed a long time at Vane as they passed it. She wondered what the magic city was like, and promised herself she'd visit it once she became a knight. They passed a huge, old-looking structure covered with vines and greenery that seemed uninhabited. At last, they reached the biggest city in the world.
Restar smiled to be returning to Meribia. Sharion had been from here, and he had developed a fondness for the loud, colorful, roaring city. It was big and busy, filled with bustling merchants and working sailors, people off to the bars and shopping. It was also the headquarters of the Knights of Meribia.
He grinned, watching Katiyana take it all in. "First visit?" he asked.
"My parents brought me here once or twice when I was little," the girl replied, "but, not for a long time. People in Zen kept to themselves."
"Meribia's history is as colorful as the place. It was founded by Master Mel de Alkirk, after he married his wife and became one of the Four Heroes. Later, his daughter Jessica became the new governess, becoming known as the 'Mother of Meribia.' Her tenure was considered the golden years. Her husband Kyle ran things with her after he left Nanza," Restar explained. "The de Alkirk line ruled for about two hundred years or so, when the last de Alkirk was childless and made it a democracy. He didn't want a dynasty like the Ausa line in Vane."
"When did the knights come?" Katiyana asked, interested.
"They came about two hundred years ago, three hundred after the last de Alkirk ruled," Restar replied. "It's a good organization. The governor gave most of the manor for the knights to use as a base, only using an apartment for himself. Although, since then, the knights have had a strong voice in Meribian politics."
The caravan reached the world-famous Meribian Ramus's store. They had three--Meribia, Cassia, and Horam--but this one was the first and biggest. The owner, creatively named Ramus, came out to greet Restar and look over the wares. The men shook hands warmly.
"Good to see you, Restar old man," Ramus said cheerfully. "Who's your pretty friend?"
Katiyana blushed. Restar spoke quickly, "It's not like that. This is Katiyana Neva, from Zen. We escaped together."
Ramus's eyebrows shot up. "Zen?!" he repeated incredulously. "We heard the place was trashed with no survivors. The knights are going crazy, trying to figure out what happened."
Restar frowned. "We are here to see them," he said coldly. "And please use a little decorum, if you will."
Ramus looked confused, then shrank. "Sorry," he muttered. "Why don't you guys go ahead?"
Restar turned to Jordan. "Can you handle things?" he asked. "I'd like to go see the knight masters as soon as possible." Jordan nodded, making a shooing motion.
Restar led Katiyana through the crowded streets, making his way to the Meribian mansion, the capital building and headquarters of the knighthood. There were two guards posted, but they recognized Restar. "Welcome, Lord Restar!" one chorused. "Here to see the masters?"
Restar nodded. "Are they here?" he asked.
"Yep, but pretty edgy. They don't want a lot of visitors, but I think you're an exception. Go on in," the other replied.
Katiyana was in awe. This was the dream of any youngster who picked up a sword. Well, this or becoming a dragonmaster like the famous Alex. The mansion was filled with knights running around, with swords and shields adorning the walls alternating with bright tapestries showing the glory of the knighthood. The knights bought the finest weapons forged by humans, and were sent on missions to keep the peace of Lunar. Her dream.
She was glad to see that Restar knew his way around, greeting knights here and there who waved him to their audience chamber. Many glanced curiously at Katiyana, grinning when they noticed her sword. The guards outside the audience chamber knew him, and let him in.
The audience chamber was huge and impressive. Two huge tapestries hung on the side walls, showing the founding of the knighthood. Swords owned by famous knights of the past hung on the wall, with plaques underneath. Three carved chairs sat up front on a dais, filled by two men and a woman. They all wore quality armor and swords that had obviously seen a lot of use.
Katiyana followed Restar to the dais, bowing at Restar's gesture. "Greetings, honored lords and lady," he began, "I am here on the matter of Zen's destruction. With me is Katiyana Neva, formerly of the Xong dojo of Zen. She and I were the only ones to survive the attack. We have information to share, and Katiyana has a request of her own."
One of the men stood up. Tall and solid, he looked like a man to be reckoned with. "Well met, Restar. Greetings, Katiyana. I am Lord Gareth. I'd like to present my honored colleagues Lady Jesta and Lord Richard. What is your request?" he asked officially, with a hint of kindness.
"I am truly honored to make your acquaintance, my lord. I would like to try out for the knighthood, if I may," Katiyana replied nervously.
Lord Gareth looked at his colleagues, who nodded. "You may, but we would like the information first. After, we will see a demonstration of your skills, and proceed from there," he replied.
Katiyana was excited, but managed to say, "Thank you all. We will let you know what we can."
Lady Jesta and Lord Richard brought out two chairs for their guests, pouring cold juice and offering a plate of pastries and a bowl of fruit. Once everyone was comfortable and seen to, Lady Jesta stated coolly, "Tell us what you know."
"...and then I brought us to my manor," Restar finished. The knights looked very grave, even Jesta who was known for an icy demeanor. They sat stiffly with their hands folded.
"This is something new," Richard said slowly. "We have had reports of raids and small attacks, but nothing like this. Some of the reports have carried descriptions, and some match yours of green-skinned monsters with red hair."
"'Green-eyed warrior with a silver sword,'" Gareth repeated thoughtfully, "Probably some sort of prophecy. Dragonmasters Dyne and Alex both had green eyes."
"That cannot be all," Jesta retorted. "Some of the raids were against groups that had no warriors present. We have had two reports outside of Vane against bands of mages, at least."
"So, they're going after warriors AND mages?" Katiyana asked, frustrated.
"We do not know," Gareth answered calmly. "We will certainly have to plan how to use this information. I think that for safety, our knights with green eyes will turn in any silver swords and use our bronze ones. Perhaps some may volunteer to aid in luring these monsters."
"Perhaps consulting Maralise would be wise," Restar suggested. "She may have access to information that we don't have yet."
"Who?" Katiyana asked.
Restar smiled. "Maralise Ausa," he replied, "the present guildmistress of the Magic Guild. She's also a cousin of mine, and quite a character."
"I agree," Jesta conceded. "I will compose a letter, Restar, if you would be so good as to deliver it on your way back to Cassia."
"Delighted, my lady," Restar commented. Jesta glanced at him, unsure if he was being sarcastic or not.
Gareth was thinking hard. "Restar, we would like your cooperation on this. You as a lord are subject to lots of information, and are in a different part of Lunar. If you agree to help us unravel this mystery, we could send some of our knights to aid you," he proposed.
Restar nodded. "We cannot promise Lunar's safety until these lunatics are stopped," he remarked. "And I wonder if they had anything to do with my dear Sharion. Once we find them, I shall have to ask."
"Miss Katiyana, you requested a test," Richard said. "I will be happy to test your skills, if we could go to the practice arena."
Katiyana nodded, her heart fluttering nervously. No sweat, she thought, just like being at home in the dojo. Just keep calm. She followed the knight master, aware that the others were coming along as well.
She stretched carefully, loosening any muscles that would be needed. Then the beastwoman drew her sword, getting into a ready stance. "Begin!" Gareth cried.
Katiyana struck madly, with too much force that caused her to overbalance. What happened? Take it easy! Richard easily sidestepped, waiting for her to regain her footing before striking back. Katiyana blocked it, then struck hard again.
Restar frowned as he watched the two. Katiyana was hitting too hard, not planning, running on fury. This was not the way she had fought at tournament! He hoped she would calm down, then winced as she missed an easy block... parried too slow... almost tripped on a leap backwards...
Richard sheathed his sword, shaking his head. "Enough," he said kindly. "My dear, I sense a great talent in you, but your heart is heavy."
Katiyana nodded, close to tears. "If you cannot control your emotions, you will get yourself and your allies destroyed," Jesta added, handing an envelope to Restar. "Until you can, you are not ready to join us. Come again when you are truly ready."
"Jesta..." Restar growled under his breath as he accepted the letter.
"Restar, you should know this from Sharion," the knight replied coolly. "The girl is not prepared enough. I suspect she will be, but that day is not yet nigh."
Katiyana bowed tiredly and walked out. Restar gave another poisonous glance at the woman, bowed to the two men, and followed.
Katiyana was miserable as she strode out. She had blown the best chance of attaining her dream so far. What had happened?
"Don't mind her," Restar snapped. "She always was ice-cold. Quick with a blade, one of the best commanders, but not too good at diplomacy. Richard and Sharion were better at that."
"No, she's right," Katiyana sighed. "I don't know what happened."
"How about some lunch?" Restar suggested, getting a weak nod. He led them to the Singing Gull, a nice inn near the harbor. He ordered venison and ale for himself, and chicken and juice for Katiyana when she didn't answer.
"I think I have an idea as to what happened," Restar began. "You were thinking of Zen, weren't you?" Nod. "Kat, listen to me. You can't do that with a sword in your hand. That leads to a thirst for revenge. Revenge will get you destroyed at worst. At best, it messes with your head and screws up your strategy. Your sword was in control, wasn't it?"
Katiyana looked up, startled. It was if he had seen into her heart. "You're right, that's exactly what happened! I wanted to join so much, so I could find those monsters, and... and... oh, what's the use? I blew it!" she exploded, ashamed at her poor demonstration.
"You had one bad match. That's all. You were invited to try again. They don't do that for everyone," Restar pointed out, taking a sip of ale. "They saw your potential, and your skill. As do I. I believe you could match Sharion's skill, in time, but you need to work through your anger and grief."
"I know," Katiyana muttered, moving her chicken around on her plate. But, what could she do now? She didn't want to stay on Restar's charity. She respected him too much.
"As for now, I have a proposition. There will be knights joining me for finding these demons and putting them down. I wish you would, too," Restar suggested delicately.
"I can't take charity, Restar," Katiyana objected. "You've saved my life and done so much already."
"I don't mean charity," Restar corrected her. "I mean a partnership. You can stay with us, and practice with the knights and my people. In return, you can teach them new skills from your dojo, and help us. You're smart, you're excellent with a sword, and I think helping us will help you recover spiritually. We need you."
Katiyana looked up. She could see that the mage meant his words. She would work hard and be an asset. But she would work for justice, not revenge. She would help protect the people, prevent any disasters like Zen. When it was over, she would try again for the knights with a stronger heart. "I accept," she said softly.
"Thank you, Katiyana. I think that we can succeed," Restar replied, smiling.
Katiyana thought of something. "If we have knights coming to your home, and maybe see if some mages will help, we should give it a code name. So people won't automatically know it's your home," she remarked.
Restar's eyes widened in respect. He thought a moment. "Serak Manor? 'Ser' for me, 'ak' for you?" he suggested.
Katiyana considered it. "Close. I like the 'Serak' part, but 'Manor' is still too obvious," she mused. "How about Serak Palace?"
Restar laughed, amused. "Excellent! We'll go with that, and have to expand at home. We'll need a bigger building for our guests, and for the villagers to be safe if they try to attack us," he replied, planning hard.
Katiyana smiled to herself as they finished eating and left. This would work. She would be actively helping. She began by helping get the caravan ready for the trip back to Cassia.
The squad of knights met them by Meribia's gates. The leader introduced himself as Commander Jonah, with his assistants as Lord Brock and Lord Justin. Katiyana was impressed to be riding with them.
"So, you're the lady that we've heard about, eh?" Jonah asked her. "You've got quite a reputation, miss. Soon as we finish this business, you'll be riding with us in no time."
"That's what I hope for," Katiyana replied, a little shy around these proven knights.
"You'll like it," Brock added. "Gareth and Richard are the best bosses you could hope for, and even Jesta's okay when she's not in one of her moods. She can be cold-hearted, but there's a soft side under all that ice."
"Restar said something about you showing us some Xong techniques?" Justin asked eagerly. "I can't wait."
Katiyana relaxed. These men were very warm and welcoming, and obviously liked their job. Jonah pulled up suddenly, gazing towards Vane. "Do you smell smoke?" he asked.
Restar nodded grimly. "Let's go!" he ordered, going to a gallop. The caravan followed.
Back to the Shrine to Ghaleon.