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Had there been any question as to whether or not the Glomers would be pleased to welcome Adam's return, their evident excitement would have rapidly dispelled such a notion. It took several minutes for the diminutive creatures to calm down sufficiently for him to get any intelligible comment from them, as they danced and jumped about, the whole time their piping voices filling the cavern with sound.
Keshi and five of his companions each clamoured for attention, whilst Quilvar and Vorcan looked on, bemused at their antics. After greetings had been exchanged, Keshi finally silenced the group with a squeaked command, then as they stood around, the atmosphere suddenly charged with expectancy, he backed away into the deeper shadows of the cave. By now Adam's curiosity had been pricked as he strove to see what the little man was doing. It was too gloomy to see well, but sufficiently light for him to see the Glomer bend to the ground, then struggle under the weight of something he had picked up as he shuffled forward.
Clutching a cloth wrapped bundle, certainly as long as he was tall, Keshi reverently laid it at Adam's feet, then straightening himself to the extent of his diminutive height, he began to address Adam with what was obviously a well-rehearsed speech.
“Master Adam, I am appointed by the Council of Elders of our Glomer settlement to present to you this, our gift. We hope that you will accept it in the spirit in which it is given, to bear it with pride, and to use it to defend the right of all good peoples of this world. Many of our brothers, some of whom are before you at this time, have given of their skills to create it, and to endow it with its magical properties. May you carry it with you for many long years, and may it serve you well.”
Having finished; Keshi bent down, and picking up the bundle, beckoned Adam to take it from him. Never before had Adam been so moved as he was by the solemn words the little Glomer had spoken. Accepting the bundle, its weight surprised him as he grasped one end, and began to turn back the cloth to see what it contained. The moment he had uncovered part of what lay within, it was as though he was suddenly back in Ichabod's room on his first day on this world, as he saw the sword and scabbard. Pulling away the cloth from the rest of the hilt, he eased the blade from its scabbard, dazzled by the beauty and fine workmanship of the weapon. If seeing Excalibur had filled him with awe, it was nothing compared to what he felt on seeing its companion.
The moment he had removed the sword from its covering, the little Glomers again started their chatter. Each of the six present had some part in its creation, and each had to point out his work. Stunned by the sheer exquisiteness of the sword, Adam could only stare in open-mouthed amazement. The blade was of some strange metal that almost gleamed white; etched cursive writings covered its length, whilst the hilt, guard and scabbard were of gold studded with jewels.
Repeatedly turning the weapon, he found its balance astonishing as it rested so naturally in his hand. It was several minutes before he noticed the pommel, which was in the form of a wide gold ring, and looked to be out of place with the rest of the design. Before he had chance to comment on this, Keshi pointed to it. “This is where the Manifex should be placed; the crystal will remain fixed until you command its release.”
Taking the sphere from his pouch, Adam carefully offered it up to the recess in the sword. As if the two had always been one, the crystal dropped into the hole, merging with its sides forming a perfect fit. Now it was impossible to tell the gold of the crystal from that of the sword's pommel, a perfect hiding place, in view of everyone, yet so cleverly disguised as to hide its true purpose.
Finally finding his voice, albeit a little shaky from the emotion that he felt; Adam offered his thanks. “I can hardly find words enough to thank you for the honour that you do me. Never have I received such a fine and wonderful gift, I will always be proud to own it, and to bear it against the forces of the Dark One. Thank you, each and every one of you.” Replacing the sword in its scabbard, he clipped it to his belt, astounded that he could feel no weight from its presence.
Turning to Keshi, he asked the little man to translate the inscription on the blade.
“As I said, this sword has many magical properties. It cannot be broken, or lose its edge, nor can it be wielded by any person other than you. The runes are its greatest power, their meaning hidden until their purpose is nigh.”
During all this, Vorcan had ambled off into the recesses of the cave, where Adam could hear him gently snoring. Quilvar had watched the ceremonial of the sword with emotion, sharing Adam's joy, yet saddened that whilst he was back at Kaldshard, his long-time companion and friend, Beorhtán, was no longer there to greet him.
Noticing how quiet the elf was, Adam put a hand on Quilvar's shoulder; “Don't be too sad my friend, we'll win this war and Beorhtán will be back amongst us before you know it.”
Smiling at what he knew was Adam's way of putting a brave face on the situation, he replied. “Well at least you're armed now, which is more than either of us were when we first rode from here.”
Hearing Quilvar's response gave Adam an idea, “Perhaps we can prevail upon our friends to provide you with a weapon.”
The Glomers loved it; the fact that Adam actually asked them for their help was something almost beyond their dreams. There were still details to be worked out, but in principle they were certain they could do what he asked. After some discussion, it was decided that Adam and Quilvar would accompany Keshi and his friends back to their settlement. There were plans to be laid; construction of the items he requested to be undertaken, and of course the sword for Quilvar.
Bidding Vorcan farewell until they returned, the group set off along the same passageways that Adam and Beorhtán had trudged in what now seemed an age past. After they had been walking for a time, Adam spoke to Quilvar using the telepathic speech he and the elf shared.
“It's going to take too long like this, I wish there was some way we could travel more quickly.”
Quilvar struck his forehead with the heel of his right palm in a gesture of annoyance, “Of course, I should have thought sooner, now that we're in Kaldshard, its magic should be enough.”
“What do you mean?” asked Adam, bewildered by his little friend's action.
“Well you recall how Beorhtán explained about elven magic allowing me to move from place to place?”
“Yes, you frightened me half to death in the swamp if you remember.”
“So I did, I'd forgotten that,” said the elf ruefully.
“Well I certainly hadn't. Anyway, what's that got to do with anything? As Beorhtán told me, it's only something elves can do.”
“Not quite. I'm sure your powers would be more than adequate to allow you to do it; the question is our little friends. If I'm right, between us we should be able to move them as well.”
“Come on then,” said Adam, “let's try it.” Full of instant enthusiasm for an idea he hadn't even considered possible only a moment before.
Calling the party to a stop, Quilvar explained his intentions to the Glomers. No sooner had he finished than the little men all started chattering at once, at what they saw as a great adventure. First the elf gave Adam instructions on how to move himself; getting him to try a few short-distance hops to see if it would work. To start with nothing went as planned, with Adam either staying firmly rooted to the spot on which he stood, materializing upside down a few feet away, or a couple of feet up in the air, from where he fell with a resounding clatter.
It was on the last such landing, when he arrived upright but with the scabbard of his new sword twisted between his knees, to send him sprawling to the floor, that he decided he'd had enough. Clasping his hand on the hilt of the sword, he muttered the words of Ichabod's ambulatory spell, and swiftly glided across the ground. Suddenly two more words came into his head, and as he recited them all the time thinking about the Glomer's settlement, he found himself outside the chamber of their Council of Elders.
The same spell reversed, and he was back where he had started, much to the surprise of the rest of the group.
“Where did you go Master Adam?” asked Quilvar.
“To the Glomers' Council of Elders chamber. It seems I have the means at my disposal to travel that far without difficulty. I wonder if I can go further, say to Meriandor.” But he refrained from attempting it.
“So now all we have to do is find a way of moving our friends the Glomers,” remarked Quilvar.
“Why don't you try your magic on them Quilvar, perhaps they'll have more success with it than I did?”
Chortling loudly the elf quipped, “Well they could hardly do worse, could they?”
A short time later, after several abortive attempts, it became obvious that whatever magical skills the Glomers may have for their workmanship; they did not extend to emulating those of the elf. Frustrated that there seemed nothing for it but to continue on foot, the group set off with Adam leading the way. For a while, he said nothing, as his annoyance at being unable to do anything to speed up their progress kept him quiet. Then without warning he stopped dead in his tracks, causing Keshi who was a couple of paces behind him, to collide with his back.
“I've got it!” he exclaimed.
“Got what Master Adam?” asked the Glomer as he regained his feet.
“I know how I can get us to your settlement,” and without further ado, he grabbed Keshi under one arm, one of his friends under the other, and invoked the full walking spell, and in a trice they were there. Setting the two Glomers on their feet, he reversed the spell, and a moment later was repeating the process. On the third trip, Quilvar managed to stop him before he disappeared with the remaining Glomers.
“What are you doing?”
“Sorry Quilvar, I should have explained. I'm taking the Glomers to their settlement. All I have to do is carry them two at a time. If you care to join us, we'll be there.” And in a flash he'd gone, leaving the elf to make his own way. When several minutes had passed without Quilvar's arrival, Adam became concerned that something might have gone wrong. After a further delay, he became worried that something had happened to his green friend, and asking the Glomers to wait for him, retraced his path with the reversed spell.
Quilvar stood exactly where he had left him, a look of relief crossing his face the moment he saw Adam. “By the light Master Adam you had me worried, I thought I'd seen the last of you.”
“Well why didn't you follow?” grumbled Adam.
“Because I don't know where to go, that's why,” said the elf plaintively
Adam's face fell, “O God! What a fool I've been. I'm sorry; I should have realized that until you knew where the settlement was you couldn't just wish yourself there.”
“I don't need a map to show me the way, but I do need to know its location,” said Quilvar, not unreasonably.
That was the problem, Adam didn't know. He just used his spell, and thought of the settlement to get himself there. There was only one thing for it, and since Quilvar was of similar size to a Glomer, it presented no problem. Picking up the elf, Adam had them both at the settlement in no time.
Adam's second meeting with the Council of Elders was much less formal than the first. There was no bowing down until he was dizzy, instead the Elders welcomed both him and Quilvar, taking them by the hand and leading them to their chamber, where a meal had been prepared in their honour. Adam was both grateful for the food, and the opportunity to thank the Elders for their magnificent gift.
Although he had difficulty in recognizing individual Glomers, since apart from the chains of office worn by the Elders, their appearance and clothing had few distinguishing characteristics, Adam was aware that Keshi was no longer present. Not wanting to cause offence in case there was some matter of protocol that prevented his being there; he hesitated from asking. It was only when the meal was almost at an end, that one of the Elders received a message. Adam presumed him to be the most senior because of the double chain of gold he wore about his neck, whereas his colleagues only had one. Instructing the messenger that they would join them shortly; he dismissed him and turned to speak to Adam.
“I'd been wondering where friend Keshi had got to, it seems his impatience got the better of him. He asks that we join him to see something he has been busy with whilst we ate. If you wouldn't mind?”
“Not at all,” replied Adam, intrigued by what Keshi had been up to.
Once outside, they were confronted by a crowd of Glomers, all chattering in their squeaky voices, and milling around, their bodies obscuring whatever it was that had excited them so much. Because of his height, Adam was able to see over the little creatures, but his advantage was of little benefit, as whatever it was, it was too low for him to see. Going towards the commotion, the crowd parted as he approached, allowing him to see Keshi, and beside the Glomer, an odd looking wooden contraption.
Catching sight of Adam and the Elders, Keshi began to jump about with excitement. “Master Adam, Master Adam,” he cried “Will it work? I used some of the parts that we had for those at the bridge, and just adapted them, but if it's no good I can remake it.”
Looking the machine over, it immediately impressed Adam by the quality of its workmanship. Like everything the Glomers put their hands to, the result always seemed perfect. “Keshi, I don't know how you managed it in the time, but it's amazing, truly amazing.”
Delighted by the praise, the little Glomer fairly bounced with joy, before he asked with some trepidation, “Yes, but will it work, is it what you wanted? I couldn't be sure, you see.”
“I see no reason it wouldn't, and considering I'd only mentioned the idea but a few hours ago, and what's more, I didn't even give you a sketch of what I wanted, I think you've done a first class job.”
“Thank you Master, thank you,” said the little man, lovingly stroking the sides of his invention; a portable version of the multiple-arrow launcher, Adam had seen at the crossing bridge.
With the first part of the plan completed, and with the one launcher to use as a pattern, it now fell to the carpenters of Meriandor to produce them in sufficient numbers for them to be available for the coming battle. In his heart, Adam knew it was going to be a bloody affair, with many casualties on both sides.
The problem, as if war itself wasn't sufficient problem, lay in their opponents. In any normal fight, once one of the opposing sides had established its supremacy, it generally resulted in capitulation by the losing side. This would invariably mean the taking of prisoners, who ultimately would be released to go home, which in turn would help to reduce the casualties. Not so with the forces they were going to face. It was obvious from what Adam had gleaned from his talks with Caslan, that the forces of the Dark One would continue to fight until completely wiped out.
Because of this, Adam and Kawuhl had long discussions over methods of increasing the firepower of the defenders, the multiple launchers that the Glomers employed had just such a capability. It was in preparation for the manufacture and deployment of the launchers, that Adam had asked the king to ready the materials and workforce. All he had to do now was to get the Glomer's pattern to Meriandor.
The second part of his plan, was much bolder, and yet undetermined in respect of its practicality. He had mentioned the idea to Keshi, who had understood the requirements, but was unable to say if it could be done without tests being carried out at the proposed site. The idea had stemmed from the way the Glomers could control fire, and form their labyrinth. Adam had found out that by using the powers that all Glomers possessed; they could tap the natural gases of the world to form the fiery walls of their maze. The question that desperately needed an answer was; could they do the same thing beyond the walls of Meriandor and would there be the necessary gasses trapped below the surface for them to tap?
Once Adam had approved Keshi's arrow machine, the little Glomers wanted him and Quilvar to enter the labyrinth with them to see how work was progressing on some tools they were preparing to help them answer the question. With guides to lead them, this time Adam had no need of the powers of the crystal to find the way to the centre of the maze. Despite having witnessed the flaming passages once before, the sight still impressed Adam, as it did the elf.
Once they reached the great central hall, Adam could see the pillar of green flame, burning steadily as it had before, only now, it, no longer concealed anything. The hall rang to the sounds of metal on metal, as the industrious Glomers went about their tasks, fashioning swords and daggers, or creating magical tokens for others to use. As soon as the party arrived, the little men besieged them, one of whom, hurried forward clutching a partly forged sword, which he held out towards Quilvar.
“It isn't finished yet, but if you would care to test its balance?” he begged, desperate to please.
Taking the sword, the elf looked the blade over with a feeling of pleasure at the prospect of owning such a fine weapon. Not as elaborate as the one presented to Adam it was nonetheless a thing of beauty. “It's magnificent,” said the elf, “you must tell me your name that I shall always remember who it was that made me such a fine gift.”
“Thank you. If it pleases you sir, I am Wylldin.”
“It pleases me greatly Wylldin, and I shall carry it with pride.”
As the little Glomer hurried away to put the finishing touches to Quilvar's sword, Adam and the Elders followed Keshi. He led them to where a group of forgemasters were busily prodding the rocky ground with odd looking poles, then stepping back to watch the effects of their efforts. Each time they struck the ground with a pole, a flame sprang to life; reversing the stick to use the opposite end, resulted in the flame disappearing.
Whilst Adam and the elf watched, Keshi explained what was going on.
“The Droma, that's what we call those rods, is used to control the flames. One end opens a fissure in the ground that lets out the gases and lights the flames, the other, seals it off, which extinguishes the flame.”
“So do you think it will work for us?” asked Adam.
“I cannot be certain, until we find out if the gases exist near Meriandor,” replied Keshi. “If they do, then we will have no difficulty, but we will have to test it.”
“And how do you do that?”
“With a Mildar,” answered the Glomer, as if that were explanation enough.
“And just what is one of those?” asked Adam.
“A gas finder,” replied Keshi, “here I'll show you.”
Following the Glomer's lead, Adam walked towards another group who, like the first, were tapping the ground with sticks. This time there was no flame, but as the end of the rod hit the ground, it either glowed or remained dark.
“What's happening here?” asked Adam.
“When the rod touches the ground, if there is gas beneath, the end glows, but if there is no gas, it remains dull.”
“I see, so all we have to do is take a bunch of those sticks back to Meriandor and get busy,” he said enthusiastically.
“I'm afraid that wouldn't work, you see, only a Glomer has the magic required to make the Mildar work.”
“I might have known there would be a catch,” grumbled Adam.
“But it's not a problem Master, if you can take me and some of my friends with you, we will soon find the gas. After all, you'll need us to move the flames once the battle commences.”
Amazed at the little fellow's perception, his wish to take part in the fight moved Adam, yet he was sorry that he and his friends would need to be involved.
“I'd hoped to avoid your participation; it's not your fight after all.”
“I do not wish to be disrespectful Master, but was it once also, not your fight?”
“True...but.”
“No buts Master, this fight is for all the good peoples of Falgorin, so we have to unite against the beast.”
“Then it's done. We'll return to the city and make our preparations.”
Returning to the dragon's cave, and rousing Vorcan from his doze, Adam explained to him what he wanted to do. He, Keshi and two other Glomers would return to Meriandor, with the arrow machine. Quilvar would wait at Kaldshard until Vorcan returned, and would then accompany four other Glomers back to Meriandor.
“Very well, Master Adam. I presume I may use my magic for all this to-ing and fro-ing?”
“Of course my friend, we need you back in the city to help with our plans, and the sooner the better.”
It was during the brief time it took the dragon to transport them back to the city that an odd thought suddenly struck Adam, “What on earth would Doc Andrews think if he knew how Adam had spent the last weeks dashing hither and yon with little or no rest.” Still he'd never felt better in his life, but the thought of home brought memories flooding back with the realization that soon he would have to return, if only for a short time, to put matters straight.
By prior arrangement, Kawuhl had set-up a permanent campsite at the point that Vorcan used to land, as much to keep casual observers away as provide transport into the city. Shortly after they had landed, Adam and the Glomers were on their way to Meriandor. This time there was no sign of Feldric, or anyone else that he knew, but the soldiers all knew of Adam, and obviously had strict orders to do whatever he wished. Keshi and his friends kept up a constant barrage of questions in their high-pitched voices, filled with excitement at finding themselves beyond the confines of Kaldshard and seeing the vastness of the lands.
King Randufil had been as good as his word, and the castle grounds were bustling with activity when Adam and his party arrived. With every available corner taken up with materials for the arrow launchers' construction, and dozens of carpenters called in from all parts in preparation. As soon as Keshi explained the workings of the machine, the workers fell to with a will.
When they'd been back for some time, and Adam had begun to wonder where Ichabod was hiding himself, he spotted Caslan in company with the old man, hurrying towards him.
“So how did your trip to Kaldshard go?” asked the sorcerer.
“Fine thanks, how are things going with you?”
It was Caslan who answered his eyes bright as he began to explain what he and Ichabod had been doing. “We've prepared many spells and potions, well at least Master Ichabod has, but I did help,” he exclaimed excitedly.
“The prince has been a great help. Have you managed to find out if your friends the Glomers can help us?”
“I'm sorry, I've been most rude, Ichabod, Your Highness, I should like to introduce you to Keshi, he's my right hand man. Keshi, this is Prince Caslan, the youngest son of King Randufil, and Master Ichabod, my first friend in this world, and Sorcerer to the king.”
“It's an honour to meet you both,” squeaked Keshi. “We have still to see if Master Adam's plan can be put into action. Some of my friends and I have come here to put it to the test.”
“Then what are we waiting for?” asked the prince. “Are you coming with us Master Ichabod?”
“As if I would miss this, of course I'm coming.”
“What about your father, shouldn't we see him first?” queried Adam.
“I suppose so, he's in the Chamber of Administration, but I'm sure he can spare us a few minutes.”
When they arrived at the Chamber, it was to find two armed Jelvoans standing guard at the closed doors. When they saw the prince and his party approaching, they stiffened, but remained where they were. Addressing one of the men, Caslan instructed him to advise the king of their presence and to request an audience. For a second, Adam thought he was going to refuse, but the moment passed, as the doors suddenly opened and Kawuhl strode out of the room.
Surprised to find them waiting there, the Jelvoan's greeting was unprepared, “Adam, you're back, I didn't know.”
“Hello Kawuhl, we only arrived a short while ago; I was hoping to see the king.”
“It's not a good time Adam; he's facing a difficult time in there. The Council are becoming restless and demanding explanations. Apparently word got back that a dragon had been seen, and that the queen and princess are no longer in the city.”
“Then perhaps now would be a good time to explain to these people what it is that's happening. After all they have a right to know, and its better they hear before things get worse. Would the king permit me to talk with the Council?” Adam enquired.
“I don't know, though it would do no harm to ask. If you'll wait here I'll see what he says.”
Gone for several minutes, Kawuhl left Adam and the rest of the group to wait impatiently outside. When he did return, his expression was dark, causing Adam to think that he was about to be refused.
“I'm sorry it took so long, but things are getting ugly in there. The king has agreed to your addressing them, I believe he's hoping it will ease the situation. Come on let's go in and see what can be done to restore some sort of sanity to this meeting.”
Following Kawuhl into the room, Adam's first impression was one of open hostility. Seated down both sides of a long table sat the Caregoron men of power, and their expressions, almost to a man, were not welcoming. Muttering amongst themselves, a few were openly rude when they pointed to the white streak in his hair, then carried on talking as if he wasn't present. Determined not to be overawed by these people, Adam stood quietly as the king made the introductions.
“Gentlemen, I present to you Master Adam Goodchild. Although it is unusual for someone who is not a member of the Administration to address you, I would insist on your hearing what he has to say,” and with that he resumed his seat, indicating that Adam should take the floor.
Taking a deep breath, Adam began, “Gentlemen, I am grateful to his Highness for allowing me the opportunity to address you, and hope you will not feel offended by my presence. Although King Randufil has given you my name, he has not told you where I come from, or my purpose in being here, so I will tell you. I saw by the reaction of some of you, you are not unfamiliar with the legend of the Chosen One, one who bears the white streak,” and for effect he tugged his forelock. “Whether or not I am he, matters little, what does matter is why I am here.”
Praying that his next move would not provoke any physical action from the men in front of him; he drew his new sword from its scabbard and plunged the point of the blade deep into the polished wood of the table. In an instant, the whole room filled with a keening sound that rose in pitch, until it became painful to the ears. Just as suddenly the noise disappeared, and in its place, a golden glow bathed the room as the Manifex began to pulse with light.
He would have preferred to avoid theatrical gestures but sensed a demonstration of his abilities would prove more effective than any words he might choose.
“Behold the reason for my presence.”
Instantly, a mist began to form around the pommel of the sword, expanding and glowing as it grew in size, whilst within it, strange images moved. Slowly at first, but with gathering speed, they sharpened and filled out, until they became a steady picture display. Scenes from the imp attack on the city, of the queen and princess's capture, Caslan's journey through the Marish Swamp, the devastation of Kóren, the capture of the Ghyyrox, the dragon Vorcan, and finally of the Glomers and their work to help save the city, all passed before them.
There were no mutterings now; the whole room had fallen silent as the import of the scenes they had all just witnessed began to sink in. The king rose to his feet and again addressed the assembly.
“So, gentlemen, what you have just seen tells it all.”
“But why were we not told before?” asked one member of the Council.
“What would it have benefited anyone had you been aware what was happening? So many strange things have occurred, many leaving us in ignorance. Master Adam was brought here from his world, we thought by the efforts of Master Ichabod; it was only some time later that we learned it was Beorhtán who had sent him. Soon after his arrival he disappeared, only to return several days later with tales of how he had spoken with Beorhtán, and now commanded the last remaining Manifex. You have just witnessed the truth of that.
“We knew the city had been visited by the Ghyyrox, but were powerless to capture it. It was Master Adam who rescued my son Caslan from the Marish Swamp, him and his friend, the elf Quilvar. It was Adam who captured the Ghyyrox, and it is he who has organized the defence of the city. I judged that there was little point in spreading word of these things until it became a necessity. That time is now.”
“But why should we be defending the city, what threatens us now?” several chorused.
“The massed forces of evil, the army of Shegrimoth. Those of you who didn't see first hand the imp attack saw the after-effects. Well we now face a far more dangerous enemy. The forces that laid Kóren to waste are as we speak marching on Meriandor.”
Nothing could have had more effect on the assembled members of the Administration, than that statement. Whilst they were still too stunned by the news to raise objections, the king tabled a motion allowing Adam to act as a Royal Adviser, granting him powers over civil and military authorities alike. He would advise Kawuhl on matters pertaining to the army, and would answer only to the king. Such was their state of mind, that the decree was made without challenge.
By degrees, the Council of Administration regained its will, and questions began to be asked. How great was the invading army, where did the forces come from, what preparations had been made? And dozens more along similar lines. It was Kawuhl who came to Adam's aid, answering those questions to which he had answers, seeking advice on those about which he knew little or nothing. Gradually the men of the Council began to prove why it was they had been chosen for their positions. Randufil's original group of seven had all chosen wisely, each member pledging his support and that of his province. There were no dissenters as each swore allegiance to the crown, none that is who would speak aloud, but one masked his true feelings, aware that two others chosen by him, shared in his ambition.
As the king left the chamber with Adam directly behind him, the crowned head of Caregoron turned to him, and with his face devoid of expression, spoke harshly to the young man.
“So you think you can get away with wilful damage to crown property eh?”
Not knowing to what the king referred, Adam could only ask, “I beg your pardon, sire, what damage have I done?”
“Ruined a priceless piece of furniture. Did you imagine there would be no penalty for your savage treatment of our Council Chamber table?”
The sword, he hadn't given it any thought when he'd slammed the blade into the fine polished surface, seeking attention by his action.”
“Your Highness, forgive me, I don't know what to say...” all the while avoiding looking directly at the king's stern countenance and as a result missing the broad grin that now beamed at him.
“I'm sorry Adam; I shouldn't tease you that way. It's just I couldn't resist it, seeing their faces when you walked in and carved splinters from their precious table. The times I've felt like doing something as dramatic. It will repair, and it did have the desired effect.”
The days that followed that historic meeting found Adam constantly on the move. Accompanied by Keshi and his fellow Glomers, with an armed guard of Jelvoans, the three had set out to determine if the plan would work. For many hours they had walked the fields beyond the walls of the city, but each time the little Glomers tried out their Mildar, the effect was the same, no flames. After five days, Adam's spirits were beginning to flag, as he began to think they would never find what they looked for.
Each evening they rode back to the city, to find that the construction of the arrow machines was proceeding well, and that Ichabod, ably assisted by Prince Caslan, had come up with new potions to use against the invaders. Despite their certainty that all would be well, Adam was far from sure they had done enough. If the attacking army had increased in size in any significant degree, then they would outnumber the defenders by a considerable margin, something that worried both Adam and Kawuhl, since they knew that it would be a fight to the death, and sheer weight of numbers could carry the day.
Sleepless nights and fruitless days began to take their toll on the young off-worlder. Doubt again crept into his thoughts, as he worried that he hadn't done enough. Because they had spent so little time in each other's company, Ichabod was quick to spot the difference in his young friend when he met him wandering the castle grounds one night, deep in thought.
“What brings you out here at this time of night?” asked the sorcerer.
“I could ask you the same question, and probably get the same answer. I couldn't sleep.”
“Not quite true in my case; sign of old age, I need less sleep these days, you can hardly claim that as your excuse.”
“No, no I guess not,” agreed Adam.
“So what's the trouble? No don't tell me, let me guess. You're worried about the plans, worried that your idea for the fire barrier hasn't worked, worries, worries, worries. That's it isn't it?”
“Well yes, I was counting on the fires, and there's still so much to do, the arrow machines...”
“Stop right there. Why do you imagine that everything that has to be done is your responsibility? I can understand your concern, and even sympathize with you, but you cannot bear the burden of everything that's happening around here. In the brief time that you've been on this world, you have accomplished more than most men will in a lifetime.”
“But it's still not enough.”
“Nor will it ever be, but as long as you have done your best, what more could anyone ask? I know that not a single person who knows what you have done finds any reason to criticize. But, if you continue to punish yourself for the failings of others, or for your inability to do something no other would even attempt, then you will end up destroying yourself. Take my advice, leave Meriandor for a few days, put this all behind you and get things back in perspective.”
“You know that's really amusing.”
“Oh, why is that?”
“Because just before I was brought to this world, my doctor, you'd call him a Healer, advised me to do exactly the same thing. He told me I needed a rest, time to relax, to get away from the problems and enjoy myself. I was only thinking to myself the other day about that conversation, and now here you are telling me to do the same thing.”
“And what of the advice you were given, did you take it?”
“I didn't get the chance, a couple of days after he spoke to me I was whisked away to this place.”
“Then you should put matters right and take the advice now.”
“I'll tell you what I told him shall I? I can't just leave in the middle of what's going on, I need to be here.”
“What makes you think the world will end if you leave it for a few days?”
For a moment the words didn't sink in, he didn't register what the old man was saying until Ichabod repeated his suggestion.
“Are you saying I should leave Falgorin and go back home?”
“Precisely. Unless I'm much mistaken you have the power to do that, and I think it would help you to return to your own world so that when you come back things will not seem so desperate.”
And he could, he had no doubt the Manifex would enable him to do just that, and it would give him chance to set things right at home.
“But what about the time difference? Beorhtán told me that the two worlds exist in different time frames. My world's time passes much more slowly than it does here; even one day back home would see many days pass here, by the time I got back the battle could be over and you and all the others killed. No I couldn't run the risk.”
“But surely you understand; time is relative. You remember when we first met, I showed you Merlin, and you said he had been dead for hundreds of your years?”
“Yes, but what difference does that make?”
“Travelling between the two worlds, you can move backwards in time.”
“Yes Beorhtán told me that if I went back home I could go back to the point just after I left.”
“Well the same works in reverse, you can come back here minutes after you leave for your own world.”
With the only obstacle removed, Adam knew he had to do it. It wasn't that he wanted to leave this world, nor that he was afraid of the battle to come. After all he still had a very good reason to return here, in the form of Princess Esperia. It was just that he needed to re-establish a link with the very different reality of his own world, if only for a short time.
“When should I go? I mean I'll have to tell people, make arrangements and the like.”
“I see no reason to tell anyone anything. Work will continue as before and what would it benefit them to know you had left. They might think less well of you if you did tell them, since it would give them an opportunity to put their own interpretation on your reasons for leaving. No, let it be our secret, go tonight, go now and I will say that you had important matters to attend to, but that you will return soon.”
“Thank you Ichabod, I believe you're right, I will go, but be sure I'll return in good time.”
“I know that you will, now make haste and be off with you, farewell young Master Adam, until you return.”
“Goodbye Ichabod, take care until I get back”
With his mind made up, Adam hurried back to his room, as he didn't want anyone witnessing his disappearance. Taking a firm grip on the sword, he thought of his bedroom as it was when he had last seen it, and the next moment he was tumbling and turning, until he landed on the bed. Glancing at the bedside clock he saw the time was 8:00 P.M., although which day he had yet to discover.
For several minutes, he just sat, staring around the familiar room, seeing nothing had changed, yet for him things would never be the same again. How could he ever return here to take up his job, and carry on with a life he no longer felt part of? Whatever else had happened on that other world, he knew he had to be a part of it.
Finally stirring himself, he left the bedroom and went downstairs to the lounge, where he turned on the television set. He still didn't know what date he had returned to, but a few moments later he had the confirmation he needed. It was the day before he was due to leave for his holiday in America; he still had several hours before he would have been due to leave, had he not cancelled the trip. Sighing with relief, he knew that all it would take to set his parents mind at rest would be one telephone call within the next couple of hours, and they wouldn't be worrying about him for three weeks.
As he walked back along the hall, he caught sight of himself in the long mirror by the front door, and smiled at his reflection. How strange it looked to see himself dressed in the clothes of Falgorin, his sword hanging at his hip. It was as well there was no one else around to see him, since he'd have a hard job explaining. As he stood there marvelling that he had returned wearing the other world garments, he moved closer to the mirror to look at his eyes, only to find that whatever change had taken place on the other world, it was not visible here. “Still,” he mused, “whatever explanation I could come up with to explain the change, Mother would never have believed it.”
Returning to his bedroom, he removed the sword and its scabbard, and stripped off his clothes, gathering them up, and placing them carefully in his wardrobe. Shutting the door, he suddenly felt the need to have the crystal with him. Reopening the wardrobe, and touching the pommel of the sword, he removed the Manifex, shrinking it to the size of a marble, so that he might keep it with him always.
The luxury of a steaming hot shower was something he had missed when he was away, so he made up for lost time by spending much longer than usual over it. Standing in front of the bathroom mirror sometime later, he studied his reflection, pleased to see that his tan had returned. He also noted how strikingly defined the streak of white hair had become amid the darkness of the surrounding growth. If he had missed taking a shower on the other world, now he missed having the elf, Quilvar, here to perform the shaving ritual. Despite his care, he still nicked his chin, and finished up with his face feeling raw.
After a hurriedly prepared meal made from what little food remained in his refrigerator, he set about clearing up the house in preparation for his departure. Checking to ensure that windows and doors were secure; that water and gas had been turned off; he tidied up generally, then sat down to call his parents.
He hated lying to them, but couldn't see any alternative to keeping up the pretext of the trip to the States, that would not have them worrying about what he was doing. It was his father who answered the phone; yet despite his best efforts he found the conversation lagging after only a few words. The discussion with his mother proved little more successful, and although Adam put it down to having seen them recently, in his heart he knew something had changed. He didn't feel any differently towards his parents, but his time on the other world had added a new dimension to his life, and he felt he would soon have to choose between the two. With his parents’ good wishes for his holiday still sounding in his head, he hung up the telephone, suddenly faced with yet another small worry. How was he going to fulfil his mother's inevitable request for a postcard, something he could hardly send from his true destination?
With everything done that he could think of, he returned to his bedroom, and slipping off his bathrobe, dressed again in his new world clothes. Securing the sword to his belt, he returned the Manifex to the pommel and prepared to make the return journey. He'd toyed with the idea of spending the night in his own bed, and returning the next morning, since the time spent in either place was only relative, but he felt an overwhelming desire to be back in Meriandor.
Although he had only been back for a few hours, he'd had all the time he needed to settle things in his mind. No longer having any cause for concern about what was happening back here, he felt confident about his return to Caregoron. Despite only a few hours having passed, he knew that days would have gone by on the other world; he just hoped he would make it back in time. Gripping the sword, he thought of his room in Castle Randufil.
