The Waiting Is the Hardest Part 5-17-24
Chapter 1: What Do We Do Now???
"So now we wait," Boz muttered, sinking into the chair and burying his face in his hands.
"Are you alright?" Atalaya stepped towards him, placing a hand on his shoulder.
"No pain," he says. "I'm fine." He exhaled a shaky breath, scrunching his fingers into his scalp and folding himself inward. "Oh, my brother."
Cirilli's face was burning, pinched, her eyes on fire. Her throat ached with effort. She stumbled forward, feeling the dam break. "Boz," she rasped, the sob bursting forth with a gasping cry as she threw her arms around him. "We'll find him." It was less a declaration and more a seared, defiant threat. "She can't have him. I won't let her."
A wave of sobs shook her shoulders and she buried her face in Boz's shoulder. His arms came up around her and he held her close, mumbling into the top of her head. His eyes were red-rimmed and wet.
"It wasn't Joan," she whispered, gasping with sobs. "It wasn't her. What if she's hurt him? What if...?"
"He's alive," Boz stroked her hair. "We'll get him back."
"I'm so afraid."
"I know," Boz whispered. "I am, too." He nods. "But we're going to go get him anyway, yes?"
"Yes."
Atalaya leaned down and threw her arms around Vasilya and Cirilli. “We are most certainly going to find and free Sorrow. We’ve done it before. We’ll do it again. Let’s be thankful for the good things that Vaz just told us. First he is here on this plane of existence, not in the demon’s plane. Second, he is here in Blue Haven and third, Skarne was able to tell us where and something about the place he is being held. Now, I’m not going to take everything that Skarne said at face value. Let’s go on deck, away from these workers and from Skarne and start thinking and planning.”
Come on.”
She stands, moves around so that she can grab Vasilya’s hand and gives a pull to start him moving into a stand. Once he is on his feet, she places her hand on Cirilli’s shoulder. “Come, let’s lead the way upstairs. They will follow. We need to be on the lookout for Mother Bettewhyte too.”
As they walk up the stairs, Cirilli questions, “Mother Bettewhyte?”
Atalaya nods. “Yes. We met her earlier at the Chauntean temple. Nevil sent her a request to come and talk with us.”
As they reached the main deck Atalaya immediately headed for the steps to the forecastle deck. Seeing Ivar on the poop deck talking to the hands she called out to him, “Ivar, we need you for a couple minutes. There is news.”
Ivar looked over, a frown creasing his face. “Can it wait?”
Atalaya took one quick glance at Vasilya. “No. We need you now.”
Ivar, hearing something in her tone suddenly barked off a couple commands to the crew and started jogging over to the forecastle.
With louder than normal strikes, Nevil finished her set of nails in Skarne's door with a heavy grunt. Holding his side while waiting for the hammer, Inman watched her. Her free hand was curled into a fist and her fingers dug into the flesh of her palms.
"Fuck this..." Nevil said gruffly under her breath as she briskly walked away.
"Wait, Ma.." Inman realized he was by Skarne’s door and halted. "Damn it," he muttered, quickly finishing with his nails and dropping the hammer to the floor to follow her.
Nevil already had her gambeson on and armor layed out when Inman entered their room. She wants a fight. She's going to get one. Seething with rage and digging through her pack for items, "No mercy today," she spoke to herself not even aware Inman had followed. She pulled out her prayer cloth, quickly threw it around her neck and continued furiously digging through her pack. She was unconcerned with the items spilling out onto the floor.
Inman walked closer and with a gentle voice, "Maggie... you need to calm down."
She roughly darted eyes to Inman, then she saw the chest across the room. Briskly moving to the chest, brushing past him, then jerking its lid open and pouring through its contents. She spat, "No, not my new family. Never again will I sit by."
Inman walked closer with a hand reaching for her, "Maggie, it feeds on this. You must be calm and clear headed."
Nevil didn't seem to register his words as she found what she was looking for, a little wooden box whose contents rattled. Her concentration then fell to Inman who had taken her arm. "Maggie, it will delight in taking you into these dark places. Do not let it win this way."
Nevil softened slightly after catching his eye, but the rush of rage still coursed through her. "It's cruel. It plays with him, with his heart. If it has harmed a horn on his head, I...'
Inman interrupted standing firm, squeezing her arm, "you'll what? Tell me. Who will you be?"
Time passed slowly and Nevil's world shrank. She looked down at her red and marked hands. Her mind raced. I am a peacemaker... and protector. Those who harm my family... must perish... is this vengeance?
Then her eye was drawn to the motion below her hands. Her prayer cloth danced in a light summer gust blowing through the open porthole as the wind briefly changed directions. The breeze cool on her skin, slowed her thoughts. Eldath, this is not the way. I need to pray.
Ivar made his way over to the forecastle. “What’s up?” he asked while climbing the stairs, two steps at a time.
“Sorrow’s been charmed again. The demon that pretended to be ‘Hope’ was who showed up here as ‘Joan’ and she has hidden him a…”
Before Atalaya had completed her explanation Ivar was cussing up a blue streak, his hands clenched at his sides. As he cussing finally comes to an end he looks up at Boz. “So what are we doing about it? And how do you know it was Hope?”
Boz looked at Ivar forlornly. “We met up with Inman at the Countess’ library, expecting to find both him and Sorrow. But only Inman was there, and he hadn’t seen Sorrow either. We went back to the Wind Rose to see what we could find out there, and ‘Joan’ was at a table drinking. We asked about Sorrow and she got pretty defensive. Nevil put her in a Cone of Truth spell and when asked to tell us her name she wouldn’t answer. We caught her, tied her up and wanted to question her some more and she just blinked away again. This was after her responses led us to believe that she was the demon we fought back at Arcadianus.”
Atalaya added, “And I think it looked like the same kind of demon we saw when ‘Hope’ fled. It’s like she has it in for Sorrow.” Atalaya’s hand grips the hilt of her longsword as anger, fear and concern fight for dominance in her countenance. “Do you want to be a part of the rescue mission?”
Ivar stood stiffly as his mind raced through the possibilities. “You know I want to go with you and help rescue Sorrow. You know that, right?” He watched and both Boz and Atalaya nodded. “But I can’t. Someone is going to have to stay here and be in charge of the ship’s defense. What if the reason that Sorrow was taken was to pull everyone off the ship. I wouldn’t put that past either Captain Hawk or this demon creature that has done the actual charming and kidnapping. You guys know that I would do anything for Sorrow, but this feels like a set up to me.”
Atalaya gave Ivar a quick hug. “I know you would. And I agree with you. This does seem like a way to get us all off the ship. But I had to let you choose. We would have worked it out.”
Boz chimed in, “I will bring him back, Ivar. No worries. That… (a string of Gurrish comes tumbling out of his mouth)... obnoxious, rat faced, demon spawn does not get to do that one of our own.”
Atalaya put her hand on Vasilya’s shoulder and gently began caressing it and the back of his neck. “Calm down Vaz. We most certainly are going to bring him back. But we need to get ourselves in control of our emotions. Rushing in will only cause more havoc.”
Atalaya looked at the men. “We need more information. I hope that Mother Bettewhyte gets here soon.”
Below deck, Inman waited and watched Nevil struggle to reconcile her thoughts.
Nevil didn't say anything. Her movements softened and her breathing slowed as she placed the simple box on the table. She ran her hand over its surface and fine carvings. Slow down and get right... Chapter 7, verse 14. "Anger is a sign that vengeance lay where righteousness should dwell," she whispered.
Inman spoke with her at the end of the verse. Then he added, "...and, even the right thing for the wrong reason can be evil."
As the words were spoken, she grew less tense. Has he been reading my prayer book? She looked confused, “what verse is that last one, I can't quite place it."
"Setter, verse 1." He said with a smirk.
Nevil looked shocked by his knowledge of Eldath's verses and the clarity of his wisdom. "You should have been a priest."
Inman chuckled and looked relieved to see her relax. "Definitely not. And don't look so surprised. I don't have to know Eldath's tenants to know right from wrong. And yes, I do listen when you pray."
Nevil turned to Inman with a tired expression. I do not deserve this man. She stole a hug, and from his embrace, "A demon, why did we not take this more seriously?"
Inman squeezed her shoulders, "let's beat ourselves up over that later. Now we need to make a plan with the others."
"Yes, but first we arm ourselves for unwanted company." Nevil draped her prayer cloth evenly around her neck and tucked it into the folds of her gambeson before buckling it closed. Both donned their armor and belted weapons to their sides, before Nevil grabbed the box and they went to find the others.
Chapter 2: Planning
Atalaya watched Nevil and Inman exit the stairway down to the crew’s quarters. A quick wave and shout caught their attention and they made their way to the forecastle deck. Atalaya quickly said, “No sign of Mother Bettewhyte yet.”
Ivar faced the group. “So just how is it you know where that creature took Sorrow? And just where is he?”
Atalaya laid her hand on Vasilya’s arm. “Vaz saw it in a vision. Skarne identified the place he described as ‘Frost’s Place’.”
Ivar took a good look at Boz. “Are you sure Boz? You, ah, you don’t look like you just had a vision. The last time you did that you were out of it for a really long time, and pretty weak for days after that.”
Boz nodded. “I’m sure. And you’re right. It was a lot easier this time. I talked to a drabardi in Riverport. She explained a bit about the process of my psychic power and showed me some exercises to work on my control. It seems to be helping. Which was good, since it allowed me to report in Common what I saw as I was in the vision. And I am not feeling the drainage of energy like I did during the vision I had about White Plume Mountain.” Boz mutters under his breath, “And that is a good thing since Sorrow was the only one who could understand the Gurrish I spoke in before.” He looked at Atalaya then and smiled. Well, maybe Atalaya would understand at least some of it now.
Ivar nodded. “Ah, so that is why you lay around in the hammock while the women practice.”
Boz started to say something, then shook his head. “Not the topic of discussion right now. What are we going to do to get Sorrow back?”
Nevil spoke first, "Whatever our plan, we need to go as soon as possible. With her cover blown, they may move him."
"...and the number of people at the speakeasy will grow as we get closer to nightfall." Inman added.
"Do we go with force or subterfuge?" Asked Nevil. "Only the demon would recognize us and we have no idea what their numbers are."
"But surely the workers know he's not there on his own free will." Inman considered. "Or he's charmed deeply."
"What do you think?" Asked Nevil, turning to Boz and Atalaya?”
Atalaya looked worried. “Oh, she has him charmed. And she gets him really deeply under her influence. If it’s anything like last time, he is going to actively assist her in fighting against our rescuing him.”
Atalaya pulled out her meditation focus and started rubbing her thumb over the tool work, deeply in thought. Finally, looking at the others she said, “I have a rod that paralyzes. Whatever we do, I think my task needs to be to paralyze him as soon as possible. He’s really powerful and he can mess around with your mind, your fears and what you are seeing. We can’t let him use that against us. But that means I’m going to need to stay near him and we are going to have to carry him out of there.”
Boz chimes in, “And Inman is right, there will be more people there the later it gets. But we said we were going to talk to Mother Bettewhyte about ways to really kill this Pencheska or at least keep her from coming back into our world.”
Nevil cringed at the thought of having to fight Sorrow. "The paralysis wand is a good plan. I would have a hard time forgiving myself if I had to really hurt him... Or any of you for that matter."
"Do we wait for Bettewhyte? We've driven the demon off before," asked Inman.
Nevil shook her head. "...but it is reasonable to assume she would go back to him. And I have never dealt with demons. And I don't have the power to banish them yet. Inman do you?"
Inman shook his head too, "I have a spell that can trap her or exclude her from an area for a time. It will make it much harder to leave. I wish I had thought about it before."
"So, do we wait?" Asked Nevil.
Atalaya turned to Inman. “Do you have the spells ready for this type of fight? It’s going to take more than magic swords and arrows to defeat Pancheska. I have the Master’s longsword and a few magical arrows and the Rod of Paralysis. Nevil has her new morningstar. Vasilya has tools to help us get past locked doors, but no magical weapons. I’ve got a dagger that he can borrow that has a slight magical aura to it, that might help a bit. Cirilli has a couple of magical arrows, but I would prefer that she not be anywhere near this fight.”
Atalaya took a deep breath. Do any of the rest of you have anything I haven’t listed?”
Nevil smiled and opened her little wood box, "yes, the holy water I've been making. A vial for each of us. I'm not sure how effective it may be, but it should cause damage or at least pain on contact. It may be helpful diagnostically." Inman reached in and passed the vials out. Each one sealed with a waxy cork.
"Do we agree we are not taking prisoners this time? With her charm abilities, we need to make sure we are killing the correct being. I'm hoping the holy water will help. Sorrow didn't react when I tried it on him the other day."
Inman looked to Atalaya, "For spells, I always have my full arsenal ready. It's Nevil that has to prepare the night before."
Nevil added, "we can't wait a full rest for me to pick others. What I have ready, will have to do. I plan on using my power to add damage to my strikes much like with the ooze at Pelagia."
"We should also take the healing potions we've been stocking too. Lay on hands will only go so far.”
Atalaya looked around. “Well, I have two vials of regular healing potions left.” Boz spoke up then adding, “And I have 1 vial.” Atalaya continues, “Back in Riverport we bought 6 more potions of regular healing and 4 of greater healing which we have not used yet.” She looked at Inman and Nevil, “Do you have any healing vials? We sort of like to have one in our belt pouches for easy access, to make it fast and easy to use.”
Inman gestured, "I could use one. Hopefully we will not need it."
Atalaya handed him a healing potion and Inman placed it in his belt pouch. “Nevil, do you have a healing potion?”
Nevil reached back into the box and fished out two more vials. “I do.” holding out her palm, “I have two from our work before. But that is all the treasures this box holds for this adventure.”
Atalaya nods. Okay. So in the bag of holding we now have 5 regular healing potions and 4 greater healing potions. Remember that, if something happens to me and any of you need more than what we have ready.
Nevil pocketed the vials and closed the box as Inman looked down the dock and said, "This feels like forever! I wonder how long Mother Bettewhyte will be?"
"We should give her a few more minutes." Nevil answered before she took the box back down stairs.
Chapter 3: Prayer and Meditation
Inman looked around, not hiding the fact that he was looking to make sure Nevil was gone. Then he turned to Atalaya. "Has she said anything to you? About... I think she is struggling... with her vows. She hasn't admitted it directly, but I worry she's an easy target for this demon.”
Atalaya gives Inman a searching look. “Well, she was really upset about the incident with the cursed weapon, when she lost control like that. And I know that she would really like to be able to talk to a priestess of Eldath or be able to find a place where she can have another opportunity to lose herself in ceremonial prayer.” Atalaya looks around and then tugs Inman away from the group and drops her voice so that only he can hear. “I think that she is finally starting to deal with the deaths of her family. I think that until just recently she has used the tenets of her faith and the numbing effects of her ‘nightcap’ to dull and suppress her feelings. And that now that they are starting to come to the surface that she is having to experience them. After so long at feeling nothing, it is scary to acknowledge the pain and anger that their deaths caused her.”
“I had not really thought about it, but you are probably correct that the demons… that Pencheska… can use her anger and maybe her pain against her. I’m glad that we have asked Mother Bettewhyte to meet with us. Perhaps she will be able to help Nevil find some peace and control.”
Atalaya shakes her head. “I guess I just have a hard time with the concept that emotions should not be expressed. I’m glad that Mielikki doesn’t ask that of her worshippers.”
Inman nods in agreement while he looks over Atalaya’s shoulder to watch for Nevil. He leans on the rail trying to look casual, "Honestly, I don't know if Eldath asks that or if it is just Nevil's way. But I agree."
“It is my understanding that Eldath teaches peace, calmness and healing to her followers. But Eldath still joins Mielikki when retribution is required on those who start forest fires in the High Forest. Her priestesses and priests will defend those in trouble… I’ve heard stories of that when I was growing up, although they seemed to attempt defensive actions and negotiated settlement when possible. She is the first paladin of Eldath I have known though, and I don’t really know what is expected of them.”
“I think that rescuing Sorrow is truly a defense of Sorrow and should easily fall within Eldath’s strictures. But, Nevil seems to be conflicted whenever she experiences any of the so-called negative emotions while engaged in battle. She does not seem to acknowledge the concept of a ‘holy wrath’ during battle and that could place her at risk from Pencheska.”
“You have known her a lot longer than I have. What are your thoughts?”
Inman smiles, "I have known her and her passion for justice, but not since she's taken vows. You may not believe it, but she used to be pretty hot headed. Her family, and now her faith, seem to have tempered that a bit."
Inman looked worried. "She clearly still carries a lot of anger, much of it from before. I've heard her read from her prayer book that 'anger is a poison that clouds clear judgment.' My guess is she holds a lot of it back while she tries to keep the peace." He shrugs, "but we only just started opening up with each other again. I don't really know.”
Atalaya frowned, her thoughts whirling. “She was angry before the death of her family?” she asked herself. Atalaya turned towards the steps as she heard someone coming up them.
Nevil's head popped above the deck as she returned from below. She walked directly to the group, "So, have we decided on a strategy? or are we going to play it by ear?" If we are going to try deception we need a cover story." Nevil smiles darkly, "or do we think we have the numbers for a smash and grab?”
“I think we are waiting for Mother Bettewhyte and any information she can give us about demons and maybe this Frost’s place, before we try to pin down any concrete plans. I’d also like an opinion on whether or not we can count on any help from the constabulary and the Countess. And whether or not they will accept our word that he has been charmed if he seems unwilling to come with us initially.” She looked at Ivar and Boz, adding, “We were lucky in Riverport that the guard there didn’t seem to want to get involved when we vanquished ‘Hope’ the first time.”
Nevil nods with her hand resting on the handle of her mace as is hung from her belt. “That's probably a good idea.”
With a quick glance at Inman and then to Vasilya, Atalaya said, “I need to compose myself. I’m too angry right now. Nevil, will you help me while we wait for the Sister?”
Nevil has an oddly flat expression, her tone still soft but a little off, "I can relate." She gestures to Atalaya to follow her as she walks across the forecastle. "Come on, let’s see what we can do about that."
Nevil leans her butt against the spar with one hand bracing her lean. The other reaching in her pocket for the leather token Atalaya made. She looks to Atalaya, her thumb running over and over its surface.
"It's a gut punch isn't it? Like we should have known better.”
Atalaya sinks down sitting with her back against the ship's railing. She reaches into her pouch and pulls out her meditation focus and starts to play with it in her hands. “It’s always Sorrow. Why? Why are they always after him? … I said I was angry, and I am. But even more, I’m scared. How many more times do we have to fight off this demon? What is it going to take for us to be able to keep these creatures away from Sorrow?” She flips the token over and over in her fingers. “If I don’t get my emotions under control I’m going to be fighting like Cirilli.”
Atalaya looks up at Nevil and really notices her flat expression. “What’s… Nevil, are you okay?” She reaches out her hand and grabs hold of the lower edge of Nevil’s chain mail, urging her to sit down next to her. “Nevil … It is like a gut punch. You would think that I’d get used to it, but no, it comes out of nowhere each time.”
Nevil can't refuse being nearer to Atalaya. She takes the mace of her belt and slides down to sit next to her. A small but real comfort. Her legs bent and stretched out before her. She leans back against the rail and sighs deeply. Staring at the sky, "the truth is it wasn't out of nowhere. It was always there, we just got distracted with life, or another mission, or fooled ourselves with distance and time, and began to believe we're safe."
Nevil looked at the etching on the token, "We both assumed they would stay involved with more important people trying to influence the realm. But something made us... or Sorrow more important. Maybe spite, maybe something else?" [Insight or wisdom check target 14 to realize Nevil is not talking about just Sorrow.]
Nevil leans on her knees, "until she is banished to her home plane, if we "kill" her here, she will come back. Even then, banishment is not a death, it's just a prison... or we bind her to something here. But both are beyond our capability. So we "kill" her here and buy some time until we find a more permanent way."
Atalaya sighed as Nevil sat down next to her. Her token was flipped over and over as Nevil spoke. As she grew silent Atalaya reached out and clasped her hand. “You are right. Whatever we do today to free him probably won’t really solve our problem with Pencheska.” She is silent for a moment and then turns to face her. “But,” she squeezes Nevil’s hand again, “But, I think you were talking about something else in addition to Sorrow just now. Who did you think was going to stay more involved with other ‘more important people’ and what happened that made you more important?”
Nevil looked up confused that Atalaya didn't know already. She clenched her jaw, "Orsino and/or his ministers, though we never found proof. Our work in Seaton pissed them off enough that they came after our families. I don't know if it was one specific job or just the movement's success as a whole that made us targets."
Nevil worked the token in her hand, "Nathan and I, and some of the other families, thought we wouldn't be considered important enough to keep their attention after we moved our families to Amphil. We got complacent and we were wrong."
Atalaya’s hand had moved to Nevil’s arm, to allow her to maintain a physical contact with Nevil but also to allow Nevil both her hands to manipulate the Eldath token.
Nevil gripped the token with anything but gentle reverence, "like Pencheska. We knew she was out there. We knew her cruel and vindictive nature. We got complacent and Sorrow may pay."
Nevil strained to be calm, "I can't let her live. Clearly, she has to die. She will always be evil and seek to cause pain. It is justified." Nevil's anger became tinged with panic. "But when it is personal like this, the anger it brings, it's dangerous. It can be easy to lose grounding and be consumed in what feels right and deeply satisfying. Sometimes it feels like such a release."
She looks at Atalaya, "So, I'm scared too, for Sorrow, for us... and that I may like it a little too much and stray.”
Atalaya shifted slightly so that she could hold onto both of Nevil’s hands with hers, enfolding Eldath’s token within both of their hands. “You are right. We must deal as best we can with Pencheska. She is a danger to those in our party and to all who live in the Sword Coast. I don’t know what the Thayan’s ultimate plan for our country is, but it is not going to be in the best interest of our peoples. Not for those of the High Forest or the Sword Coast or anywhere else for that matter. We see and recognize the danger, which places a responsibility on us to do something about it. But, as you were teaching Cirilli, you can’t let your anger at something interfere with your judgment when you are fighting.”
Atalaya took a deep breath as she searched for the words she wanted Nevil to hear. I can see everything so clearly in my mind, but I don’t know how to explain it. Mielikki, Eldath, please help me find the words Nevil needs to hear to understand.
Focusing again on Nevil she continued, “It’s not wrong to feel anger, Nevil. It’s an emotion and we are made to feel them. I personally think that we need to feel them so that we can either release them or use them to motivate us to right action. I can see that your family’s death is still very raw for you. And Sorrow’s capture and the hold Pencheska has on him seems to have combined with your anguish and anger with the loss of your family. I’m also having difficulty with pushing through the anger and fear of losing Sorrow to reach the place where I can appropriately channel my emotions to help me fight rather than cloud my judgment. And as I am teaching Cirilli, the taking of life, any life should not be done lightly or without thought. When we kill an animal, we give thanks to its spirit for laying down its life that we may eat and have the materials it provides to better our lives. When we kill monsters or animals that have gone rogue we do it in order to protect our people. And again, we need to acknowledge their deaths. When we have to kill someone of one of the races it should again be because we are protecting ourselves and/or our people. Not for glory, not to feel good, not without thought. And their deaths should be as swift and as clean a kill as we can possibly achieve and their spirits must be released so that we do not carry the pain of their deaths on our own souls.”
“So, what I think we need to do now, is to pray to Eldath and Mielikki, for ourselves and for each other and for those who are going with us and ask for their help to find a place of righteous anger that can aid us in our quest for Sorrow. And then we need to meditate for a bit and open ourselves to any answers or healing they may bring us.”
“Will you pray with me?”
Nevil breathed deeply. Righteous anger. Tryn taught... pilgrims needing peace. He did say a Paladin's way is different. Atalaya is right. Nevil squeezed Atalayas hands. "Your words ring true."
She smiled, "You and Inman have both been very helpful today. I don't know why I ever thought I could do this alone."
Nevil took a more relaxed posture and took her token gently again. "Of course I will pray with you. How would you like to do this?”
Atalaya released Nevil’s arm and picked her own token up from where it was laying on her lap. She lightly rubbed her thumb over the unicorn head. “I think that you should pray to Eldath for the two of us and for all who are going to be a part of Sorrow’s rescue. Then I’ll offer a prayer to Mielikki asking for her help in this for all of us. And then we spend some time in meditation and release our anger, fear and any other emotions or thoughts that are going to get in our way during the rescue. We also need to be open to any blessing or advice from our goddesses as we are meditating.”
“Are you okay with this plan?”
Nevil nodded and rose to her knees. She ran her fingers along her collar until she found her prayer cloth. Curling her shoulders to pull and draw it out. She lay her mace beside her and gestured to Atalaya sit before her.
They sat in silence as Nevil gathered her thoughts, wrapping the cloth, as so many times before, around one fist. This time however, much of the softness was missing. The gray mail added a strange element.
Meanwhile across the deck, workers moved lumber. Grabbing glimpses of quiet conversations and stern concerned faces. Noting the increasing level of armor and weapons, the oddly nailed cabin, and a darkening mood on the ship, they worked notably faster and quietly.
Nevil sat on her heels and pulled a little vial from her pouch. "Mother of still waters, today we must go to evil's doorstep to save one of our own." Nevil opened the vial, put her thumb over the end, and inverted it. Then she drew her thumb across Atalaya’s brow leaving a small streak of holy water. She then repeated the actions for herself.
"Like this water of peace, let your wisdom seep into our flesh. Guide our hands, clear our sight, and like a river in a storm, let your waters rage through us to cleanse the world of this demon and those knowingly allied with her."
"Nevil slings her fist through the air, with her thumb over the opening of the vial. A few drops fall to the deck." We also ask you to watch over our loved ones, in battle and away. Grant them your favor and protect them until this evil walks among us no more." She slings it again, "Bless our brother, Sorrow. Fortify his mind and body, help him see the truth." Nevil sits still for several moments. "And then may the waters be still once more.”
Atalaya sits silently after Nevil finishes her prayers. Feeling slightly nervous at praying openly in front of someone she took a deep breath to help her settle. Then she took off her longsword and placed it on the ship’s deck in front of her. Her longbow was placed on the deck above the sword. Settling back into her cross legged sitting position she picked up her meditation token and cupped it in her hands that rested on her lap.
Finally she began to speak softly, “Mielikki, Lady of the Forest, we are far from the shelter of your forest lands, yet I ask you to hear me. My friend and chosen sister Nevil and I need to find the way through our anguish, anger, and fears of the events both recent and past so that we might better serve in the tasks that have been given to us. Nevil is a paladin of your chosen sister Eldath, and she is also a Harper, a member of that organization you assisted in the formation of.
My Master gave me a task and others to help with accomplishing it. Now one of my friends is held in the snares of one of our many enemies, the Demon Pencheska who works with the Red Wizards. Sorrow is held charmed by this demon who has taken his awareness and autonomy from him. Please help us to find the strength to face and release the fears and emotions that beset us so that we can reach the place of peace and confidence and control that we need in the coming battle and those to come as we work to push back the incursions of the Red Wizards and the different Vecna cults that they have been trying to introduce into this land.
As we enter into the state of a holy meditation, we ask that you and your sister, Eldath, guide us as we search ourselves and help us to release that which will impede us as we make our way forward through the life and the missions we have been given to accomplish.”
Atalaya sits quietly, but cannot find any further words that express her concerns held in her heart. She brings her hands with the token to her mouth and blows into them three breaths. Lifting her hands up in offering she waits a moment before lowering them again.
Atalaya shifts slightly as she takes a deep breath and realizes that she already feels lighter. The fear for Sorrow and the worry about how they would free him had lessened. After another breath she looked at Nevil. “And now we meditate. Take the time to find and embrace your emotions and then let them go.”
Nevil nodded, seemingly appeasing Atalaya. She sat back off her ankles and into a cross-legged position. She grew quiet as she wrapped the cloth around her other fist, resting them on her lap, with her fingers running over the embroidery on the ends. No, I'm sorry sister, not this time. I've been pushing away and denying these feelings for too long. It's time to stop running and learn to live with them.
Nevil focused on the regular rhythm of the bilge pump dumping water from the ship undergoing repairs nearby. Not the most holy of water sources, but effective. The pump noise was gradually replaced by the growing sound of a waterfall. And the world quickly fell away.
Nevil could smell wet earth and then see the small waterfall of the glade of before, the one Atalaya drew, the one from her vision with her family. Parting the weeping branches of the willow, returned the proud white stag and two fawns. The strands of the willow ran through the stag's antlers and over the back of the fawns as they approached the water to drink.
Nevil watched her family, at peace with them and with herself. "Yes, Still Mother, I know they are with you. Why show me this again?"
In an instant the stag startled, his nostrils blew streams of misty breath in alarm as the air grew cold. Nevil tensed feeling danger approach. Then, in the water, an inky darkness spread from below, drawing closer to the three. Grotesque forms, glimpses of gaunt faces, gnarled hands with claws, twisted horns. An evil most pure.
The stag reared up, stamping his hooves in the wet sand, his eyes wild as the darkness drew closer.The fawns ran in circles and bleated. Nevil cried in panic, "No! Leave them!"
She searched for an answer. Finding none and hearing only the cries of her two girls, Nevil’s rage grew. “Never again!”
As it grew, the water coming over the falls swelled. Far from the trickle of before, Nevil felt the spray, but it did little to sooth the growing fire within her. Seeing the darkness still advancing, she pulled deep and spoke calmly and with clarity over the chaos, "Your choice was made, now there will be peace!"
Then, as if some damn upstream had burst and everything held back tore through, Nevil roared, pulling what burned through her out and into the world. A righteous fury, her fury, poured through the glade and left nothing behind but a calm stillness and the warm embrace of the still mother.
Nevil opened her eyes. [Nevil's roar was certainly audible to Atalaya and likely most of the ship.]
Atalaya watched as Nevil began her preparations. Within minutes she showed the signs of being deeply centered and relaxed into the experience. Breathing a sigh of relief at that, Atalaya looked at the token in her own hand and allowed her eyes to focus in on only that. With each breath she tensed and then relaxed a different muscle or muscle group. As she did, she felt her body and mind relax. The light breeze wafted across her face, cooling it from the heat of the warm afternoon sun. The ship rocked both with the waves coming and then washing back out after hitting the port’s seawalls, the ship’s constant motion no longer startled Atalaya or interfered with her ability to enter into her meditations.
As she reached down, searching for her centering spot, she found her ash tree with its deep roots and followed them deeply into the earth. Slowly she realized that she was no longer on the ship but deep in the High Forest. The breeze whispering through the trees held only the smells of the forest, the smells of the leaves and the tree bark, the rich musky odor of the decomposing leaves and fallen branches. The tweets and chirps of different birds were heard and the tapping of a woodpecker echoed around her. The bleating sounds of a doe calling her fawns startled caught her attention as she heard their quiet steps as they traveled across and out of the glade her tree was in. A stag traveling with them stopped in front of Atalaya. After carefully examining her from head to foot he continued following the others.
Suddenly the warmth of the sun was replaced with a chilly darkness. The wind began to whip its way through the trees and all the sounds of the bird’s wings flapping in the rising wind as they flew away filled the sky around her. Uncertain as to what was happening Atalaya rose, putting her back to the tree as she pulled out an arrow and readied her bow. The sounds of both large and small animals crashed through the woods around her but she could not determine a reason for their flight.
And then the smell of smoke was blown into her face by a strong gust of wind. Now she could hear the roaring of the fire coming towards her. As anger and fear began to fill her she froze, rooted in place.
As she tries to pull her foot free the stern and commanding voice of Master Elaria is heard, “Child, what is it that you are feeling? And why are you letting it control you? What have we been working on?” Atalaya feels the firm slap of the flat of the Master’s blade upon her backside. “Accept the feelings and then use them, child. You are in…”
Chapter 4: And then there was… chaos?
Suddenly Atalaya is jerked back onto the rocking ship, the sound of Nevil’s shout ringing through her ears. She grabs for her sword as she jumps up, ready to fight off whatever has attacked her. As her racing heart starts to slow, Atalaya looks around but sees no signs of attack. Looking down, she sees Nevil gazing up at her with a look of calm acceptance.
Nevil's eyes focused on Atalaya and confusion set in. She quickly reached for her mace and stood. The prayer cloth is still wrapping her fist gripping the handle, its ends flowing below. "What? What is it?"
Inman bounded up the stairs. The weave already visibly moved around him in readiness. "What is happening?"
Boz was on the main deck, keeping Cirilli sheltered behind his back when she came up the stairs from below.
Atalaya quickly looked around searching for a threat. Seeing nothing moving towards them besides Inman she slowly lowered her longsword. “Nevil, what’s wrong? Are you hurt?” Atalaya stepped closer to her, checking for any signs of hurt. Seeing nothing she questioned Inman, “Did you see anything? What just happened?”
Inman's posture relaxed and the weave dissipated but he stayed near. "I just heard her scream and came."
Nevil lowered her mace and chuckled in disbelief, "What? no, I'm fine. I was just meditating, and deeply too."
Inman turned behind him towards a concerned Boz and Cirilli. "It's fine, something just scared Nevil. We are fine." Boz muttered under his breath and ushered Cirilli back downstairs to check on the worker's progress.
"Do I look scared to you?" She explained to Inman.
"No, you look strangely calm." As he stepped closer to reassure himself. "But you did shout loud enough to startle half the ship.”
Atalaya watched Vasilya and Cirilli held back downstairs.
She then turned her attention back to Nevil and asked, “What made you cry out like that? Does anything hurt?”
Nevil softly reached out to Atalaya, "I'm fine." Her face twisting in thought, "I think the Mother of Groves gave me a lesson in righteous anger."
Nevil looked down at her mace hand. "I made it a tool to save my family. I did shout in rage. Maybe that is what you heard? But it came as a raging torrent, a cascade and roar of her power, but calm in its purpose, divorced of malice, and it left only her acceptance in its wake." She looked at her two friends with curiosity, "I feel calm.”
Atalaya looked closely at Nevil. “Yes, you seem calm. And maybe more at peace?” After a moment she chuckled and added, “And your timing was perfect. You saved me from a well deserved lecture and probably a few more ‘corrective’ taps from our late Master.”
Nevil relaxed and smiled, "Glad I could help. But if you're feeling shorted with a lesson half learned, I would be happy to do my best to serve as a substitute. What was your transgression? If I may ask?"
Atalaya stooped to pick up her dropped Mielikki token. Picking it up she stared at the two sides thinking. “It was a little strange actually.” Atalaya glanced at Inman and then away quickly. “I’ll tell you later.”
Inman held up his hands and backed away a step. “I got it. Women’s talk. I’m out of here. I think someone better reassure Ivar that nothing’s up. He looks a bit concerned.” Inman squeezed Nevil’s shoulder as he passed her to make his way down the stairs.
Atalaya watched him cross the main deck and start speaking with Ivar. Sinking down into her crossed legged sitting position Atalaya fingered the token again. “There was a lot happening. The scents, smells and sounds took me back to the High Forest. … I think… it was about not letting my fear or anger get in the way of what I know I need to do. It was strange that it was Master Elaria that was chastising me. The symbology and even the threat were much more in line with Mielikki or even Eldath. I’m not sure why it was Master Elaria that was smacking me with the sword.”
"I'm sorry I woke you from your meditation. It sounds like there was deep meaning that I robbed from you. Nevil sat in the moment considering. Perhaps they used Master Elaria because her reprimand serves a more gentle reminder of the way. It would be rather demoralizing to be reprimanded by a Goddess directly. When a gentle reminder and some encouragement is all that is needed." Nevil took Atalaya’s arm, "Thank you, for everything.”
“How she can make her sword smack my backside through a tree trunk… Well, one such swat is enough of a reminder. And I certainly don’t need any of the gods or goddesses chiming in on this. I just wonder why everything seemed to take place in the High Forest and not somewhere around the Master’s house. There was a forested area there too.”
“Through a tree? Yeah, I can't do that.” Nevil thought, “Well, would it not be more comforting and centering to be in the High Forest? I suppose sometimes we must see a mix of things to get the message.”
She looked at Nevil again, “You don’t need to thank me. We are friends, right? So no thanks are needed. Not for this.”
“True, but that doesn't mean I can't be thankful.”
Nevil looked down and unwrapped, the prayer cloth from her hand. "I am going to wear this thing out. I should probably order some fabric in town and make another one. Not to replace your token, just something more formal and recognizable." She draped it over her neck. "I think I might see if the crew or anyone else would like a quick prayer. Everyone is on edge and waiting isn't helping.”
“That’s a good idea. I think that I’m going to head down and check on Cirilli and Vaz.” Atalaya headed down to the common area. The sounds of the carpenters’ hammers filled the open area. Cirilli sat on top of the round table watching the men working. She was wearing her armor and her sword was belted at her hip and her bow was slung over her shoulder. Her countenance was stormy as she whirled a single arrow between her fingertips.
When Cirilli heard Atalaya enter the room, she looked up, the whirling of the arrow paused. She hopped off the table and strode to meet Atalaya near the common table. “When are we going to get Sorrow back? I’m ready to go. We need Sorrow. We need to get him back right now.”
Atalaya pulled Cirilli into a hug. Cirilli felt stiff in her arms. Atalaya was sure she could feel the anger and determination seeping out of her. Hugging her again, Atalaya started guiding her towards her room. Opening the door she saw Vasilya sitting on their bed staring out the porthole. When they took a few steps into the room Vasilya finally turned his head to watch them approach the bed. He held his hand out to Atalaya who reached for it and allowed him to yank her onto the bed, Cirilli in tow. His pensive face broke into a wide smile as he began tickling both Cirilli and Atalaya. The two girls looked at each other and counted to three before turning and attacking Vasilya, fingers tickling his sides. The laughter finally ran its course and the three lay together gasping for breath.
“What? … What was that?” asked Cirilli.
“That is called a ‘tickle feast.’ It is guaranteed to raise your spirits,” Vasilya replied, wiggling his fingers again and reaching towards her.
“No way, I'll get you back,” she cried, grabbing his arm and trying to pin it to his side.
It took a couple of minutes, but Cirilli with Atalaya’s help she was able to triumph over Vasilya.
Finally freeing himself from their grasp he pushed himself up and sat with his back resting against a pillow placed on the side of the ship. An arm around each of his girls he asked, “What was the grumpy look for when you came in?”
Nevil made her rounds through the crew, visiting each privately to offer prayer and support. Being sailors, nearly all accepted. Ivar of course, still spitting nails, prayed with unusually colorful language, but the sentiment was clear.
Nevil came below, to check on the rest. Hearing squeals and laughter from Atalaya and Boz's room, Nevil passed by. The workers had made good progress on the renovations. One side was formed, and its hinges were being mounted. The other side was still being assembled. Kyle sat at the small side table watching Skarne’s door. He was in mid-conversation with an older worker as Nevil walked by. The two were trading stories and rumors as sailors will.
She found Inman in their room. He had prepared for battle, his leather armor snuggly fit his chest and a pair of sabers at his waist. "I've offered services to almost everyone else. Is there anything I can do for you?"
Inman smiled and beckoned her near. He took her hand, "No, you know how I feel." Nevil nodded, "It felt wrong not to ask." She turned to check on Kyle, the last of the crew, but Inman kept her hand. He drew her near, gently placing his forehead to hers, "I didn't say I didn't need you." He released a heavy sigh. The two just stood quietly together. The situation left them with much to say to each other, but too much for words at this moment. After several soft moments, Nevil touched his face before pulling away to continue her duties. Inman followed behind carrying a lightened pack containing items for Sorrow’s liberation.
Vasilya gave ‘his girls’ another hug. “Come on my little warrior, what was going on in your head when you came in?”
Cirilli immediately sobered. “Why aren’t we rescuing Sorrow? We need to go!”
Atalaya sighed. “Sweetheart, we can’t leave yet. And I don’t want you …”
“Don’t say that. I have to help. You can’t leave me here on the ship again. It’s Sorrow. I have to.” Cirilli pulled away from Vasilya. “Please don’t make me stay here. I need to be there. What if you need my help?”
[Cirilli Persuasion Check=19, DC=15, pass]
Vasilya looked helplessly at Atalaya.
Atalaya shook her head, “I don’t think that’s a good idea. We know that we are going up against a demon here and…”
“Well, that Anyat was a demon and I helped you then.”
Atalaya drew her breath in, "Yes, but those people were not going to let you alone. You were the one they were after. This is different.”
Cirilli shook her head, “No it isn’t. If Sorrow had been there, he would have helped to get rid of Anyat. I’m here now. I’ll help get rid of this Pencheska person.”
Vasilya gently tugged on her chin and then turned it so that she had to look into his eyes. “Pencheska is not a person, Cirilli. She’s a demon.”
“And so you are going to need everyone there to help you.” Seeing his look of disagreement she continued, “You all are. I can help. Why would you be teaching me if you didn’t think I could help?” She turned her gaze to Atalaya. “Please Atalaya, I need to be there. I need to help.” After taking a couple of breaths she added, “And what if the demon shows up here? You don’t really expect the crew to be able to keep a demon away from me, do you?”
Atalaya started and then stopped what she was about to say. Cirilli could see that Atalaya was trying to negate what she had said, but was having trouble finding the words she needed. Cirilli pushed some more. “I can’t take on Pencheska by myself, you know that. Even if you leave Ivar here, that’s not likely to be enough, if she were to be after me. We are stronger when we are together. Don’t make me stay here without everyone else.”
Atalaya threw her hands up. “I don’t know how to refute that. You will listen to and obey us at all times. And that includes being told to run away from the situation if I or any of the rest of us deem it necessary. Do you understand?”
Cirilli immediately nodded. “I understand.”
Atalaya took in her fiery expression. “And do you agree to follow our instructions? Immediately?”
Cirilli was slower to respond this time. “I… I will do my best.”
“That is not the answer I was looking for, Cirilli. You need to promise me this or you will stay right here.”
“I… I will … if I can obey, I will.”
Atalaya looked pained. “Go check and see if Mother Bettewhyte is here yet and gather the others if she is. I’ll be out in just a moment.”
Cirilli ran off to check to see if the Chauntean priestess had arrived before Atalaya could change her mind.
Chapter 5: Nevil Says No
Nevil was filling waterskins when Cirilli came out of the room. She saw Nevil in the galley and approached. "Is Sister Whyte here yet? Nevil corked her skin and slung it over her shoulder. "No, but she shouldn't be long if she's coming. We'll leave soon one way or the other."
"Good, sitting here is awful and I want to get Sorrow back home," Cirilli said with the confidence of a determined woman.
Nevil raised a brow noting her tone. Is that just confidence? "Well, hopefully we will not take long. Meanwhile, follow Ivar’s instructions and keep your eyes open like we've been practicing."
Cirilli turned her head sharply, adding, "I'm coming with you. I helped with Anyat and you've seen I can handle battle."
Nevil looked over to the workers and pulled Cirilli into her room. Inman passed by with their packs. Having overheard the discussion he gave a look of disapproval to Nevil.
Nevil closed the door. "Cirilli, we are going to one of the most depraved parts of this city to fight a demon. You are mature well beyond your years, but there are still things someone your age shouldn't see." Cirilli's brow furrowed and she was about to speak but Nevil cut her off with a gesture. "I know you feel strongly about this, but let me finish." Nevil looked at her with deep concern. "The truth is if she can charm Sorrow, then she can charm any of us to do terrible things. Terrible things to you. And that would break our hearts."
Cirilli listened carefully and considered Nevil's words as she continued. "And even if Pencheska couldn't charm us, she would use our desire to protect you against us. Having you there is a distraction and a liability for the rest of us." [Nevil persuasion 14, DC 15 = fail]
Cirilli looked unphased, "but that's true for all of us. She could use Inman against you, or Boz against Atalaya, just the same. You need help, I have fought a demon before. Have you?" [Cirilli wisdom save, DC 15 = pass]
Nevil shook her head. "Your logic is not wrong and your heart is in the right place, but my answer is no."
Cirilli began to get irritated, "Atalaya and Boz said I could. I'm going."
Nevil looked shocked. They said what? What the hell. Nevil's voice raised with authority, "I am your weapons master and this is close quarters combat for which you have not trained. It relies on quick assessment and reflex action. It's brutal and physical. You are not ready. It is my call and my answer is no." [Nevil persuasion 5, DC = 15 fail]
Cirilli turned red and her tongue was sharp, "You are not my mother." Nevil held her gaze at a defiant Cirilli. Take it. She is a child. Nevil let the words pass then she firmly said, "you will stay here and mind Ivar’s instructions until I return. Then we will discuss your training." [Cirilli wisdom save 11, DC = 12 fail]
“No!! I’m going with Atalaya.” Cirilli storms out of the room, slamming the door on Nevil. To her surprise Atalaya and Boz were sitting at the long table, drinking what she assumed was coffee and watching the carpenters. “Tell her I’m going with you! Why does she even think that she can tell me that I can’t?”
Atalaya is sure that if she had anything in her hands at the moment it would have been thrown, whether at her or the wall she wasn’t quite sure. “Calm down. Take a deep breath and then tell me what is going on.”
Cirilli stomped over to Atalaya. “She thinks she can tell me what to do!” she proclaimed at only a slightly lower volume. At Atalaya’s raised eyebrow she actually took a calming breath before continuing. “Nevil says that I can’t go to help rescue Sorrow.”
Atalaya looked at her, taking in both her defiance and her uncertainty. “I see,” Atalaya says, taking it all in. “Did she say why?”
Cirilli shifted her weight back and forth and chewed on her lower lip. “Yes. I guess she did.”
“And…”
“She said something about being my weapons master and something training for … I don’t know. She said I couldn’t come.”
“Cirilli, Daughter of My Heart, she is your weapons master. Let’s talk with her. You did agree to her becoming your master in the swordwork. She does have a say in this. Do you know where she is?”
Cirilli nodded. “She’s in my room.”
Atalaya raised an eyebrow again.
Cirilli colored slightly, her cheeks turning a pinkish shade. “I kind of just left her in there.”
Atalaya looked at her. “That does not demonstrate the maturity needed for this.” Atalaya began walking towards Cirilli’s door. Knocking once, she waited for a response from Nevil before entering.
The door opened and Nevil looked firm at both Cirilli and Atalaya. This will be interesting. A mother, a student, and a weapons master. Why did Atalaya agree? Can she not say no to this child. It's a terrible call.
Nevil looked at Cirilli, “is there a problem? Were my instructions not clear? Or is there something you would like to say?”
Cirilli turned to Atalaya, “Tell her I can go.”
Atalaya shook her head. “Nevil is your weapons master. Her word regarding your training is law. We both agreed to that when you became her student.” Atalaya looked between the two, seeing determination on both their faces. “What did I say when you demanded to go on this mission? Did I not say that you were to immediately follow any directions you were given? From any of us?”
Cirilli turned to face Atalaya, “But we haven’t even left yet!”
“But Nevil is still your weapons master and we are both going to listen to her. Atalaya scanned the room. She pulled the single chair over near the bed and then gently pushed Cirilli towards the bed. “Sit.” Turning towards Nevil and pointing to the chair, “And you can sit here.” Atalaya sat on the bed next to Cirilli. “Okay Nevil, please explain your decision.”
At Cirilli’s sudden brightening, Atalaya added, “Cirilli, I’m not asking her to change her decision, just to explain it. I repeat, she is your sword master.”
Nevil sat and softened. "Cirilli, as your friend, I need you to think about what is best for the group." Nevil looks to Atalaya, "I honestly don't know how you convinced Boz and Atalaya to agree to let you come."
She turns back to Cirilli. "We are going into the underbelly of the city. Slavery, sex work, drugs, debauchery, and in all combinations. There are just things you don't need to see. Sorrow is going to be charmed and in the middle of all that. It will hurt him to know you saw him in that way."
"And again, if she can charm Sorrow, then she can charm any of us. And the things we may do to you because of her would break my heart."
“I know it means a lot to you to be there. And I'm sorry. But having you with us is too much of a liability to the mission. We would have split attention between you and our threats. It's better for the mission if you stay here. Ivar needs your help.”
Nevil hardened again. "Now as your weapons master, you get a partial pass on your behavior this one time. It is an extraordinary situation. But my assessment holds. You do not have enough experience or physical strength for close order combat. You're not ready. You stay here.”
Cirilli, her anger disappearing as intense sorrow filled her, worked to control her tears. “When? When will I be able to help?” A single tear slowly ran down her face. Cirilli quickly wiped it away and looked at both Nevil and Atalaya. “When?”
Atalaya pulled her into a hug. “I should have talked to Nevil before even tentatively agreeing to you coming with us. I’m sorry. Nevil knows far more about the type of establishment we are heading towards.” Atalaya stroked Cirilli’s hair as she tried to figure out what to say. “You have grown up so much in the last couple of months that I have trouble remembering that you are only 13 years old. Nevil is right. There are things out there that you don’t need to see. And you have only been learning to use weapons for a few months. This is one of the reasons that I am not your weapons master. It’s hard for parents to be objective. By the time I reached your age my father was no longer my teacher, you know. He had placed me in the charge of the weapon master in Oleascoa. And later under Master Elaria.”
“But… but …”
“We made promises to Nevil. Are you really old enough to learn the way of a ranger? Or of any warrior?”
Cirilli sighed. “Yes. Yes, I’m old enough. You know that.” She pulled away from Atalaya and turned her attention to Nevil. “I did promise. I’ll stay with Ivar th… I’ll stay with Ivar. But what do I have to do to be able to go with you all when stuff happens? How am I going to learn if I am always left on the ship?”
I hope Atalaya understands. It's Atalaya’s job to coddle her, not mine. Nevil stood and cut her off with a stern tone. "You have been learning at a plenty fast rate. And did you forget Pelagia? What about the several times you've helped with defense in the crowsnest? We could have kept you below but didn't. No more arguing or pitty pleas. This one is too dangerous and you are needed here.”
Cirilli gulped. “Yes Nevil. I will stay here and help Ivar.” She looked between the two women. “But tomorrow we practice. I need to get good enough to go with you.” Suddenly realizing that this sounded like a demand, and that Nevil was not likely to take that well she softened her request. “Please Nevil, please can we practice tomorrow? I need to get better so that I can come too.”
Nevil softened slightly, "Good, go tell Ivar and ask him if he needs anything. Tomorrow will work itself out. We may have a trip to an abandoned manor tomorrow." Cirilli jumped up, hesitating a little bit as she looked at Atalaya, and then ran off to find Ivar.
Chapter 6: Elsewhere On The Ship
Boz watched Atalaya steer her ward into her cabin. A feeling of relief that he was not going to be a party to the upcoming discussion washed over him. He looked around the common room, the sounds of the carpenters filling the space. I need a task, something to keep me occupied and out of range of the fireworks that are sure to be exploding soon. We are going to need a light repast before we head out tonight. I think… sandwiches and some fruit. Once everything is resolved we can get something from the Wind Rose, we can even get them to deliver it to the ship if need be. Yes, that will work.
Boz made his way to the galley and began pulling out a loaf of bread and started slicing it while he mentally reviewed what to place within the slices. Ham, cheese and some fresh vegetables. Did we get fresh supplies delivered this afternoon? I think so. And coffee. We need to be awake and alert this evening. He stopped slicing and prepared the coffee pot and placed it on the stovetop. Once that was completed he turned back to his sandwich making.
Nevil gestured to Atalaya to allow her to leave the room first and followed, closing the door behind. She watched Cirilli leave up the stairs as Atalaya found Boz in the galley. Inman watched Cirilli pass by and then looked to Nevil. His expression changed from one of concern to relief.
Nevil half smiled. I know how he feels. I really hate family disagreements but Atalaya managed it well. I better check on her.
Nevil followed the smell of coffee and stood near the wall separating the galley from the main room. She waited to see if there was anything the two wanted to say before she started.
Atalaya had headed to the galley after leaving Cirilli’s room. She smiled when she saw Vasilya there. “Coffee ready?” she asked.
Vasilya shook his head, “Not yet, I just put the pot on the stove.” He cut another slice of bread. “Give me a hand? We need the ham and tomatoes cut.”
Atalaya nodded and searched for the requested items, glad to see that someone had brought them up from the hold before the carpenters had overtaken the area. She began slicing while she waited for the coffee.
“So, how did it go?” Vasilya finally asked. “Is everything settled?”
“Yes, Cirilli is staying on the ship with Ivar. … I’m beginning to see how hard my growing up and training probably was for my parents. Some days I think that it is easier because I didn’t raise her from an infant. Other days think it’s harder for the exact same reason.”
Vasilya put down the knife and stepped behind her, gathering her into his arms. “It will all work out, love. Give it time. There are bound to be growing pains between the three of you.”
Atalaya nodded. “It hasn't even been two tendays since we met Nevil''.
“Give it time love. We will figure it out.” Vasilya nuzzled her neck. “It’s going to be alright. You trust Ivar, right?”
Atalaya shook her head, but then nodded. “I guess so. It’s been awhile since he traveled with us though.”
Vasilya started putting the sandwiches together while Atalaya continued slicing the ham.
Nevil cleared her throat rounding the corner and Atalaya and Boz looked over. Nevil kept her distance, "you guys want to talk about this now or later?”
Atalaya sighed and then met Nevil’s eyes. “Now. The priestess hasn’t gotten here yet. And I’m sure once we have talked to her we are going to want to get Sorrow.”
Nevil kept her voice down but the intensity was evident. "I may have overstepped as a weapons master in telling her to stay. Especially, if you said she could go. So I say this as your friend... you two have lost your minds to tell Cirilli she could come with us today. Unexpected skirmishes are one thing, but we are knowingly walking into the devil's den."
“Boz you know what those places are like. Atalaya don't tell me you wouldn't be distracted. Or worse, that you don't think that Pencheska would use her against us." Nevil quieted. "Given her past, it's easy to not want to be hard on her. I get it. But you two 'parents' need to learn to say no."
“I admit that there was some miscommunication between us, as to what are the prerogatives of the sword master. What I ask you to remember is that I’m new at this too.” She looked at Vasilya, “It’s been, what, almost 5 months that she has been with us.” Turning back to Nevil, “And during that time I’ve had just two options. The first is to leave her somewhere, our house in Parabor with one or two of us left there to watch over her or with the Greenleafs. The other was to keep her with me, watching over her the best we can. She has fought various creatures with us during our missions and the demon Aynat, and more than just the couple incidents on this journey.”
“Yes, I would have been a bit distracted if she came with us. But you need to be aware that I’m still going to be a bit distracted with her not being with us. Especially if Pencheska isn’t present as we attempt to free Sorrow, because I am going to be worrying about whether or not she is here, grabbing Cirilli.” Atalaya sighed. “There is no nice clear answer here. There are pros and cons either way. And I didn’t understand that you having control over her training meant that you would also decide when she fought with us. I guess I should have, but I didn’t. I won’t overstep again while you are her sword master.”
Nevil listened carefully. "No, don't be so quick to apologize. I do understand your position and I don't know that it should be part of my role. So, maybe it was me who overstepped. I've only had two masters; Grandfather and Elaria. Neither of which had the conflict between guardianship and trainer. So, it's a gray area we can discuss."
Nevil walked closer seeing the discussion is calming. "Honestly, I was just shocked you approved. I acted rather poorly and on the instinct to keep her as far away from this one as possible. Have you really had her along for bigger battles? I mean I knew about Parabor... Have I heard all of these stories?"
Nevil looked warmly "I am regretful of how it played out but my opinion remains the same. It scares the hell out of me, but I also see that having her near is how you've been operating." Nevil paused, considering. "So what do you want to do? I can walk it back.”
“No, no we need to let it stand. Otherwise she is going to be playing the two of us off each other. I think that we need to think about what happens going forward. When I was Master Elaria’s student, it didn’t matter. I was grown and my father was miles away in the High Forest. Or at least I thought that was where he was. But what the rules were when I was younger and a student of Master Raloris I don’t know. But now I suspect that they must have worked something out between them. I still went hunting with my father. Usually we spent our time learning about the wilderness, tracking, hunting but sometimes things happened. To this day I can’t tell you whether some of them were totally random events or if my father knew ahead of time that there was a problem that needed solving.”
She grew silent, thinking back. “When this is over we can make better plans on how to handle this in the future. But for now, I think we need to take some time and eat these sandwiches and get our heads straight for what is coming this evening.”
Nevil looked relieved. She looked directly at Atalaya who was examining her reaction. "Agreed." Seeing the matter settled for now Atalaya returned her attention to preparations. Nevil gathered cups, plates, and the coffee pot and took them to the table. Inman looked up patiently waiting at the table. Nevil poured a cup of coffee for him as she stood near.
"Are we going to have to pack our things after we save Sorrow?" Inman's playful smirk showed he was teasing.
Nevil was too focused on not pouring the scalding coffee on Inman to see his expression. "No, Atalaya is very reasonable. Everyone is just tense and wants the best for Cirilli."
Inman put his hand on the small of her back as Nevil transferred her attention to his gaze. "Of that I am sure."
Nevil poured a cup for herself and sat in reverse next to Inman. She watched the workers (who no doubt thought the crew of this ship was insane) near completion of the work. They were shaving and checking the closure of the doors and ensuring the plane work of the finished surface. “They worked quickly. It looks good.”
Atalaya gathered the sandwiches and handed the bowl of pears to Vasilya. They headed to the table. “They look like they are done with the floor already. That was fast. It’ll be good to have them off the ship; it will be easier to talk when Mother Bettewhyte gets here. And less for Ivar to need to keep track of while we are gone,” Atalaya observed.
Sitting down on the other side of the table, she reached for the coffee pot and filled her mug. Turning to Vasilya she asked, “Vaz, do you remember the sending stones you gave me for my birthday? Do you still have yours?”
Boz turned a quizzical expression towards her. “Of course I have mine. I keep waiting to hear from you on it, but you haven’t used it.”
Atalaya nodded. “Don’t generally need it. You are always close by. But, I was thinking that they might come in useful tonight. Especially if we get separated. If I remember correctly, I can call you one time a day with the stone and you can respond to me. What I’m not remembering is whether you can make a second sending to me later during the same day. Is it one sending per stone or one sending per pair of stones?”
“It’s a single sending and response a day for the pair,” Vasilya clarified. “And either of us can initiate it.”
Atalaya nodded her head. “Right, got it. So limited. but it could be very useful if something happens to separate us.”
Cirilli flew down the stairs and headed to the table. Seeing everyone seated she slowed down and looked uncertain. Her gaze darted between the two sides of the table. Slowly she advanced and sat down next to Boz. Her eyes finally met Nevil’s. “I talked to Ivar. We will keep watch here while you all are gone. Ivar says you better bring Sorrow back or we are going after him ourselves.” She paused dramatically before adding, “But I told him that I had to stay on the ship, Nevil’s orders.”
Footfalls on the stairs herald the arrival of a flush-faced Kyle, bounding down the risers. "Hey," he says, interrupting. His sandy hair is stiff with sweat. Clearly, he's been running. "Sorry...We brought Mother Bettewhyte." Behind him on the stairs, Rogelio is carefully helping the holy woman down the risers, keeping close to her to steady her climb down.
"My goodness," she says, glancing around, dazzled by the dimness below deck after the brightness of the day outside. "Kyle tells me your friend was taken by...a demon? And you need help?"
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