At last. The going is harder now because of previous commitment and because decisions must carry more weight. Not a disappointment, I hope. Enjoy.
They flew along the road as Wailach's iron shod hooves hammered the ground with dull thuds. Farmers that had risen early looked up in wonder from their labour. They saw a young lad on the bare back of a mighty steed that was too large for his own frame. He was clinging to the horse's mane and kept shooting cautious glances over his shoulder. Behind him men came running out from the town gate shouting loudly. Then, as if on order, they turned back and disappeared. On the road only the odd farm dog gave chase, barking loudly, to the edge of its territory. It was hard to imagine anything could keep up with the pace the lad's mount was laying down. Once a flock of goats blocked their path. The animals hurried out of the way as horse and rider approached with unreduced speed. One little kid did not react fast enough but just stood still bleating stupidly at the oncoming pair. The black stallion vaulted clear over it. Later the herder would have sworn he had heard a voice bellow: "make way!" and he would swear it was not the young lad's lips that had moved. It would puzzle him for a long while.
Wailach only slowed when they reached the spot where the road entered between the first trees of the forest that surrounded Tramir in an ever expanding circle. Joana finally relaxed her grip on his mane a little. Glancing back she found that the town of Tramir had disappeared behind a ridge. Had they mounted a pursuit? Surely, after going all the way to trap her on the market square of Tramir Grimrun would not let her escape that easily. It would be wise to get off the road soon. Then again, the road allowed them to make more rapid progress.
This was when Wailach hesitated, slowed, perked up his ears. He tensed notably under her. Bending forward she patted his side - just the way you would, she realised, to reassure a startled mare. In fact, it was her that was worried. She had come to trust the creatures around her, their senses and their intuition.
"What is it", she asked, her voice involuntarily lowered to a whisper.
The horse snorted in response tossing his head.
"Someone's following us."
Joana's chest tightened. She strained her eyes to pierce the wall of greens and browns that enclosed them on either side. She could hear nothing besides the soft thumping of Wailach's hooves on the dirt track and the slight breeze rustling in the trees tops, whispering softly to them. Then a darker shape flitted between the greens. Had she really seen that or was her mind playing tricks? Was that hiss the wind or her own breath - or someone else's? Would robbers lurk so close to town? Could it be some sinister servant of Grimrun's that had somehow apprehended them?
"Let's go", she whispered tightly, "they'll just surround us if we stay."
Wailach leaped forward in response as if her words had broken a spell. It was all the girl could do to hold on to his bulk. He did not get very far. Suddenly there were shapes on the road. They seemed to appear out of nowhere though they must have leaped from the undergrowth. They came to stand teeth bared, fur bristling barring their path. Wailach reared and neighed. He danced nervously, turned backwards. With a cry of surprise Joana slid from his back. The landing on the hard, trampled earth of the road drove the wind out of her. She just managed to scramble clear as Wailach staggered backwards and set his forefeet down with a thud. More canine forms had appeared behind them denying them retreat.
"Go no further, Speaker", a rough voice called out. The largest of the wolves in front advanced a few paces. Dazed Joana identified what must be the leader.
Wailach whirled around and let out a furious neigh. He raised his forehooves in the air to strike down their pursuer. The wolf jumped back and snarled angrily.
"Come on and fight, coward", Wailach bellowed. At the last word he slammed his hooves down in a burst of fragments of earth and pebbles.
Joana was on her feet again. Laying a calming hand on the horse's trembling flank she stepped forward. She was confused. Animals had not been a threat to her - at least not since she had discovered her gift.
"What do you want?"
The large wolf cocked his head toward her yet never let Wailach out of his sight. Another wolf growled. The others remained silently at attention, watching Wailach's every move. Joana counted seven including their leader. Of course, there might be more hidden among the shrubs, she thought. If it came to it she doubted Wailach could take them all on.
"You can go no further, Speaker", the lead wolf repeated.
"We go whereever we please", Wailach snorted in response. "Make way for the Speaker or I will beat your head in."
Joana tried not to think of her human pursuers closing in. The fields around Tramir were hidden behind several bends in the road but it wasn't far. How long had it been? How far might pursuers have come? They were exposed. She tried to keep her voice calm.
"Why can we not go on? Do you mean to harm us?"
"They can try!" Wailach tossed his large head.
"You-" The canine seemed to struggle with the words. "-must wait here. You can go no further."
A flutter overhead told her that Ebek, who had scouted ahead, had returned.
"Ah, sparrow crap", he commented.
"Fine scout you are", Wailach shot at him.
Joana tried to focus.
"We cannot wait", she said urgently, "enemies are on our tail. Let us pass." Wailach menacingly advanced a few paces, stamping his hooves at every step. The wolves in front retreated but the ones behind followed. Several of them flashed their teeth.
"You must wait", the leader insisted. "That was the order."
Order. Joana thoughts raced. What capabilities did a Zmeu have? Could Grimrun's dominion extend into the realm of animals, as well?
"Whose order?"
"Mine", a familiar voice suddenly interrupted. The undergrowth parted. Wailach turned, raised his forehooves. But out of the bushes issued not the enemy he expected. With a cry Joana was between them, arms raised protectively.
"Wailach, no! She's a friend! She's my friend."
Vucara had retreated a few paces, fur bristling, cowering and ready to spring. Wailach danced backward also and snorted nervously. The circle of wolves had drawn tighter. Some were snarling. They were preparing to bring the mighty steed down.
"It's all right Vucara." Joana turned back and forth between the wolves and Wailach's bulk. "Call them off. Wailach broke me out of our enemy's prison. He is fierce but we can trust him." Looking at the horse now she tried to put a firm, reassuring note into her tone, adding: "Relax, everyone. We're all friends here."
There was no visible sign from her companion but the wolves pulled back a little. Some sat down on their haunches. Still they kept wary eyes on their large opponent.
"Strange friends you have", the steed commented, "sneaking around, chasing us."
"Forgive me, Speaker", Vucara said, her voice low. Joana noticed her fur was glistening with sweat. She was panting. The limp of her hind leg had become more obvious again.
"I bade Rukain and his pack keep an eye on the road for me. They were to make you wait until I arrived. They were not meant to threaten you." At the last words she raised her voice as if to make sure the other wolves heard her. The leader - Rukain - sat down on his tail with a whine.
"Fortunately, I noticed the disturbance at the entrance to the human settlement and came as fast as I could."
That was when they heard the baying of hounds. With a caw Ebek fluttered up and was gone. Joana jumped. Vucara and the other wolves stiffened.
"Go, cut them off." Vucara's command toward the three wolves behind them sounded like that of an experienced warchief. The girl had never heard her friend speak like this. The wolves obeyed and slipped into the bushes besides the road.
To Joana the wolf continued: "We must not delay further. Your pursuers are near."
They followed Vucara off the road. At her order - or bidding, Joana could not tell the difference - the other four wolves escorted them at a few paces distance. The older wolf took point. They had not gone far when loud clamour arose behind them. The baying took on a fiercer more aggressive note. Then the air carried the shouts of men. Joana tried to shut it out. More bloodshed in her name. As if by instinct her fingers sought out her mother's ring. Why could they not let her be?
Wailach stamped the ground impatiently next to her.
"I would much rather fight than flee and hide like this. I learned this from the humans. I would trample your enemies into the ground!"
"They bring many weapons." Joana shook her head even though she felt the gesture was lost on the horse. "They will not hesitate to kill you, Wailach."
The horse tossed his head.
"I fear neither pain nor death when I'm in your service."
"Look-" Joana tried to explain again.
Vucara interrupted them. "We must make more speed. They are close."
They hurried on. Joana climbed onto Wailach's back. The wolves set the pace, an easy canter for the large steed. The forest became denser. They broke through undergrowth and trampled over thorny briars. Joana pressed herself against the horse's heaving body but she still ended up badly scratched. Twigs whipped her from both sides and sometimes raked across her back. She held on for dear life. Again and again something seemed to block Wailach's path. He turned and wove between trees. Vucara led them on a path that only she could see and that criss-crossed deeper and deeper into the forest and away from the road. Joana quickly lost all sense of direction. In the constant twilight under the vast, green canopy all directions looked the same.
They struggled ahead onto higher territory, that was all Joana could make out. The ground also became rockier. From the narrow and brief scraps of sky that the girl could catch through tears in the roof of leaves she could see the sun was rising toward its zenith. The wolf guided them through increasingly difficult terrain. Here was already far away from the flat lands where humans had made their settlements. On this rocky ground with its gullies and steep slopes, gnarled roots and treacherous briars even surefooted Wailach occasionally slipped or stumbled. Several other wolves joined them on the way though none of them were acknowledged as the ones Vucara had sent to cut off their pursuers. With a heavy heart the girl thought of those other ones she had seen strung up on the market square in Tramir. Would these poor creatures suffer the same fate? She clenched her fists into Wailach's mane. Why were humans capable of such cruelty when animals were not?
The sun had commenced its descending course when Vucara stopped on the rim of a pit in the side of a hill. She stood there above them for a moment, her nose held high into a draught of air that rolled down the slope, her ears pricked, her tail alert. And for that moment Joana, who was slipping off Wailach's back, looked up at her in awe. She admired this proud beast, the sleek line of its back, its taut muscles, the keen unwavering gaze. Here stood a beast from the dawn of time, a force of nature in itself, worthy to run with the gods. Only a slight colour of grey just behind her jaw line showed her very worldly age. To call this beast her friend and guardian was an honour few indeed might have. Again, Joana recalled how the others had called her "elder". She began to comprehend. It seemed the other creatures shared at least some of her sentiments for they had quietly gathered around but did not advance. Then Vucara leaped down into the hollow and the vision faded. Rukain and his pack scattered, each to their regular place it seemed. Here and there a short spat erupted over whose right it was to occupy a space but it soon quieted down. From the smell and the many tracks Joana gathered that the wolves often came here. She tried to count them but kept loosing track at somewhere over a dozen. A few of the beasts had settled on the rim of the pit - very much like watch posts in a human camp. Only Wailach, who was still uneasy around the canines, would not go near the place. He remained some way below between trees where he grazed on sparse forest grass.
Vucara announced they would stay in this place for the night. The hollow was easy to defend. There was also a stream nearby where everyone might drink. If Joana wanted to go look for berries now was the time before it got too dark. Once again it struck Joana how her companion had begun thinking like warrior.
A sharp rustling in the tree above startled them. There was a caw.
"You're good", Ebek commented from a branch just above them. "You almost lost me. Let alone those humans."
The raven set about preening his shiny, black coat of feathers. Vucara's eyes narrowed as she looked up at the bird.
"Ebek. What are you doing here?"
He cocked his head at the wolf seeming to seriously consider this.
"Let me see ... same as you, helping the Speaker fulfil her destiny?"
"Is this-" Vucara reconsidered and addressed the question to Joana. "Is this true?"
The girl nodded. "He picked my bonds and helped me escape, yes. W-"
The wolf had already turned back to the bird.
"I should have known you would sooner or later have your beak in this. From the moment I noticed your spies following us you've been waiting for just the right time to make your entry."
The raven cocked his head the other way peering down with one black eye only.
"Spies", the bird squawked, "and what made you think that?"
"They followed us. They were listening. Do you still deny you sent them?"
"Indeed, I do." Ebek knocked the side of his beak against the wood with a twist of his head. "I sense distrust, Elder, but it's severely misplaced. Remember what the Speaker said? We're all friends here."
"Sense what you will, king of crows", Vucara snorted. With that she made to return to the hollow. The fur on the back of her neck was bristling.
"It's raven, actually", Ebek corrected mildly as if it was something he had said many times.
"Raven or crow." Vucara snarled, turning back again. Her tail was twitching impatiently. "It is not your ancestry but your motives that I question."
Joana was following this exchange with growing confusion. Why was her companion so hostile? The other wolves were looking over to them, their ears pointed their way. Only Wailach showed no interest but continued to pull at random tufts of grass.
"What about my motives", Ebek squawked slyly.
"You have associated too much with humans", the wolf replied flatly.
"The same could be said about yourself, Elder Vucara."
"Watch your words! I associate with the Speaker alone."
There was a wide grin in the raven's tone when he answered: "But it is your motives I question. I do not make the pretence of loyalty when it is only my species I wish to redeem."
This time Vucara bared her teeth at him in sudden growl that made Ebek hop away on his branch. The wolf seemed ready to pounce.
"How dare you?! My loyalty to the Speaker has been unquestioning!"
"To the Speaker maybe. But how about her?"
"The two are inseparable", Vucara barked.
"Friends, enough, please." Joana tried to step between them, which was not easy because of the difference in altitude. The argument had taken religious proportions. It reminded her uncomfortably of the story in father's holy scripture. She was no icon to fight over. Not when you considered what she was bent on doing.
Her voice silenced both animals. They stared at her. Embarrassed she found that she was lost for words.
"Isn't what humans do enough? Do we have to be at each other's throats, too?" When they still seemed unwilling to back off she went on: "I'm not some sort of chosen one. You've been immensely kind to me and to both of you I owe a debt of gratitude I can never hope to repay in full."
"Gracious words", Ebek replied not unkindly but in an official tone. "One day maybe the black birds will hold you to it." He spread his wings and was off into the eaves of the tree leaving Joana with her canine companion behind. Vucara stared after him without blinking then turned away, her tail sagging a little in a sign weariness.
Almost inaudibly she muttered: "Good riddance."
After a moment's hesitation Joana called after her to wait. It felt like interrogating her mother, or the clan chief. The Vucara she had met initially was reverent, the one she faced now intimidated her. Still, she had to ask - now more than ever. The old wolf stood still without a word, letting her catch up.
"What was that all about?"
Vucara sighed in an almost human fashion.
"Walk with me, Speaker. I am thirsty."
So they walked in silence away from the wolves' resting place - Joana could not help but think of it as a camp. Down a slope they made their way, over naked rocks and between slender trees. Vucara led the way. They heard it before they saw. Gurgling and murmuring and splashing. Then the undergrowth suddenly opened up onto a lively stream that had dug a deep bed for itself between the rocks. Carefully testing her footing Vucara padded down the slick bank to the stream. Joana followed setting her feet where her companion had stepped. When she reached the bottom Vucara was already lapping eagerly at the flowing water. Joana bent down and scooped up a handful. The water was cool and clear. Now her body remembered that she had not drunk since last night and she began swallowing in deep gulps.
When they had had their fill the two climbed back up. Exhausted from the long ride and the sleepless night Joana nestled into the hollow between two gnarled roots resting her head against the base of the tree. Gazing upward she followed its trunk from where she was sitting, up to where it split into several thick branches, to where those in turn split, all the way to where its leaves swayed lazily over the coursing stream on slender twigs outlined against a uniform grey autumn sky. She was growing hungry and would need to worry about food soon - but not just yet. Right now she was not sure whether she really wanted those answers from Vucara. Moreover she felt exhausted. Why could her life not be simple again? It had only been a few weeks. She could have enjoyed such a moment's respite ...
The wolf stirred uneasily next to her. Vucara had settled, her forelegs stretched elegantly in front of her, her poise alert, among patches of tall reeds and grass a little nearer to the bank. Joana noticed her companion was scanning the trees around them as if she expected prying eyes and ears hidden among the foliage. And, thought the girl, that was just what she was doing. The wolf sniffed suspiciously at the breeze that blew down from the narrow gap the stream had left.
Finally, Joana broke the silence: "What quarrel is there between you and Ebek?"
A pause, not awkward but enough to make it clear Vucara was considering her answer.
"There is no quarrel between us. I merely do not trust him. Nor do I trust he is merely helping you for the reason he claims he is."
"All this because we heard crows following us?" She remembered the crows that had looked up at her out of black eyes among the ruins of Kremitz.
"You will hear them say", Vucara responded patienty, "that to hear and to see and to remember was their purpose in this world." She hesitated a moment before she continued in a lower voice. "Their curiosity, however, often drives them to entertain close contact with your people."
"How so?" Joana's surprise was genuine as was a certain incredulity. The wolf gazed out at the river.
"There are some among you who attempt to control the energies of nature. The man we encountered in that settlement was one of them."
"Berengar", the girl murmured with a pang of regret. Another soul she would have to avenge. "You mean sorcerers, oracles, witches?"
"Those words mean nothing to me. We feel only what they do. They seek knowledge to bend the world to their will. They are willing to seek this knowledge in unusual places. Knowledge then begets more knowledge and power comes along with it. This process draws Ebek and his kind to them. And them to the crows for they are easily persuaded to impart what they know." She let this sink in for a moment before going on. "Your adversary is probably the most powerful among such ... sorcerers, as you call them. Imagine the lure, the temptation that serving him must be. And certainly he bears no ill will to raven-kind."
Her last words hung in the air between them like ominous rain clouds.
"If Ebek is in league with Grimrun", Joana spoke slowly, "why would he help me escape while his master sends men to capture me and take me back to him?"
"That I cannot answer." Then darkly: "If your adversary is truly what you say he is then neither of us may yet fathom his schemes."
Another riddle. Was Joana ever going to get anything but riddles out of her?
"What do you know about Grimrun", Joana queried intently.
"No more than you", the wolf replied evenly, "what you tell me and what I feel in his presence. It is in our nature to observe, stealthily."
Joana regarded her again. She almost imagined catching the proud beast smiling mysteriously.
"I still don't know the first thing about you, Elder Vucara."
The wolf started a little when she heard her title spoken.
"Few do. Humans seem to wear their hearts for all to see and to read. Our kind guard our secrets closely."
"You don't trust anybody?"
"Only a few. And only after observing them a long time."
"And yet", Joana returned hesitantly, "Ebek seems to know things about you..."
She could see Vucara's fur bristling again. She had not done that since their first meeting by that other stream. The wolf got up, walked slowly up to the steep bank. Joana feared another riddle but it did not come. Vucara's voice was low, resigned, when she finally turned her profile back toward the sitting girl.
"A long time ago one of my ancestors bit a hand he should not have bitten. He brought upon us a curse, great unhappiness and misfortune. Tellings say it was from that time on that your kind and mine - those who walk on two legs and those who walk on four - became estranged. A rift opened that has been growing wider ever since. True Speech was forgotten - in many cases the gift of speech itself was. They say that only a True Sayer can bring the two peoples back together." At this she turned fully back with one limping step. Her eyes blazed as she went on: "One who still possess the gift."
Joana shivered but it was not the cold that brought on this reaction. Her heart was pounding all of a sudden.
"You think I could ... make things the way they once were?"
"When I found you, heard you speak - for the first time I had hope. Hope that this miracle might happen within my lifetime."
"And that is why you spared my life and did not drag me off to be eaten by the pack?"
"In the beginning ... yes." She gazed off again, wistfully this time. "If this disappoints you, Speaker, I am sorry. I truly am. I would see those days of unity return. I would see my people be rid of the shame. I would see the enmity and mistrust between our peoples give way to the friendship of old."
Now Vucara seemed merely old and tired. But there was a fire in her gaze, an intense expectancy. Joana could not hold it but lowered her eyes. It was one thing to face the consequences for past actions but the wolf was reversing this old principle. She could almost feel the weight of Vucara's hopes and expectations settle on her shoulders. She shrugged helplessly.
"But how?"
"Again, I am sorry, Speaker, that I cannot tell you. One day I expect you will know. Fate will guide you as it has guided you so far. I will do my best to help you find out."
"What if it doesn't work out? What if Grimrun just kills me?"
The wolf remained silent. She made to leave trotting close by the sitting girl. Right next to her she halted for a few heartbeats.
"Rest, Speaker. You are safe here for now. We will keep watch."
Then she was gone. Joana remained sitting. Her companion - was she really - was right: she was utterly exhausted and needed rest. Staring across the stream at the wall of green leaves and the intricate patterns of light and dark the Speaker rested her head against the rough tree trunk. Below her wave after wave lapped noisily at mossy stones and murmured softly as it passed down its bed.
She had not noticed falling asleep but Joana was awake with a jolt. The sky was darker than it had been. The bright patch of the sun was no longer visible above the trees. Stream and earth and girl were cast in ever longer shadows. Had she dreamed? There had been a face, a familiar face. One full of grief and weariness. An old man who had been dealt severe blows and who was praying. Praying to a pair of sticks tied together in the shape of a cross. What then had woken her up? The forest around her was quiet apart from the calls of the first nocturnal birds that had risen early. There was nothing to be seen. And yet. She could feel somebody’s eyes upon her. Groping around the mossy ground she rose cautiously to her feet. Her hands soon found what they had been looking for. Something solid and heavy enough. Her fingers closed around what turned out to be a thick fallen branch. Lichen was already growing on it but it seemed strong enough.
Her eyes wide the girl peered into the growing gloom among the trees. Had Vucara not said one of the wolves would keep watch? She took hold of the branch with both hands, hefted it like a broadsword. Turning this way and that, always keeping her makeshift weapon extended in front of her, she began slowly making her way back up the slope toward where the camp must be.
Joana had not gone very far - she could still make out the patch of light where the stream cut through the mass of trees - when her foot caught on something that made her stumble. She nearly dropped the branch. The thing on the ground looked like a huge, overgrown root curling away from a tree trunk. But it had been soft. Instead of moss her questing hand found fur on a body that was no longer as warm as it should be. Then she spotted something sleek and straight that stuck in its chest. With a gasp she was upright, pressing against the tree trunk. Her breathing doubled in speed. She gripped her club harder, wildly casting her gaze this way and that. How had they found her? And which direction were they most likely to come from?
"Show yourselves." The words pushed through gritted teeth. "Let’s get this over with."
She had not expected a reply or even a reaction. But some of the shadows among the trees suddenly came to life. The shapes that stepped into the open appeared to cast the darkness back as if it were a hood to them. To Joana’s surprise they were no taller than children. Tallest of them hardly reached up to Joana’s chest but they were of a squat and stocky shape and made no sound as they moved. Then it hit her.
"You!"
"We meet again, lass", said the tallest dwarf solemnly. "I’m afraid once again you are going to have to come with us."
"Not this time." Joana shook her head vigorously, made to back away but they followed, swiftly forming a circle around their quarry and cutting off her escape. There were five of them Joana could make out. They wore the onset of night like cloaks around their necks. Each appeared to be wearing some form of intricately fashioned hard clothing or armour and was armed with sword or axe at their side. Joana's heart sank but she made a menacing swish with the heavy log. They halted, though not apprehensive but rather biding their time.
"Stay where you are!" Joana focused on the leader. He calmly returned her gaze. "I'm not going back to your master."
"What the master wants the master gets", the leader said solemnly. He broke eye contact only for a moment when his gaze sought that of his companions.
"Not alive this time. Back I say!" Two of the dwarfs were quietly edging closer from either side. Joana swung the club in earnest this time. The one on her right managed to dodge out of the way but the other dwarf decided to seize the opportunity and close in. With a grunt the girl brought her weapon around further and caught him off balance. The heavy stick snapped with a crack that echoed between the trees. From the corner of her eye Joana saw the other dwarf had not withdrawn but was closing again. With a curse that would have made her father blush she hurled the remaining end of the branch in his direction. The tumbling projectile struck his arms as he raised them protectively before his face. Joana was nearly past him before he had recovered. She ducked out of the reach of his snaring hands and ran up the slope.
Let there not be treacherous roots or pits, she prayed by herself though she knew not for sure who to. There was a shrill whistle from behind her. A signal? Were there more? Approaching the crest of the hill it was then that she noticed the red glow that cast unsteady shadows of the trees in front and outlined them sharply against the darkening sky. It seemed to pulse and throb like a living thing. And as she watched it was growing slowly brighter. The wolves! Wailach! Had they been attacked while she had been sleeping and silently murdered? This was when a hand grabbed at her from the shadows. She screamed, kicked, stumbled but regained her footing - only to crash straight into another figure that seemed to literally appear out of nowhere.
They fell, rolled on the ground. Pointy rocks and roots stung her sides. The shape was surprisingly tall and heavy for a dwarf. Hands fumbled for her wrists. She kicked fiercely at her adversary. Her foot connected with something. There was a grunt of pain and the hands stopped. The figure curled up but she was already scrambling to her feet.
"Joana", said a voice in the grey between the trees. She realised it had been saying it before during their struggle. She knew that voice and now she could make out the face.
"It's me", Toben added unnessecarily.
"Grimrun hesitates at nothing to bring me in", she growled in response, "but you shan't have me either."
She backed off again, casting cautious glances back the way she had come. Where was Vucara? The thought stung in her heart. He took a step forward, brought his hands up showing her they were empty.
In a controlled tone he said: "I'm not here to take you anywhere. I want to find out what in the gods' names is going on."
"You could have come up and asked." Her voice sounded hollow. She had managed to put a tree between them. "Why bring those dwarfs? Why slaughter my friends and burn everything??" She gestured wildly toward the waxing light.
"Grimrun's men have orders straight from him", he snapped back, "they don't answer to me." His anger hid embarrassment. He reminded her of a little boy now whose pet dog refused to answer the whistle.
"You are the god-damn prince", she screamed furiously, "make them obey!"
He scowled, opened his mouth for a reply. There was a vicious snarl from a clump of young trees off to and behind Joana's right. A singing of metal told Joana Toben now held his sword drawn. Two shapes with bristling fur came out on top of a third one that was barely larger than them but much bulkier. The defender struggled wildly. A stubby hand gripped one the creatures and held it. The other hand, clenched into a fist, shot up and connected with a crack. He pounded the animal furiously and it went limp in his stranglehold. But a different pair of jaws closed around a short, thick throat and tore. The prone shape thrashed the empty air. There was a twang and the arrow found its mark before the second beast could withdraw. With a yowl the canine form flinched and rolled on one side. Its victim already lay still.
"They're here." Joana spun around and pressed her back against the tree. Where to run now?
With his left hand Toben pulled the other man she had struggled with to his feet. It was one of his guards. He was still doubled over and clutching his groin.
More clamour erupted around them: snarling, barking, howling interspersed with shouts and human-like cries. Joana could make out shapes outlined against the firelight, shapes struggling, blades slashing, teeth tearing. A whole battle seemed to rage around her. Had there been that many? Or was it a few fighting like an army? Suddenly a small hand closed around her wrist. Joana spun and pulled hard but the stocky figure was heavier than it looked. And the grip was as unyielding as a blacksmith's vice. Instead she rebounded and came face to face with the dwarf who pointed at her a short, geometric-looking sword. It was the leader. He motioned with his head, tugged on her wrist. She shook her head. Without a further word he pulled with such force that it seemed to dislocate her arm. She stumbled forward, landing painfully on her knees. He kept slowly backing away from the fight dragging the girl along with him. No amount of struggling seemed to have an effect. She shouted Toben's name but could not spot him anywhere. She pounded the hand that held her.
"Let me go", she commanded. He paid her no heed, instead watching the surroundings attentively. She bumped against a root, caught it in her hand and held fast. He pulled relentlessly. She could feel the strain on her shoulder, the bone beginning to give.
She screamed then, at the top of her voice: "Let me go!!" They words in True Speech made her spine tingle. He let go so abruptly that he stumbled and fell backwards. Only for a moment Joana caught on his face a look of confusion and surprise. Then Toben was on top of him. He drove the tip of his sword at the dwarf's throat but his opponent rolled to one side. Toben stabbed again. This time the dwarf caught the blade in his hand and to Joana's amazement held it immobile by the blade. Both opponents trembled with exertion. Blood was trickling down the dwarf's wrist. The blade was slipping. The dwarf grunted in pain. Between clenched teeth he growled: "Ye don't know who yer dealing with."
With a sudden jerk on the blade he caught Toben off balance. As the warrior staggered the dwarf gave him a kick. The two humans wound up in a heap. Back on his feet the dwarf leader gave a short, shrill whistle as before. Then he flicked the hood of his cloak over his head and faded out of sight. As abruptly as it had broken out the skirmish was over. Joana's heart was pounding. She was still staring at the place where the dwarf had stood. She focused on the weight on her chest. Toben was also staring wide-eyed in the dwarf's direction. His upper body lay on top of hers. He noticed her motion and looked down at her. For a moment they remained like this. Now it was a different tingling Joana felt. The moment dragged on. He had caught himself with his left hand on the ground. The other, Joana realised, had come to rest on her chest. With an indignant cry she pushed him off and he landed with a thud next to her.
Vucara was the first to emerge. The girl could now recognise her anywhere. Blood red light danced among the trees picking out bodies here and there. Some still moved. The guard was nowhere to be seen. A silence had fallen that was only interrupted by a waxing sound of crackling and hissing. The first sparks were flying over the trees. She could smell it now, the choking scent of moist wood burning, of ash, a slight sting of smoke in the air.
"Speaker!" Vucara was next to her.
Other wolves had gathered but they were few. Many had dark streaks and splatters on their coats of fur. They formed a menacing circle around the humans. Toben slowly rose up groping on the ground for his sword. His hand only found Joana's foot, which made her jump. She shook his hand off.
"Better stay still now", she hissed at him. The man froze.
"Have they hurt you, Speaker?" Vucara was urgently sniffing her. There was an almost human expression of worry on her canine face. "Has he?"
Joana noted to her amazement that she was unharmed. Scared, confused but unharmed. Her wrist still felt numb from the dwarf's hold on her. Her body felt like it was only being held together by cuts and bruises. And her skin still burned in the places Toben had touched it.
"I'm fine", she said. Her voice sounded hoarse.
"What about him?" The wolf turned her head in Toben's direction, sniffing.
"I'm not sure", Joana admitted. "He hasn't attacked me." Then turning to him: "What do you want?"
"What I told you", came Toben's tense reply, "to learn the truth."
She returned sharply: "I've told you the truth already. I am not to blame for the deaths in Tramir. Grimrun's words are a pack of lies. They are after me and stop at nothing to get me. You can see that, can't you?"
He looked around. "Grimrun? But why?"
"How should I know?" She had raised her voice again.
"She is telling the truth, I can vouch for that", Vucara now interrupted their exchange. She had never addressed anyone beside her, Joana noticed. Toben stared at the wolf with his mouth hanging open.
Then: "It talks. It really talks." He slowly turned back toward Joana. An expression of wonder had spread across his features. "It is true what they say then."
The wolf interrupted again: "Speaker! We must leave." There was a quaver in her voice that Joana had not heard before. She realised the wolf just stopped short of tugging as her tattered clothing like an anxious dog. She looked up. The wall of flames was cresting the hill: a ponderous avalanche that defied the laws of nature and was rolling upwards with horrible determination. The glow had fanned out now to both sides, cutting off all escape in a broad swath in that direction. Soon all traces of their battle would be burned to ash. The girl looked on in a growing helpless anger. Her enemy would not cease hunting her no matter where she ran. She would just leave a trail of dead bodies and charred ground.
"Are you on my side or not", she demanded of the prince.
"What you say rings true. You keep wondrous company. The vicious beasts of the forest come to your aid and speak on your behalf. Yet there is still much about you that I do not fully understand." He was torn, uncertain. But Joana could also spot something new in his eyes. The mocking expression she had so disliked when they first met was gone.
"Speaker!"
"Back to the stream then." The firm tone of her voice surprised her. "If we find a crossing it will shield us from the flames."
Vucara let out a yelp that sounded almost like a sigh of relief. "Follow me!" She made off back down the slope. The other wolves followed in a loose train.
Joana looked back at Toben. "Can I trust you?"
He shook his head. "No."
"Then you'd better be going if you don't want to be roasted." With that she turned and hurried after the wolves.
He called something after her but it was lost in the sounds of her own haste.
When they reached the stream the wolves made a sharp turn. She could make out the noise of the waters. The ground was treacherous and she had to give it her full attention. Still, she tripped many times. In front and behind she could hear the wolves panting softly. They hardly made any other noise as they ran. A stark contrast to her own clumsy stumbling.
They had not gone far when the team came to a sudden halt. Joana had doubled over. She was exhausted and beginning to feel it more than ever. The wolves around her were nervous. Where was Wailach, it occurred to her. She had not seen the proud steed since the attack. Then Vucara was next to her.
"We cannot go on. The reek of strangers, humans, is everywhere in front."
Joana's heart went cold again. Of course, it had been a trap. That moment a dog started barking and only a heartbeat later a great cry of many voices joined in unison rose up from the dark forest ahead. They all jumped. Drums were beaten. The booming echoed among the silent trees. Several of the wolves whined. Then the harsh blast from a horn cut through the other noise.
"Back", Joana commanded. Several of the wolves were already bounding the opposite way. They turned back, crashing heedlessly now through the undergrowth. The drums and shouts seemed ever behind them. When the dark shape came into focus between the trees Joana finally lost her footing. He caught her with a quick step forward. She was held by a pair of strong arms.
A familiar voice said, just loud enough to be heard over the din: "I tried to tell you: the camp is that way."
Instinctively she looked back over her shoulder. There were flickering lights moving among the trees.
Joana pushed him away. "Any other way we might be cut off unexpectedly", she snapped.
This time he followed her when she ran. The wolves had continued ahead. They did not get far. A blood curdling yowl cut through the other noise, followed closely by another. In terrible foreboding Joana accelerated her steps. The remaining wolves had gathered before a rough barricade of dead wood. Before she could get her bearings lights sprang up some way behind the barricade. More shouts sounded and the clashing of iron on wood. The lights advanced. The wolves shrank back but there was nowhere left to go. In panic they turned this way and that, whining miserably.
"They are everywhere, Speaker." For the first time there was desperation in Vucara's voice. "They have fire."
Somebody touched her arm. It was Toben. The girl jerked her arm away from him. Could this all be his doing: first gaining her trust, then abusing it by orchestrating this trap?
"They have mounted a drive", he shouted. "It is a common strategy when hunting wolves. Tell them to stay calm. There cannot be that many of them."
"How do you know so much about what they are doing", she demanded.
"I don't", came the reply. "I've been on wolf hunts though."
She glared at him. Of course, he had been. He opened his mouth to add something but their enemies were upon them. The bobbing torch lights became torches held by men in padded leather vests holding axes and bows in the other hand. They scaled the barricade on one side. Briefly, their light fell on a row of wooden spikes that had been erected behind the wall. Two dead wolves hung on them that had probably jumped over. More armed warriors were advancing on the opposite side. Toben was right, there could be no more than ten. But she also saw how few the wolves had become. Joana counted no more than seven that had survived this far. With them moving around incessantly there was no being sure.
Toben drew his sword again. There was a slight twist in the blade where the dwarf had gripped it. She could now see he was wearing the same ring mail she had seen him in days ago on the town square of Tramir. His cloak was torn and his hair and clothes in disarray.
"I am Toben, son of Baldrik, your chosen king", he bellowed. "I command you to come forth peacefully and state your business!"
In response an arrow zipped by him. It struck a wolf in the shoulder. It yelped in pain. Joana was at its side immediately trying to find calming words while she figured out how to extract the missile.
"Cease your attack at once or you shall feel the consequences", Toben roared beside her. Another arrow struck the wolf Joana was nursing and it went limp in her arms. Several more arrows followed. Yelps and howls of pain erupted around her.
The shriek rose from her plagued heart, filled her belly, surged up her throat.
"STOP!"
The action around her ground to a reluctant halt. Arrows remained on bowstrings, wolves leaping and writhing seemed to slow. The word throbbed in the back of her head. She had used True Speech instinctively this time.
Then with a palpable gasp the scene came to life again. Vucara was the first to recover. She pounced on one of the men on the barricade pushing him back where he landed breathlessly out of sight. Toben sprang forward. With several long steps he covered the distance to the nearest torch holder and brought his sword arching down. He yanked it free of the man's shoulder. A fountain of blood followed it. He had moved on to the next man before the first hit the ground. Deep he drove the blade into the man's abdomen. The warrior doubled over with a whimper. On the other side Vucara and another wolf with an arrow stuck in its back were dragging a man screaming from the barricade. He flailed his bow at them. When they finally let go his companions pulled him back over the wall leaving a moist, glistening trail. They took cover out of sight.
The sound of somebody clapping their hands interrupted the fight. A single figure, clad in heavy furs, slowly walked out into the light of the torches. Behind him the fire had consumed the hill top. It lent him a blazing halo like that of the fire giants in the ancient tales. He surveyed the scene with grim satisfaction, then stepped fully into the light. His hood was cast back revealing a bald skalp.
"Toben, son of Baldrik, cease your needless violence." Joana knew the voice well. Toben, who had been struggling with the third man on his side, watched helplessly as his arms sank and his hand released the sword. In a fluid motion the man smashed his forehead into Toben's face. The prince broke to his knees with a groan. Blood running from his nose dripped onto the ground.
"And you, Joana, daughter of Iacobus", Grimrun addressed her, "contain your pets or they will be slain indiscriminately." She felt the tendrils of the suggestion in her head trying to take hold. Something in her mind wanted to believe that he would spare them and comply. It would be so easy. Vucara growled. Clenching her fists at her sides she shook it off and tried to meet his gaze.
"You're going to kill them anyway", she spat in True Speech. "Why should I believe in your mercy now?"
Grimrun fixed his piercing gaze on her. The dancing light flickered in them menacingly. Two of the men behind the barricade had emerged again and pointed bows at her and the wolves. Vucara uttered a whine. She and two more remaining wolves withdrew, gathering around Joana.
"I salute your display of power, Joana, daughter of Iacobus." Again his will bent down on her. His thin lips twisted into a sneer. "But you still have a lot to learn. Come to me now."
This time the command was intense. As if they had a mind of their own her legs wanted to obey and march forward. Joana closed her eyes. Her chest felt tight. The more she pushed back against Grimrun's will the worse it got. She took a laboured breath. Her head hurt from the strain. A lot of muscles had cramped. She finally managed to shake her head.
"No." Grimrun's eyes grew wide in surprise. Though everything in her screamed to look away she forced herself to hold his gaze. Through clenched teeth she went on: "I'm not going with you. And you can't make me, can you?"
All eyes were on them now, Joana realised. Grimrun's men had probably never seen any opponent stand up to him, least of all a woman. And she could see the strain in him now. His jaws were grinding and veins had begun to throb on his head. They faced each other for endless moments. Grimrun's eyes were the first to twitch.
"I have no more patience for you little brat", Grimrun growled hoarsely. "Kill those wolves. Then bring her to me."
Joana's heart stopped. At this range they could not miss. But the men hesitated.
"Kill them", Grimrun roared in a fury.
A desperate idea struck Joana then. If the words of True Speech had a cleansing effect on her then ...
"Get back", she hissed to the wolves, who faded further between the rocks on the river bank. She tried to give her voice an air of confidence and command when she called: "Hold it! You know what they say about me. If even your master cannot break my will what do you think I could do to you?"
The men exchanged glances. Not a single arrow flew. No axe was raised.
"Fools", mocked Grimrun, "you shit your breeches because of a girl and her pets. You don't know who you are dealing with."
Still glaring at her he crouched. A long knife was in his hand. He slashed his hand and began to chant while blood leaked drip by drip from his clenched fist. Joana felt a wave of heat. The wolves yelped miserably. The rocks they were hiding among were heating up like a furnace. In a heartbeat her rush of triumph and hope turned into dismay.
"Stop it", she wailed.
A tiny shadow dropped from the trees. It dove like an arrow and found its mark right under Grimrun's brow. The sorcerer gave a cry of surprise which rose into a terrible shriek as the little beak dug into his right eyeball. The knife tumbled to the ground as he struggled with the flapping creature. Dark blood gushed down his cheek. The animal twisted left and right evading his hands but kept pecking. As he swatted at it hysterically his influence evaporated. His men looked on in horror.
Joana felt light-headed. She could have cheered the bird.
"Vucara", she shouted in exhilaration, "now! Drive them off!"
With long steps she rushed forward. In front the screaming Grimrun had caught the bird in his hand and flung it away from him. It tumbled through the air and landed out of sight. Joana almost slid into him, fumbling for the knife. She caught hold of it first. Their eyes met as she raised it high above her head.
"This is for mother!"
She plunged the blade down among the furs. Grimrun screamed. He struggled wildly. Joana pulled the knife back. The furs were turning soggy. Half-blind with blood even on the good eye the sorcerer reached for the weapon but came away only with empty air. She brought the blade down again.
"This is for father!" Grimrun howled. This time he caught her with his flailing hands and sent her rolling on the mossy ground. The knife bounced out of her hand. When Joana scrambled upright again he was no more than a shade stumbling between trees outlined against the raging fire.
"We're not done with you!" His voice was shrill and quavered. "I will not forget this!"
Joana swore. Where was the knife? Her eyes shot this way and that while her hands felt around. Nothing. Where was the damn knife??
"Vucara", she shouted frantically, "he's getting away. Toben! Stop him!"
There was no answer. When she looked up again, Grimrun was nowhere to be seen. The girl shook her fist at the empty forest, the fire, the tracks of the man that had passed.
"Flee now, monster", she taunted. "Your blood debt is not paid! I will find you!"
After everything she felt only empty. Suddenly her legs refused to hold her. Exhaustion flooded over her, forcing her on her knees.
"I will find you."
Darkness folded in around her. Joana was already unconscious when a pair of arms caught her.
... to be continued ...
They flew along the road as Wailach's iron shod hooves hammered the ground with dull thuds. Farmers that had risen early looked up in wonder from their labour. They saw a young lad on the bare back of a mighty steed that was too large for his own frame. He was clinging to the horse's mane and kept shooting cautious glances over his shoulder. Behind him men came running out from the town gate shouting loudly. Then, as if on order, they turned back and disappeared. On the road only the odd farm dog gave chase, barking loudly, to the edge of its territory. It was hard to imagine anything could keep up with the pace the lad's mount was laying down. Once a flock of goats blocked their path. The animals hurried out of the way as horse and rider approached with unreduced speed. One little kid did not react fast enough but just stood still bleating stupidly at the oncoming pair. The black stallion vaulted clear over it. Later the herder would have sworn he had heard a voice bellow: "make way!" and he would swear it was not the young lad's lips that had moved. It would puzzle him for a long while.
Wailach only slowed when they reached the spot where the road entered between the first trees of the forest that surrounded Tramir in an ever expanding circle. Joana finally relaxed her grip on his mane a little. Glancing back she found that the town of Tramir had disappeared behind a ridge. Had they mounted a pursuit? Surely, after going all the way to trap her on the market square of Tramir Grimrun would not let her escape that easily. It would be wise to get off the road soon. Then again, the road allowed them to make more rapid progress.
This was when Wailach hesitated, slowed, perked up his ears. He tensed notably under her. Bending forward she patted his side - just the way you would, she realised, to reassure a startled mare. In fact, it was her that was worried. She had come to trust the creatures around her, their senses and their intuition.
"What is it", she asked, her voice involuntarily lowered to a whisper.
The horse snorted in response tossing his head.
"Someone's following us."
Joana's chest tightened. She strained her eyes to pierce the wall of greens and browns that enclosed them on either side. She could hear nothing besides the soft thumping of Wailach's hooves on the dirt track and the slight breeze rustling in the trees tops, whispering softly to them. Then a darker shape flitted between the greens. Had she really seen that or was her mind playing tricks? Was that hiss the wind or her own breath - or someone else's? Would robbers lurk so close to town? Could it be some sinister servant of Grimrun's that had somehow apprehended them?
"Let's go", she whispered tightly, "they'll just surround us if we stay."
Wailach leaped forward in response as if her words had broken a spell. It was all the girl could do to hold on to his bulk. He did not get very far. Suddenly there were shapes on the road. They seemed to appear out of nowhere though they must have leaped from the undergrowth. They came to stand teeth bared, fur bristling barring their path. Wailach reared and neighed. He danced nervously, turned backwards. With a cry of surprise Joana slid from his back. The landing on the hard, trampled earth of the road drove the wind out of her. She just managed to scramble clear as Wailach staggered backwards and set his forefeet down with a thud. More canine forms had appeared behind them denying them retreat.
"Go no further, Speaker", a rough voice called out. The largest of the wolves in front advanced a few paces. Dazed Joana identified what must be the leader.
Wailach whirled around and let out a furious neigh. He raised his forehooves in the air to strike down their pursuer. The wolf jumped back and snarled angrily.
"Come on and fight, coward", Wailach bellowed. At the last word he slammed his hooves down in a burst of fragments of earth and pebbles.
Joana was on her feet again. Laying a calming hand on the horse's trembling flank she stepped forward. She was confused. Animals had not been a threat to her - at least not since she had discovered her gift.
"What do you want?"
The large wolf cocked his head toward her yet never let Wailach out of his sight. Another wolf growled. The others remained silently at attention, watching Wailach's every move. Joana counted seven including their leader. Of course, there might be more hidden among the shrubs, she thought. If it came to it she doubted Wailach could take them all on.
"You can go no further, Speaker", the lead wolf repeated.
"We go whereever we please", Wailach snorted in response. "Make way for the Speaker or I will beat your head in."
Joana tried not to think of her human pursuers closing in. The fields around Tramir were hidden behind several bends in the road but it wasn't far. How long had it been? How far might pursuers have come? They were exposed. She tried to keep her voice calm.
"Why can we not go on? Do you mean to harm us?"
"They can try!" Wailach tossed his large head.
"You-" The canine seemed to struggle with the words. "-must wait here. You can go no further."
A flutter overhead told her that Ebek, who had scouted ahead, had returned.
"Ah, sparrow crap", he commented.
"Fine scout you are", Wailach shot at him.
Joana tried to focus.
"We cannot wait", she said urgently, "enemies are on our tail. Let us pass." Wailach menacingly advanced a few paces, stamping his hooves at every step. The wolves in front retreated but the ones behind followed. Several of them flashed their teeth.
"You must wait", the leader insisted. "That was the order."
Order. Joana thoughts raced. What capabilities did a Zmeu have? Could Grimrun's dominion extend into the realm of animals, as well?
"Whose order?"
"Mine", a familiar voice suddenly interrupted. The undergrowth parted. Wailach turned, raised his forehooves. But out of the bushes issued not the enemy he expected. With a cry Joana was between them, arms raised protectively.
"Wailach, no! She's a friend! She's my friend."
Vucara had retreated a few paces, fur bristling, cowering and ready to spring. Wailach danced backward also and snorted nervously. The circle of wolves had drawn tighter. Some were snarling. They were preparing to bring the mighty steed down.
"It's all right Vucara." Joana turned back and forth between the wolves and Wailach's bulk. "Call them off. Wailach broke me out of our enemy's prison. He is fierce but we can trust him." Looking at the horse now she tried to put a firm, reassuring note into her tone, adding: "Relax, everyone. We're all friends here."
There was no visible sign from her companion but the wolves pulled back a little. Some sat down on their haunches. Still they kept wary eyes on their large opponent.
"Strange friends you have", the steed commented, "sneaking around, chasing us."
"Forgive me, Speaker", Vucara said, her voice low. Joana noticed her fur was glistening with sweat. She was panting. The limp of her hind leg had become more obvious again.
"I bade Rukain and his pack keep an eye on the road for me. They were to make you wait until I arrived. They were not meant to threaten you." At the last words she raised her voice as if to make sure the other wolves heard her. The leader - Rukain - sat down on his tail with a whine.
"Fortunately, I noticed the disturbance at the entrance to the human settlement and came as fast as I could."
That was when they heard the baying of hounds. With a caw Ebek fluttered up and was gone. Joana jumped. Vucara and the other wolves stiffened.
"Go, cut them off." Vucara's command toward the three wolves behind them sounded like that of an experienced warchief. The girl had never heard her friend speak like this. The wolves obeyed and slipped into the bushes besides the road.
To Joana the wolf continued: "We must not delay further. Your pursuers are near."
They followed Vucara off the road. At her order - or bidding, Joana could not tell the difference - the other four wolves escorted them at a few paces distance. The older wolf took point. They had not gone far when loud clamour arose behind them. The baying took on a fiercer more aggressive note. Then the air carried the shouts of men. Joana tried to shut it out. More bloodshed in her name. As if by instinct her fingers sought out her mother's ring. Why could they not let her be?
Wailach stamped the ground impatiently next to her.
"I would much rather fight than flee and hide like this. I learned this from the humans. I would trample your enemies into the ground!"
"They bring many weapons." Joana shook her head even though she felt the gesture was lost on the horse. "They will not hesitate to kill you, Wailach."
The horse tossed his head.
"I fear neither pain nor death when I'm in your service."
"Look-" Joana tried to explain again.
Vucara interrupted them. "We must make more speed. They are close."
They hurried on. Joana climbed onto Wailach's back. The wolves set the pace, an easy canter for the large steed. The forest became denser. They broke through undergrowth and trampled over thorny briars. Joana pressed herself against the horse's heaving body but she still ended up badly scratched. Twigs whipped her from both sides and sometimes raked across her back. She held on for dear life. Again and again something seemed to block Wailach's path. He turned and wove between trees. Vucara led them on a path that only she could see and that criss-crossed deeper and deeper into the forest and away from the road. Joana quickly lost all sense of direction. In the constant twilight under the vast, green canopy all directions looked the same.
They struggled ahead onto higher territory, that was all Joana could make out. The ground also became rockier. From the narrow and brief scraps of sky that the girl could catch through tears in the roof of leaves she could see the sun was rising toward its zenith. The wolf guided them through increasingly difficult terrain. Here was already far away from the flat lands where humans had made their settlements. On this rocky ground with its gullies and steep slopes, gnarled roots and treacherous briars even surefooted Wailach occasionally slipped or stumbled. Several other wolves joined them on the way though none of them were acknowledged as the ones Vucara had sent to cut off their pursuers. With a heavy heart the girl thought of those other ones she had seen strung up on the market square in Tramir. Would these poor creatures suffer the same fate? She clenched her fists into Wailach's mane. Why were humans capable of such cruelty when animals were not?
The sun had commenced its descending course when Vucara stopped on the rim of a pit in the side of a hill. She stood there above them for a moment, her nose held high into a draught of air that rolled down the slope, her ears pricked, her tail alert. And for that moment Joana, who was slipping off Wailach's back, looked up at her in awe. She admired this proud beast, the sleek line of its back, its taut muscles, the keen unwavering gaze. Here stood a beast from the dawn of time, a force of nature in itself, worthy to run with the gods. Only a slight colour of grey just behind her jaw line showed her very worldly age. To call this beast her friend and guardian was an honour few indeed might have. Again, Joana recalled how the others had called her "elder". She began to comprehend. It seemed the other creatures shared at least some of her sentiments for they had quietly gathered around but did not advance. Then Vucara leaped down into the hollow and the vision faded. Rukain and his pack scattered, each to their regular place it seemed. Here and there a short spat erupted over whose right it was to occupy a space but it soon quieted down. From the smell and the many tracks Joana gathered that the wolves often came here. She tried to count them but kept loosing track at somewhere over a dozen. A few of the beasts had settled on the rim of the pit - very much like watch posts in a human camp. Only Wailach, who was still uneasy around the canines, would not go near the place. He remained some way below between trees where he grazed on sparse forest grass.
Vucara announced they would stay in this place for the night. The hollow was easy to defend. There was also a stream nearby where everyone might drink. If Joana wanted to go look for berries now was the time before it got too dark. Once again it struck Joana how her companion had begun thinking like warrior.
A sharp rustling in the tree above startled them. There was a caw.
"You're good", Ebek commented from a branch just above them. "You almost lost me. Let alone those humans."
The raven set about preening his shiny, black coat of feathers. Vucara's eyes narrowed as she looked up at the bird.
"Ebek. What are you doing here?"
He cocked his head at the wolf seeming to seriously consider this.
"Let me see ... same as you, helping the Speaker fulfil her destiny?"
"Is this-" Vucara reconsidered and addressed the question to Joana. "Is this true?"
The girl nodded. "He picked my bonds and helped me escape, yes. W-"
The wolf had already turned back to the bird.
"I should have known you would sooner or later have your beak in this. From the moment I noticed your spies following us you've been waiting for just the right time to make your entry."
The raven cocked his head the other way peering down with one black eye only.
"Spies", the bird squawked, "and what made you think that?"
"They followed us. They were listening. Do you still deny you sent them?"
"Indeed, I do." Ebek knocked the side of his beak against the wood with a twist of his head. "I sense distrust, Elder, but it's severely misplaced. Remember what the Speaker said? We're all friends here."
"Sense what you will, king of crows", Vucara snorted. With that she made to return to the hollow. The fur on the back of her neck was bristling.
"It's raven, actually", Ebek corrected mildly as if it was something he had said many times.
"Raven or crow." Vucara snarled, turning back again. Her tail was twitching impatiently. "It is not your ancestry but your motives that I question."
Joana was following this exchange with growing confusion. Why was her companion so hostile? The other wolves were looking over to them, their ears pointed their way. Only Wailach showed no interest but continued to pull at random tufts of grass.
"What about my motives", Ebek squawked slyly.
"You have associated too much with humans", the wolf replied flatly.
"The same could be said about yourself, Elder Vucara."
"Watch your words! I associate with the Speaker alone."
There was a wide grin in the raven's tone when he answered: "But it is your motives I question. I do not make the pretence of loyalty when it is only my species I wish to redeem."
This time Vucara bared her teeth at him in sudden growl that made Ebek hop away on his branch. The wolf seemed ready to pounce.
"How dare you?! My loyalty to the Speaker has been unquestioning!"
"To the Speaker maybe. But how about her?"
"The two are inseparable", Vucara barked.
"Friends, enough, please." Joana tried to step between them, which was not easy because of the difference in altitude. The argument had taken religious proportions. It reminded her uncomfortably of the story in father's holy scripture. She was no icon to fight over. Not when you considered what she was bent on doing.
Her voice silenced both animals. They stared at her. Embarrassed she found that she was lost for words.
"Isn't what humans do enough? Do we have to be at each other's throats, too?" When they still seemed unwilling to back off she went on: "I'm not some sort of chosen one. You've been immensely kind to me and to both of you I owe a debt of gratitude I can never hope to repay in full."
"Gracious words", Ebek replied not unkindly but in an official tone. "One day maybe the black birds will hold you to it." He spread his wings and was off into the eaves of the tree leaving Joana with her canine companion behind. Vucara stared after him without blinking then turned away, her tail sagging a little in a sign weariness.
Almost inaudibly she muttered: "Good riddance."
After a moment's hesitation Joana called after her to wait. It felt like interrogating her mother, or the clan chief. The Vucara she had met initially was reverent, the one she faced now intimidated her. Still, she had to ask - now more than ever. The old wolf stood still without a word, letting her catch up.
"What was that all about?"
Vucara sighed in an almost human fashion.
"Walk with me, Speaker. I am thirsty."
So they walked in silence away from the wolves' resting place - Joana could not help but think of it as a camp. Down a slope they made their way, over naked rocks and between slender trees. Vucara led the way. They heard it before they saw. Gurgling and murmuring and splashing. Then the undergrowth suddenly opened up onto a lively stream that had dug a deep bed for itself between the rocks. Carefully testing her footing Vucara padded down the slick bank to the stream. Joana followed setting her feet where her companion had stepped. When she reached the bottom Vucara was already lapping eagerly at the flowing water. Joana bent down and scooped up a handful. The water was cool and clear. Now her body remembered that she had not drunk since last night and she began swallowing in deep gulps.
When they had had their fill the two climbed back up. Exhausted from the long ride and the sleepless night Joana nestled into the hollow between two gnarled roots resting her head against the base of the tree. Gazing upward she followed its trunk from where she was sitting, up to where it split into several thick branches, to where those in turn split, all the way to where its leaves swayed lazily over the coursing stream on slender twigs outlined against a uniform grey autumn sky. She was growing hungry and would need to worry about food soon - but not just yet. Right now she was not sure whether she really wanted those answers from Vucara. Moreover she felt exhausted. Why could her life not be simple again? It had only been a few weeks. She could have enjoyed such a moment's respite ...
The wolf stirred uneasily next to her. Vucara had settled, her forelegs stretched elegantly in front of her, her poise alert, among patches of tall reeds and grass a little nearer to the bank. Joana noticed her companion was scanning the trees around them as if she expected prying eyes and ears hidden among the foliage. And, thought the girl, that was just what she was doing. The wolf sniffed suspiciously at the breeze that blew down from the narrow gap the stream had left.
Finally, Joana broke the silence: "What quarrel is there between you and Ebek?"
A pause, not awkward but enough to make it clear Vucara was considering her answer.
"There is no quarrel between us. I merely do not trust him. Nor do I trust he is merely helping you for the reason he claims he is."
"All this because we heard crows following us?" She remembered the crows that had looked up at her out of black eyes among the ruins of Kremitz.
"You will hear them say", Vucara responded patienty, "that to hear and to see and to remember was their purpose in this world." She hesitated a moment before she continued in a lower voice. "Their curiosity, however, often drives them to entertain close contact with your people."
"How so?" Joana's surprise was genuine as was a certain incredulity. The wolf gazed out at the river.
"There are some among you who attempt to control the energies of nature. The man we encountered in that settlement was one of them."
"Berengar", the girl murmured with a pang of regret. Another soul she would have to avenge. "You mean sorcerers, oracles, witches?"
"Those words mean nothing to me. We feel only what they do. They seek knowledge to bend the world to their will. They are willing to seek this knowledge in unusual places. Knowledge then begets more knowledge and power comes along with it. This process draws Ebek and his kind to them. And them to the crows for they are easily persuaded to impart what they know." She let this sink in for a moment before going on. "Your adversary is probably the most powerful among such ... sorcerers, as you call them. Imagine the lure, the temptation that serving him must be. And certainly he bears no ill will to raven-kind."
Her last words hung in the air between them like ominous rain clouds.
"If Ebek is in league with Grimrun", Joana spoke slowly, "why would he help me escape while his master sends men to capture me and take me back to him?"
"That I cannot answer." Then darkly: "If your adversary is truly what you say he is then neither of us may yet fathom his schemes."
Another riddle. Was Joana ever going to get anything but riddles out of her?
"What do you know about Grimrun", Joana queried intently.
"No more than you", the wolf replied evenly, "what you tell me and what I feel in his presence. It is in our nature to observe, stealthily."
Joana regarded her again. She almost imagined catching the proud beast smiling mysteriously.
"I still don't know the first thing about you, Elder Vucara."
The wolf started a little when she heard her title spoken.
"Few do. Humans seem to wear their hearts for all to see and to read. Our kind guard our secrets closely."
"You don't trust anybody?"
"Only a few. And only after observing them a long time."
"And yet", Joana returned hesitantly, "Ebek seems to know things about you..."
She could see Vucara's fur bristling again. She had not done that since their first meeting by that other stream. The wolf got up, walked slowly up to the steep bank. Joana feared another riddle but it did not come. Vucara's voice was low, resigned, when she finally turned her profile back toward the sitting girl.
"A long time ago one of my ancestors bit a hand he should not have bitten. He brought upon us a curse, great unhappiness and misfortune. Tellings say it was from that time on that your kind and mine - those who walk on two legs and those who walk on four - became estranged. A rift opened that has been growing wider ever since. True Speech was forgotten - in many cases the gift of speech itself was. They say that only a True Sayer can bring the two peoples back together." At this she turned fully back with one limping step. Her eyes blazed as she went on: "One who still possess the gift."
Joana shivered but it was not the cold that brought on this reaction. Her heart was pounding all of a sudden.
"You think I could ... make things the way they once were?"
"When I found you, heard you speak - for the first time I had hope. Hope that this miracle might happen within my lifetime."
"And that is why you spared my life and did not drag me off to be eaten by the pack?"
"In the beginning ... yes." She gazed off again, wistfully this time. "If this disappoints you, Speaker, I am sorry. I truly am. I would see those days of unity return. I would see my people be rid of the shame. I would see the enmity and mistrust between our peoples give way to the friendship of old."
Now Vucara seemed merely old and tired. But there was a fire in her gaze, an intense expectancy. Joana could not hold it but lowered her eyes. It was one thing to face the consequences for past actions but the wolf was reversing this old principle. She could almost feel the weight of Vucara's hopes and expectations settle on her shoulders. She shrugged helplessly.
"But how?"
"Again, I am sorry, Speaker, that I cannot tell you. One day I expect you will know. Fate will guide you as it has guided you so far. I will do my best to help you find out."
"What if it doesn't work out? What if Grimrun just kills me?"
The wolf remained silent. She made to leave trotting close by the sitting girl. Right next to her she halted for a few heartbeats.
"Rest, Speaker. You are safe here for now. We will keep watch."
Then she was gone. Joana remained sitting. Her companion - was she really - was right: she was utterly exhausted and needed rest. Staring across the stream at the wall of green leaves and the intricate patterns of light and dark the Speaker rested her head against the rough tree trunk. Below her wave after wave lapped noisily at mossy stones and murmured softly as it passed down its bed.
She had not noticed falling asleep but Joana was awake with a jolt. The sky was darker than it had been. The bright patch of the sun was no longer visible above the trees. Stream and earth and girl were cast in ever longer shadows. Had she dreamed? There had been a face, a familiar face. One full of grief and weariness. An old man who had been dealt severe blows and who was praying. Praying to a pair of sticks tied together in the shape of a cross. What then had woken her up? The forest around her was quiet apart from the calls of the first nocturnal birds that had risen early. There was nothing to be seen. And yet. She could feel somebody’s eyes upon her. Groping around the mossy ground she rose cautiously to her feet. Her hands soon found what they had been looking for. Something solid and heavy enough. Her fingers closed around what turned out to be a thick fallen branch. Lichen was already growing on it but it seemed strong enough.
Her eyes wide the girl peered into the growing gloom among the trees. Had Vucara not said one of the wolves would keep watch? She took hold of the branch with both hands, hefted it like a broadsword. Turning this way and that, always keeping her makeshift weapon extended in front of her, she began slowly making her way back up the slope toward where the camp must be.
Joana had not gone very far - she could still make out the patch of light where the stream cut through the mass of trees - when her foot caught on something that made her stumble. She nearly dropped the branch. The thing on the ground looked like a huge, overgrown root curling away from a tree trunk. But it had been soft. Instead of moss her questing hand found fur on a body that was no longer as warm as it should be. Then she spotted something sleek and straight that stuck in its chest. With a gasp she was upright, pressing against the tree trunk. Her breathing doubled in speed. She gripped her club harder, wildly casting her gaze this way and that. How had they found her? And which direction were they most likely to come from?
"Show yourselves." The words pushed through gritted teeth. "Let’s get this over with."
She had not expected a reply or even a reaction. But some of the shadows among the trees suddenly came to life. The shapes that stepped into the open appeared to cast the darkness back as if it were a hood to them. To Joana’s surprise they were no taller than children. Tallest of them hardly reached up to Joana’s chest but they were of a squat and stocky shape and made no sound as they moved. Then it hit her.
"You!"
"We meet again, lass", said the tallest dwarf solemnly. "I’m afraid once again you are going to have to come with us."
"Not this time." Joana shook her head vigorously, made to back away but they followed, swiftly forming a circle around their quarry and cutting off her escape. There were five of them Joana could make out. They wore the onset of night like cloaks around their necks. Each appeared to be wearing some form of intricately fashioned hard clothing or armour and was armed with sword or axe at their side. Joana's heart sank but she made a menacing swish with the heavy log. They halted, though not apprehensive but rather biding their time.
"Stay where you are!" Joana focused on the leader. He calmly returned her gaze. "I'm not going back to your master."
"What the master wants the master gets", the leader said solemnly. He broke eye contact only for a moment when his gaze sought that of his companions.
"Not alive this time. Back I say!" Two of the dwarfs were quietly edging closer from either side. Joana swung the club in earnest this time. The one on her right managed to dodge out of the way but the other dwarf decided to seize the opportunity and close in. With a grunt the girl brought her weapon around further and caught him off balance. The heavy stick snapped with a crack that echoed between the trees. From the corner of her eye Joana saw the other dwarf had not withdrawn but was closing again. With a curse that would have made her father blush she hurled the remaining end of the branch in his direction. The tumbling projectile struck his arms as he raised them protectively before his face. Joana was nearly past him before he had recovered. She ducked out of the reach of his snaring hands and ran up the slope.
Let there not be treacherous roots or pits, she prayed by herself though she knew not for sure who to. There was a shrill whistle from behind her. A signal? Were there more? Approaching the crest of the hill it was then that she noticed the red glow that cast unsteady shadows of the trees in front and outlined them sharply against the darkening sky. It seemed to pulse and throb like a living thing. And as she watched it was growing slowly brighter. The wolves! Wailach! Had they been attacked while she had been sleeping and silently murdered? This was when a hand grabbed at her from the shadows. She screamed, kicked, stumbled but regained her footing - only to crash straight into another figure that seemed to literally appear out of nowhere.
They fell, rolled on the ground. Pointy rocks and roots stung her sides. The shape was surprisingly tall and heavy for a dwarf. Hands fumbled for her wrists. She kicked fiercely at her adversary. Her foot connected with something. There was a grunt of pain and the hands stopped. The figure curled up but she was already scrambling to her feet.
"Joana", said a voice in the grey between the trees. She realised it had been saying it before during their struggle. She knew that voice and now she could make out the face.
"It's me", Toben added unnessecarily.
"Grimrun hesitates at nothing to bring me in", she growled in response, "but you shan't have me either."
She backed off again, casting cautious glances back the way she had come. Where was Vucara? The thought stung in her heart. He took a step forward, brought his hands up showing her they were empty.
In a controlled tone he said: "I'm not here to take you anywhere. I want to find out what in the gods' names is going on."
"You could have come up and asked." Her voice sounded hollow. She had managed to put a tree between them. "Why bring those dwarfs? Why slaughter my friends and burn everything??" She gestured wildly toward the waxing light.
"Grimrun's men have orders straight from him", he snapped back, "they don't answer to me." His anger hid embarrassment. He reminded her of a little boy now whose pet dog refused to answer the whistle.
"You are the god-damn prince", she screamed furiously, "make them obey!"
He scowled, opened his mouth for a reply. There was a vicious snarl from a clump of young trees off to and behind Joana's right. A singing of metal told Joana Toben now held his sword drawn. Two shapes with bristling fur came out on top of a third one that was barely larger than them but much bulkier. The defender struggled wildly. A stubby hand gripped one the creatures and held it. The other hand, clenched into a fist, shot up and connected with a crack. He pounded the animal furiously and it went limp in his stranglehold. But a different pair of jaws closed around a short, thick throat and tore. The prone shape thrashed the empty air. There was a twang and the arrow found its mark before the second beast could withdraw. With a yowl the canine form flinched and rolled on one side. Its victim already lay still.
"They're here." Joana spun around and pressed her back against the tree. Where to run now?
With his left hand Toben pulled the other man she had struggled with to his feet. It was one of his guards. He was still doubled over and clutching his groin.
More clamour erupted around them: snarling, barking, howling interspersed with shouts and human-like cries. Joana could make out shapes outlined against the firelight, shapes struggling, blades slashing, teeth tearing. A whole battle seemed to rage around her. Had there been that many? Or was it a few fighting like an army? Suddenly a small hand closed around her wrist. Joana spun and pulled hard but the stocky figure was heavier than it looked. And the grip was as unyielding as a blacksmith's vice. Instead she rebounded and came face to face with the dwarf who pointed at her a short, geometric-looking sword. It was the leader. He motioned with his head, tugged on her wrist. She shook her head. Without a further word he pulled with such force that it seemed to dislocate her arm. She stumbled forward, landing painfully on her knees. He kept slowly backing away from the fight dragging the girl along with him. No amount of struggling seemed to have an effect. She shouted Toben's name but could not spot him anywhere. She pounded the hand that held her.
"Let me go", she commanded. He paid her no heed, instead watching the surroundings attentively. She bumped against a root, caught it in her hand and held fast. He pulled relentlessly. She could feel the strain on her shoulder, the bone beginning to give.
She screamed then, at the top of her voice: "Let me go!!" They words in True Speech made her spine tingle. He let go so abruptly that he stumbled and fell backwards. Only for a moment Joana caught on his face a look of confusion and surprise. Then Toben was on top of him. He drove the tip of his sword at the dwarf's throat but his opponent rolled to one side. Toben stabbed again. This time the dwarf caught the blade in his hand and to Joana's amazement held it immobile by the blade. Both opponents trembled with exertion. Blood was trickling down the dwarf's wrist. The blade was slipping. The dwarf grunted in pain. Between clenched teeth he growled: "Ye don't know who yer dealing with."
With a sudden jerk on the blade he caught Toben off balance. As the warrior staggered the dwarf gave him a kick. The two humans wound up in a heap. Back on his feet the dwarf leader gave a short, shrill whistle as before. Then he flicked the hood of his cloak over his head and faded out of sight. As abruptly as it had broken out the skirmish was over. Joana's heart was pounding. She was still staring at the place where the dwarf had stood. She focused on the weight on her chest. Toben was also staring wide-eyed in the dwarf's direction. His upper body lay on top of hers. He noticed her motion and looked down at her. For a moment they remained like this. Now it was a different tingling Joana felt. The moment dragged on. He had caught himself with his left hand on the ground. The other, Joana realised, had come to rest on her chest. With an indignant cry she pushed him off and he landed with a thud next to her.
Vucara was the first to emerge. The girl could now recognise her anywhere. Blood red light danced among the trees picking out bodies here and there. Some still moved. The guard was nowhere to be seen. A silence had fallen that was only interrupted by a waxing sound of crackling and hissing. The first sparks were flying over the trees. She could smell it now, the choking scent of moist wood burning, of ash, a slight sting of smoke in the air.
"Speaker!" Vucara was next to her.
Other wolves had gathered but they were few. Many had dark streaks and splatters on their coats of fur. They formed a menacing circle around the humans. Toben slowly rose up groping on the ground for his sword. His hand only found Joana's foot, which made her jump. She shook his hand off.
"Better stay still now", she hissed at him. The man froze.
"Have they hurt you, Speaker?" Vucara was urgently sniffing her. There was an almost human expression of worry on her canine face. "Has he?"
Joana noted to her amazement that she was unharmed. Scared, confused but unharmed. Her wrist still felt numb from the dwarf's hold on her. Her body felt like it was only being held together by cuts and bruises. And her skin still burned in the places Toben had touched it.
"I'm fine", she said. Her voice sounded hoarse.
"What about him?" The wolf turned her head in Toben's direction, sniffing.
"I'm not sure", Joana admitted. "He hasn't attacked me." Then turning to him: "What do you want?"
"What I told you", came Toben's tense reply, "to learn the truth."
She returned sharply: "I've told you the truth already. I am not to blame for the deaths in Tramir. Grimrun's words are a pack of lies. They are after me and stop at nothing to get me. You can see that, can't you?"
He looked around. "Grimrun? But why?"
"How should I know?" She had raised her voice again.
"She is telling the truth, I can vouch for that", Vucara now interrupted their exchange. She had never addressed anyone beside her, Joana noticed. Toben stared at the wolf with his mouth hanging open.
Then: "It talks. It really talks." He slowly turned back toward Joana. An expression of wonder had spread across his features. "It is true what they say then."
The wolf interrupted again: "Speaker! We must leave." There was a quaver in her voice that Joana had not heard before. She realised the wolf just stopped short of tugging as her tattered clothing like an anxious dog. She looked up. The wall of flames was cresting the hill: a ponderous avalanche that defied the laws of nature and was rolling upwards with horrible determination. The glow had fanned out now to both sides, cutting off all escape in a broad swath in that direction. Soon all traces of their battle would be burned to ash. The girl looked on in a growing helpless anger. Her enemy would not cease hunting her no matter where she ran. She would just leave a trail of dead bodies and charred ground.
"Are you on my side or not", she demanded of the prince.
"What you say rings true. You keep wondrous company. The vicious beasts of the forest come to your aid and speak on your behalf. Yet there is still much about you that I do not fully understand." He was torn, uncertain. But Joana could also spot something new in his eyes. The mocking expression she had so disliked when they first met was gone.
"Speaker!"
"Back to the stream then." The firm tone of her voice surprised her. "If we find a crossing it will shield us from the flames."
Vucara let out a yelp that sounded almost like a sigh of relief. "Follow me!" She made off back down the slope. The other wolves followed in a loose train.
Joana looked back at Toben. "Can I trust you?"
He shook his head. "No."
"Then you'd better be going if you don't want to be roasted." With that she turned and hurried after the wolves.
He called something after her but it was lost in the sounds of her own haste.
When they reached the stream the wolves made a sharp turn. She could make out the noise of the waters. The ground was treacherous and she had to give it her full attention. Still, she tripped many times. In front and behind she could hear the wolves panting softly. They hardly made any other noise as they ran. A stark contrast to her own clumsy stumbling.
They had not gone far when the team came to a sudden halt. Joana had doubled over. She was exhausted and beginning to feel it more than ever. The wolves around her were nervous. Where was Wailach, it occurred to her. She had not seen the proud steed since the attack. Then Vucara was next to her.
"We cannot go on. The reek of strangers, humans, is everywhere in front."
Joana's heart went cold again. Of course, it had been a trap. That moment a dog started barking and only a heartbeat later a great cry of many voices joined in unison rose up from the dark forest ahead. They all jumped. Drums were beaten. The booming echoed among the silent trees. Several of the wolves whined. Then the harsh blast from a horn cut through the other noise.
"Back", Joana commanded. Several of the wolves were already bounding the opposite way. They turned back, crashing heedlessly now through the undergrowth. The drums and shouts seemed ever behind them. When the dark shape came into focus between the trees Joana finally lost her footing. He caught her with a quick step forward. She was held by a pair of strong arms.
A familiar voice said, just loud enough to be heard over the din: "I tried to tell you: the camp is that way."
Instinctively she looked back over her shoulder. There were flickering lights moving among the trees.
Joana pushed him away. "Any other way we might be cut off unexpectedly", she snapped.
This time he followed her when she ran. The wolves had continued ahead. They did not get far. A blood curdling yowl cut through the other noise, followed closely by another. In terrible foreboding Joana accelerated her steps. The remaining wolves had gathered before a rough barricade of dead wood. Before she could get her bearings lights sprang up some way behind the barricade. More shouts sounded and the clashing of iron on wood. The lights advanced. The wolves shrank back but there was nowhere left to go. In panic they turned this way and that, whining miserably.
"They are everywhere, Speaker." For the first time there was desperation in Vucara's voice. "They have fire."
Somebody touched her arm. It was Toben. The girl jerked her arm away from him. Could this all be his doing: first gaining her trust, then abusing it by orchestrating this trap?
"They have mounted a drive", he shouted. "It is a common strategy when hunting wolves. Tell them to stay calm. There cannot be that many of them."
"How do you know so much about what they are doing", she demanded.
"I don't", came the reply. "I've been on wolf hunts though."
She glared at him. Of course, he had been. He opened his mouth to add something but their enemies were upon them. The bobbing torch lights became torches held by men in padded leather vests holding axes and bows in the other hand. They scaled the barricade on one side. Briefly, their light fell on a row of wooden spikes that had been erected behind the wall. Two dead wolves hung on them that had probably jumped over. More armed warriors were advancing on the opposite side. Toben was right, there could be no more than ten. But she also saw how few the wolves had become. Joana counted no more than seven that had survived this far. With them moving around incessantly there was no being sure.
Toben drew his sword again. There was a slight twist in the blade where the dwarf had gripped it. She could now see he was wearing the same ring mail she had seen him in days ago on the town square of Tramir. His cloak was torn and his hair and clothes in disarray.
"I am Toben, son of Baldrik, your chosen king", he bellowed. "I command you to come forth peacefully and state your business!"
In response an arrow zipped by him. It struck a wolf in the shoulder. It yelped in pain. Joana was at its side immediately trying to find calming words while she figured out how to extract the missile.
"Cease your attack at once or you shall feel the consequences", Toben roared beside her. Another arrow struck the wolf Joana was nursing and it went limp in her arms. Several more arrows followed. Yelps and howls of pain erupted around her.
The shriek rose from her plagued heart, filled her belly, surged up her throat.
"STOP!"
The action around her ground to a reluctant halt. Arrows remained on bowstrings, wolves leaping and writhing seemed to slow. The word throbbed in the back of her head. She had used True Speech instinctively this time.
Then with a palpable gasp the scene came to life again. Vucara was the first to recover. She pounced on one of the men on the barricade pushing him back where he landed breathlessly out of sight. Toben sprang forward. With several long steps he covered the distance to the nearest torch holder and brought his sword arching down. He yanked it free of the man's shoulder. A fountain of blood followed it. He had moved on to the next man before the first hit the ground. Deep he drove the blade into the man's abdomen. The warrior doubled over with a whimper. On the other side Vucara and another wolf with an arrow stuck in its back were dragging a man screaming from the barricade. He flailed his bow at them. When they finally let go his companions pulled him back over the wall leaving a moist, glistening trail. They took cover out of sight.
The sound of somebody clapping their hands interrupted the fight. A single figure, clad in heavy furs, slowly walked out into the light of the torches. Behind him the fire had consumed the hill top. It lent him a blazing halo like that of the fire giants in the ancient tales. He surveyed the scene with grim satisfaction, then stepped fully into the light. His hood was cast back revealing a bald skalp.
"Toben, son of Baldrik, cease your needless violence." Joana knew the voice well. Toben, who had been struggling with the third man on his side, watched helplessly as his arms sank and his hand released the sword. In a fluid motion the man smashed his forehead into Toben's face. The prince broke to his knees with a groan. Blood running from his nose dripped onto the ground.
"And you, Joana, daughter of Iacobus", Grimrun addressed her, "contain your pets or they will be slain indiscriminately." She felt the tendrils of the suggestion in her head trying to take hold. Something in her mind wanted to believe that he would spare them and comply. It would be so easy. Vucara growled. Clenching her fists at her sides she shook it off and tried to meet his gaze.
"You're going to kill them anyway", she spat in True Speech. "Why should I believe in your mercy now?"
Grimrun fixed his piercing gaze on her. The dancing light flickered in them menacingly. Two of the men behind the barricade had emerged again and pointed bows at her and the wolves. Vucara uttered a whine. She and two more remaining wolves withdrew, gathering around Joana.
"I salute your display of power, Joana, daughter of Iacobus." Again his will bent down on her. His thin lips twisted into a sneer. "But you still have a lot to learn. Come to me now."
This time the command was intense. As if they had a mind of their own her legs wanted to obey and march forward. Joana closed her eyes. Her chest felt tight. The more she pushed back against Grimrun's will the worse it got. She took a laboured breath. Her head hurt from the strain. A lot of muscles had cramped. She finally managed to shake her head.
"No." Grimrun's eyes grew wide in surprise. Though everything in her screamed to look away she forced herself to hold his gaze. Through clenched teeth she went on: "I'm not going with you. And you can't make me, can you?"
All eyes were on them now, Joana realised. Grimrun's men had probably never seen any opponent stand up to him, least of all a woman. And she could see the strain in him now. His jaws were grinding and veins had begun to throb on his head. They faced each other for endless moments. Grimrun's eyes were the first to twitch.
"I have no more patience for you little brat", Grimrun growled hoarsely. "Kill those wolves. Then bring her to me."
Joana's heart stopped. At this range they could not miss. But the men hesitated.
"Kill them", Grimrun roared in a fury.
A desperate idea struck Joana then. If the words of True Speech had a cleansing effect on her then ...
"Get back", she hissed to the wolves, who faded further between the rocks on the river bank. She tried to give her voice an air of confidence and command when she called: "Hold it! You know what they say about me. If even your master cannot break my will what do you think I could do to you?"
The men exchanged glances. Not a single arrow flew. No axe was raised.
"Fools", mocked Grimrun, "you shit your breeches because of a girl and her pets. You don't know who you are dealing with."
Still glaring at her he crouched. A long knife was in his hand. He slashed his hand and began to chant while blood leaked drip by drip from his clenched fist. Joana felt a wave of heat. The wolves yelped miserably. The rocks they were hiding among were heating up like a furnace. In a heartbeat her rush of triumph and hope turned into dismay.
"Stop it", she wailed.
A tiny shadow dropped from the trees. It dove like an arrow and found its mark right under Grimrun's brow. The sorcerer gave a cry of surprise which rose into a terrible shriek as the little beak dug into his right eyeball. The knife tumbled to the ground as he struggled with the flapping creature. Dark blood gushed down his cheek. The animal twisted left and right evading his hands but kept pecking. As he swatted at it hysterically his influence evaporated. His men looked on in horror.
Joana felt light-headed. She could have cheered the bird.
"Vucara", she shouted in exhilaration, "now! Drive them off!"
With long steps she rushed forward. In front the screaming Grimrun had caught the bird in his hand and flung it away from him. It tumbled through the air and landed out of sight. Joana almost slid into him, fumbling for the knife. She caught hold of it first. Their eyes met as she raised it high above her head.
"This is for mother!"
She plunged the blade down among the furs. Grimrun screamed. He struggled wildly. Joana pulled the knife back. The furs were turning soggy. Half-blind with blood even on the good eye the sorcerer reached for the weapon but came away only with empty air. She brought the blade down again.
"This is for father!" Grimrun howled. This time he caught her with his flailing hands and sent her rolling on the mossy ground. The knife bounced out of her hand. When Joana scrambled upright again he was no more than a shade stumbling between trees outlined against the raging fire.
"We're not done with you!" His voice was shrill and quavered. "I will not forget this!"
Joana swore. Where was the knife? Her eyes shot this way and that while her hands felt around. Nothing. Where was the damn knife??
"Vucara", she shouted frantically, "he's getting away. Toben! Stop him!"
There was no answer. When she looked up again, Grimrun was nowhere to be seen. The girl shook her fist at the empty forest, the fire, the tracks of the man that had passed.
"Flee now, monster", she taunted. "Your blood debt is not paid! I will find you!"
After everything she felt only empty. Suddenly her legs refused to hold her. Exhaustion flooded over her, forcing her on her knees.
"I will find you."
Darkness folded in around her. Joana was already unconscious when a pair of arms caught her.
... to be continued ...
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