“It’s not much farther, from what I remember on the map. We should be there before nightfall.” Adam’s voice was low, and Jinaari knew why.
“Good,” he replied. He resisted looking over his shoulder to where Caelynn rode next to Thia. “Some answers would be nice. Or hot food if it can be spared.”
“He’s a death mage, Jinaari, not a barbarian. If anything, we’re about to have one of the most gracious welcomes we’ve ever had. It’s doubtful people come here simply because they’ve wandered by. Anyone knocking on his door is going to be searching for him, wanting something. Helix knows this.”
“It’s a game, then?”
Adam shrugged. “Pretty much. He’ll want to figure out what we need, how much we’re willing to pay, before he offers anything. If it’s not worth his time, he’ll be honest. We will be fed, given warm beds, because we’re new. He’s a collector of lore – all mages are – and he’ll want to hear our story. Don’t worry,” he paused, “I know what I’m doing. For once, let me take the lead.”
“I need him to speak with us alone.”
“I know. Caelynn and I talked about it. She’s going to stay with Thia, keep her occupied somehow. We’ll get in the door with Gnat, make sure he gets Nyfe back. After that, we’re likely to be shown to our rooms, told when dinner will be. Once we get them settled, you and I will meet with Helix.” He paused. “We’re all worried about her, Jinaari. Any new issues? The more information I have, the more likely we’ll get a real answer from him.”
Jinaari shook his head, “Valtikka hasn’t resurfaced that I know of. The only thing Thia’s mentioned was her Mark was itchy.”
“That’s new. When did that start?”
“Two days ago, when she woke up with the fever.” Jinaari sighed. “She’s not saying much because she’s scared to give Valtikka ammunition.” The forest around them was quiet, too quiet for his liking. Birds and squirrels moved about, but there’d been no evidence of larger animals. “Wait here,” he said as he turned his horse around and rode back toward the others.
Coming up alongside Thia, he said, “How are things with you?”
Thia nodded; her face composed. “Good. Don’t say anything else,” she said. “Just do what you need to do.”
Reaching into his saddle bag, he pulled out a length of cloth he’d torn off one of his old tunics the night before. “Caelynn, you’re going to guide her,” he said as he wrapped the fabric around Thia’s head. Small beads of sweat dotted her forehead; the fever hadn’t abated, even with the healing he’d tried.
“Tie my hands to the saddle horn,” Thia said. “Then I can’t remove it.”
He knotted the blindfold, securing it tight enough that it wouldn’t slip. “Good idea.” Working quickly, he made sure the rope wasn’t going to cut into her hands. Glancing at Caelynn, Gnat stared back at him. “She’s going to be fine,” he reassured the cobalus.
“Gnat hopes so. Gnat doesn’t like to see Friend Thia sick.”
“None of us do,” Caelynn said as she wound the reins to Thia’s horse around her hand.
The cobalus looked at Jinaari. “Gnat can ride with Friend Thia. Gnat will keep Friend Thia safe.”
Jinaari nodded. “That’s not a bad idea.” Within moments, Gnat sat in front of Thia, his hands around the reins. “I don’t expect you to fight anything, Gnat. Your job is to get her to safety if something comes after us. Understood?”
“Friend Jinaari doesn’t have to worry. Gnat will take care of Friend Thia.”
Wheeling his horse around, he nodded once to Caelynn. She’ll stay close enough to give them cover if they have to run. Urging his mount forward, he rejoined Adam. “Let’s get to Helix.”
Shadows crept into the forest as the sun began to set. Through the trees, he saw several balls of light not far off the ground. The glow didn’t flicker like torchlight, however.
“We’re here,” Adam announced, pulling his horse to a stop.
Jinaari came up next to him. Ahead of them was a clearing. A stone path, wide enough for them to ride side by side, was lined with glowing orbs. “What are those?” he asked, his voice low.
“I’m not certain. They’re not magical, but I have no idea how they’re powered.” Adam pointed ahead of them. “We’ve been seen.”
At the end of the path stood a group of five people. Beyond them, the imposing stone manor was larger than he expected. Not quite the palace at Dragonspire where he grew up, but nearly the same size. To the right sat a barn with a corral that rivaled the house in size. On the left, a small village of ten or twelve small stone homes. Each one had someone standing in the doorway, watching them. Some had young children with them. The distinctive ring of a hammer on metal came from an open enclosure. Jinaari could easily see the forge’s fire glowing in the twilight. “I thought you said he stayed isolated, removed from the world. Helix has his own town.”
“It’s not what I expected, either. Come on. It’s considered rude to keep our host waiting.”
Jinaari glanced over his shoulder, making sure that the others followed. As they got closer, he began to make out the features of the woman who stood in the center of the group. “That’s impossible,” he muttered.
“Why? We haven’t seen Ashynn since Alesso took her out of the tunnels under Tanisal. She looks good.” Adam paused. “I’m surprised she’s here, yes. But why do you think it’s impossible?”
“When I was Samil’s prisoner, Alesso told me she was dead.”
“Are you sure it was him?”
He shook his head. “No. I’m not sure what was real from you leaving until Thia talked to me outside of Cirrain.”
“I’ll add it to things to ask Helix, later. Alesso may have been real, but her death an illusion.”
Jinaari felt Adam’s gaze on him. “I’m good,” he said. “We need to focus on why we’re here, not untangling the knot of my memories from that time.” I promised Thia I’d talk to her about what happened. She was right; I can’t keep it locked up forever. It’s starting to cloud my judgement. Once she’s free of Valtikka, when she’s safe, I’ll find the time.
They drew to a halt in front of the group. Four of them ran forward, taking the bridle of each horse so they could dismount. As he swung his leg around, he saw Caelynn untying Thia’s hands. He walked back to them. “Caelynn,” he said, his voice quiet, “go up with Adam. Take Gnat with you. I’ll lead her.” Putting his hands around Thia’s waist, he continued, “Ashynn’s here.”
Her head tilted toward the sound of his voice. “I thought you said she was dead.”
“I was Samil’s prisoner. I can’t believe anything that happened in those weeks was real.” He took her hand and placed it on his belt. “Grab hold. I’m not taking the blindfold off yet.”
“Good,” Thia replied, her voice shaky. “The other one’s off-balance.”
“How are things with you?”
He felt her hand tremble as she grasped the leather. “I’ve been better. Maybe I’ll be able to sleep some tonight.”
“This is going to work.” He put all his conviction into the words. “Trust me.”
“Always,” she said.
He took small steps, making sure he didn’t rush her. The cobblestones were even; no rocks or debris she could trip over. Ahead of them, their horses were being led toward the barn while the other three spoke with Ashynn. Her head turned toward him as they approached.
“Greetings, Shield. I understand from your companions that the Daughter has fallen victim to an illness. Please, follow me. There’s refreshment inside, and comfortable beds. Once she is resting, Helix will speak with you.”
“Nyfe?” Gnat asked, his eyes wide.
Ashynn smiled. “Nyfe is inside, Gnat. He is safe and waiting for you. Once Thia’s taken care of, you’ll be reunited.”
Gnat began to dance, hugging himself. Ashynn’s grin widened, and she looked at the others. “Come,” she said as she turned around, “night is falling and the temperature will drop. It’s best that we don’t stay outside long.”
Waiting for the others to go in front of them, Jinaari whispered, “We’re moving again.” He kept his stride slow, approaching the steps that led to the house with an even pace. “Five steps, going up. They’re deep, look even.” As he led her up to the door, he could hear her count the steps under her breath.
Walking through the entry, the warmth of the house amazed him. No fire burned that he could see, yet it was comfortable. “This way,” Ashynn said, gesturing to her right.
“We’re turning,” he muttered as he led Thia into another room.
Several stuffed chairs were scattered around the small room. In the center was a circular table. A tray with a decanter and six glasses sat in the center. Ashynn walked toward it, pulling the stopper free, as she said, “Please, take a seat. It may be a few moments yet before your gear is in your room.” She began to pour drinks into the goblets. “I saw your face, Shield. You were surprised to see me here. I’m curious as to why?” She held out one of the drinks to him.
Jinaari made sure Thia was seated before he responded. Taking the glass, he said, “I had been told you’d died.” He raised the drink to his face, sniffing the contents. Water. Taking a sip, he set aside his suspicion. When Ashynn handed him another glass, he gave the one he had to Thia.
“Why would someone think I was dead?” Ashynn asked.
Shaking his head, he said, “It wasn’t said at a time when I was surrounded by much truth.” I’m not going to tell her more. Changing the subject, he said, “Have you heard from your mother? She’s working for Thia in Almair.”
The young woman shook her head. “No. Once she learned about what my brother and I did to gain her freedom, she refused to speak to either of us. That’s how I ended up here. I traveled south, hoping to start a new life in Tavisholm. No one there knew who I was, or so I thought. I was mistaken. Within days, no one would take my coin or give me work. When I got a message, offering me a position, I didn’t question who it came from.” She paused. “It’s not what I expected, but I’m treated well here. Please,” she looked at him, and he saw the tears in her eyes, “let my mother know that I’m here and will respond if she chooses to write.”
“I will,” Thia said.
Jinaari glanced at her. Her face was calm beneath the blindfold. Turning back to Ashynn, he said, “We both will.”
“Thank you.” She put her glass down and began to collect the others. Once they were back on the tray, she said, “I’m certain your rooms are ready by now. Follow me.”
Grasping Thia’s hand, he helped her to her feet and made sure her hand held his belt before he followed Ashynn from the room. “Stairs,” he said, “banister is on your left. Change hands if you need to.”
“Any idea how many?” she whispered.
“No, but I’ll give you warning when we’re near the end.” Placing his hand on the smooth wood, he made sure Thia could follow him easily. “Small landing, stairs again on your left,” he whispered. Glancing up as he reached the landing, he counted the steps. “Seven steps, then we’re in a hallway.”
“Got it.”
Ashynn stopped in front of a door. “Your bags are inside. There’s a separate bedchamber for each of you. I told them to leave your belongings in the main room, rather than assume who would be in what room.” She held out a key, “This is yours, as long as you stay here. Helix does not lock his guests in.”
Adam took the key. “It’s appreciated. Once we get the ladies settled, would it be possible to have a private word with our host?”
“He’s usually in his study at this time. I’ll let him know of your request. If he agrees to meet with you before dinner, you’ll find your way easily.” She smiled, then slipped past them and headed back down the stairs.
“Open it,” Jinaari said. “Let’s see where we’re staying tonight.”
The blonde man nodded, inserting the key into the lock. Swinging the door open, he stepped inside. Caelynn and Gnat followed.
“We’re going in,” Jinaari told Thia.
“Don’t run me into any furniture, okay? I’d rather not have bruised shins.”
“Not going to do that.” He walked across the threshold. The room was large and warm. But there wasn’t a fire or braziers. Sconces on the walls glowed with light, yet no flame flickered behind the glass. Several couches and chairs sat in the room. Five doors, all open, led off the main room. Caelynn came out of one. “What’s in there?”
“A bedroom, with a private bath. The others are the same. No windows, or a servant’s passage.” She looked at Adam. “It reminds me a lot of our suite back at the Green Frog. I don’t know if that’s because you both trained at Helmshouse or to try and make us more comfortable.”
“It could be both,” Adam replied.
Jinaari felt Thia rest her head against his back. “What’s wrong?” he asked, turning around to face her.
“I’m really tired,” she said.
“Caelynn,” he said, “lead her into one of the rooms. Adam and I can move the packs. Once you get her settled, I’ll take him and Gnat downstairs. We’ll locate Nyfe, meet Helix.”
“Come on, Thia,” Caelynn said as she walked over to them. Taking Thia’s hand, she placed it on her shoulder. “I’m not going to run you into anything.”
“Can’t I take the blindfold off?” Thia asked. “It’s not like I know how to get back to the front door.”
“When you’re asleep, Caelynn will take it off. Not before then,” Jinaari instructed. He watched as the pair disappeared into one of the rooms. Adam followed, carrying their packs.
“Gnat get Nyfe back now?”
Jinaari looked at him. “In a few more minutes, Gnat. Get your pack and toss it in a room.” He grabbed his and walked over to the room between the exit and the one Caelynn took Thia into. The furniture was ornate, more than he personally liked, but the bed looked comfortable. We’re not going to be here long enough to unpack. He tossed the pack onto a chair, then left the room.
Adam and Gnat were waiting for him. “Helix?” the warlock asked.
Nodding, he said, “Yeah. Let’s do this. Gnat, as soon as you get Nyfe, I want you to return and help Caelynn keep an eye on Thia. We’ll be back as soon as we can.” Caelynn came out of the room. “You still have the key?”
She held it up. “Thia’s asleep. I’ll keep the room locked until you come back.”
“Gnat bring Nyfe back to help guard Friend Thia!”
Caelynn smiled. “I’ll unlock the door for you, Gnat. I’m excited to meet Nyfe!”
“Let’s go,” Jinaari ordered. He opened the door, waiting for Adam and Gnat to leave. Caelynn walked closer, key in hand.
“Don’t worry so much, Jinaari,” she whispered. “I finally have my family again. I’m not going to let anything happen to her.” With a gentle shove, she pushed him into the hallway and closed the door behind him. The faint clicking of metal tumblers reached his ear.
At the end of the hallway, his friends waited. Adam’s face was a stony mask. “Remember in my tower, when I told you about your vow of silence? Time to take it again. I know what we’re asking for, old man. And what price may be needed to be paid.”
“Don’t agree to die, brother. Thia’d kill you first if you did.”
“Despite their reputation, death mages rarely kill. They’re patient and want you to live out your natural life span. Anything he asks for along that line won’t come about by his hand.”
“It’s your choice. I get that. But I don’t want to have to explain it to Thia,” Jinaari said as they began to descend the stairs.
Adam nodded, “First things first. We take care of her problem. Once she’s better, I’ll explain it to her. It should go better than me telling her about the spider nest.”
“Gnat is sorry. Gnat didn’t know Spoone was sick,” the cobalus said in a sad voice.
“It wasn’t your doing, Gnat. I fixed Spoone, same as I did Forkke,” Adam replied.
“Will Magic Friend fix Nyfe if he’s broken like Spoone and Forkke were?”
The blonde man laughed. “Yes, Gnat. I’ll fix Nyfe if I need to.”
Jinaari held his tongue. The idea that a death mage had kept whatever this Nyfe was for this long didn’t sit well in his soul. Adam’s right. There’s a chance something’s wrong with it. I’ll have to ask him for details when we’re alone. He stopped as soon as the floor below them came into view.
The large foyer they’d entered was gone. Instead, a well-lit library opened in front of them. Thick fur rugs sat on the floor. Adam and Gnat stood at the base of the stairs. Jinaari came down to join them, taking in the rest of the room.
A few tables were decorated with odds and ends. One wall of shelves held thousands of bottles behind glass doors. In the center of the room, behind a massive mahogany desk, stood a man. He regarded them carefully; his eyes made Jinaari’s blood run cold. Pale blue, with white irises.
“Gnat came back for Nyfe! Is Nyfe better now?”
Helix smiled. “Of course, Gnat. Nyfe didn’t require much work. He’s over there.”
Jinaari watched as Gnat ran toward a table. “Nyfe! Gnat is so happy to see you again!” The cobalus picked up a warhammer with leather wrapped around the heads and hugged it close to his chest. “Why Nyfe have clothes on?”
“He’s very sharp now, Gnat. I had the hoods made so you don’t get hurt by accident. They come off easily.”
Gnat yanked at a leather strap. The wrappings fell away, revealing two rows of spikes circling each end of the weapon. “Nyfe is perfect!” Gnat exclaimed, dancing around in happiness.
Jinaari felt Helix watching him and met the mage’s gaze. “I need to speak with your companions alone, Gnat. And I believe you’re supposed to go help the bard watch over your other friend while she sleeps.”
“Gnat was so happy about Nyfe Gnat forgot promise he made Friend Jinaari!”
Picking up the leather, he secured the hood around the warhammer. He ran past Jinaari and Adam, disappearing up the stairs.
Jinaari watched as the staircase melted away and a wall full of books replaced it. His head snapped around, looking at their host.
Helix’s demeanor changed. The congenial smile replaced by a stern expression. “Now we shall discuss why you felt it necessary to test my hospitality by bringing the evil above us into my home.”