Trystan stood on the battlements and looked out to the east. There were reports from the night watch that at precisely midnight lights could be seen in the black tower and two figures were spotted on the lowest observation deck. Trystan turned as one of his men approached, “We are ready sire, your horse awaits.”

“Thank-you Geoffery,” Trystan picked up his helmet from the wall and turned to descend the stairs. Two dozen men in full armor were in the town center waiting for him, all were on horseback. Trystan got onto his mount and turned to face them, “Men, today we ride to investigate the tower. Reports were that at midnight two figures were seen on the lowest observation deck and lights were illuminating the uppermost room. Rayann and Ceridwyn had assured us that the magic of this place was dead two months ago so we don’t expect this to be anymore then looters or squatters. Our orders from The Lady are to investigate and post 10 horsemen around the base of the tower until we can figure out how to bring it down.”

The men shifted uneasily in their saddles and Trystan looked out at their faces, “You know me men, I would not intend harm on any of you. Just as a measure of extra precaution I have asked Lady Kellan and Nol’lore to circle the area with us and assure that we are protected from above.”

The men all immediately relaxed and Trystan put his helmet on, keeping the faceguard lifted. As the groups of Knights and soldiers road out of the city gate, Lady Kellan stood in her brilliant silver armor waiting. Nol was standing in his natural form beside her, saddle affixed. As Kellan approached Trystan spoke, “Thank-you for doing this, the men are much more comfortable when they know there are dragons watching their backs.”




Lady Kellan smiled and gently stroked Nol’s neck. Nol brought his head down and looked at Trystan, “If it is a magical creature in there, what are your measures?”

Trystan looked at him and spoke, “Ceridwyn and Rayann gave a report two month’s past that there was no magical signature in the area.” Nol looked at Kellan and then to Trystan, “I assure you there is one there now.”

Trystan furrowed his brows and turned to look at his men before turning back to Nol whispering, “Evil?”

Nol glanced at Kellan and then to Trystan, “Magic is not evil, it is the wielder that makes it so.” Trystan sighed heavily and spoke, “Then is the wielder evil?” Nol looked him directly in the face, “We will know that when we discover who the wielder is.”

Trystan furrowed his brows even deeper and slammed his face guard shut in frustration, giving the ride order as he and his men pulled out towards the tower. Nol looked at Kellan and spoke into her ear, “It is Kali in there, I can feel her.”

Kellan looked at him with a small measure of confusion and concern, but her gaze was answered with one of equal confusion from Nol. She would pick up that he truly didn’t know why Kali would be in the tower, and what they were about to ride into. As she climbed onto his back Nol let out a loud, high pitched chirping sound. Three of his dragons suddenly came off the ground from an area of the forest that had not been razed and he lifted himself into the air to take the front of the formation. They circled from a short, reasonable distance and watched as the 21 riders moved towards the tower in a wedge formation.

Kellan wasn't sure how to take the news Kali now occupied the tower. She was familiar with how wizards towers worked from her studies on the Myst Isle and knew if the mage didn't want visitors, she would take the necessary measures to keep them all out. Even the dragons. And Kali was certainly powerful enough to do something like that. At least, she was before Piramay sent that last spell of hers. Rayann had said Kali was growing stronger with each day she recuperated and now Kellan was wondering if Rayann meant physically, magically or....both.

As the air rushed past Kellan as she sat astride Nol, she looked to the left or right and down at the approaching men then around the tower to see what, if any threat, presented itself. Ever on alert, she, like Nol and the other survivors of the battle, never let her guard down for one instant when she was outside her private quarters. It was too dangerous to do so. And now that they were circling a tower that Kali occupied, she was even more cautious.

"It would be nice if she were to come out and greet us. At least let the others know it's her and what her intentions are. I don't think anyone would have issue with her living here, if that's what it turns out to be, as long as her intentions included not causing harm to anyone or anything in the area. I think it would only be a wise for her to at least let the local citizens and Knights know what her long term plans may be."

As she watched her fellow comrades in arms below making a clear but cautious approach to the tower, she furrowed her brows.

"Of course she'd have to gain the trust of the Knights if she wished to stay. Then again, what could really be done to her if her intentions were "evil"? It's not like it would be as easy as setting up a trebuchet and pummeling the thing to the ground."

Kellan didn't like the situation and the worst case scenario outcome, but she also knew what Kali had done to turn the tide of the battle and bring down two of the three towers that threatened Heartlund and all of Krynn. She hoped, deep down, Kali was just looking for her place in this world and somehow this was where she found it. As odd as choice as that may be, Kellan thought it fit Kali perfectly.

Nol listened as Kellan spoke. In his heart he agreed, some news of her intentions would be a welcomed thing, however he also knew Kali, she never let on more than needed to be let on about, and she only revealed what she wanted to tell when the time best suited her and her intentions. Nol spoke through the air, his words catching Kellan's ears under her helm, "Something tells me that Kali doesn't give an Ox's dung about the Knights, or their trust. She could have wiped them all out nine months ago if that was her intention. I know Myth and Rayann, Kali would not be able to scheme and plan in their home without them knowing it. My suspicion is that her move to take this tower for her own is more complex than any of us can ever know, or then again, maybe it is so simple we are over looking it."

He glanced back at Kellan and she would see there was little fear or concern in his eyes. His body continued to move at a leisurely pace through the air, tipping his wing occasionally to bring the flight back around for another pass along the tower. He remained silent until the Knights began to close in on the tower, "On your eyes brethren, the top of the tower stirs."




A flurry of shadow appeared on the top most part of the tower. From it black robes began to swirl and take the form of a humanoid, specifically, Kali. Nol pulled up institutionally and the dragons followed without hesitation to put a little more space in case an assault was to be made, or come. Nol could feel Kellan's legs tighten slightly around his ribs, anticipating and preparing for anything he might do. He could hear her glove creak gently around the reigns that attached to the chest harness he wore and his eyes watched Kali from the sky.

The Knights stopped immediately and Trystan lifted a hand to keep them in place. He stood and looked up at Kali, and she looked down at him. He waved, even from the great distance from ground to the top of the tower he could tell it was her. Kali did not return the gesture, instead she looked upwards to the sky. She noted the silver rider on Nol's back again, Lady Kellan. She then fixed her eyes on Nol, he watched her, waiting, wondering. Her voice filled all their heads as she walked slowly across the smooth, black surface of the tower top, ~ "What is it that I have done to bring such a force against me? Am I so threatening that four dragons and a whole unit of Knights is needed? Wouldn't a couple Rangers have done just as well?~

Trystan spoke, he yelled but his voice seemed to carry across the whole area unnaturally, "No Kali, we did not know who was in the tower, we only came to investigate in case it was looters or squatters."

Kali laughed aloud. It would be obvious that the laughter was not mocking or cruel, but she generally found what he said funny. After a moment she composed herself and spoke to their minds again, ~ "Naive Trystan, so predictable that you would assume this building able to be occupied by any rabble that wandered along. No dear Trystan, this tower is far more capable of protecting itself than you might think." ~

She looked up at Nol and his small flight of four, her voice entered their minds again as her head slowly moved to follow the arc of their flight, ~ "Since a representative is needed I will choose one of you to be my ambassador. One who has already proven she can deliver a message to the Knights without causing too much of a stir." ~

Kellan instantly vanished from Nol's back. He felt the wind rushing over him and he could no longer feel the grip of her strong legs. He looked down in horror, Kali was no longer on the roof of the tower. He dove, making a bee line to land on the top of the tower but every time he and his flight got 300 meters away they were instantly transported a kilometer above the tower. He grit his teeth and whispered under his breath, "By the gods Kali... why do you do things like this!"

--

Lady Kellan instantly appeared in a very comfortable room. Kali stood near a blazing fire and stared at her from across the room. She spoke as she gestured to one of two large, comfortable high back chairs, "Remove your armor so you can be more comfortable and have a seat, there is much we need to discuss."

The look on Kali's face was not one of malice or kindness, it was rather, indifferent. She had the look of one who was doing what had to be done so she could move on with her business.

As the figure appeared on the towers observation deck, Kellan instantly recognized the figure and knew it was Kali. Even with her robes shrouding her body, there was a certain way Kali held herself Kellan knew it was her and no one else. As she listened to the mages voice in her mind, she kept a wary eye on the surroundings of the tower knowing Nol had his eyes on Kali herself. It was just another way they had of making sure they were protected from every angle. As the short conversation kept on, Kellan snapped her head around at Kali's last words and had just tightened her grip with her hands and legs and Nol heard her utter words under her breath just before she disappeared.

"Son of a...."

The last thing Kellan expected was to have herself transported to anywhere, let alone someplace alone with Kali. But when she suddenly appeared in the room the first thing she did was quickly glance around as she took several deep breaths to calm her nauseated stomach. When she heard Kali's voice, she looked over at the mage then at the chairs Kali indicated then back to Kali.

While it would have been against her better judgment in other situations to do so, Kellan took the time to remove the parts of her armor she needed to in order to sit down. Leaving the pieces set neatly against the wall, she walked over to one of the chairs and sat down then looked up at Kali. She wasn't afraid of Kali but she was definitely wary of the mage. Kellan knew very well if Kali wanted to kill her, nothing would stop her. Especially not her armor. Now dressed in the soft leather she wore under her armor, Kellan wore the leg pieces of her armor and tucked her gloves into her belt. Her light brown eyes studied the scars she could see from beneath the hood of Kali's robes and felt a pang of regret knowing the pain Kali must have gone through...and still did.

Kellan spoke and when she did, her voice was soft and even but not disrespectful in any way. In fact, it was quite the opposite. Kellan respected Kali and what she was very capable of doing.

"I'm listening. As your chosen ambassador, I'll relay your message to the ones in command."

She paused for a moment and her eyes seemed to soften.

"But before you start, I want to thank you for what you did. The outcome would have been much different if not for you."

Then she was back t all business.

"Now. What is it we need to discuss?"

Kali waited patiently as Kellan removed her armor and then sat down in one of the chairs. She watched as Kellan studied what she could of Kali's face from under the shadows of the hood and then suddenly, she seemed to soften. Kellan's words lingered between them and Kali stood, motionless, for a moment before slowly removing the hood from her head.

Kali lifted her head high as the hood fell behind her, and Kellan would see that she was wearing the scar like a badge of honor, an accommodation for bravery in battle, she had even pulled her hair back on that side and tucked it neatly with an ornate hairpin. She looked down at Kellan in a way that the Lady Knight had never seen her look at someone else, there was almost a hint of vulnerability and openness, and then she spoke, "I only did what had to be done."

She turned and was about to walk over to a stone table but she stopped and spoke when her back was turned to Kellan, "You are welcome." She walked and waved her hand over the stone, a tray of hot tea and some of the most delicious looking cakes Kellan had ever seen appeared. Kali motioned with her hand again and the tray floated through the air and settled on a table between the chairs. Kali walked over and placed the end of her staff on the ground beside the chair, it stood upright, unassisted, almost as if suspended from invisible rope. She tucked her heavy velvet robes around her and sat, looking across at Lady Kellan.

Kellan would most likely notice immediately that Kali's eye on the side where she was scarred was exactly like Rayann's now. One eye was a brilliant, crisp blue like it had always been, the other was dark lavender and piercing. As Kali looked at Kellan she studied the Lady Knights face a moment before speaking, "A lot of change in you since the first time we met. You are much more sure of yourself, that much is obvious, but there is something else, something that can only come from the heart."

Kali motioned to the tray, "Please, have some refreshment. I know that black robes scare the piss out of anyone, but I assure you that my intentions are far less sinister than the Knights, and even you might imagine."

She saw the way Kellan looked at the cakes, and despite her best efforts to remain stoic and proper in her Knighthood Kali could see the desire in her eyes to taste them, "There is no more formality here than we chose to bring Lady Kellan, please."

The softness in Kali's voice was almost eery, it was far different than Kellan had ever heard her speak, "My intentions in coming back here are my own, and will remain confidential. What I do need however is for you to relay the message that they are not to bring harm to the Knights nor to Heartlund, I didn't save Heartlund so that I could come back and destroy it all by myself. If I wanted Heartlund destroyed I would have done so when the effects wouldn't drain every ounce of my strength and leave me vulnerable to a counterattack. I do intend to make this tower my home however, and though it's geographical location is most likely incredibly undesirable to those who make Heartlund their home, they will have to live with it... at least for now. They will see things they may not want to see, but they will be safe, relatively speaking, and I intend to be a quiet neighbor, again, for the most part."

She reached into her robes and removed a small velvet bag. She scooped some of the contents into a cup of hot water and it hissed and bubbled. She lifted the herbal mixture to her nose and inhaled, "For the pain. Ceridwyn made it, though I won't be needing it much longer. The magic of this tower is already accelerating the healing process, I suspect I will be right as rain in a week or so. In the meantime...," She reached into her robes and removed a small silver ring. She handed it to Kellan, "This will give you access to the warding of this tower. I lifted it when I felt all of you coming, but I assure you the effects will be replaced once everyone leaves. Only you will have access, and only you will be permitted to relay messages from the Knights, and to them unless I chose otherwise. To that end please let Commander Rose know that I seek an audience with her, in Heartlund, so as to put her troubled mind at ease over my inhabiting my tower. I know her well enough that this is the sort of event which won't sit well with her."

She looked over at Kellan and suddenly a small smile appeared on her face, "So... tell me how you and Nol are getting along."

Kellan, if nothing else, was always a good diplomat. As she studied Kali like Kali studied her, she noticed a slight change in the young woman. Kellan could only guess a change was inevitable after going through what Kali went through. Something Kellan herself could relate very closely to, in fact. And it was in that common ground Kellan found herself able to relax.

While other women would have been ashamed of the scars they sported like Kali did,Kellan noticed the way Kali seemed to be displaying them for all to see. Much like the Plains People did when they survived an ordeal. And as Kellan watched Kali move towards her and talk about the change in her, Kellan couldn't help but hear the words "that which doesn't kill you....." echoing in her mind.

When Kali sat down and started talking to her, Kellan noticed the change in the mages eyes. It was uncanny, to say the least. And while she knew it was rude, Kellan tried not to stare. Finally she remembered who and what she was and she diverted her gaze tot he delicious looking and now smelling cakes. Her mouth watered as she saw the treats and only after Kali's insistence did she take one and nibble on it. And sure enough, it was even better than it looked.

"Thank you. They are very good. I wouldn't give this recipe away if I were you."

Kellan gave Kali a genuine smile as formality was more or less abandoned the more Kali talked, Kellan relaxed even more. Kellan knew Kali was right in everything she said. If the woman HAD wanted Heartlund destroyed, she would have done so when she had the chance, What would it prove to destroy it now? Nothing. As Kali laid out her intentions of returning to the tower, Kellan listened closely. It was important she relayed all fo this to Commander Rose, Sir Trystan and Nol to make sure they all understood there was no ill will intended towards anyone.

When the velvet bag was pulled out and the mixture added to Kali's tea, Kellan could instantly smell a variety of scents the doctored tea now held. It reminded Kellan of her mother and she couldn't help but smile slightly at the memory it invoked. When the silver ring was handed to her, Kellan reached over the table and accepted it. She studied the light reflection off of it before she slid it over the ring finger of her right hand. Instantly she felt the warmth of it and she knew there was no ill intent towards anyone in Heartlund in anything Kali was doing here.

"Thank you, for the ring and for trusting me. I give you my word, I won't use this privilege in any ill fashion. And I'll relay the meeting request to Commander Rose. your right. She won't be thrilled but she will honor your request. I will accompany you if you would like me to."

Sipping the tea, Kellan sat back and studied the ring for a moment and when Kali asked how she and Nol were doing, Kellan looked up at Kali and the smile that eased over her features was unmistakable.

"He's opened my eyes to many things, Kali. I owe my life, literally, to him and his cousin Raju. If he hadn't broken protocol and taken me away from North Keep, I would be rotting flesh right now. But he's taught me so much about life...and love. And for once in my life, I know what it means to really, truly love another. And I would gladly lay down my life if it meant he would be spared death. And he still cares for you. I could tell it hurt him when he thought you had joined the other wizards, but I also knew deep down he was hoping it wasn't true. Like him, I'm glad his hopes came true."

Tynen was smiling, having received the message from James. Keatara was not as nervous as she had been, not looking over her shoulder as often. Within in the few days of returning, he'd begun to win her trust, putting on a friendly face with the children and gaining their trust as well. Except for the boy, Curtis. He didn't trust James any further than he could throw him and was constantly getting reprimanded by Tara for his rudeness to James. As it was, the few days that he'd been back to Heartlund, he'd become like the brother she missed.


James was filling a hole Tynen had left and Keatara found herself smiling more and more and looking over her shoulder less and less. Her days were spent with James and the children as he had become her helper. She'd taken on even more children than before and was grateful for his help. Her evening's were usually spent with Gideon and that had become her favorite time of the day. Gideon made her laugh and blush. He also made her feel like a woman and made her forget about her scars.....the ones inside as well as outside. But, she still stayed mostly to herself when she wasn't with the children or Gideon. She'd seen little of Tanjee and even less of Aeolis but she knew that they were busy with their own people.

The children were catching on fast where sword-fighting and healing were concerned and she couldn't have been more pleased with them. James had proven to be a God-send, especially with the older, more arrogant kids.

Kellan would see a look of understanding on Kali's face, one of the softest smiles Kellan had ever seen from the mage crossed her lips and she nodded with understanding, "Nol is rare among men, and dragons. The Silvers are known for their penchant for humanity, they prefer us over their own kind even. It is comforting to hear that you love him so deeply, he deserves a woman that can be all he desires."

She looked at Kellan and her eyes traced the lady knights face, "I understand that he stills cares for me, I can feel that, but I want you to know that I have no desire to unseat what you and he have, honestly, that is the among the reasons I brought you here and not Trystan, to put your mind at ease over it. You have so much responsibility as a lance bearer, I understand that, but I require the service of liaison from you, at least for now, I appreciate your willingness to assist me. In return I wanted to let you know that though I do love Nol and always will, my pursuits require that I have no shackles on my life, especially those in the realm of love. I think that as two women it is important to put these words out there so there is nothing between us. I may need you and your dragons and some point, I hope that I can count on you when the time comes."

Kellan felt her cheeks color slightly at Kali’s words and she shook her head slightly in response.

”I’m not sure I can be all he desires, but I will certainly give it my best shot. I know there will come a day when he will go on without me, but until then, I intend to give him all I can each day we do have so he knows just how much I do love him.”

As Kali spoke of the possibility of her taking Kellan’s place, there was a moment of uncertainty, but the absolution in Kali’s voice told Kellan Kali was indeed pursuing something that couldn’t afford the distraction of something other than her desire to study her Art.

”There was a time when you and I would be having a much different conversation than we are right now. In fact, I remember when you were a hares breadth away from making me disappear from Krynn entirely. Funny how time changes things between two people, isn’t it? I thank you for your honesty, Kali. That’s all I ask for. In turn, you will receive the same from me. I believe the truth needs to be heard, even when you don’t want to hear it. It’s what keeps us both on the same level. I will offer my services in any way I can to you as long as it doesn’t contradict with the oath I took and I will let Nol know you may be in need of his and his brethren’s services as well. While I don’t see him having any trouble with that, I can’t speak for him. But I also know he’ll want more information as to what sort of need you’ll have for them before they commit.”

She looked around the room then back to Kali and let her gaze settle on the mages.

”The conversation we’re having here now will go a long way with the others. It will show your sincerity when you tell them you aren’t looking to harm anyone. Even though your actions were a little….unconventional. Just promise me that if you don’t have to, you won’t transport me in that way. I still get a terrible nauseas feeling.”

She paused for a moment and it was obvious Kellan was looking for the right words to say to Kali. Finally she spoke again and there was a softness to her voice that let Kali know she was setting business aside.

”With all of that being said, I want you to know, if you ever need anything, anytime, don’t hesitate to contact me. We may come from different backgrounds, but when you strip down the robes and armor, we’re both two women with a least that much in common. I know your pursuit leaves little for interaction with others, but total isolation isn’t good for you either, Kali.”

Kali listened to Kellan and her face remained expressionless, until Kellan mentioned one thing in particular. Kali's brows furrowed slightly and she spoke almost through a hissing whisper, "I never said my intents were not to harm anyone, I said they were not to destroy Heartlund or harm its inhabitants."

She stared at the fire, her eyes watching the dancing flames as she mentally left the room for a moment. Slowly and deliberately her eyes came back to Kellan and there was no apology in her expression as she continued, "I tell you this so you are aware, you are the chosen bearer of the lance, though I was not there I understand how the gods work their assignments having been on the end of one myself at one point. Know that you are being used for a purpose, and the results must be fulfilled, even if it means your death. Huma was assigned the lance hundreds of years ago and it resulted in his death, but the purpose was fulfilled. The gods are not above killing one to save many, Huma died to bring a result, I was supposed to die to bring a result... often the service of the gods comes with great power, and power comes with a great price. The gods do not like when their system of balance is disrupted and they will sacrifice anyone who threatens to tip the scale, if they are able to do so. Sometimes however, things don't go even as they planned."

She looked at Kellan in an almost mystical way, "So tell me Lady Kellan, are you prepared to leave this world at a young age once the task you were set out to do is complete? Will you lay your life on the altar of Paladin and allow your young life to be snuffed out when there is so much more on the line, including your love for a silver dragon? Do you think Nol will allow it? Or do you think he will do something drastic to ensure YOUR safety."

She leaned back in her chair and sipped her tea, her eyes closed as she inhaled the scent of the herbs and then she opened them, staring at Kellan over the brim of her cup, "I have no doubt Nol will do as I ask when the time comes to ask it. Nol is wise and his broad view of the world is not in question, the real question will be how much you allow him to make those choices, will you resist, or will you put yourself in harms way?"

She set her cup down and looked at Kellan in a manner that wasn't unfriendly, but it was certainly serious, "You and I were at odds not because of anything you did but because of what you represented at the time. There has been many changes, in both of us, changes that can and will be mutually beneficial if we see this scenario out to its final conclusion. You do have my honesty, but you will also have to deal with my bluntness, and I am sure you won't always like what I have to say, few, if any, do. Too many curtains veil the eyes of Krynn's inhabitants, they hide in their cities, behind their walls, in their halls of celebration, they don't understand that there is a looming wave of destruction still hovering, just over the horizon, waiting for the right time to devour all that there is. Piramay is alive, she is out there, and she has her own dragons now, beasts that are more evil than the darkest black dragons of chaos. It is for these reasons that I know Nol will want to fight, he can't tolerate evil."

She leaned forward as Kellan mentioned contacting her if she needed anything. With a small smile Kali nodded and spoke, "There is a reason you possess that ring Lady Kellan, there are only four in existence, and there won't be more."

Obviously Kellan realized she chose her words incorrectly and for that Kali made her very aware of it. While Kellan may not agree with her way of delivering her message, she did agree with the fact she was honest. Even her bluntness could be overlooked for that. Kellan would just have to find a way of accepting that from Kali without being too offended by it. Even though Kellan’s own training required her to practice more tact in how she said certain things.

As Kali spoke about the Gods and their plans and the sacrifices one had to make in order to wield the power they had been given, even if it was a Dragonlance, Kellan furrowed her brows. Her time on Myst isle wasn’t spent living a life of leisure. It was spent studying from books, tomes and scrolls written in languages Kellan could understand. And while it was never clearly written out for her to see the words, Kellan read between the lines of all the words. And she didn’t appreciate the mage making reference to Kellan trying to stop Nol from doing anything either.

”I believe I’ve already proven I’m willing to sacrifice my life to preserve others. I’m not as naïve as one would think me to be, Kali. I know there will come a time when I will have to make a decision. Regardless of what Nol will allow to happen, he won’t have a choice. It won’t be easy but he’ll know it’s what has to be. Just as I know the same for him. Like you told me, you did what had to be done. He and I will do what needs to be done by us when that time comes. As I said, he taught me a great deal about many things. It’s why I live the life I live with him. The choices we make aren’t easy, Kali. For any of us. But we all know it’s the difficult choices that will make the difference.”

As Kali mentioned Piramay, Kellan realized why Kali had returned to this tower in particular. Two of the three mages were still alive but only one of the towers remained standing. It could only have one owner. Nad Kali was claiming it for herself. It also explained why Kali snapped at Kellan the way she did when she spoke about not harming anyone. Kali had every intention of harming someone, at least, and that someone was Piramay. Which ultimately meant there could quite possibly, in all likelihood, another showdown at Heartlunds doorstep. This news, in particular, wouldn’t set well with Lady Rose. Kellan understood then what challenges lie ahead of her on this path as Kali’s ambassador. From where she sat right now, it was all up hill. She looked down at the ring when Kali made reference to it then looked back at Kali and nodded.

”I understand. Again I thank you for the honor.”

Kellan knew things were about to get very complicated and difficult for her and she could see the faces of Lady Rose and Sir Tysten now when she told them all of this news. They would be even less pleased when they realized she was the only one able to come and go to and from the tower without formal invitation.

Ah…the life of a Solamnic Knight. Did it get any better than this? Kellan didn’t want to know the answer to that question just yet.

Kali half smiled as Kellan took a more defensive stance on the life she and Nol were living. Kali let it be, there was too much to do and the time was not right for certain things to be said. Kali turned and looked out the windows that flanked the fireplace, "When the time comes, we will all know where we sit in the order of things," she looked back at Kellan and whispered, "All of us."

Kali looked up and shook her head. Looking back at Lady Kellan she smiled and spoke, "Nol has just made his fifteenth attempt to get through the wardings, if anything he is persistent. Perhaps he doesn't trust me as much as I thought. I have taken the dove of his life and put her in a cage, and he doesn't like it."

She sipped her tea and then spoke again, "Unfortunately there are only two ways out of this tower, off the balcony or the way you came. It is just something you are going to have to get used to."

As Kellan finished her cake and tea Kali seemed to withdraw into herself and didn't say much more. She walked over with Kellan and helped the lady knight put her armor back on. As Kellan turned and looked at Kali the half-elf black robed mage looked at her and spoke, "I expect we will be seeing more of each other soon. Tell Lady Rose I will come tomorrow at noon bell." Suddenly Kali looked up and then back down to meet Kellan's eyes, a small smile on her lips, "Sixteen."

Without a touch or a movement she suddenly found herself on the ground outside the tower, about 200 meters from the base of the tower. Trystan and his men moved to her quickly and Trystan was off his horse in an instant, "Lady Kellan! Are you alright?"

A massive thud hit the ground and all the Knights spun, several drawing their weapons instinctually, Trystan included. Nol changed to his native form and sprinted, grabbing Kellan. He hugged her tightly and then drew back, looking her over before quickly settling onto her eyes, "Did she harm you? What happened?" Nol turned to look at the tower. Kali stood on the upper observation deck looking down at them before withdrawing back into the black walls.

As Kellan found herself outside the walls of the tower and back in the open air once more, she felt the nausea come to her again and she took several deep breaths to calm her stomach. As Trysten and the other Knights approached, she glanced at them and spoke under her breath.

”Next time I’ll refrain from eating anything.”

As she suddenly found herself practically surrounded by Trysten and the Knights soon followed by the tight embrace of Nol, she did her best to maintain her composure. Her arms looped around Nol’s neck and she did return the hug, but her stomach was still settling and she wasn’t as enthusiastic as she should have been. Not to mention the color had practically drained from her face.

Glancing up at the tower when Nol released his hold on her, Kellan saw Kali for a brief moment before she disappeared. Looking into the anxious faces of those gathered, she nodded her head finally and spoke. Her voice wasn’t as strong as she wished it to be, but there was no doubt she was just fine. She looked at Nol and Trysten both.

”I’m fine. Really. And Kali was nothing but a gracious hostess. And there’s no need to worry. For now, anyway. But there is a great deal that needs to be discussed. By all of us.”

”But first things first, I need to get a message to Lady Rose. The sooner the better.”

She could see the look on all of their faces. The men who rode out with Trysten glanced at each other and Kellan could see the concern in their gazes. Trysten and Nol had similar looks but there’s also contained some of the confusion she saw in their gazes before. She looked over at Trysten knowing his men were paying very close attention to what she said.

”There’s no threat here, Sir Trysten. I give you my word on that.”

She saw the way the men glanced at each other taking a sigh of relief. She could see Trysten relax as well but he, like Nol, knew there was more Kellan WASN’T saying and it was that fact that kept Trysten and Nol from relaxing as much as the others.

As Trysten gave his orders for the knights to mount back up and ready to head back to the Keep, she saw the way Trysten looked at her and she lowered her voice for his ears alone to hear.

”I promise. I will relay all that I know to you when the time is right. But I speak truthfully when I say there is no threat here. Let’s get back to the Keep and find Lady Rose. It’s important.”

Trysten nodded and reluctantly walked away leaving her and Nol standing there. When Trysten was out of earshot, Kellan glanced up at Nol and saw the way he was looking at her. She turned to face him and placed her gloved hand tenderly on his cheek.

”I swear on my love for you, Kali had no ill intent towards me, Nol. If she did, she wouldn’t have delivered me unharmed back to your arms.”

She could see the relief her words brought him but she could also see he wasn’t all that happy with what Kali had done either. She squeezed his arm gently.

”Come. Take me back to the Keep. Please? The air will help me regain my composure and help my stomach settle. You know what travelng like that does to me.”

Trystan rode with his men back to the castle gate, they were silent in their words, only the pounding of the hooves echoing through the air was heard. The Gate Guard called for open and Trystan with his men in tow galloped through and went straight to the Keep.



Nol gave one last glance at the tower before looking back at Kellan, "I know your words are true, Kali would not have returned you if she intended harm, it is her manners of doing what she wants, when she wants without thought as to what it does to others that bothers me."

He inhaled deeply and then quirked a brow, grabbing Kellan's right hand he brought it up and looked at the ring. Looking at her quizzically Kellan withdrew the hand and gave him a look that told him she would explain later. He simply nodded and whispered, "My moon and stars, let us fly."

He flashed into his native form and roared in Draconic, the three dragons that were still circling responded with one short, loud response and split like fingers moving into a glove, disappearing quickly from sight. Nol turned his large head back and looked at Kellan, waiting for her to mount up. As she did he felt for the two buckles to be fastened, the instant he heard the second click he sprung into the air and circled the tower quickly as he looked down at the shiny black stone. He could suddenly feel the pulse of magic coming from the tower in waves, it literally pushed them back like hot air rising off the landscape catching under his wings and suddenly he and Kellan were over a kilometer high. He looked back and spoke, "Apparently Kali was just waiting for us to leave to set her wardings."

He tipped his wing and gently swung to the south and then circled wide and slow towards the main courtyard of the Keep. He landed gently just as Trystan and his men were arriving. Kellan dismounted and Nol flashed to his Elven form. Trystan stepped up and spoke, "I don't like all this mystery Kellan, and neither will the Lady. I expect a little more tact from you in the future."

Nol stepped up between Kellan and Trystan, looking the Knight Commander sternly, "You are none to question Kali's actions or give response to Kellan for something she hasn't done. Might I remind you she is the chosen rider of Paladin? Though you still have higher rank on your breastplate you don't command her, only Lady Rose commands her."

Trystan did not back down from Nol and looked the silver dragon dead in the eyes, "I am second in command over the safety of this Keep Nol'lore, I will question what needs to be questioned to ensure the safety of Heartlund."

Nol took a step towards Trystan who suddenly felt his stone facade break away as his eyes went wide. Nol looked at him and spoke, "As Kellan said, there is no threat here. I have known Kali a long time, trust me, if she wanted Heartlund destroyed it would be destroyed. She does not do things the way any of us would like, but she is a Wizard and even the most lawful of Wizard's do things in their own timing and for their own purposes. One thing I can tell you however is that Kali has never been anything but truthful since her break with the Dark Queen and if she told Kellan there was no threat, there is no threat."

Trystan's face furrowed slightly and he looked at Nol with hard eyes. His attention then turned to Kellan and he spoke, "Come."

The three of them walked across the drawbridge and into the Keep to speak with Lady Rose.

Kellan was getting ready to say something to Trysten when Nol stepped up to the Knight. Clamping her mouth shut, for now, she let the men have their words, but when the time was right, she would let both of them know what she thought about this whole conversation that just took place. The last thing she needed was for anything like this to take place after the strange meeting she just had with, of all things, a black robed mage.

She remained silent as they walked across the drawbridge that led them into the Keep. The sound of thudding boots hitting the wooden planks was a familiar sound to anyone and this was no exception. But for Kellan, she didn’t hear them this time. She kept hearing Kali’s voice in her head as she went over the conversation to make sure she remembered it clearly so she could relay it to Lady Rose, Sir Trysten and Nol.

She was so deep in thought she didn’t realize they were outside Lady Rose’s door and Larissa was showing them all inside. Lady Rose sat behind the desk and Kellan could see she wasn’t all that pleased with this new turn of events that was now taking place in her back yard. With a smart salute, Kellan began to relay her story.

She was able to follow the conversation from start to finish and relay the information Kali needed her to relay. She watched the expressions on their faces, the looks in their eyes and the way they exchanged looks with each other and could tell they were none too happy with her report. While no one interrupted her as she gave her report, she knew there were questions abounding and she would be bombarded with them soon enough. When she got to the point where she had to let them all know she had been chosen, by Kali, to be her ambassador, she took a deep breath and looked at the four faces looking at her.

”Kali has given me the ability to walk in and out of her wardings whenever I need to. She gave me this silver ring and it will work only for me. She wishes for me to relay any information from the Knights to her and her information back to the Knights. In that capacity, I need to inform you she will be here when the noon bell chimes to have a meeting with you, here, in Heartlund, Lady Rose. I will be accompanying her as well as her ambassador.”

She let her gaze rest a moment on Lady Rose before she looked to Trysten and saw the disapproval in his face. She also saw the way he glanced at Nol then back to Kellan. She glanced at Nol then and saw the look he gave her.

Of course she didn’t say anything about the personal side of the conversation she had with Kali. I n Kellan’s mind, that was no one’s business but hers and Kali’s and she wondered if Trysten’s disapproval was fueled by that or the fact Kali was coming into the Keep for the meeting. Either way, she knew Trysten wasn’t all that p leased with the way things went but for now, he wasn’t going to pull rank on her. Not with Nol standing there as well.