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THE THIRD GUARDIAN
Chapter 52
Once all of the business had been completed, Rin's staff served lunch to their boss and guests. Sgt. Dailon swore he had never tasted anything so good in his entire life. Cpl. Dickson didn't say much of anything because he was too busy eating. And eating. And eating.
Mikel glanced at his two subordinates and, with a perfectly straight face, told Rin, "We don't feed them very much back at the compound."
Rin laughed. "It is always a pleasure to prepare meals for those who really enjoy them."
Mikel chuckled, "Please include me in that group because this was outstanding, Rin. Now I understand what Lord Braska was talking about."
Eyes lost a bit of sparkle and smiles diminished slightly as their thoughts turned to the remarkable man in whose company they had had the great pleasure of being.
Looking at the polished surface of the table, Mikel said softly but emphatically, "We have to find a way to stop this. It simply can't go on."
Looking back at Rin, he said, "If only there had been some way - - - "
Rin's own eyes looked down at the beautiful, rich wood as he nodded in agreement then said very quietly, "I live in hope that – they will make it back."
Mikel nodded, "That's one reason I want to get this area scouted out, get some supplies stockpiled about a day's march apart. Maybe - - "
The dining room was quiet.
Rin asked, "You know of Lord Braska's last orders?"
"Yes. He asked me to witness his instructions when he told Raiel and Jecht. What was Auron's injury that caused them to return? When he wrote, he gave no information about it."
Rin filled them in on all he knew of their last stay and when they had departed.
The four men sat in silence wondering to themselves, "Where are they now?"
A little later, the newest class of Driver's Education (Hovercraft Division) convened outside the Inn. Under the quiet tutelage of Rin and Bardoc, the three students began to get the knack of controlling the powerful machines, slowly driving them from the Inn northward up the trail a bit before turning back again.
It wasn't long before the Spirans, eyes alive and cheeks flushed, had satisfactorily completed the "course" and learned the rudimentary maintenance that may be required.
Sgt. Dailon was especially quick to catch onto the maintenance part of their education.
Bardoc grinned, "We'll make a grease monkey out of you yet, Sergeant."
Dailon laughed, "A grease monkey?"
"Yes, that's what we call those who have a knack for machinery."
The Sergeant's face flushed as a huge grin spread into place.
Mikel asked about fuel.
Rin answered, "Bardoc re-engineered the engines, fuel systems and increased the size of the tanks, more than doubling their range so it shouldn't be a problem. Having said that, I would suggest that in two weeks' time you bring them back to refill. By then, each of you should have gained enough experience to be able to operate them at a fairly high rate of speed which would make a quick round-trip for you."
Looking at Rin, eyes slightly narrowed, Mikel asked, "Rin, are you sure about trusting us with your machines? I'm asking you to please answer honestly."
The Al Bhed's green eyes met those of the CO steadily, "Commander Mikel, I would not have offered them if I had not meant every word."
Mikel nodded, sighed and momentarily studied the snow around his rugged boots before responding. "I'd like to ask you one other thing, if you don't mind answering. If you had rather not, I fully understand and there will be no hard feelings."
Rin nodded, "If I know the answer, I will tell you."
Mikel hesitated another second. "How long would it take for you to get another machine up here?"
Rin was rather surprised, but paused in thought before answering. "One could probably be here in two months, perhaps a bit more. Shipping and moving one has to be done very discretely. That is what takes the major portion of the time."
The CO just nodded and thought another moment before holding out his hand which Rin clasped, "We will most gratefully accept your generous offer, Rin."
Mikel continued, "When we leave in the morning, I would like to suggest that you come with us to drive one of the machines with equipment, gear and perhaps some spare fuel, then return here with it. If you or your staff have need of it, it will be available. Since there are three of us, only one would actually be needed for our work."
Rin thought for a moment and nodded. "That is a very good idea, Commander. We - - never know if or when we may have to make quick departure."
Mikel's face was grim as he quietly responded. "I understand and that is why I suggested it. I'm – so sorry that the thought is even necessary, Rin. I am in total sympathy with you and your tribe."
Sgt. Dailon spoke up, "Cpl. Dickson and I share those thoughts, Rin. It's just wrong and I don't understand why there is such intolerance for the use of machinery."
Gesturing to the sleek, gleaming black hovercraft before them, he continued, "These machines could be so helpful to people all across Spira. There is nothing evil about them."
Beside him, Cpl. Dickson nodded, saying quietly, "There are more who think as we do, sir. I agree with the Sergeant: it's just wrong."
Though the staff had been reassured of their guests' sentiments before their arrival, it was still something of a relief to hear it with their own ears.
Returning to the warm comfort of the Inn, they all settled in the beautiful little dining room to just talk and get to know each other a little more.
Leita very quickly claimed the empty chair beside Cpl. Dickson. Seating himself on the other side of her, Bardoc smiled as she shot him a fast glance.
Ty'a, always the quiet one, sat between Bardoc and Rin, across from the Commander and the Sergeant. Bardoc couldn't tell which one had claimed her attention. He didn't know that he was the only one in whom she had any real interest, but was too shy to say anything about it.
After a time, Rin and the two women excused themselves to prepare the evening meal. Mikel offered his party's help, explaining, "We do all of our own cooking at the compound so we aren't strangers to a kitchen."
Rin laughed, "Commander, thank you for the offer, but there isn't a lot to do. We prepared much of it ahead of time so we could have it ready to serve more quickly. It won't take us long at all."
In their absence, the CO and the Sergeant asked many questions of Bardoc about various types of machinery and how they operated, especially about various types of hovercraft. Cpl. Dickson was quiet and seemed to be in a foggy, little world of his own.
Mikel sighed to himself, 'Great. We're on the most important mission of our lives and I have a love-struck puppy on my hands.'
Auron led the party back down the long passageways to the outside where Khyric and Torec stood waiting in a soft purple twilight.
Lord Braska wearily smiled at them, saying, "We have been successful. We can now continue our journey."
Both Ronso bowed their heads to him.
Khyric rumbled, "Honored Summoner who conquers Gagazet is worthy."
The tired man sighed and responded with a smile, "Oh, it was not I. It was my Guardians who overcame the Spirit of Gagazet."
His blue eyes turned to the three he loved so much. "My Guardians. How magnificent you truly are!"
Torec noted the exhaustion on the faces before him. "Honored Summoner and Guardians come rest now. Food ready."
Braska looked around in surprise at the lavender hues of the surrounding snow-covered peaks and deep, dark purple of the valleys. "It's almost evening!" Time had had no reality in the passages and caverns of the Trials.
Khyric answered, "Yes. Sun begins sleep now."
Jecht's deep growl commented, "I don't think I'll be long behind it."
The Ronso escorted the party back to their chambers where each more-or-less collapsed onto the soft seats with deep sighs of fatigue.
Kimahri's blue-furred face appeared from around the tapestry of the service passage and took in the appearance of the Summoner and all three of his Guardians, then looked questioningly at the two older Ronso.
Khyric asked, "Honored Summoner Braska and Guardians eat now?"
Exchanging quick looks with his Guardians, Braska answered, "Thank you, Khyric, that would be very nice, if it is convenient. Then we will probably be ready for a very long night's sleep."
He paused as a tired smile graced his lips. "It has been a rather busy day."
The two Ronso bowed to him again and departed.
Kimahri disappeared behind the tapestry and hurried to the kitchen. Several of the younger Ronso who were in training for Kimahri's position as a Summoner's attendant came to assist, setting up the beautifully carved tray tables and bringing in the steaming hot food that Kelyn, Jai, Leaor and Ganah had prepared for them.
The aromas escaping from beneath the silver domes of the serving platters and bowls brought smiles to four weary faces. Kimahri took notice and smiled to himself.
When the hearty meal was finished, there was very, very little food remaining. The humans leaned back against the chamber walls, quietly enjoying Kelyn's coffee.
The Summoner had asked their blue-and-white friend to please give the "ladies" their most fervent thanks for such a wonderful meal. Kimahri, happy that again their efforts had been warmly received and appreciated, delivered the message to the equally pleased Ronso females in the kitchen. Not once had the Summoner failed to send his gratitude and thanks to everyone.
As all the paraphernalia from the meal service was removed and cups refilled, the humans talked little, seeming to lack energy even for that.
Braska silently enjoyed watching the faces of his Guardians. His eyes wanted to sting as he thought of what they had accomplished that day and wished that all of Spira knew of the debt they owed to them.
A yellow and white paw reached around to the stone beside the tapestry and politely scratched the wall. Braska broke from his thoughts and called out, "Khyric, please come in, my friend."
Khyric was a little surprised that humans could tell one paw from another and was pleased that they had been noticed as individuals, not just generically as Ronso.
Stepping into the chamber, Khyric bowed, then asked, "Honored Summoner and Guardians rest tomorrow?"
A small smile on his face, Braska answered, "We don't want to be a burden to our wonderful hosts, especially since our visit here has been so unexpectedly extended, Khyric. However, it would be so very much appreciated if we would be allowed one last day to recover and to prepare ourselves for the remainder of our journey."
Khyric's deep, deep rumble responded with great respect, "Ronso proud to serve Honored Summoner Braska and Guardians. Elder Kelk sends highest regards and congratulations to Honored Summoner."
Braska spoke softly, "Elder Kelk is very kind. Please give my deep regards to him and thank him for me."
Braska then sighed, sat up straight and stretched his back. "Now - if I may be excused, I think I will go enjoy that comfortable bed for as many hours as possible."
Khyric bowed, "Good night, Honored Summoner, Guardians," then disappeared down the passage.
Auron asked, "Then our plans are to stay tomorrow, then leave the next morning, my lord?"
"Yes, if you don't mind. We really need the time to restore our strength and reserves."
"Of course, my lord. I just wanted to verify my understanding."
Braska stood and looked at the three upturned faces before him.
Very softly, he said, "I have been favored by the Fayth beyond all measure just to have known each of you, to have been called by you as 'friend', to have shared this journey with you. I am more proud of you, thankful for you, than I can ever say."
He paused before saying, "Good night, my friends. Sleep well."
The three Guardians stood, their "good nights" following him into the short passage of the spare Guardian's Chamber where he slept.
Raiel had barely said a word. She was completely exhausted but also very happy and relieved with their success against some pretty tough enemies in the Trials, especially the last one.
Her eyes looking from Auron to Jecht and back, she smiled and spoke almost in a whisper, "We did it."
Jecht's slow smile crept into place and his tired brown eyes held a bit of sparkle as he held up his hand which was slapped by Raiel, then by Red. "Yeah, we did. Kinda wondered there a time or two, but – we did it."
Auron smiled and nodded. "I wasn't happy at all when we were split up but we each did whatever it took to successfully accomplish the mission."
He looked down at his mate. "What possessed you to go confront that spirit again after he said that he had won?"
She answered," Because I didn't like him dismissing us like he did. I knew that we were worthy, more than worthy and I wasn't going to let him brush us off like that. He just made me mad."
Jecht's brown eyes held a real sparkle as he responded, trade-mark grin in place, "Really, little girl? Ya think?"
She laughed quietly as she bumped his arm with her elbow. Then she stepped closer to him and wrapped her arms around him in a warm hug. "Thanks for all you did today, Jecht. You were right to make me rest when you did or I may not have had enough left to keep going at the end."
"Aw, ya welcome, little girl. I just wanted to take care of ya, ya know? We been fightin' partners for a long time now. We all hafta take care of each other.
Raiel turned to Auron and said, "His blitzball moves saved us so many times in the water.
Jecht countered, "But ya spells got us outta places we couldn't have otherwise."
Raiel softly repeated, "We did it. All of us together. Including Lord Braska. It took all four of us."
Auron and Jecht nodded, then Jecht said, "I'm gonna go find my bed. I think I'm tired all the way down to the bone."
Soft "good nights" were exchanged as the Guardians retired to their respective quarters and immediately fell into deep, exhausted sleep.
In the quiet of the evening, Kimahri silently padded into the Summoner's main chamber and put everything in order, snuffed out the large torches and lit several of the small ones that would softly light the chamber throughout the night.
Banking the fire pit for the night, he looked around satisfying himself that all of his duties were done until early morning, then returned to his rest station in the passageway.
It was peacefully quiet throughout the labyrinth of the Ronso settlement.
Collin sat at the desk, looking over the many pages of information that Baran had brought out of the Temple's private library. More pieces of the puzzle were falling into place, becoming clearer and clearer.
He wished with all of his heart that he had had this last bit of information before Lord Braska had left. It may have been enough to have persuaded him to stay.
He sighed and looked out at the night sky. 'Where are they?'
He almost felt like hurrying to Rin's, borrowing one of the hovercraft and racing to see if he could catch up with them. But in his heart, he knew it was too late. Surely they were already at or over Gagazet by this time, and on the last leg of the Pilgrimage.
His shoulders sagged. 'Raiel, where are you?'
Auron's dark eyes slowly opened. He took a deep breath as he awakened and stretched his back, followed by a long, exhaling sigh.
He looked down at the sweet face of his beloved mate as she slept, as always, with her head on his shoulder. Softly illuminated by the tiny wall torch in their sleeping area, she looked so gentle and fragile.
He smiled, wanting to hold her closely, tightly, but wanting her to continue sleeping more.
The smile faded. In the morning, Valefor would fly her safely to Rin's and, though that was exactly what he wanted, he hated the thought of being separated from her.
He was terribly torn between wanting to return to Raiel as quickly as possible and staying with Lord Braska until after the final Aeon was summoned. He had given his word that he would follow the Summoner's orders - and he would - but it just didn't feel right to leave the man at that point.
He watched flickering shadows silently dancing on the walls. How he wished there was information on what awaited them in Zanarkand. When he returned, he was going to record everything he had learned on this entire journey, especially about the Calm Lands, Gagazet and Zanarkand.
His thoughts turned to Jecht. He found himself wishing that there was a way for his friend to return to the vibrant city he so often described and to the family he loved so dearly. The Yevonite leaders had lied about so much for so long, who knows? Maybe the city is actually still there. For Jecht's sake, he wished that it would be.
Lord Braska. Auron's handsome, young face was grimly sad as he thought of the Summoner and a sigh escaped from him. Though he knew that nothing was going to change the Summoner's determined path, he wished with everything in himself that there was some way to change his mind, that he would live.
Spira needed many people like Lord Braska. Spira needed Lord Braska. He thought back over the Pilgrimage and of the wonderful effect that the Summoner had on others. They were drawn to his goodness, his gentle humor, his unassuming outlook, his kindness and his love for them. Auron knew that all who had met this amazing man would never forget him.
He looked again at his sleeping mate and smiled. What an amazing person! As Lord Braska is one-of-a-kind, she definitely is, as well.
His beautiful smile grew wider as he thought back over her "Raiel moments" during the past year. Braska was right: she had brought brightness and joy back into their lives, all three of them, though she certainly never felt special in any way. Her delightful personality and mischievousness were unique only to her. There was only one Raiel. Somehow she was the synergy that had made everything work.
He and Jecht could fight together as a team in battles but, without doubt, they would badly miss her skills as a Battle Mage. They would just miss her, period.
He sighed.
He wondered if Braska or Jecht were up yet. He couldn't begin to guess at the time but he was pretty sure it was well past his usual pre-dawn rising time. The Trials of the previous day really had taken all that each of them had and, actually, he was content to lay as he was with his thoughts for a while longer, with his mate close against him.
Jecht too had lain in the soft comfort of his sleeping quarters with his own thoughts. Man, him an' Red are really gonna miss that little girl. Lord Braska, too. There ain't that much further to go but it wasn't gonna feel natural for Raiel not to be there with 'em.
He thought back to the day they found her 'bout half dead on whatever the name of that road was. None of 'em had any clue how important she would be to every one of 'em.
That mornin' chasin' him through those woods, yellin' everything bad she could think of. His big grin appeared as he remembered. She didn't think so, but that was just plain funny!
Teachin' him how to handle his blade, how to do everything. Meetin' up with her cousin Rin. The blitzball.
On and on his mind explored the past year.
Finally he stretched and swung his legs off the side of the soft sleeping place, and sat for a moment. The smooth, cool, stone floor felt good to his bare feet. He was contemplating what to wear – his long pants or his swim trunks. A good, long soak in the hot springs would feel pretty good after havin' some coffee. Yep, that sounds good.
Entering the main chamber, he was surprised to find the room empty. He was either way early or way late – he didn't know which.
Kimahri entered with the big urn of coffee and was met with a big grin from the Guardian.
"Mornin', Kimahri! Sure happy to see ya with that big ol' coffee pot. Tell Kelyn thanks for me, will ya? She sure makes great coffee. We're gonna miss all of ya when we leave. Ya been real good to us an' we 'preciate it."
Kimahri bowed and said, "Ronso proud to serve Honored Summoner and Guardians. Kimahri proud to serve. Kimahri - " - he paused a moment, what was the word? - "Kimahri 'preciate Summoner and Guardians' kindness."
"Thanks, man." Glancing around the still, quiet chamber, Jecht asked, "Nobody else up yet?"
Kimahri put the beautiful old silver service on its low table and poured a cup for the Guardian. "No. All sleep. Be very tired."
Looking at the carpet-covered floor, Jecht drew a deep breath and let it out as he said very, very quietly, slightly shaking his head, "Yesterday was tough. 'Bout as tough a day as we ever had."
Gold eyes watched the Guardian as he spoke. His quiet tone and demeanor said much more than his actual words. The young Ronso wanted to know more about what had taken place but didn't dare impose on the Guardian whose silent focus was still on the bright carpet.
Earlier he had stoked the fire, lit the many large torches around the chamber's walls and preset the various trays so he could more quickly offer them when they were needed. He excused himself to go fill the small silver urn of the Guardian's shaving tray with hot water so it would be ready at a moment's notice.
After Jecht completed his morning shaving ritual, Kimahri immediately removed the tray, then returned to offer the Guardian more coffee.
About that time, Auron joined Jecht in the main chamber and gratefully accepted the coffee that Kimahri poured for him. "My thanks, Kimahri. Kelyn's coffee is exceptional."
With a long sigh, Auron leaned back against the stone wall, legs stretched out, ankles crossed, just savoring the quiet and the coffee.
"Sleep good, Red?"
"Mmph. You?"
"Slept like a log all night an' I'm still tired."
"Glad we have this extra day."
"You an' me both!"
Quiet returned to the chamber as the two Guardians retreated into their thoughts.
Kimahri waited at his station with his own thoughts. After breakfast in the morning, the Summoner's party would leave. After checking that the storeroom was properly in order and all of the silver was polished and put back into storage, he would remove the torches from the walls, the tapestries would be carefully brushed, and the fire pit emptied and cleaned.
Those in training under him would assist but all would be done under Kimahri's supervision. Only when the various chambers, furnishings and accouterments were clean and ready for the next Summoner would his duties be complete.
The presence of the Summoner and his Guardians had filled his days with purpose and welcome activity, his nights with contented rest.
They made him feel valued. He especially liked the word he had learned from Sir Jecht: 'preciated.
He had looked forward to additional time in attendance to Lady Raiel but she was leaving, too.
He dreaded returning to listless, unhappy days as an outcast, rejected by his tribe.
With a sigh, he broke from his contemplation, filled a silver urn with hot water and took a shaving tray to Sir Auron.
Later, after Lord Braska and Raiel awakened, had coffee and eaten, they agreed that a last, good soak in the hot springs was exactly what they needed.
That was followed by a short nap and afterward they gathered in the main chamber just relaxing and enjoying quiet conversation.
Wanting to move around a bit, Raiel said she was going to visit Kelyn and her friends for a bit.
She first stopped to chat with Kimahri for a moment. He was glad to see more spark in her eyes again. Apparently she had made peace with whatever had upset her so badly previously.
She quietly asked him, "How are you, Kimahri? Are you going to be all right?"
For a moment the golden eyes of the young Ronso glanced at the stone floor before he responded, "Kimahri have much to think about. Learn much from Honored Summoner and Guardians - much from Lady Raiel. Kimahri decide soon what path to follow."
Raiel nodded, then said softly, "I just want you to be happy with whatever you decide, Kimahri."
The big Ronso nodded. "Kimahri very happy to meet Lady Raiel."
A soft, sincere smile lit her face. "It has been such a pleasure to meet you, Kimahri. I feel that we have become friends, and that makes me very happy. I enjoyed our talks and learning so much from you. If – If you do decide to leave, I hope you will come visit me in Bevelle."
"Kimahri thanks Lady Raiel. Will remember."
Stopping next at the kitchen, Raiel spent some time chatting with her friends there. They laughed again at her attempts to "speak" the Ronso language.
After a time, she took her leave and stood in the passageway outside of the kitchen. She looked to her right, wondering where it led. She couldn't really get lost. After all, there was always someone to ask for directions.
Following the meandering passage, it led from one large chamber to another, each empty. Spying another passage, she decided to follow it for a while, curious to see where the Ronso actually lived.
She wandered through vacant chambers and a labyrinth of passages until she realized that she had lost track of turning right, then left, then left again, then right – or was it left?
Where was everybody? She had expected to find Ronso everywhere. She sighed. Auron was going to be furious.
Looking around, she noticed an exceptionally beautiful tapestry at the end of the passage in which she stood. Maybe there was somebody there who could help her find her way back.
She halted in front of the tapestry, not sure of what to do. I mean, you can't knock on cloth. Then she remembered what the Ronso had done. She slipped her hand between the tapestry and the entrance it covered and scratched on the wall.
At first she heard nothing, then jumped when a deep, commanding voice said, "You may enter."
She peeked around the edge of the tapestry and saw an older-looking Ronso seated at what she assumed was a desk. He must be a clerk of some sort.
She slipped past the edge of the tapestry but stayed with her back almost touching the wall. These Ronso, with their size and strong leonine faces could be very intimidating.
Raiel said hesitantly, "Ex – Excuse me sir, I apologize for disturbing you. I think I've lost my way. Would you – if you don't mind – would you please help me find my way back. I'm one of Lord Braska's Guardians."
The Ronso made a sound, almost as if he had something caught in his throat, then stood and said courteously, "Come in, Lady Guardian." Gesturing toward a chair-like object near the desk, he said in his slow, deep voice, "Here, sit and talk with me."
Seeing no way to graciously decline, Raiel ventured into the large chamber and accepted the seat indicated. Large, unblinking, light-blue eyes added to her discomfort.
The two just studied each other for a moment. Raiel wondered who this Ronso was. He wasn't dressed like all the other males she had seen. He wore what appeared to be a very long skirt that was pulled up chest-high to keep it from dragging on the floor.
Finally she looked into the Ronso's eyes that had been making their own assessment and said, "I'm Raiel."
"Hello, Lady Raiel. Welcome to Gagazet. Have you had a nice visit with us?"
"Oh, yes, sir. Everyone has been so very kind to us. And Kelyn and her friends have worked so terribly hard preparing such wonderful meals for us."
Her face brightened and she said with a smile, "They tried to teach me to say 'Hello' in Ronso - " and she tried to imitate the best sound she could make of it – and broke out laughing, "but I just can't do it!"
There was much chuffing in Ronso laughter. "No, I don't think the human throat can make the sounds of our language."
Light-blue eyes looked at her with renewed interest. "You really wanted to learn the language, dear Lady?"
"Yes, sir. Until I realized that it just wasn't possible. But Kelyn and the others enjoy my efforts. I do it now just to make them laugh."
"How is everyone in your party today?"
"Honestly, sir? We're all still pretty wiped out."
Her eyes darkened as they looked into the memories of the Trials and her voice was low and very quiet, "We did it, we defeated the spirit, but the whole thing was tough...very tough. We were split up for the first time. We had always fought together as a team, the three of us and Lord Braska."
She continued, telling the Ronso all that they had experienced.
"So the Spirit of Gagazet spoke to you, is that correct?"
"Yes, sir, he did. Sounded dry and dusty. Raspy."
Questions and answers were exchanged for quite a while.
"Where in Spira is your home, Lady Raiel?"
"I was born on Kilika Island, sir, but spent time with relatives in – other places. When I was eleven, I went to Bevelle to live with a relative until last year when I returned to the Island. And now, here I am a Summoner's Guardian.'
"You've led an interesting life, young Guardian."
Raiel didn't really know how to respond so she just smiled and nodded.
A thought came to Raiel's mind but she wasn't sure if she should voice it or not. The perceptive Ronso asked quietly, "There is something you want to ask?"
"Well, - - yes, sir. But I'm not sure that it is any of my business to inquire."
"There's no one here but the two of us, so ask your question."
Raiel's eyes took in the beautiful carpets on the floors as she thought how to ask this.
"Well, sir, it's about one of the young Ronso who has been in attendance to us since we arrived. His name is Kimahri and we all like him very much – but he is very sad here. You see, sir, he and some other Ronso had a series of fights or contests when he was younger, during which his horn was badly damaged. Now, he is treated pretty much as an outcast. But he has so much to offer the tribe. He's kind, he's smart, he works very hard, he knows how to think on his feet, and makes good judgment calls. I don't understand how all of these good points are outweighed by the one point of having a broken horn. That's a lot of assets to be losing. Is there someone with whom you could speak with about it?
The great head nodded. "Thank you for mentioning it, Lady Raiel."
The Ronso seemed to be in no hurry to return to whatever occupied him before her arrival, asking more questions about their Pilgrimage. Raiel answered each one fully, often adding anecdotes in her responses.
Time passed as the two chatted away.
Some time later they were interrupted by scratching on the wall beside the tapestry. The Ronso responded with a sound in his throat and Torec stepped into the room.
The mountain guardian started to say something but stopped in surprise at the sight of Lady Raiel sitting with the older Ronso.
Bowing, Torec said in the Ronso tongue, "Forgive the interruption, sir, but we were just looking for Lady Raiel. The Honored Summoner and his Guardians were getting quite concerned at her lengthy absence and called for our assistance in locating her. Shall I escort her back?"
"Thank you but, no, respected guardian. I wanted to congratulate the Honored Summoner personally and this will give me that opportunity. Thank you, Torec."
The mountain guardian bowed his head once and left.
The Ronso said, "Perhaps I should return you to your colleagues now, Lady Guardian. It seems that your absence has caused them some concern."
"Oh! I didn't realize how the time had gone by! I apologize for keeping you from your work."
"Have no concern, dear Lady. It has been my pleasure. Now we should go."
Still lightly chatting as they walked through the passages, it seemed to be only moments until they passed the kitchen, then Kimahri's station, and finally the Summoner's Chamber.
As soon as she stepped into the chamber, Lord Braska, Jecht and Auron came to their feet, but they stopped in their tracks at the appearance of the Ronso who followed her into the room.
Raiel quickly apologized, "I'm so sorry I caused you worry. I was just curious and wanted to meet some of the other Ronso – and I'm afraid I lost my way."
Gesturing to her escort, she continued, "But I found this kind gentleman and we've just been talking. I didn't realize how much time had passed. I'm really sorry."
Lord Braska came forward and gave her a quick hug, "All is well, now that we know you are safe, dear Raiel. We didn't know that you were such austere company!"
Turning to the Ronso behind her, he said with a big smile, "Elder Kelk, you honor us with your presence. Please, come sit and visit with us. And we thank you for taking care of our Raiel. She is most dear to us."
Raiel's jaw dropped. "You are - ?"
The Elder's light blue eyes held a slight glimmer as he responded with a small chuff, "I did enjoy our chat very much, Lady Raiel. A rare opportunity for me to learn many important things. Thank you for talking with me."
Raiel retreated to her mate's side as the Summoner and the tribe Elder chatted for several moments before Kelk took his leave.
Auron looked down at his contrite mate and gathered her in his arms. How was Bevelle going to survive without someone on permanent "Raiel" watch? He sighed and smiled. Collin and Mikel were going to be busy.
That evening after another wonderful meal, they all sat in the large chamber together but were mostly quiet. This was their last evening together and no one seemed to know quite what to say.
At times a face would smile as a memory surfaced, a look was shared, a chuckle now and then, but they didn't really need many words.
Raiel smiled and looked at Auron. "I was just thinking about the day we met."
He returned her smile and nodded, the smile lingering around his lips and eyes.
Jecht growled, "I never thought there would be peace between ya, much less bein' in love."
Other memories, a few words, smiles and nods. They had all been in it together and now being together was enough.
The hour grew late and they reluctantly separated to retire for the night.
In their sleeping chamber, Auron held Raiel as her hand gently touched his face and played with his soft hair.
Again, words weren't necessary; they had all been said. They shared their closeness and soft kisses, committing every tiny detail of each other to memory. Auron had caressed her rounding abdomen where their son was growing and gave it a sweet kiss.
The next morning after breakfast, they carefully checked smallpacks and equipment in preparation for their departure.
Raiel didn't say a lot because she was afraid of releasing the torrent of tears that were dammed up behind her eyes.
Finally, they walked through the exit passage and stepped into the chilly, crispness of the early morning air. The sun was beginning to brighten the sky, releasing a rainbow of hues that were duplicated on the snowy peaks around them.
To their surprise, Kelyn, Jai, Leaor, Ganah, Kimahri, Torec, Khyric and others stood quietly nearby. A moment later, Elder Kelk joined his people.
A pair of black eyes studied the scene below him. Flattened into the snow on the ledge above them, no one knew he was there. His long grayish-white tail silently swished back and forth.
Lord Braska spoke to the Ronso, extending his party's deepest thanks and appreciation for the wonderful care and kind attention given by the tribe. A personal word of thanks to Elder Kelk, Kelyn and Kimahri and he turned back to his Guardians.
"Well, are we ready?"
His blue eyes smiled at his smallest Guardian who was standing beside him. "Well, my dear, it is time to change your status."
He paused a moment as he took a deep breath, blinked back tears and cleared his throat. He turned to face her, one hand holding his beautiful staff, his other hand on her shoulder.
"Lady Raiel of Kilika Island, you have conducted yourself magnificently while in my service as Guardian and have contributed significantly to our success. A Summoner could never ask for better. A friend could never be more dear. In deference to the more important role you are assuming, I now - formally release you from my service – and transfer your duties as Guardian to Spira's next Braska."
The torrent of tears that Raiel had held back overflowed in sobs. Lord Braska wrapped her in a huge hug as his shoulders shook with his own tears.
After a time, they released each other and Raiel turned to Jecht who smothered her in an enormous hug as if he would never let her go.
Tears running down his face, he croaked, "I love ya, little girl."
Then Auron.
He gathered her in his arms and just held her tightly. A soft, lingering kiss. The gentle touch of his hand on her face. A whispered, "I love you."
Auron and Jecht backed away to allow room for Valefor's summoning as Raiel stepped back from Lord Braska's side.
The Summoner took a deep breath to compose himself before he began the summoning.
Suddenly a movement caught Raiel's attention. One of the horrendous, grayish-white panther-like fiends was just springing from a ledge above them toward Lord Braska.
A gasp, his Guardian leaped forward, her arm shot out hitting the Summoner in the chest, shoving him backwards into the snow.
Happening too fast to even see, she felt the crushing impact of the heavy creature slamming into her, powerful jaws driving sharp teeth into the side of her face and neck. The force and momentum of the stunning collision knocked her backward, carrying both of them over the side of the ledge.
Raiel's scream was cut off abruptly as the sickening sound of falling bodies colliding with boulders and rocks continued for several long seconds – then – silence.
