Aeolis finally awoke and instantly knew Ceridwyn was gone. Her unique scent was not as strong this morning and he knew why without even looking. Somehow he knew she would be gone when he awoke and while he respected her decision, he also felt hurt by it. But he couldn't be mad at her. Perhaps in his former life, yes. But not now. He silently wished her all the best in her life's work then slowly forced himself out of the natural, leafy bed she'd made for them the night before.

There would be time for wishing later. For now, he had to help these Knights at the painful task of trying to figure out what the hell was going on here and how to best aid their citizens. As he splashed water on his face and prepared to leave the room they'd been given, he looked back at the leafy bed once more before he walked out and closed the door behind him again. As he made his way out into the streets he noticed it was eerily quiet. So far the only people he saw moving about were the Knights. IN fact, one caught his attention as he recognized the sad, light brown gaze that looked over at him as he emerged from his lodgings.

Kellan was up and already working at getting some more things organized. He gave the young woman a small smile and was given one in kind. He was just making his way over to her when he caught a glimpse of Trystan out of the corner of his eye. Remembering what Ceri had said about the two of them the night before, Aeolis took his time in approaching making it seem as if he were looking things over to determine what, if anything, could still be done.




Kellan had risen with the first light of dawn. Her sleep had been troubled and plagued with terrible visions of her brother in all sorts of twisted carnage. The last time she woke it was to one of her fellow knights shaking her shoulder she finally decided it was just best to get up and stop disturbing the rest of her bunk mates. She wasn't dressed in the finery Trystan was but she was dressed better than she normally dressed. Her blond hair was pulled back away from her face but left to fall freely to her shoulders in the back. Dark circles surrounded her light brown eyes and her shoulders seemed to be slumped just a little and not held square and proud as they usually were.

She finished up grooming her horse when she decided to take a walk around Heartlund once more. The ominous rift in the sky was still there as the light of day finally broke through the darkness of the night sky. Furrowing her brows, she cast her gaze skyward as she looked to the heavens. What in the name of the Gods was happening to Krynn? What were these towers and why had they been constructed? And better yet....who had constructed them?

Pushing these thoughts from her mind, she made her way towards the center of town and saw the baker's light on. Stopping by to check on things she was delighted too find he and his wife had risen early to bake up some sweet treats and fresh bread as a thank you for the knights and ll they had done for them the day before. The smile she gave them both was heartfelt and she thanked them both for their thoughtfulness. After that, she made her way through the city once more to triple check on things.

She was just returning from her check when she saw the Elf, Aeolis, walking out of the building he and the White Robe had been given a room to lodge in. As the Elf gave her a small smile, she returned one in kind then saw Trystan. He looked nothing short of handsome in his finery. Already she could feel her cheeks flush just at the sight of him in his formal attire. She suddenly felt under dressed and smoothed out her tunic and straighted the belt at her waist then stood a little taller as he approached.

The Elf Aeolis approached at the same time as well and she greeted them both with a nod a small smile.

"Greeting, M'Lord Trystan....and Aeolis. It appears as though we've survived the night. That has to be a good omen of some sort. Don't you think?"

Aeolis smiled and nodded in kind.

"Greetings Lady Kellan. Lord Trystan. And yes. I believe every morning we awaken is a good omen. Now it is up to us to make the most of the day we have been given."

Rose slept like the dead and as she lifted herself from her bed awakened by a knock upon her door she felt like the dead as well. Her sleep had been dreamless and restful but she still felt drained mentally and spiritually. With a light grumble she reached for something to make herself decent and bid her guest to enter. She knew it had to be a messenger as it was the only reason the person would even be allowed to knock.

The youth saluted and Rose nodded to him in kind. "Sir Trystan wished me to let you know he and Lady Kellen would arrive at eleven bells to deliver their full report on the situation ma'am."

Rose frowned slightly noting the lateness of the time but she did not question it. Trystan likely wanted her to get some rest and that made her ponder on how she must have looked upon her arrival Did I really look that bad. Quickly she brushed the thought away and dismissed the runner and asked for Larissa to be summoned. Within minutes she came bursting in with a tray filled with food and a look that dared Rose to argue about eating.

There were many who commented that the young lady often stepped outside her post, but it was one of the things Rose liked about her. When there was a battle to be waged Rose was very susceptible to tunnel vision. Larissa was responsible for making sure she did not neglect her health and as a result she was given certain liberties in regards to protocol.

Knowing the look all to well Rose sat and waited for the food to be set. Larissa said nothing and only smiled before gathering up Rose's armor "I will take your gear for repair m'lady... it won't be ready for your meeting but it should be ready this evening."

Looking up from her food Rose raised an eyebrow "exactly what time is it Larissa..."

"a quarter tick past nine in the morning Lady Rose. I thought you would sleep the day away until that boy arrived." With a smile she was gone as fast as she entered.

Rose sat in silence once more and ate her meal. She found that she was surprisingly hungry and soon everything was devoured. She set the tray of dishes aside knowing it would be dealt with when the storm returned. She set about the task of cleaning herself up to look more presentable and dragged out her formal wear. She did not wear it often here in the field but since Larissa hard carted off her gear for repair so it would have to do. A simple formal commander's attire that was a deep purple trimmed out with a cream white.

She would spend the better part of an hour fussing over every detail, and anything she missed would be caught by Larissa no doubt. As the eleven o'clock hour approached Rose sat studying the maps laid out on her table. Her mind focused on the areas the towers now stood as she tried to comprehend their purpose. Unlike many she had a good idea of who had created these towers, but the purpose left her baffled. She reached for a glass and sipped from a cup of tea.

Trystan smiled warmly as he saw Kellan, saluting formally but his eyes held something deeper that only she would be able to interpret. “Good morrow to you Kellan, I trust you slept well.” He looked over her shoulder as Aeolis approached and extended a hand in friendship, “And good morrow to you Aeolis, pleasant to see you up and about.” He looked at the elf a brief second before turning his attention back to Kellan, there was something in the Elf’s face, something that was buried deeply, a sadness. He did not linger on it and he turned back to Kellan.

He smiled as Kellan said her words, a good omen to have made it through the night. He was about to respond when Aeilis spoke and Trystan, who’s thoughts were much less gloomy, decided to keep his words regarding the situation to himself. “Not to be too straight to duty Kellan, but are you prepared for our meeting with the Commander? I suspect she will be asking a lot of detail questions, she’s a planner, more than most, she is going to expect every detail.” He smiled and turned to Aeolis, “Aeolis, it would be a pleasure to have you and Ceridwyn join us as well. Lady Rose hasn’t seen you in months and she will most likely want yours and the Wizard’s insights into this whole situation. Can the two of you join us?”

Ceridwyn felt the twist in her heart, the conflict that still lingered within her. Was she truly motivated by fear? Was she really taking the easy road? Her cottage in Silvanost felt empty and cold. She began to cry as she held her robes in her hand. She had been folding them to put them into storage. Unfolding them again she held the pristine white silk in front of her and through blurred eyes traced the finely knit seams with her eyes. Had she gone too far? Had her emotions finally come unchecked and caused her to make a rash decision from which she could not back away?

Tossing the robes onto her bed she walked and looked out across the rooftops and tree homes of Silvanost. She inhaled deeply and she shivered in her confusion. Ariterus seemed to speak as if he had looked directly into her soul, and the worst part was, she was starting to think he was right. Could she really give up magic? Could she walk away from hundreds of years of dedication to the cause of light? Or worse than all these lingering questions, was she a fool to even make such a vow? She began to sob heavily, her face buried in her hand as she leaned against the balcony door. Even the lovely coolness of the air around her couldn’t cure the fever she was feeling in her heart. She had been married to her magic for so long she had forgotten what it meant to care for someone beyond compassion alone. Aeolis had cracked a shell that nobody knew existed, and now the innards were spilling across the floor of her cottage.

She looked up again, her eyes lingering on the trees, the flow of nature all around her caused her to shake with nerves, but it was too late. She was no longer the leader of the Council, she had already made that choice, and there was nothing she could do to take that back. She knew that the promotion of Aurtimus had most likely already taken place, this was wartime there would be no delay. That was the least of her concern however, handing over leadership of the Council was more a relief than a burden, where the conflict was coming to a head was in her spirit. Could she follow through, could she turn her back on the god of magic who had shown her his favor time and time again. She looked up, the silver moon of Solinari shown through the canopy and she felt her eyes well up again, it was as if the very eye of the moon’s god was looking at her. “I’m sorry…,” she whispered the words through her shaking voice and she turned to walk back into the room. It occurred to her that it was not magic she had to leave, it was adventuring, it was putting herself out there, fighting the evil that she would have to give up, it she couldn’t do that, not with a clear conscious.

She slipped the white robes again, and she felt a tingling sensation move through her body. A sensation of peace coursed through her body and she felt the light of Solinari fill the room as she closed her eyes and bathed in its warmth. A gentle voice echoed in her mind, “Child, you have always been loyal, even in your darkest times. It is not wrong to love again, it is part of life, it is part of why you were created. From the creation of the Greygem we intended love to be a motive not a hindrance. It is time to let your pain go, it is time to understand that you are worthy of happiness once again, you always were, you simply let your grief blind you.”

The light slowly receded from the room and she opened her eyes, smiling brightly, “Thank you lord.” She gathered her things and teleported to the region of Heartlund. Standing in the center of the Solamic stronghold she saw Aeolis assisting a human woman with her child. He sensed her instantly, she could tell as he turned and looked at her. She smiled, her face was warmer than it had ever been, her eyes sparkled and she stood tall, the burden of her past lifted from her shoulders. She waited patiently as he finished assisting the woman and when he stood and faced her again she began running to him, closing the distance quickly, her eyes echoing a depth of true love that could never be faked.

Aeolis felt pang cross his heart when Trystan asked if Ceridwyn would be able to join them. That sadness Trystan had picked up on just moments ago could clearly be seen now but only for the briefest of moments. True to his proud Elven heritage, Aeolis gave a small smile and shook his head.

”No. I fear it will be just me, Sir Trystan. Ceridwyn had business to attend to elsewhere that drew her away in the early morning hours. We most likely will not be seeing her for quite some time.”

It took every ounce of energy Aeolis had to say that statement without so much as a cracking of his voice. But he did. He saw the look that passed between Trystan and Kellan and knew they understood the full meaning of his words. It hurt even more to know he could fool no one.

He looked away at the brave Knights who were starting to mingle about more and more as they assisted the frightened citizens of Heartlund. Finally he looked back and gave that small smile to them again.

”When the meeting takes place, I will join you both. Until then, I will assist the population of Heartlund in any way I can. Please send a runner for me and I shall meet you both there and offer any intelligence I can.”

With a quick salute, he turned and made his way into the growing number of people walking about. He would immerse himself in following through with the plan he and Ceri had originally set out to do. It was, after all, all he could think to do at the moment.




Kellan gave Trystan a salute, as protocol dictated, but she also gave him a smile that let him know she was forever grateful for what he did last night. When he asked about her sleep, she shrugged a shoulder and avoided the issue as best she could by telling him she slept about as well as she could all things considered.

As Aeolis approached she noticed the sadness in the Elf’s eyes as well and after she heard what he said regarding Ceridwyn, Kellan understood what she saw in the depths of his green eyes. As he excused himself to work, Kellan kept her eyes on his retreating back as she spoke softly to Trystan.

”It appears as though we weren’t the only ones with revelations last night.”

When she turned her light brown eyes to settle on his gaze there could have been much more to the meaning of her words but before he could even give them much thought she was talking to him about the meeting with the commander.

”I’m ready for the meeting. I hope I’ll have the answer to the questions she’ll be directing to me. Although there isn’t much to really say other than those towers arose, terrified the masses, made our fellow knights cower in fear – though not because they lacked courage, and murdered our fellow Knights. I believe the exchange of information will be heavily one sided in her favor. Although, I’d be lying if I stated I wasn’t interested in finding out what she had to report. After all, she has seen much more than we have.”

Once again she couldn’t help but notice how Trystan’s eyes held a different look to them this morning. Her brother’s death, while tragic and surreal, had allowed them to bridge a gap that seemed to spread far and wide between them. There had alwys been mutual respect and Kellan was never one to question Trystan’s orders. While she may not have fully understood them, she trusted him enough to know everything would come full circle and she would see the full lesson he was trying to teach her.

Sometimes that lesson was very hard. At other times it was merely a matter of testing her resolve. Not once, though, had he ever treated her with anything but dignity and understanding. Even when she had trouble understanding the full depth of her training. He was patient enough to keep working with her until the light finally shone in her eyes that she understood. Not that it happened all that often, but when it did, she could count on Trystan to guide her through it to the other side.

Now, as she stood standing next to him and seeing the look in his eyes (that also caused her heart to beat just a tad bit faster) Kellan understood what it meant to have someone who truly understood what she was going through. He would forever be her Lord and Master but on this one thing they were equal and Kellan could never express her gratitude enough to let Trystan know what it meant to her.

Finally she took a deep breath and looked around Heartlund as the citizens began to rise from their fitful slumbers and see if the nightmare from the day before was still there. As the sounds of concerned voices began to fill the air, Kellan knew they would have to stop things before they got into a full fledged panic. Looking back to Trystan, she gave him a small smile and nodded.

”I believe duty calls once more, Lord Trystan. I’ll join you at eleven in the Commander’s strategic office. Until then, I’ll take care of keeping the nay sayers under control."





Aeolis slipped away from Trystan and Kellan and dove into helping the populace of Heartlund the best he could. More often than not it meant quieting fears and reassuring the citizens the Knights, and others in the area, were doing all they could to find out what caused the appearance of the towers and the rift in the sky over them.

He’d been working for a good hour and was talking with one of the humans who sought refuge from an outlying area when he felt a presence he was certain he wouldn’t feel for a very long time. Instantly his eyes left the woman and rested on the most beautiful face in all of Krynn.

He wasn’t even listening to the woman as he stared at Ceri from the distance. Too many questions were circling around in his mind. Why was she here? Did she come back to tell him good bye? Her eyes were puffy and red. Had she been crying all night? Why was she holding her things? What was going on? Finally the woman grew frustrated when Aeolis didn’t answer her right away and she bumped into the Elf’s shoulder as she brushed by mumbling something about rude Elves. Aeolis snapped out of his stupor and quickly apologized as he glanced at the retreating woman.

When he turned back to look at Ceri he saw the look in her eyes as she started running at break neck speed towards him. His face broke into a bright smile as he took two steps before catching her as she practically threw herself into his arms. He held her close and buried his face in her neck as he lifted her up off the ground and held her tight against him. He whispered softly in her ear as he spoke to her in their native language with a voice choked with emotion.

”If I am dreaming then do not awaken me. My heart soars seeing you again, Ceridwyn.”






Kellan was heading towards Trystan to join him for the meeting with the Commander when she heard a flurry of activity and some raised voices. Instantly she thought the worse and as she spun around her blade was half way out of the scabbard when she saw Ceridywn rushing towards Aeolis and jumping into his waiting arms.

As she watched the Elves embrace and cling to each other she felt a pang cross her heart. Slowly sliding her blade back into the protective sheath, she smiled slightly as the happiness of their reunion made some of the nearby citizens smile as well. Taking a deep breath, she turned and started to head towards Trystan again when she saw Trystan looking at her. The look in his eyes and on his face made her blink as she paused.

Feeling her cheeks grow warm from the way the look made her feel she silently berated herself then took another deep breath, pushed her girlish dreams aside, and squared her shoulders as she started walking towards him again. By now the look on his face was nothing out of the ordinary so she knew she had just been wishful thinking.

Seeing his eyes look past her now at the Elves, she smiled when she reached him and turned to watch Aeolis and Ceridwyn again. Speaking so only his ears could hear her; she kept watching the Elves as she spoke.

”It appears as though Lady Ceridwyn has had a change of heart, M’Lord. Lady Rose wil be very pleased at this turn of events. As it appears Aeolis is.”

Ceridwyn felt Aeolis’ arms around her and she pressed her lips into his neck as hard as she could. His voice was like a song in her ears and she spoke as she lifted her head up to look him in the eyes, the sonnet of native Elven filling the air, “My lord, my friend, I have the gift of a renewed vow, and the folly of a lifetime to live past. I swore I would never love again, but who are we to swear to the dirt or the moons? Solinari has given me a grace, and a little bit of a lecture if I might say it that way.”

She released her grip and slid to her tip toes and then leveled herself back down on to her feet. Looking up at him and holding his hands in her own and she squeezed gently as she spoke again, “I do have some news however,” Her eyes suddenly filled with a playful glint, “I am no longer the head of the Council of White Robes.” She chuckled softly as she witnessed the sudden gape in his mouth as his jaw dropped and she turned to look at a child that was staring around looking for his mother. Turning back to Aeolis he could clearly see that she was about to begin again with her joyful game of cat and mouse, it was a game that she had been playing with him since they had connected so many months ago. It was not malicious or hurtful, it was simply the “she” that she was. It was a playful game, an “I have something you want but I am gonna make you love it out of me” sort of affair, and she revealed in it. This was her at her most playful, it was the deep down Ceridwyn, the one that was often buried beneath the politics and the structure, and it occurred to Aeolis that since she was no longer bound to the social order of things, he might be about to get his fill of it. “Hmmm, that child needs assistance, I suppose duty calls.” She winked and let his hands go, picking up the child and whispering to him softly. She side glanced at Aeolis, knowing his mind was absolutely reeling with questions about her last statement, and there was a shining sparkle in her chestnut brown eyes.



Trystan looked at Kellan as she approached, and he watched the reuniting of the Elves. He turned and looked at her with a smile as she spoke of ‘revelations’ and he turned, looking back at the couple whom he had grown to love and respect over the last few months, “Perhaps, or perhaps it was less a change of heart and more a misunderstanding… you know how men are.”

As she turned and looked at him with a ‘gaf-aw’ sort of look on her face he winked and smiled cheerfully. He turned knowing she would follow, they were ten minutes from 11 and when it came to meetings with his superiors, Trystan was never late. He walked with Kellan, they stayed in perfect formation as the military order dictated, but he snuck a glance or two as they went, the silken blond hair catching his attention more than once. It was stupid to think that something could happen. Sure, they were a man and a woman, sure there was the spark between them, but what on Krynn would come of them getting involved. It couldn’t happen, he wouldn’t see her under another’s command, he simply could not allow her to be brought into someone else’s fold. He never held her back, he put her in harm’s way plenty of times, Kellan was a strong warrior, and he knew she could handle herself, it was more about keeping her as close as he could, for now.

They arrived at the Commander’s door and the two Knight’s of the Crown standing watched snapped to a salute. Trystan returned the salute and smiled to both the young men, freshly out of Paigeship it seemed, “As you were men, no need to be too formal.” He turned and looked at Kellan a very brief moment, she would understand him. He was not the type for all the lower rank formalities, he had always tried to create an atmosphere of equality for those under him, especially when they had bled with him on the field of battle. His approach was always that he was in charge, but if you obeyed orders and trusted his judgement you would be treated fairly and with dignity and honor.

The two men relaxed slightly and Trystan smiled. “Is the Commander available? Lord Trystan and Lady Kellan to see her. We have an appointment and we don’t want to keep her waiting.” The two men nodded and one turned, knocking, “Commander, two to see you, Sir Trystan and Lady Kellan.”

Trystan looked at Kellan, and then turned to look behind him, Aeolis and Cerudwyn had not followed. He turned and looked at Kellan, whispering, “I think in these dark times it is forgivable to allow lovers a moment of peace don’t you?” He felt his cheeks flush slightly, as he wished her was speaking those words about them, however for now it was not for them to focus on such things. With a slight wink he turned back to the door as the answer came from within. Instinctually Trystan smoothed the front of his tunic and stepped through the opening door.

Rose set aside the pile of reports that had stacked up in her absense. She was sipping her tea rubbing her left temple lightly when the knock came. She glanced up as the door opened and stood to greet Trystan and Kellan. Before anything could be said Rose spoke in a flat tired tone. "We can dispense with the formalities this morning Trystan. There is much to go over and I have no desire to waste time with the traditional rhetoric.

As was customary Larissa was present with a fresh pot of tea and was pouring glasses for them. Rose was usually very adamant about the adherence of protocol on most occassions. However she was known to dispence with formality when the situation was time sensative. There was also the fact she was clearly not fully recovered from what ever she had endured. Larrisa finished pouring their tea and removed herself from the room.

Rose motioned to two to take their seats. She noticed that the elves were not present this morning. Not entirely surprising when one thought of it. As far as they possibly knew there was not much to be discussed as of yet. Her meeting with them would come soon enough for now she focused on Trystan and Kellan.

"What do you have to report Sir Trystan?"

Trystan was just about to salute when Rose spoke, he smirked gently and could see that she was completely serious and was too tired to be fought with over the matter. He was a relaxed man for the most part, but he did tend to stick to protocol’s pretty tightly. Nodding respectfully of his Commander’s wishes he absent mindedly pulled out a chair for Kellan and then one for himself as he sat and picked up his tea. He looked at the map on the table before them and picked up a piece of writing silver, placing it gently on the map.

“Well Commander, here is the exact location of the three towers,” He drew them out in three circles. “As you can see the three towers make a perfect equilateral triangle, why this is possibly significant we still don’t know. What we do know is that the towers are protected by some sort of magic that even the most skilled Wizard’s have never encountered. Ceridwyn, the Silvanesti White Robe and leader of the White Robe Council told us yesterday that this type of magic is called ‘ambient’ magic, and though it is not evil in its nature, this particular usage is very perverted and distorted. The wizards of all orders are apparently in a panic about this as the appearance of the towers has caused the moons to dim, and as you know that is where the wizards draw their magic from.”

Trystan went on in detail about the wards of magic, the intense fear, more intense than dragon fear, and the scaring of the land where the magic erupted. He also drew in the massive gape in the landscape where the molten magma had begun to show, and how it seemed to be happening with the most intensity around the southern most tower. The he went into more detail about the northern most tower and how it was barely visible now through a dense shadowy like fog, and finally that the third and tallest of the three towers swirled with shadow and flame that seemed to draw from the other two towers.

“Lastly my lady, there is a fracture in the sky for lack of a better phrase. Ceridwyn described this as a ‘rift’, a place where the planes of time have actually been severed and this is apparently the source of the ambient magic field. When I questioned her about the possibility of somehow closing this rift she merely shoke her head and appeared to become very perplexed herself.”

He leaned back and turned to Kellan. “Kellan here has a bit more of an ‘on the ground’ perspective. She has been helping the citizens and has some unique perspectives of what happened from the citizen’s around the area. I also should add your Ladyship, that Kellan deserves some serious commendations for her work these last three days, she has served the citizens of the entire region of Heartlund with honor and courageous self sacrifice, especially in the face of losing her brother.”

He could see her eyes sadden as he mentioned her brother, however he was motivated purely out of giving her the credit she was due to her commanding officer, and she would see in his eyes that this was his only motivation in bringing it up. As he turned back to Lady Rose he spoke, “I would like to recommend she be awarded the gold crescent for her efforts, in my opinion she has earned it.”

Aeolis could have strangled Ceri the kissed her breathless before she could succumb to his choking hold. The Elfess was nothing more than a vixen in disguise. And he would have it no other way. While she frustrated him to no end he knew this was simply her nature and he had actually come to look forward to it. He liked this side f her much better than the serious, politically entrenched person he’d seen. Ceri became more of a free spirit, the way an Elf should be, when she let this side of herself free. And from what he could tell, she was free to let this side be more of a constant than the exception from now on.

That alone made the Elf smile broadly.

”I shall expect a full report later, M’Lady. Lest I be forced into forcing it out of you in a way I think you would find most…….enlightening.”

He called to her from across the way as she scooped up the child and started aiding the citizens like he had been. Like Ceri, Aeolis had a definite twinkle to his gaze and the smile he wore gave hint to much more than what met the eye. But their jesting was placed to the side when he suddenly found himself in the middle of more refugees as they began to move closer into the center of Heartlund as the daylight allowed them to move freely.

Kellan walked proudly to the Commander’s area with Trystan. His commanding style had given him respect from the others as well as a sense of awe form the newest members of the Knights. She could see the way some of the younger citizens of Heartlund stopped to watch as they passed by and it made her own posture stand just a little taller because of it. While she’d always been proud to be considered for the Knighthood, to actually finally be one brought a whole new sense of pride to her. And the fact Trystan was her Lord and trainer made her all the more proud.

When they finally arrived and Trystan announced they were there for the meeting, she stepped in behind him and sat down in the chair he’d offered as he sat down in his own. Listening to his report with the attention e was due, she found the news disturbing and informative all at the same time.

From time to time she would gance at Lady Rose and see the looks that crossed the Commander’s face. What she read in those looks and expressions made Kellan think there was much more to what Trystan had reported than they both knew at the moment but would soon enough. And for some reason, Kellan was now dreading hearing the news Lady Rose was going to relay.

When Trystan announced he wanted her to receive an accolade for her work in helping the citizens, Kellan blinked and snapped her gaze to his then she glanced at Lady Rose before she turned her attention back to Trystan. There was no doubt of the surprise and shock she was feeling as it clearly showed on her face and in her eyes.

“Lord Trystan honors me with his recommendation and I thank him for it, but in all honesty, M’Lady, I wasn’t the only one who worked at helping the citizens. Nor was I the only one who’d lost someone. It was a collaborative effort with the other Knights and those who see us as allies we were able to bring the citizens of Heartlund into the heart of the city and make accommodations for them all. I wouldn’t have been able to complete the task if not for his superior training.”

With that being stated, she went right into her report for the Commander.

”When the towers appeared there was a terrible sound that filled the air and the ground felt as though it was being torn apart. The only way I can describe it was that it felt like all of Krynn was dying a horrible death. As soon as we were able we sent patrols and scouts to get a closer look at the towers. As the Knights left to investigate the citizens of Heartlund began to panic as they saw the towers and the sky break open. We immediately began to find accommodations for the influx of people we knew would be coming to us looking for help. We weren’t expecting quite as many but we were able to double and sometimes triple the amount of people in rooms and even in the stables and barns. But what we weren’t expecting were the reports of what the people were telling us. I rode out with another patrol to look for myself and the first thing we noticed was the…..raping of the land. It was as if a great force had swept in and took everything. There’s nothing….absolutely nothing left. The ground turned to molten creating a chasm around the towers that’s too hot to traverse across and there’s no way around it. And the fear…..”

Kellan couldn’t stop the uncontrollable shudder that coursed through her body as she remembered how that fear felt.

”….it was mind numbing. Those who could return did so only out of sheer instinct. Many of the Knights ran away screaming and we have yet to find out just where they went. We have patrols out looking for them now. And those who have returned….I’m afraid many of them are afraid to even come out of their rooms. And each time they look towards the heavens and see the sky looking so….angry and see the towers, they scurry back inside like mice looking at a hungry cat. It’s only through training and discipline the others are able to continue on with their duties. I would humbly ask leniency be granted to them as they didn’t know what they were facing and the heinousness of the towers creation forced us to go into the situation without fully knowing what we were dealing with.”

Rose sat patiently sipping from her tea taking notes down as the two made their reports. Trystan's report troubled her as he described the towers and laid out their positioning on the map. The composition of the towers brought to mind the battle of Northkeep and it took all her will to not shudder thinking of the events there. She was certain without a doubt who was now responsible for this abomination of the natural order. For the moment though she chose to remain silent letting Trystan finish.

Trystan's professionalism was admirable in how he treated Kellan. Often her gut told her there was something there but at the same time she never saw it interfere with duty or responsibility. With Trystan's recommendation she had to way what she knew versus her gut feeling. The surprise on Kellan's face was genuine enough and her words following made Rose take note of the knight she was being molded into. With their reports done Rose sat silently contemplating things for a few moments.

She set down her tea and straightened herself. "Given the nature of these towers and what you have described to me I am inclined to accept your recommendation of leniency for our afflicted comrades. Though I am remiss to say that cases will have to be assessed individually. It will be the one caveat the higher powers will ask of me."

Her eyes shifted to Trystan "Your recommendation of the Golden Crescent will be taken under advisement Sir Trystan. I am certain however there are others whom are as deserving as well. I require a list of nine other candidates of which I will choose five. In a situation such as this we want the men to be sure fair consideration was mad." she held up hand "Kellan has proven through deed and word she is worthy of the commendation so worry not about the details. If you disagree with my decision I understand." She was a commander and had to oversee morale as well as juggle the political aspects of her job.

Rose now sat forward leaning upon the table "Now onto more unpleasantries... judging by the shaken look of Kellen yesterday despite her best efforts to remain strong I am going to assume word finally reached you about Northkeep." she held up two fingers

"Two mages... two of the most horridly powerful mages I have ever seen sacked the Northkeep. The high Commanders of the three orders were there in meeting when they began their assault. Unfortunately the commander of the sword was slain." Her eyes were focused on Trystan for a moment before they shifted away.

"The remainder of the high command chose to keep this secret at first while they gathered a force to retake the keep. That is when I was called away with the bulk of our fighting force. I knew the terrain there like the back of my hand since I grew up in the lands around the keep. When high command revealed what had happened the sword whipped itself into a frenzy with Sir Rausley acting as the stirring stick."

She took a moment to sip her tea "We spent weeks trying to test the mages limits. When we thought we had them figured out we made ready to take back our keep. We were not prepared for the horror those two unleashed upon us. I saw things on that field that will haunt me for two lifetimes" Her hand trembled slightly and she set down her tea.

"It became obvious we were going to be routed and I gave the order to withdraw... Rausley that impudent pompous bastard ignored my orders and accused me with being out of touch with my duty and the needs of the order. Accused me of cowardice..." Her shakes vanished in a flash as she slammed her upon her desk.

"That fool convinced the entirety of the sword to march to their deaths and we lost many more as a result. What few men that came with me were the ones that knew I was right and where also the ones lucky enough to not be picked off by the horrors those mages called down upon us..." She took a moment to compose herself "But I fear that is scarcely the worst part of it... One in particular was focused on reaping as many of us as possible while the other over saw some item I could scarcely make out. There were eerie green lights all over the field and it wasn't till I saw a man struck down taking a magical bolt meant for me that I discovered they were capturing the souls of slain our comrades."

She saw the looks in their eyes and envied them knowing their minds could only imagine such a thing but it would never compare to seeing it first hand. "While we raced from the keep to return here I could only wander what nefarious purpose they had for doing what they did... I believe these towers are their doing. The towers appeared the day after the force was routed. I can only surmise they used those souls to fuel whatever is happening here."

Rose grew silent taking up her tea. Her eyes held a mixture of horror and rage. Horror in what she had seen and rage at the loss of life that could have been avoided. "I already sent a runner to the high command with my report detailing the events that took place there. My only solace is knowing that idiot Rausley died on that battlefield... I weep for every soul lost but his"

She noted the strange looks from the two and composed herself. "I am forgetting my place I am sorry..." As of yet she clearly was unaware that Rausley had survived and had reported the fall of Northkeep.

Trystan sat up straight when Rose spoke, her eyes darting from Kellan to himself, he was uncertain of her thoughts. When she made her statement about needing nine more names he nodded and spoke, “Of course commander, I can have those recommendations by early afternoon. Please excuse me if I was speaking out of turn with my recommendation for Lady Kellan, I was only trying to give her the credit due her before our commander, nothing more.”

Rose would see a sincerity in his face, it was not for love or affection he was trying to have praise brought to Kellan, it was merely for the sake of her honor. As Lady Rose began to relay her report to them Trystan’s face was like stone. The only crack in his composure was when she mentioned that the head of the Knights of the Sword had been slain, he was visibly shaken by this, Commander Herrington had been a good mentor, and an honorable man, Trystan would miss him dearly, but that would be dealt with later. Rose went on with her description of what transpired and Trystan could only listen and imagine how horrific the events were. When he heard that Rausley was responsible for the last charge, and how it seemingly played directly into the plans of the two magi his face twisted slightly Rausley, the man was not honorable, he was a twisted blight on the Knighthood, but somehow he had managed to ride on the laurel’s of his father’s great deeds and advance himself through the Knighthood. Rose thought he had died in the last charge, and she had finally released her thoughts about the man. Worse than that she had spoken down about a fellow Commander to her and his subordinates, it was something they all had thought, but she had broken the surface and he glanced at Kellan and then to Rose. This was a tremendous break in military protocol, it was not a wise thing to complain down the chain of command, and now he and Kellan were suddenly in the middle of a dangerous situation. Their loyalty laid with Lady Rose, but while her feelings were contained things could remain rather even keel. “With respect Commander, Rausley delivered a full report to Ceridwyn yesterday, Commander Rausley is not dead.” He noted the look on Lady Rose’s face, and the implications that were now lingering in the room. His face relaxed slightly and he looked at his Commander, the woman he trusted and honored with his unbreaking service, “Not to speak out of place Ma’am, and with all due respect, might I suggest that we all agree our personal feelings can remain in this room, and that we can continue to do or duties with the honor and integrity demanded from us by the Knighthood?” He glanced at the two other fellow knights in the room, their silent glances to each other speaking volumes and his face broke with a slight smile, “Agreed then.”

As she described the device and the use of the soul’s to create the towers, his face went white. To think that his comrades, his friends were now a part of a sharp evil was more then he could take. He stood and walked over to the window, staring out over the rooftops of Heartlund, looking at the three spires that now loomed over the walls of their might Keep. The arrogance of the Knights was beginning to come into reality again, for hundreds of years they had been the driving force of virtue, and in the last 25 had seen corruption and political squabbling replace honor and duty. Too many Knights vowed to being each other down in attempts to advance their own wealth and power instead of seeing the purpose of their brotherhood, to be the tip of Paladine’s sword, to fight the evil and be the measure of light to match the darkness. He pounded his fist gently on the window pane and turned to look at Lady Rose and Kellan, “Commander, Lady Kellan, if we are to face this evil, it has to be with the aid of the magic users, Ceridwyn can get us in touch with two whom I have heard are Lunitari’s voice on this land. I believe Rayann is the name of one, and her daughter, Kali. Apparently they have recently vanquished an agent of Tahkisis, a powerful wizard named Rorie. I don’t know a lot of the details, some is hearing Ceridwyn occasionally speak briefly about them, others is soldier rumors. I do remember that they are in the region of Glen Durel, only a few days ride from here. Might I suggest that we get word to them and solicit their council? I am sure Ceridwyn or the elf Aeolis would be able to get us audience with them.”



The hours of aiding the citizens went by swiftly. Ceridwyn found Aeolis and walked up behind him, placing a gentle hand on his back. He was just finishing speaking with a human soldier, giving him some comfort. Speaking in their native language she whispered, “You have a way with words Aeolis, you bring comfort, though I must say your Common is laced with a horrific accent.”

As he turned she winked and slid her hand down his arm, taking his hand in hers and walking towards the mess tents. “I am hungry, and believe it or not, I secretly like military ‘chow’ I believe they call it. There is no taste, and yet it satisfies in a way beyond just filling the void in your stomach.” She looked up at him and smiled. Her chestnut brown eyes were sparking through the dirt and soot on her face as she looked up at him. “It’s the little things…”

The knowledge that Rausley was alive hit her like a load of bricks. Worse than that her conduct was less than was expected of a knight in her position. Had this ordeal shaken her up so badly that she could so easily forget herself like this. Rose reached up rubbing her temples lightly as she nodded in agreement with Trystan. "Twould be best for all if we did so... you do not speak out of place by suggesting we do as such. I am more aware than anyone how easily it is for me to narrow my focus. It is why I encourage you to speak up to me when it is appropriate to do so."

Pouring more tea she contemplated the recomendation before her. The towers were abominations against the natural order created by devilsh magics. Whether the knighthood liked it or not they would need help from the most unlikely of sources.

"I would meet with Ceridwyn to discuss this matter... the sooner the better... I think concludes this meeting lest you wish to remain and count how many more social slipups I can walk myself straight into this afternoon."

Trystan could only smile as Rose made jest at her own slip up and he nodded slightly as she reminded him that they could in fact speak up when and if necessary. It was one of the reasons that he liked serving under her command, she had proven that she was a good Commander, both on and off the field. Her orders were never to be questioned, for as lenient as she could be there was also the side of her that would not tolerate insubordination, and more than one young knight found themselves spending time in the stocks for inappropriate behaviors. Rose was sometimes referred to as “The Velvet Hammer”, and this was one such an occasion where the name was proven to be accurate once again.

“As you wish my Lady, I will dispatch a Runner right now, if you will excuse me,” Trystan stepped out and returned in mere seconds, “I took the liberty of having a runner ready just in case something along these lines came up, this is no time to be wasting our resources. The runner has been dispatched to find Ms. Ceridwyn or Aeolis, and bring the back on the double.”



Ceridwyn sat with Aeolis and some soldiers of Solamnia, sturdy warriors who showed the scars and the faces of battle. The talk was not very cheerful, it seemed that the towers and the uncertainty of things was dampening the spirits of the citizens of the whole region of Heartlund, and Ceridwyn was saddened by this. She could see it on the faces all around her, hope was fading fast.

She was mid-bite when a teenager came into the mess tent and made a bee-line straight for her and Aeolis, “My Lady Elf and my Lord Elf, Lady Rose, a Commander of the Solamic Order of the Rose requests your presence immediately.” Ceridwyn looked at Aeolis uneasily, she had completely forgotten that they were to accompany Trystan and Kellan to the 11 o’clock meeting. Flushing slightly she put her spoon down and stood, bowing her head, “We will join you at once young man, please lead the way.”

Taking Aeolis’ hand in her own they followed and she spoke in a missive to Aeolis, ~ “How could we allow ourselves to get caught up in our own lives and forget our vow? How incredibly embarrassing…” ~

As Kellan listened to what Lady Rose relayed from her experience, Kellan felt her body tremble as she held onto her control to keep from breaking completely. Liam’s soul would know nothing but eternal pain and strife, unable to find the peace he so longed for and deserved in the afterlife. What sort of perverse magic were these mages dealing in that they required the souls of good, honorable Knights? It was enough to make Kellan’s concentration break.

Reeling herself back in so she could glean as much information as she could from Lady Rose, Kellan was thankful for Trystan’s voice and she quickly zeroed in on his words. Of course when Lady Rose spoke unkindly of Rausley Kellan let her gaze settle on the Commander and the look she gave her was nothing short of total surprise. Had it not been for Trystan letting Lady Rose know Rausley was still alive and well and had sent a runner, Kellan thought she would have let Lady Rose know only she would have been a little less diplomatic. Not for the lack of training but merely for the lack of experience on dealing with this sort of situation. Another lesson Trystan taught her without realizing it.

Agreeing with both the Commander and Trystan as to keeping their thoughts to themselves, Kellan listened again to what both Lady Rose and Sir Trystan suggested. When Trystan suggested they ride to Glen Durel to try and garnish the aid of the mages of Lunitari, Rayann and Kali, Kellan perked up. She would welcome the change of scenery and the opportunity to see if she could hold herself to the code on such an important mission. She glanced at Trystan with an eagerness in her light brown gaze but never said she wanted to go. Knowing he would send whom he thought best for the mission, she would wait to find out if he chose her. If not, she would continue to do what she could here for the citizens of Heartlund. As Lady Rose asked for Ceridwyn and Aeolis to join them, Kellan finally spoke to both of her superiors.

The Lady Elf Ceridwyn and the Elf Lord Aeolis have been extremely helpful during this difficult situation. Their compassion and strength has helped urge the rest of us on when we thought we could do no more.”




Aeolis smiled when he felt Ceri’s hand on his back and when he heard her comment about her accent, he chuckled softly as he spoke in Elven.

”That is because the common language is difficult to my delicate tongue. I find our own language is much more pleasing to my senses. Especially when it is uttered from your sweet lips.”

He saw the look on her face and he laughed softly as he closed his fingers around her hand when she slid her hand down his arm to rest in his hand. His green eyes twinkled as he looked down at her.

”You said I had a way with words. I figured I would try them on you to see if I could seduce you with them or if you are going to make me work at it the old fashioned way. I am glad to know you are going to make me work at it the old fashioned way.”

As she started leading him towards the mess tent, he leaned closer and kissed the tip of her head. As they made their way through the assembled Knights and picked up their food, Aeolis saw the looks on the Knights faces. Many were still in a state of disbelief. Others were unreadable as they were working on only a few hours of sleep. Others still were trying to talk about anything but the obvious. His heart went out to these brave Knights knowing many of their comrades had perished trying to defend their people.

He was picking at his own meal when the teenager Trystan dispatched was sent to retrieve them. Pushing his food away, Aeolis stood up with Ceri and as she took his hand he went with her to join Sir Trystan, Lady Rose and Lady Kellan. As he heard Ceri’s mental missive, he furrowed his brows and shook his head ever so slightly as he responded in kind to her.

~It is understandable, Ceri. Let us not worry about what we did not do and concentrate on what we can do now to aid these pwople.~

As they walked into the room where Lady Rose, Sir Trystan and Lady Kellan, Aeolis gave a quick, smart salute then stood with Ceri by his side, still holding her hand.

”Forgive our tardiness, Lady Rose, Sir Trystan, Lady Kellan. We got caught up in assisting the others and failed to remember our meeting. It shall not happen again.”