Author: Derek

Great lords of the Diet, let us contemplate the marvels of human technology, which many exhort us to embrace in our efforts to rebuild the Jewel Empire. Yet, we must recognize that such technology is but a pale reflection of the grandeur we once achieved before the daemonic scourge befell us. Consider, if you will, the incomparable beauty of our jewel-spun edifices, which stand in stark contrast to the soulless towers of brick and mortar erected by humans. How can one compare our majestic gates, which offer almost instantaneous passage, to their railroads, which lumber slowly across the countryside, spewing smoke and fire? We must not hasten to reorder our society around this technology, for it lacks the divine grace that once permeated our creations. We stand now on the threshold of a momentous event—the emergence of the Crystal Blood. It is she who embodies the hope and promise of the Empire’s restoration. Let us, therefore, place our faith not in the transient works of human hands, but in the enduring power of the Crystal Blood to lead us back to our former glory. In this time of renewal, let us trust in the divine providence that has sustained us through trials and tribulations. It is through our steadfast devotion and faith in the Crystal Blood that we shall see the Jewel Empire rise once more, resplendent and whole. – Sermon from Senior Ecclesiast Okam at the opening of the Diet, eight years after the return of the Crystal Blood

KURT

Kurt looked at the wood arch with a skeptical eye. The day before, Rin and he spent several hours dragging it around the forest under Robar’s direction to find an appropriate spot for it to work. Something about where the tiny streams of natural magic were strongest closest to where the Goddess would grant Grace. That was about the most Kurt understood from Robar’s much longer explanation. Marteen spent the day in bed and was almost back to normal. Physically at least. In any other sense, Marteen was never normal. He probably hadn’t been since the Reclamation War.

Kurt was uneasy. Every other gate was stone or crystal. Wood didn’t seem like it would be strong enough to channel the magic needed to send the group all the way to the capital. Robar said wood arches were common until the permanent arches were put in place around elven and dwarven lands. Selene promised the wood would work, and Kurt trusted her. He still looked askance at the arch. Robar walked over to Kurt leading a docile, grey mare. The dark-haired elf wore the traditional red robes with gold embroidery of a high cleric of the Tradition of the Soul.

“Selene should join us shortly,” Robar said, “She’s tending to the shrine and the cottage before we leave. Where are your companions?” Kurt almost missed the slight hardening of Robar’s tone as he avoided using Marteen’s name. Kurt couldn’t blame Robar a bit. It was hard when the woman you loved was in love with another man.

“They should be here in a few minutes,” Kurt answered, “It took longer for Rin to clean his guns than expected. Apparently, it’s something he needs to do on a regular basis.” Kurt omitted the reason the task took longer was because Marteen stood over Rin’s shoulder and barraged the boy with a stream of questions. Kurt expected Rin to clock Marteen upside the head to shut him up. Instead, Rin patiently explained how each part worked. From the expression on Marteen’s face, Kurt wasn’t sure if the elf was fascinated, repulsed, or both.

“Foul things,” Robar murmured, just softly enough Kurt wasn’t sure if he was supposed to hear the comment or not. In the interest of diplomacy, Kurt chose to ignore Robar’s words. Kurt didn’t like guns, but he was honest enough with himself to know his dislike was more of an old soldier’s natural distrust of new-fangled technologies. Robar’s revulsion was more with the weapons’ origin – and their wielder. It wasn’t an uncommon sentiment in the Empire.

Kurt yawned as he saw Marteen and Rin leading their horses over to the arch. Kurt wasn’t sure where Marteen managed to scrounge up the blue tunic and tan breeches, but at least it made the elf look somewhat respectable. The Purist swords were belted at his waist. Rin was wearing a long brown duster. His blue uniform peaked out from under the heavy coat.

“That’s odd,” Robar said, taking a closer look at the arch. He was intensely studying the archaic runes inscribed into the wood.

“Is something wrong?” Kurt asked. Robar’s face looked puzzled, not alarmed.

“Not exactly,” Robar said, "Selene changed the glyphs for where the gate will open in Lisandra.”

“This won’t open in Eldar’s Court?” Kurt asked.

“No, it’s going to the Arrival Courtyard,” Rin answered. Both Robar and Kurt looked back at the human with questioning looks. “I asked Selene to change it last night after the two of you went to bed.”

“Why?” Robar asked, a hint of suspicion coloring his tone.

“Because that’s where I need to go.”

“The Arrival Courtyard’s a mile south of the palace,” Kurt said, breaking the tension, “Did you need some exercise first?” Rin shook his head and then held out his hand with fingers splayed before snapping it back into a fist. Talk later. Kurt smiled despite himself. With how much Rin had changed over the years, Kurt was glad the boy remembered their old hand signals. Kurt nodded and settled in to wait for Selene.

Marteen and Robar’s mirror sharp intakes of breath signaled Selene’s arrival. Kurt looked back at the cottage to see Selene walking her dappled gelding to the arch. Instead of the green robes of a High Cleric of the Tradition of the Mind, Selene wore the mottled green and brown leather armor she wore when they were chasing Cull to rescue the princess. Selene’s jet-black tresses were pulled back with a leather cord. At her hip was the saber Marteen taught her to use so many years ago. Rin’s eyebrow crooked in surprise, but that was the extent of his reaction.

“I didn’t know you still had those. They still look good on you,” Marteen said, appreciatively. Kurt rolled his eyes at the comment. Kurt was sure Marteen did it without thinking. Selene walked up to the master swordsman and surprised him with a gentle punch to the gut. Kurt coughed out a chuckle. That was something he would’ve expected from Sonya, not Selene.

“Selene, what are you doing?” Robar asked, in shock. “Why are you wearing those?” Selene gave her husband a hard look.

“In case you don’t remember, there’s a chance we will be riding into a battle,” Selene answered coldly, “This is what I wear in battle.”

"Those are not appropriate for your Tradition. You can’t enter Lisandra dressed like that. You’ll cause more problems with the Sacellum.”

“I’m more worried about survival than upsetting the Sacellum,” Selene said.

“It is not your place to engage in combat,” Robar said. Kurt felt some sympathy for the ecclesiast. Robar was trying desperately to help his wife avoid some Sacellum issue, but he was using the wrong arguments. Selene didn’t take up the sword willingly. Selene was forced to learn how to hurt and kill to protect herself and her friends.

“Help me open the gate, and let me deal with the Sacellum,” Selene said in a dangerous, low voice. Robar recognized he went too far and nodded. He walked over to the left side of the arch as Selene moved to the right. Selene started the gate spell with a chanting prayer to the Goddeess of Light. Robar started a similar prayer that mixed harmoniously with Selene’s. It was an oddly soothing song as the pair invoked the Goddess’s Grace. The runes etched into the wood glowed a sapphire blue an instant before the space under the arch burst with a blinding light.

As Kurt blinked away the stray ghosts of light, he saw the copper-colored bricks and ivy-covered walls of Arrival Court under the arch. The familiar scents of Lisandra wafted through the gate. Marteen went through first, followed by Kurt and Rin, then Robar and Selene. Even early in the morning, Lisandra was shining with the sun reflecting off the spires of the old jewel-spun buildings. It was much warmer in the capital than at Selene’s cottage. The streets of Lisandra channeled the cool breezes coming off the bay, which helped with the heat and humidity. Kurt looked over at Rin, but he couldn’t see any emotion on Rin’s face. Kurt wasn’t sure if that was a good or a bad thing.

“Guard, come here please,” beckoned Kurt at one of the constables stationed at Arrival Court. The elf’s eyes went wide as he recognized who was speaking. Kurt was definitely spending too much time in Lisandra if the locals recognized him on sight. Dwarves were supposed to all look alike to the elves.

"What can I do for you, Hero Volker?” the constable asked, bowing as he spoke.

“Please send a runner to the Crystal Palace to let them know Heroes Volker, Madrigal, Onale, and Acciaio have news to discuss with Lady Sonya and Lord Colonel Pallus.” The constable looked confused as he looked over their party, but quickly bowed again and rushed off to comply.

“This is where we separate. I need to report into the Mareian Embassy,” Rin said.

“Rin, we need to go to the Crystal Palace and let them know what is coming,” Kurt said.

“No, you have to go to the Palace,” Rin replied, “I am required to report to the ambassador and senior ranger to let them know why I’m in the Empire.”

“So why not go to the Crystal Palace with us, and then go to your embassy?” Selene asked.

“Because my duty isn’t at the Crystal Palace,” Rin answered, sharply. Kurt silenced Selene with a look before she could respond. He was surprised by Rin’s responses at first, but he understood the logic. Still, Kurt couldn’t let Rin get away from Lisandra without going to the Crystal Palace.

“If you don’t mind, Rin, I’ll accompany you,” Kurt said, “I’ve met with Ambassador Tierra on Lady Sonya’s behalf before. I think it would be a good idea to let the ambassador know about the Purists as well.” Rin just nodded.

“Well, I’m not going to talk to Sonya without Kurt,” Marteen said, “So, I guess I better go with you. Besides, I’ve never been inside the Mariean Embassy.” Marteen turned to Selene and Robar. “You coming with us?”

“As interesting as that sounds, I better go to the Crystal Palace,” Selene answered, coolly. “Someone should show up to talk with Sonya since Kurt sent that runner off. You know how Sonya gets if she’s interrupted for no good reason.” Marteen and Kurt nodded in agreement.

“I hope I see you again Selene,” Rin said, climbing up on his horse, “Thanks again for the hospitality – and the talk.”

“I’m sure we will,” Selene said, before looking over at Kurt a knowing look. The old dwarf nodded before quickly mounted his own pony. He kicked the animal after Rin. Marteen muttered something before mounting his own horse and following Rin and Kurt out of the Arrival Court.

The Republic of Marei’s embassy wasn’t very far from the Arrival Courtyard. Kurt looked through the wrought-iron gate at the graceful marble and brick edifice. He remembered when a much stouter building graced these grounds. Kurt pushed down his resentment at seeing the embassy. Kurt couldn’t understand why the humans felt the need to tear down the remains of the Dwarven Embassy to build that gaudy building.

“What’s wrong Kurt?” Rin asked.

“Sorry, son. Memories seem to be intent on dragging me back to other days,” Kurt answered.

“It’s because you’re getting old,” Marteen said.

“A problem you won’t have if you keep saying things like that,” Kurt snapped as the trio dismounted. They walked up to the single guard standing at the iron gate. The human was in the formal uniform of the Army of the Republic of Marei – deep blue pants with a gold stripe down the seam matched with a heavy jacket of matching blue and gold buttons. A sword and pistol were at the soldier’s waist attached to a shiny black belt with a gold buckle. The soldier looked bored, but Kurt saw his eyes flash over the three of them with practiced movements. Rin walked up to the soldier and saluted. The soldier immediately returned the salute.

“Ranger Acciaio, with a party of two. I need to see the ambassador and the senior ranger immediately,” Rin said. The soldier’s face allowed a momentary look of confusion, before quickly returning to its normal bored look.

“What circuit do you ride, ranger?” the soldier asked. The question was respectful in tone, but Kurt heard the explicit challenge.

“Badlands, Fort Killian,” Rin answered.

“The major’s expecting you,” the soldier said, working a small crank behind him. “I don’t know if the ambassador will be able to see you, but you can ask the major.”

“Thank you, corporal,” Rin said, and started walking to the gate. The corporal cleared his throat and nodded towards Kurt and Marteen. “It’s all right, corporal, I’ll vouch for them.” The corporal’s eyes widened even further. Kurt half-wondered if they were going to come out of the man’s head. If Rin noticed, he showed no sign of it as he continued through the gate.

The trio were met on the front steps of the embassy by a tall human man. The man’s black hair was cut short, but he wore one of those strange beards that traced down their jaws before looping up above their lips as a mustache. Kurt thought it looked silly, but the humans were very proud of their facial hair styles. The man was wearing Republican formal clothes. The slacks and jacket were black with a bright white shirt and a subdued green “necktie.” Instead of the shiny leather shoes most of the diplomats wore, this man wore the same dark brown boots Rin wore.

“Sergeant Acciaio, I presume,” the man said, grinning widely. “Major Agnelli, senior ranger of the embassy and the Empire circuit.” Rin quickly braced at attention and saluted the officer. Major Agnelli casually returned the salute before waving for Rin to relax.

“We received a note in yesterday’s courier packet that you were in the Empire. It mentioned you might show up in Lisandra, but it was a little sparse on the details. I hope you’ve come to enlighten me as to why you came to the Empire without coming to the embassy first.” Kurt was barely able to keep up with the man’s fast-paced Mareian. Marteen looked completely lost. Then again, Marteen was hopeless with languages. He’d barely learned a few dwarven phrases in all the years he and Ela lived with Kurt and Rin on the farm. There was the familiar flash of grief as Kurt remembered Ela. She was such a joy to have on the farm, and such a good friend to him.

“Yes Major, and it’s a matter of grave concern to the Republic,” Rin said, also in Republican before switching to Imperial. “First, let me introduce–” The major waved Rin down again.

“Heroes Volker and Madrigal are well known to the embassy,” Major Agnelli said, in accent-less Imperial, “I can’t wait to hear how the two of you came to be in the company of one of our rangers. Now, if you’ll follow me, we might catch the ambassador before he tries to go talk with the Chancellor once again. I have this odd feeling he needs to hear about why you’re here.”

“Surprisingly, sir, I do,” Rin replied. The major wheeled around and strode into the embassy. The trio followed closely on the major’s heels. Marteen grumbled they were moving too fast for him to get a good look around, but Kurt ignored him. After about five minutes of walking through several hallways, the major ushered them through a plain door.

The office inside was luxuriously appointed with thick rugs and silken wall hangings. It was dominated by a large desk. A half-dozen chairs were arrayed in front of the desk. The major motioned for Kurt and Marteen to sit, but they mirrored Rin who stood at attention next to his chair. A concealed door opened and the Ambassador to the Jeweled Empire for the Republic of Marei, the Honorable Lucas Tierra, walked into the office. The ambassador matched his office. He wore an exquisitely tailored gray suit accentuating the soft handsomeness of a Mareian merchant. His black hair was liberally sprinkled with gray, but there was only the hint of wrinkles around his bright brown eyes.

“Hero Volker, it’s good to see you again, although I am surprised to see you,” Ambassador Tierra said, reaching out to shake Kurt’s hand. Why did these humans need such bizarre greeting customs? Dwarves got by with simple nods without all this need for touching. The ambassador turned to Marteen. “Hero Madrigal, I think we met two years ago at the ball for Princess Illana’s birthday.” Marteen muttered something non-committal. If Kurt remembered correctly, Marteen wasn’t sober for most of that celebration. In fact, that might have been the ball where Sonya finally kicked him out of their room at the Crystal Palace. Finally, the ambassador turned to Rin and his warm face turned stern.

“Ranger Acciaio, perhaps you can explain why you felt it necessary to smuggle yourself into the Jeweled Empire without even the courtesy of reporting to the Senate’s representatives here in the capital?” Tierra asked. Rin didn’t even flinch under the ambassador’s impressive glare.

“Exigencies of the hunt,” Rin answered. “About three weeks ago, I was led by a demon to the scene of a ritual murder in the Badlands. The demon informed me that the perpetrator, a sorcerer named Smythe, fled to the Empire. I tracked the sorcerer to Fools Port, and through contacts there, learned he took passage to Black Cove. I’ve since discovered Smythe joined up with the Purists. The Heroes and I also discovered the Purists have formed a two-thousand strong force armed with Arsenale Granito muskets with clean marks. That force is now marching on Lisandra, with this Smythe in their company.”

“So, the shipment wasn’t lost at sea like we were told,” the major said, in low Republican. “I told you Canelli was lying to us.”

“Senator Canelli will be dealt with at a later time,” the ambassador said. “We must deal with the information these men brought us.” The ambassador turned to Rin. “What you are telling me is the Purists have muskets and are marching on the capital? And this human sorcerer is with them?”

“That would be an accurate summation, sir,” Rin answered.

“Normally, what you just reported would be ridiculous, but I think in light of other information we have, it is terrifyingly credible,” the ambassador said. “Ranger Acciaio, you will come with me to give your report to the Chancellor. He might actually listen to me this time – especially with Heroes Volker and Madrigal along to vouch for your story.”

“If I may, your excellency, Hero Onale is at the Crystal Palace to discuss the matter with the Imperial Regent. Lady Sonya might be able to act on your information if the Chancellor refused to do so.”

“Yes, that makes sense, Hero Volker.” Ambassador Tierra paused as a sudden thought struck him. “How under the Protector’s graces did two Heroes of the Empire manage to get mixed up in a ranger’s hunt?” Kurt was deciding how best to answer the question when Marteen decided to join the conversation with his characteristic bluntness.

“What do you mean?” Marteen asked, “We’ve known Rin since he was a boy. Of course, we were going to join back up with him when he came home.” Rin shot Marteen a murderous look before quickly returning to a studious neutral expression. Kurt didn’t think either the ambassador or the major noticed. They were both staring at Marteen.

“Are you telling me that Ranger Acciaio is…” the ambassador said, before trailing off to stare at Rin. “Hero Acciaio? I thought it was just a coincidence.”

“Hrm. I thought Hero Acciaio was a dwarf,” Major Agnelli said, before also turning to Rin. “I wondered why a dwarf would have a Mareian name. You’ve been holding back on us, ranger.” Kurt couldn’t tell if the officer was angry or amused.

“I’m not the only ranger with a disreputable past,” Rin said, flatly. The major laughed.

“Yes, well, your ‘disreputable past’, as you call it, is needed by the Republic,” the ambassador said.

“How can I help you, Ambassador Tierra?” Rin asked, with perfect deference.

“We’ve come into some information about Purist activities here in Lisandra,” the ambassador said. “I passed this to the Imperial Chancellor, but he disregarded it. With your connection to the Imperial Regent, we can, as Hero Volker suggested, take this directly to Lady Sonya. If she lends her support, then perhaps we can get the Diet to act.” Rin’s face didn’t move, but Kurt could see his eyes flash with annoyance.

“With all respect, sir, you have two Heroes here,” Rin said, “They’ve seen everything I have except for the Badlands murders. Both would be happy to help you talk to the Imperial Regent. I have a hunt to continue for Smythe. I came to give you warning of the Purist army approaching the capital, and to inform Major Agnelli I’m conducting a hunt in his patrol area.”

“Didn’t you say your quarry is in the middle of that army?” the major asked. Rin nodded. “So, he’s coming to you. What’s so pressing that you can’t spend a few hours helping the Senate’s direct representative in these lands?” The major stressed the last part.

“I was hoping to ride out and catch them while they were still on the move. I could snatch Smythe from the Purists without any of them realizing it. Then I could drag him back to Lisandra for the trip back to the Republic. With all due respect, sir, catching Smythe is my mission.”

“I am the senior ranger in this patrol circuit, and I am ordering you to assist the ambassador with whatever he needs. Further, you are ordered to assist this embassy in either defending this city or evacuating it. Don’t even bother pulling chain of command on me. You’re not in the Badlands now. You’re in my circuit.”

“Understood, major,” Rin said with perfect deference before coming to a rigid stance. It wasn’t insubordinate, but clearly the actions of a junior who disagreed with orders from a senior. There was no trace of the sullenness Rin used when Kurt told him to do something the boy didn’t want to do.

“Ambassador Tierra, how reliable is this information?” Kurt asked.

“Very, in our opinion,” Ambassador Tierra said.

“So why didn’t the chancellor take this seriously?” asked Marteen.

“Officially, the Chancellor doubts our veracity,” Ambassador Tierra said, “Especially when I refused to divulge the source. Before you ask, no, I am not going to do so with you either, Hero Madrigal.” Marteen turned to Kurt with an exasperated look.

“Remind me again why Sonya just didn’t send that bastard packing when she became the Imperial Regent?” Marteen asked. Kurt groaned. The damned elf could never keep his mouth shut. To his credit, the ambassador pretended not to hear Marteen’s question or the silent exchange following.

“It will be our pleasure to assist you in getting this information to the Imperial Regent,” Kurt said to the ambassador with a formal tone. “With that in mind, we should be going to the Crystal Palace as quickly as possible.”

“Would you please give me fifteen minutes to gather my materials, Hero Volker?” Ambassador Tierra asked. “Then I will happily take you to the Crystal Palace in my carriage.”

“Of course,” Kurt answered. The ambassador escorted them out of the office to a well-appointed salon with several comfortable chairs as well as a fully stocked liquor set. Rin left with Major Agnelli to go to the embassy’s armory to replace his ammunition. Kurt selected a suede-covered armchair and sat down. He glared at Marteen when the elf picked up one of the decanters and sniffed the contents.

“What?” Marteen asked, slightly offended.

“Do you really think that’s a good idea right now?” Kurt asked.

“I was only going to have one drink,” Marteen answered.

“Marteen, it’s never just one drink,” Kurt replied, “It’s going to be hard enough for you to deal with Sonya without being drunk on top of it. You know how badly that upsets her.”

“Well, what if it does?” Marteen countered defiantly, “She’s made it perfectly clear that what I do is none of her concern anymore.”

“We both know that isn’t true. If it was, she wouldn’t have asked me to fetch you from Valera,” Kurt said. Much to Kurt’s relief, Marteen put down the liquor and stormed away from the table.

“Thank you, old friend,” Kurt said when Marteen flopped into another chair. “Rin’s going to need both of us to be strong.”

“He’s your son, Kurt, so I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt,” Marteen said. “I think you’re wrong for pushing him this way. He doesn’t need to be there. There’s nothing but pain waiting for him in that place.” Marteen’s tone told Kurt the elf was thinking of his own pain inside the Palace.

“Rin needs to see Illana,” Kurt said.

“Why? You think just his appearance will make Illana suddenly become a better person?” Marteen asked.

“Yes, I do, and I think seeing her will help him deal with all that pain he’s been carrying. Is it so wrong to want that?” Kurt asked, his frustration filling his voice.

“No,” Marteen said. “You want him to be happy. Honestly, I really hope you’re right. As for me? I’m half-expecting Rin to shoot someone after she rips him apart. I’m not sure I want to be in the room for that reunion.”

Chapter Eleven

Everyone remembers Selene Onale merely as the scholar—the seemingly frivolous girl who chanced upon the prophecies and unraveled Cull’s grand design. She is often reduced to the woman who harbored unrequited love for Marteen Madrigal and whose heart was shattered when he chose Sasha. But such a view barely scratches the surface of who she truly was. The foppish, heartsick bookworm had long since vanished by the time the Heroes returned to Lisandra. The Selene who returned was a seasoned warrior, a master of Grace, and an unparalleled scholar. She had transformed into the very epitome of what a cleric should aspire to be. With resolute defiance, she walked into the Crystal Palace, embodying strength and wisdom in equal measure. Yet, it was precisely for her embodiment of these virtues that the Sacellum chose to banish her. – Artist Baken Baken, “A Retrospective of the Heroes – Five Years Later”

SELENE

Selene’s hand throbbed. She forgot how much it hurt to punch someone. She opened and closed her hand to lessen the pain as her husband, Robar, served tea. How was she going to explain Robar to these three? None of her friends knew about her marriage. When she felt Marteen, Kurt, and Rin traveling to her home, Selene furiously contemplated how to explain her situation. She thought she prepared enough to see Marteen again. It was eight years since she left Lisandra to “retire” to this little cottage. Even that morning, she prayed to the Goddess to give her the serenity to deal with Marteen. Then, she saw him just standing on her front step, smiling as if nothing had happened, and everything went red. Robar was so shocked by her reaction that he froze in the doorway as she rained blows down on Marteen. Kurt was too busy laughing to be of any use. Then, Rin yanked her off Marteen. Selene was so surprised, Robar had a chance to invite them in for tea.

Selene took a sip of her tea and examined Rin. His sudden appearance in the medallion’s pulses was a pleasant surprise. Selene chided herself at the thought. It shouldn’t have been so surprising. The promise would have brought him back from wherever he’d been hiding for the last ten years. There was a darkness in the boy. It worried Selene – and slightly frightened her. What happened to the happy boy she remembered?

“Why has the terrible trio made their way to my humble cottage?” Selene asked.

“Marteen’s hurt, and the, um, field expedient treatment…” Kurt let his voice trail off. The dwarf looked decidedly uncomfortable. Selene focused on Marteen and called upon the Goddess’s Grace. Selene’s eyes opened fully to the world around her. The teacup shattered on the hard wood floor as Selene leapt across the room to Marteen. How was Marteen even walking with that befouled hole in his body? She ripped open his shirt to get a better look. There was a half-inch hole in his shoulder area filled with a foul, black, tarry substance. Lines of black radiated from the wound, as if the substance was leeching into Marteen’s body. Selene swallowed back the bile rising in the back of her throat.

“What is this? What happened to you? What did this to you?”

“It’s ichor,” Rin said.

“What?”

“Demon blood.” Selene stared at Rin in horror.

“You did this to him? On purpose?” Selene thundered. Kurt studied the floor, but Rin defiantly met her eyes. That shocked Selene almost as much as the ichor. Even after Illana, Rin was never able to look Selene in the eye when she was angry.

“It was that or let him die,” Rin answered, “Can you honestly tell me you would’ve wanted me to let him die when there was something I could do to prevent it?” The bite in his words felt like a slap across Selene’s face. She looked back at Marteen. Even after he broke her heart, Selene knew she would have done anything to save him – and she hated herself for it.

“Evil actions cannot be justified by good intentions,” Robar intoned, scowling at Rin.

“Which means you’ve never really had to fight for your good intentions,” Rin replied coldly. Robar’s gaze hardened.

“Your statement underscores mine.”

“Who under the Protector’s Gaze are you to question my actions?"

“I’m a cleric of the Tradition of the Soul, and Selene’s husband,” Robar said, "For both these reasons, I can and will make judgment what you brought into this house.”

“Enough,” Selene said, stopping the argument before it could escalate. Time was short if she was going to save Marteen from being consumed by the corruption and cursed to damnation.

“Robar, go prepare the shrine for the purification and healing rites. Then come back here to help me with Marteen. Kurt, I’ll need your help also.” She turned her gaze on Rin.

“Right now, I need you to stay in the cottage. I can’t have you stepping on my shrine’s sacred grounds.” Rin nodded, as if he expected the command. Selene focused on Marteen. She reached out to the Goddess and felt Grace pour into her. Selene saw the wound apart from the ichor filling it. Carefully placing small strings of Grace into the wound, Selene slowed the ichor’s corruption. Just doing that much taxed Selene’s strength. Purifying and healing the entire wound was going to be one of the most intense and difficult rituals Selene performed in a long time.

“Don’t be too hard on Rin,” Marteen whispered to her as she worked. “He did what he was supposed to do.”

“Do you know what he did to you?” Selene whispered back.

“Yes,” Marteen said. “He kept me alive to get here.”

“If Kurt didn’t get you here in time, your body and soul would be desecrated. You would be torn from the Goddess.”

“Rin’s been working the Badlands. Out there, you do whatever you have to do to survive. Including using things like demon blood. Adapt or die,” Marteen said before erupting into a hacking fit. Selene thought on those words as she continued to work. She assumed Rin went back to the human lands after Illana’s restoration. It was the only real explanation for his complete disappearance. Still, she never thought he would go to the place that drove Marteen to near madness. Maybe living is such a twisted place caused the darkness she sensed in him.

Robar came back into the cottage. Kurt and Robar helped Marteen up and walked him out the back to the shrine. Rin abruptly stood up. Selene’s eyes were drawn to sword and gun belted at his waist. It was so odd to not see a quiver on his hip or a bow in his hand.

“I’ll be outside,” Rin said, “Someone should stand guard in case the Purists sent someone after us.” Selene didn’t know what to say, so she said nothing as he walked out of the cottage. Part of her wanted to go after him and heal all that pain in him. At that moment, Marteen needed her more. Selene prayed to the Goddess to help Rin as she made her way to the shrine.

Eight hours later, Selene walked into her front garden. Selene was exhausted and wanted her bed, but she knew she wouldn’t be able to sleep if she didn’t at least try to help Rin. He was standing next to her flower bed.

“How is he?” Rin asked in a quiet voice.

“Marteen’s resting. We cleansed the ichor and mostly healed the shoulder. It took a lot out of all of us, including Marteen. He should be fine in a day or two,” Selene answered. As she walked over to where Rin was standing, Selene let herself enjoy the cool night breeze. The winds coming down off the mountains were a relief after the hours in the shrine. The rituals were even more intense than she expected. Selene wasn’t sure if Marteen would survive until the last hour. Thankfully, the Goddess acted on Selene’s prayers.

“Damn. I don’t have a day or two. The Purists have a regiment’s worth of troops marching to Lisandra. If those troops are doing a hard march, they could be at the city in a week, give or take a couple of days.” Rin looked up at the night sky as if divining the stars before looking back down to her.

“Tell Kurt to stay here with Marteen. If I leave now, I think I can catch up to them.”

“You don’t need to do that,” Selene said.

“Yes, I do,” Rin replied. Selene gave Rin a knowing smile.

“You’ll see her soon enough,” Selene said. The sudden flash of anger in Rin’s eyes caught her off-guard.

"She is not why I’m doing this.”

“You’re here because of the promise,” Selene answered, “Haven’t you felt your medallion waking up?”

“Yes,” Rin answered, curtly. Selene let the Goddess’s Grace fill her again and took a harder look at Rin. The darkness he was carrying inside was closer to the surface. It had to be related to the promise and Illana. Selene walked over and hugged him gently. It was like embracing a statue at first, but then Rin relaxed.

“You used to get so flustered anytime I touched you,” Selene said, keeping her voice light. She needed to be careful. A misstep could chase him away before she could help him. Goddess, how she wanted to help him.

“I was a kid, and you were the prettiest woman I knew. I wasn’t sure what to do.”

“I know,” Selene said, “It was endearing, and admittedly, a bit flattering.” Selene paused and then decided to make a small push. “Then, you met Illana, and you never looked at me that way again.”

“Can we not talk about her, please?” Rin asked.

“That’s fine, Rin. We don’t have to talk about Illana,” Selene said. She embraced him again.

“Thank you for saving Marteen,” Selene said. “You’re right. I would have done anything to save him in your place.”

“You’re welcome,” Rin said. “As frustrating as he can be…” Rin let the sentence trail off.

“Believe me, I know what you mean. Still, you don’t have to leave tonight, or even in the morning,” Selene said.

“Why?”

“Robar and I can open a gate back to Lisandra," Selene answered. “As soon as Marteen is strong enough, we can go directly to the Crystal Palace.” Rin cocked his head in surprise.

“How can you open a gate?” Rin asked. “I thought after the Daemon War, the knowledge was lost.”

"You’re not the only one who learned new things since the last time we saw each other. Robar and I figured out how to create a gate that can link to an existing gate. Robar figured out the natural magic side while I figured out the Grace component.”

“That is amazing Selene. The sooner we get to Lisandra, the better.”

“We?”

“Kurt says the Capitol Army is training outside the city. They’ll need time to bring them back. I have my own tasks once we get to the capital."

“That does change things,” Selene said, “Marteen can move in a day. He’ll still be recovering, but he should be strong enough to travel. We’ll open the gate at first light the day after tomorrow. Can you wait that long?” Rin just nodded.

“Thank you, Rin. For saving Marteen. And for coming home. We were so worried about you.”

"A week ago, I wouldn’t have cared. I was sure all of you abandoned me when we brought her back to Lisandra. Now I know it wasn’t all of you forgetting me, as much as the Empire taking the rest of you in and leaving me out. Which leaves me very conflicted. I know I should forgive all of you. I want to forgive all of you. I am happy to see all of you. I just can’t get rid of this anger.”

"I’m not trying to stoke that anger, but why can’t you forgive Illana, then? She is not among those who forced you out.”

“Illana is the Empire. It’s why you told us we needed to rescue her from Cull. To save the Protector-damned Empire. What did I get for helping the Empire get back on a path to healing itself?” Rin countered.

Selene bit back her retort. Rin hadn’t been there for the aftermath. He didn’t have to fight the endless political battles with the Diet and the Sacellum day in and day out. He didn’t have to deal with the woman Illana became. Goddess, Selene only managed a year before she allowed herself to be exiled to this little cottage with an arranged marriage to a husband she barely knew. If the rumors she heard were right, the others hadn’t fared as well in her absence.

"I’m sorry we hurt you, and I am so glad you are…back.” Selene didn’t know why she changed the last word.

“I’m glad you came out to talk with me, Selene.” She looked deep into Rin’s eyes.

“You are my friend, and I have precious few of those. I hate seeing you in pain.”

“I’ll survive. I’ve managed the pain this long.” Rin yawned. Selene smiled at him.

“Off to bed with you. Someone else can look out for any Purists until morning.” Rin looked like he might object, but then she gave him the same stern look she used on him when he was younger. Rin chuckled and walked back into the cottage.

Selene looked up into the starry night. It had been a gut-wrenching day. It didn’t help Marteen’s appearance stirred up feelings she thought put away a long time ago. She looked back and thought of Rin. As hard as Selene’s life was since Illana’s return, Rin’s was worse. She couldn’t imagine carrying around that kind of pain and anger for a decade. Her own heartache paled.

Goddess, please indulge me further, and let me heal him, Selene prayed silently. It was one of a hundred prayers Selene sent to her deity on a daily basis. It was not the one she expected to hear an answer.

IT IS NOT YOUR TASK TO HEAL THE HIS HEART, the smooth, powerful voice echoed in Selene’s mind, IT WILL BE YOUR TASK TO GUIDE HIM TO THE ONE WHO WILL HEAL HIM. Selene sank to the soft, cool ground as she felt the Goddess’s presence leave her mind. It would be no use to ask the Goddess what She meant. The Goddess only said what She wanted someone to know – no more and no less.

The next morning, Kurt was waiting for her in the sitting room. The scruffy dwarf was sitting on the couch, holding a mug of coffee. She never understood the fascination with the human drink. Especially when there were more civilized alternatives available. Kurt smiled at her as she stepped into the room.

“Join me?” he asked, motioning to her favorite chair.

“Good morning, Kurt,” Selene said. “Can we talk later? I have a great deal to do.”

“Just a few minutes, please. Indulge an old friend,” Kurt said, “I don’t think we’ll have the time later with you getting ready to open that gate to Lisandra.” She wanted to beg off, but Selene didn’t dare. Not after yesterday. Neither Selene nor Robar would have been able to handle Marteen while he was in the throes of agony, but the burly dwarf had years of experience restraining Marteen.

“How did you know about the gate?” Selene asked.

“I have my ways,” Kurt said, cryptically.

“Rin told you.”

“It’s not fair when you use logic,” Kurt said. Selene chuckled as she dropped down in the chair. She missed the dwarf’s odd sense of humor.

“Why didn’t you tell us that you’d married?” Kurt asked. “All we knew was you left the Sacellum.” Selene was quiet for a long moment. She pondered telling him the whole story. She knew Kurt wouldn’t judge her for being weak.

“It was so hard seeing the two of them happy. Seeing her have what I wanted,” Selene said, “Between dealing with my heartache, dealing with Illana, dealing with Ela, and dealing with the Sacellum, I just couldn’t do it anymore. I couldn’t be the Selene all of you needed anymore. The Sacellum offered me a way out.” The look in Kurt’s eyes said he knew there was more, but he didn’t press her further. Selene felt even more guilty, but relieved at the same time.

“Well, if we handle things right, the Illana situation will be resolved,” Kurt said, with a conspiratorial air.

“What are you talking about?” Selene asked.

“Rin’s come home,” Kurt answered. Selene waited for Kurt to continue, but the dwarf just looked at her.

“Kurt, have you seen the anger in Rin’s eyes anytime Illana’s name is mentioned?” Selene asked. “Even if Rin didn’t feel that way, I know how much worse Illana’s become since I left. She’ll throw one of her tantrums, he’ll fight back because of that anger, and then she’ll drive him away again. Just like she’s managed to do with pretty much everyone else. I don’t think even Sonya actually deals with her as much as works around her.”

“Selene, you’re the most intelligent of our little band,” Kurt said. “Think about how Illana and Rin acted when they were together and compare that to how they act now. Their personalities radically changed in a very short time. What could cause that?”

“I’m sure there’s an answer, but right now, I’m still too foggy to think through that question,” Selene said.

“Think about it today. I have a hunch, but I would like someone else to confirm what I suspect. I’ll try to talk with you again before we leave for Lisandra.” Selene stood up and gave Kurt a quick hug and peck on his forehead before walking back to the shrine to check on Marteen. Her mind started pulling apart Kurt’s words. She swore under her breath. Damn that dwarf for giving her a problem to solve.

Chapter Ten