CHAPTER II: SEPARATION
Next day around noon they reached inn. Stopping so horses could get some good food for first time in a week they packed themselves inside that little inn drinking and eating and of course shouting. Gaof stayed outside for a time. Company in there was not his favorite, although they would like to be with him. For a short while anyway.
Village looked deserted. People where either on the fields working or in houses fearing to go to streets until this merry band of mercenaries leaves. He looked back where they come from and saw that forest nearly touches first houses of this village. Remembering what happened last night his body trembled for a second.
"I have to go in to arrange needed things for my departure" thought he "But fist lets look at this" he finished his thought and started unwrapping ribbon from a hand. Wound looked better and in his opinion there was no more need to be bandaged. Coming to nearest water pump he washed his wounded hand with cold water. It felt so good. After washing his face and cooling off his neck with that cold water he finally went for inn slowly warping ribbon around his left hand wrist.
Opening the door smell of ale, wine, roasted meat and sweat filled his nose. Looking around he noticed that only place left unoccupied was in corner furthest from door. There was no windows close either. "So the trap is set." he thought. Then he noticed commander at table closest to corner one, chair closest to that table. "Still you decided to keep your word and keep me alive. Then I'll walk into this trap"
Slowly moving towards empty seat in the corner he was carefully looking around. In the corner right next to the door seated Anna and Marsh. It was first time, since he gotten to know them that he saw them in daylight but his eyes were forced to move on. He was walking in trap intentionally. If he is willing to leave this place alive he must take note of every little thing he could use in his advantage. Some of mercenaries were impatiently grinning. "Fools" flowed his thoughts "not only that your trap is so obvious but that grinning would be enough for an goblin to figure it out". After a good look he saw an obvious pattern of big guys firs. Then there was fact that everyone carrying heavy and slow weapons is set on his sides. The main bulk with swords was there just to distract him. Thieves are close to bar because that is tallest part of inn. Normally no one could possibly get away from that corner. But his prophecy did not come. He knew he would live.
While moving by the last table hilt of commander's broadsword hit Gaof in his ribs. Looking at commander's face he has clearly seen question "Can't you see? Are you blind or nuts?" As answer he slightly moved his right hand creating sign that means madman. All he heard was angry growling through teeth coming from seat.
Taking his seat he took another look around. Only thing he noticed is that commander is locking his sword in scabbard and detaching it from belt. Everything else was still peaceful. "Lad over here" he called and waved his hand "one ale and fast" Then she tossed few silvery coins in air. Boy rushed towards barrels and broth him ale as fast as possible.
"Come closer lad"
Boy went around table standing right next to Gaof staring at his left arm, but his eyes were not set upon coins but upon horrible scars there. He was no more than 15 years old but in rags and with his hair cut so short that is almost totally gone he looked quite older. Deciding that he is smart enough Gaof started conversation.
"Who runs this inn?"
"My father Sir"
"Tell your father I send him unwelcome greetings"
Kid obviously didn't understand. Looking around he saw obvious. Heat was rising up quickly and there was no time for small talk. Grabbing boy by collar he pulled him toward his face moving his mouth to his ear "Tell your father things here are going to go out of hands, a LOT out of hands, and soon for that matter." Putting coins from his left hand in boy's pocket he pushed boy towards what he assumed is his father. Boy ran and talked to that man. Soon all breakable things started being replaced with wooden or metal ones.
During that time Gaof made last preparations for upcoming fight. Detaching scabbards he putted them over his knees. Next he removed his cloak. Last he pushed table little forward so it could be kicked over with ease. Now he was ready and started drinking his ale.
At a table right ho him one man, acting like he was making himself more comfortable, unhooked his axe from belt and putted it on bench next to him keeping his hand on hilt. By the bar one throwing dagger disappeared from its slot. From the other side of inn sound could be heard as someone is slowly puling sword out of scabbard. Everyone was ready. Only question remained who will make the challenge to give this a legal appearance. Who will be sacrificed?
After a loud smack of wood against wood made but hitting the counter with cup, a challenge begins. "Gaof" yelled a man across the room. It was a young man of some 18 years of age. A bright red breastplate, red arm plates, greaves and boots with blue clothes showed that that youngster liked showing off. His face was smooth and pretty. His state so arrogant. Sword on his belt was nicely crafted as well as its scabbard. Around his neck was a necklace of ivory. All in all, a newcomer who was not looking at a bright future before but now is going straight to death.
"So they decided to kill of the weakest. How typical. Sorry for this kid but you were stupid enough to challenge me." Gaof whispered to himself.
After dramatic pause that man finally got the guts and without a word slammed his sword in floor. That was official enough of a challenge. Before he could charge a hand stopped him. At a door Marsh was leading out Anna and one other priestess of Marfa.
Gaof never stand up. He just holed his swords in his hands in his usual reversed position ( blade down ) and foot on the edge of a table. His mug was on very edge of table just left to his foot while his whole body was slightly off bench to make appearance of sitting but at a same time allow much faster movements. His cloak was carefully laid on bench to cover that deception. That was very demanding position for both strength and balance but waiting will not be long.
As soon as door closed behind second priestess, man in red armor grabbed his sword, taking it out of the floor. Rising it over the head he charged straight forward with terrible war cry.
Gaof waited for a second for attacker to come somewhat closer. At a right moment he kicked table, standing up along the way, tossing it over and sending mug flying. Not waiting to see results of his reaction he turned right toward that man who earlier moved his axe. Making two quick steps he shortened distance between them enough to bury hilt of his sword in that man.
Reacting slowly because he was sitting man with axe just started his swing when hilt of Gaof's right-hand sword buried himself in his forehead clouding his mind and throwing him aside. He fell over man sitting next to him loosing consciousness. Left-handed sword was already coming looking to rip open his throat but as he fell his left arm fell between blade and its target. Gliding through flesh and breaking bone sword missed its target but man was unconscious, and with his body he was holding another one down rendering him unable to fight for a while.
Spotting his next target Gaof stepped on bench, the table and finally jumped at a man who had drawn his sword holding it in usual stance. During jump he putted his left sword across his chest to protect himself from the sword he was flying at and pulling his right hand back planning to rip that man's guts open immediately after collision.
On the other side that young man that was charging was so unskilled the he didn't even avoid that mug. That wouldn't mean much to him if split second later commanders sword in scabbard didn't come flat faced across that mug. The blow was so forceful that wooden mug was shattered against youngsters face. That throw him backwards a little after which he tried to maintain balance running backwards. Eventually hitting wall full force he fell face forward with blood gushing out of his crushed face.
One of men at commanders table threw something. It was a metal ball that had some 5 cm in diameter. It was normally used tied to a rope for a crueler version of whipping but now it made perfect projectile. The thief for whom the ball was meant was aiming his throwing dagger at Gaof. With being busy with aiming he didn't noticed ball and it hit him sideways just behind his right eye. Crushing sound was heard and thief fell to the ground screaming in great pain.
All this happened in some 10 seconds when commander shouted "STOP". Man in gray and red robe at commanders table finished his chant and jerked his hands upward. First blue and purple sphere surrounded man with small lightings dancing over it. It was clear that that man was in great pain but he shouted one more word lowering his hands to his chest and then rushing them forward together. Then sphere disappeared and room was filled with sparks. Everyone in room experienced strong muscle spasms all over the body. Many that were standing fell to floor. Some fainted. Gaof who was already in air managed somehow keep grip on his swords but his left hand jerked upwards leaving his chest wide open. Luckily that man he flew at was weaker and dropped his sword falling on his knee. Bodies collided throwing man on his knee somewhat backwards and on the ground. Half in shock of what happened, half of obedience from army discipline everyone was just standing where they were even when spasms stopped and sparks disappeared. The room that went in chaos just a moment ago fell in total silence.
Finally one sound was heard. It was a sound of a man that chanted this spell falling face first on table. The chanting and pain of casting the spell exhausted him completely. After taking a look at his fainted companion commander spoke
"I taught I have ordered you to leave him alone until he leaves my jurisdiction. Also I taught I promised my personal wrath to anyone who tried to harm him before such time." as he waited for reaction no word could be heard, only a sound coming from people that were standing up. Since there was no comment on his words commander continued "Now if you wish to continue this you will have to fight us too"
Everyone at commanders table was standing up except that man that casted a spell few moments ago. There were 7 people ( including commander but not that fainted sorcerer ) and they were all past their prime years but still of strong and of healthy body. Scars, looks and their stance showed that they have putted many battles behind them. Also it was well known that all of them are commanders personal friends and that they were in last 15 or so battles together which gave them lots of experience in fighting as a group. Gaof showed once again that his speed and skill made him more than match for anyone in this room and that he could, despite the heavy odds, fight his way to nearest window opening to himself an escape route. It was only two enemies away and one would be already lying dead if that spell wasn't casted. Considering all that, even though they were outnumbered at some 8 to 1 rate, they had good chances.
Tension was in air and those who didn't want to fight this new fight were exiting the inn fast. When that was finally over the odds were greatly changed. Now it was some 3 to 1 or 4 to 1 odds. It was almost no doubt that Gaof with commander and his group would win, especially since that gray and red robed sorcerer came to and started chanting surrounding himself with dancing flames. And seeing how Gaof was in battlefield it was possible that no one would be left alive. Both sides were coming to edge of their nerves. Everyone was prepared for upcoming battle. Only Gaof was still on his knee. But no one wished for battle in which one side would probably be slaughtered. And no one wanted to withdraw.
Seeing what would be inevitable, most experienced of attackers dropped his sword, kneeled bowing his head and said "We apologize master. We have acted wrong and brought dishonor to your noble name. When we return I will dishonor myself and leave mercenaries forever" Several others followed his example dropping their weapons, kneeling and saying "So will I" but most skipped those words. Few thieves that remained inside inn just resheated their weapons turning their back to Gaof.
As commander wanted to say something a scream was heard from across room. Young man that made a challenge to Gaof was conscious. He was for a few seconds. With his mind still greatly shaken up and eyes filled with blood coming from his forehead he didn't know what was going on. All he wanted is that someone pays for what happened to him. And through all that blood he saw a figure of one he challenged. Still weak in mind and body he raised using his sword as support and charged forward raising his sword above his head. When he screamed he was already charging sure of his success.
Not wanting to kill that youngster because that could lead to fight in which lots of good mercenary lives would end ( not that he cared for that one, as he said before he was too stupid to last anyway ) and being on his knees Gaof sprung forward leaving only his left foot on ground. When his body reached about 45 degrees angle they were close enough to strike. Young man started descending his sword but Gaof's hands were already halfway in punch. Hit by both hilts in chest the young one was thrown back a step after which , loosing all air from his lounges and ability to make any sound, his knees gave out and he has fallen on them with his upper body still traveling backwards in such manner that it will eventually fall. On the other hand Gaof touched ground with his right foot in a loud bang as he transferred all his weight upon it. Immediately he started making a turn that transformed in a roundhouse kick in waist level. Before young man fell that kick caught up with him hitting him, with metal reinforced toe of Gaof's boot, in chin. Kick closed his mouth in a worst possible moment since his tongue was between his teeth. It was not bitten off but teeth went in quite deep causing massive bleeding. His whole body was raised for a moment as he flew backward. His legs straighten out and some 2 meters further he fell unconscious.
One of men at commanders table, which had purple cap, sign of priests of Falis, rushed toward now half dead attacker turning him face down and rising his body to table so he could cough out blood and avoid suffocation.
With all this happening before anyone could react now silence fell upon inn again. All stood in amazement of speed with which Gaof reacted. He was incredibly fast before but this was beyond limits of possibility. As he started cleaning his swords while looking around everyone could clearly see that whites of his eyes were completely flooded in blood leaving no part untouched.
"Now, anyone else?" was heard as commander broke the silence. The pale faces and wide opened mouths were enough of an answer. They were mostly seasoned mercenaries that saw almost all the horrors of the world but this was far beyond what they imagined possible. His speed made him a big black blur as he moved until he stopped with his feet in position in which it kicked. "Then call in those priestesses of Marfa to tend the wounded"
The man closest to the door recuperated himself and exited still in awe of what he saw.
"There is no need to dishonor yourself" started commander "We all know why you acted like this. If it were not my duty to bring him back to Lord Dorric in state he was after battle I would gladly join you. This way this is what had to be done. So rise of your knees. You are all brave man for you attacked one who kills as death itself"
Gaof was still standing looking upon man who kneeled first. His eyes showed bloodlust but his face showed control over it. It was inner battle of his in which winner could not be known.
Anna and that other priestess of Marfa came in. After seeing situation Anna pointed to young one on table that was coughing blood in large amounts. Then she saw Gaof and realized his inner struggle. Coming to him and grabbing his head sideways she slowly raised it to make him look at her face and started sweet voiced chant. At first time nothing happened but after a while blood started retreating from his eyes. His face started softening expression. At the end there again it become emotionless.
"Again I must apologize" he said bowing his head and pulling it out of her hands "This was not meant for your eyes to see"
She just went to check on thief on ground but then noticed body lying across bench with his arm almost cut off. Coming to him she slowly started to spill some liquor on wound praying. Putting the bottle on the ground she lifted her hands slightly over wound and chanted "Marfa, goddess of all creation, help this man in time of need, cure his wounds" Shimmering white light could bee seen and wound slowly changed color as bleeding stopped.
Gaof now saw everyone around him with normal eyes. Realizing what happened he lifted his left foot on nearby bench he started cleaning with some rug he pulled from somewhere under his mail. Finishing that he went to young man he bashed up so badly few minutes ago. Looking at him and checking his neck and mouth he simply said "He'll live". Then eyes went to priestess of Marfa that worked on wounded youngster.
She was calm and didn't take an eye from her patient. Then he noticed that her robe at her lap is a pool of blood since all the blood that youngster coughs out ends up there.
Turning he came to commander. "We both know I must not stay another minute. Pay me off and I'll be gone"
"You know the rules, if I pay you now you get only half, other half is mine."
"I know. Just give me the money and I'm off"
"Wait a moment, I need to get it" said commander and left the inn.
Gaof went straight for his corner taking scabbards he reheated his weapons and attached them back to his belt. Picking his cloak he threw it over his back and locked huge round buckle that holed cloak in its place. Slowly going to counter he ordered another ale. Boy run and brought it. While waiting for commander he drank it in single gulp. When he looked around he saw that everyone was either back by their table, outside or helping injured. No one wanted to challenge him again.
"Here is your half" Yestller said throwing him leather pouch so filled with coins that it was barely closed. And when he came really close to Gaof he gave him one other, much smaller pouch whispering "And here is another quarter of deal if you leave Flaim and avoid it for a while"
Gaof nodded and moved towards innkeeper attaching pouches on belt and throwing them inside his pants. Pour man thought it's death coming to get him. He started walking backwards, hit chair and fell on back.
Grabbing hand with which innkeeper covered his face he pulled him up. Holding innkeeper with right hand Gaof use left one to pop up another pouch from his pants. Diving his fingers in he started mixing its content. Finally he pulled his fingers out with eight or nine small golden coins and putted that in innkeeper's hand.
"That should cover for ale, mug and table" he said and turned moving towards priestess of Marfa. She still attended that youngster which stopped coughing up blood but was still fainted and will be for quite some time. Returning pouch that hanged out in pants he popped one of the new ones. Taking five large golden coins out of it he gave them to her ( raidens ).
"That is my doing" he said looking at her lap filled with blood "Allow me to compensate for that this much at least"
"But that is too much" she said and it was true. That money worth at least 50 robes, and robes of much finer material.
"Then take the rest to your temple lady" He said and turned his back not waiting for answer. His eyes fixated Anna and he was coming to her pulling out another five raidens. Coming to her she turned and he gave her the money.
"Thank you for your devotion to healing. This is small token of appreciation for temple that makes such kind beings"
"Thank you" she said and returned to bandaging that arm.
As he went toward exit he saw that the rest of people were returning inside. After he waited for everyone to clear the door he moved to exit. Everyone was clearing of his path. As he passed Marsh he said "I won't forget" and went out. Turning left he entered stable. Taking his pitch-black horse out of his box he started saddling it. Commander entered stable.
"As I said the minute you leave this village we are enemies. If you leave Flaim and stay clear of it we will most probably have no encounters. But if you enter Flaim again I'm going to find you"
"Understood, I go now" he said putting his newly acquired money in saddle pack.
In inn Anna finished bandaging that man. picking her things up she straighten her robe and moved to leave inn. The other priestess of Marfa looked at her strangely but one meaningful look from Anna was enough to resolve confusion. She left the inn.
Marsh looked at her intrigued. She usually stays to make sure she could do every single little thing she could to help someone, but now she acted in conflict with her usual manners. He had to know what is going on so he followed her. Exiting he saw her washing hands and near water pump. She slowly proceeded towards stables and Marsh ran to catch up with her. Grabbing her hand few meters from stable door he slowly and carefully but firmly never the less turned her towards him.
"What's happening? Why did you left so soon"
"I'm going with Gaof" she said plainly.
"What? Going with him? But why? You have devoted your life to helping everyone in need and he is most cold-blooded killer there ever were. You cure and bring happiness and he brings only death and dismay"
"That is why I want to follow him. There are other reasons I can't discuss"
"What are..." Marsh wanted to say but squeaky sound of large stable door interrupted him.
In the doorway was Gaof on his horse. The door was pushed open by commander and he said
"Remember what I said to you. Don't come back"
Gaof haven't reacted in any way. Just slightly moved his feet ordering his horse to move. Before his horse completely exited stable Anna came running. She took five raidens out of her robe and gave them back to him.
Gaof was totally convinced she found that present insult for temple since all he created was destruction. But he wanted to repay somehow for what she did for him.
"I know that this..." he started talking meaning to add "donation is better suited for temple of Kardis considering that I create only destruction, but this is a small symbol of my will. Will to stop this but am unable" but he was cut off by words that surprised him totally.
"You can give this to me when we separate" looking at ground like a shy girl she said "I ask to come with you. I devoted my life to easing pain and around you I will be able to do this. I beg of you, allow me to ride beside you"
Even his face didn't show it, Gaof was surprised all right. Looking at her he took some time in making an answer. Since he had no words to say right now he used this moment of silence to finally take a good look of her in light of a day.
She had a long dark brown hair, which was a little wavy and so tick that it covered all of her back reaching to its end. Forehead was partially covered in an ornament in shape of a thick outline going three quarters of a circle. It was all of a golden color and was kept there by a golden colored string. That was sign of priestesses of Marfa. Her face was smooth as it could possibly be and her cheeks were round so her face looked a lot younger. She looked like a schoolgirl or a peasant girl of some 18 of age but they he knew better. Her lips were maybe just a little bit too high, her brown eyes a little too small, her nose bone a little to strong, but all that suited her perfectly and just gave her a new qualities. Needless to say she simply radiated with healthy beauty. That nature's masterpiece of a face stood on a long aristocratic neck with same smooth and healthy colored skin as the rest of her. Directly under her neck wide white robe of rough material started leaving the rest for imagination. Even so there was something nice in the way it fell along her body.
Only other things not covered by that robe were her hands. They had long, thin and elegant fingers on them. No jewelry were on them except a small silver ring that looked more like a silver wire bent in circle with two small balls on their ends that what it was. He knew those hands, at least their touch. That touch was so warm, soft and kind that he would dare to say that that touch itself was caring.
Finally some words left his mouth.
"Of course you may come with me. One like me always needs someone as kind and skilled as you" he said and stopped for a moment then added "I will try not to keep you too busy lady of Marfa"
"I thank you for that" she said "Would you mind waiting for me while I get my horse ready?"
"I will wait for you in the forest at the south edge of this village. It wouldn't be very smart if I stay here. Some more lives could be wasted"
Again his legs moved slightly hitting his horse and horse obediently moved forward. He was still confused a bit but that didn't bother him any more. She wanted to come with him, although he has no idea why, that is not a bad thing. Looking in front on himself he saw Marsh who was still looking at Anna in disbelief. As he passed by him Gaof simply said "Guess I'll be seeing more of you too"
Question was simple but no answer came. When those words finally reached Marsh, Gaof was already gone. "Yes, you will" he said more to himself and started running towards stable. Passing by Anna he opened his box and pulled his horse out. Since he was always riding without a saddle, like his father taught him to, he threw saddle pack and blanket that he used instead of saddle over his horse. After securing the saddle packs he pulled his horse going towards Anna.
She was just finishing adjusting her saddle with help of Yestller and was going for two baskets connected with leather belt. Once they held healing herbs and extracts but now was almost completely empty as she had to use them on this warriors after the battle. As she reached for them mans hand showed up picking them. Turning around she saw Marsh smiling, but it was obvious forced smile. Then something else caught her eye. Behind him was his horse prepared for riding. She focused her eyes upon him again.
"I'm going with you two" he said before she could do anything.
"But just a moment ago you were talking me out of it. I don't understand." looking him in his eyes she understood that it is not him that he is following but her. What came across her mind was too hypothetical for her so she threw that thought away. "That couldn't be, we are just friends"
Seeing her face, which was uncomforted, he closed his eyes and forced even bigger smile "Before it was about you, now it is about me. He made me a promise and I intend to follow him until he fulfills that promise"
Wanting to believe anything else but that first thought she accepted that. Her face softened again and she said "Then we will go together. It is better to have a friend along side"
Now he just couldn't restrain himself. It wasn't in his nature "Is he not your friend? It is not a custom to ride with an enemy"
Still looking at him she smiled cheerfully at him thinking about his simplicity of thoughts. He would never guess. "No, he is not a friend, nor an enemy. He is something else"
Now it was his turn to look uncomforted. Not wanting her to see that he walked right past her to her horse. Putting those baskets over horses back and tightening leather belt to secure them he said "Then shell we go. He is waiting for us and you don't want HIM to get grumpy, now do you?" Bursting in laughter he moved for his horse. That was best he could do to hide what he felt at that time. If it was like he was afraid it is, although that was very unlikely, what he felt that moment would hurt both him and her. He couldn't allow that.
Finally they both left stable on their horses and went for south exit from village. Gaof was to wait for them there.
Riding behind Marsh her thoughts were about man in front of her. "I hope it is not what I first thought it is, because if it is I would like to return those feelings to you. But now I can not, now my feelings must work for greater good, now they are tied for another man by my and not their will. Please don't let it be like that. Marfa I pray to you don't let it be like that. Don't let him suffer so" Raising her head she saw broad shoulders and strong head with short hair in front of her. She knew that man for a long time, since childhood. He was always strong and warrior in heart but also kind and gentle towards ones in need and to her. She always held him in her hart as a dear friend, maybe even more but now her heart has to bend to her will and pretend. Pretend it loves someone else for the sake of all the Lodoss. Small tear left corner of her eye and she quickly wiped it out. Her conflict must remain buried deep inside herself, for both of them mean much to her and both could get wrong idea from it.
While she was thinking they reached Gaof. He was sitting leaned on a tree, first one of the forest looking in distance, but now he was already walking toward his horse. Positioning himself after one big leap he turned around. Village street was empty except for Yestller and two or three other figures looking towards him. Seeing what he wanted to see he simply said.
"Shell we go?"
"We can go anytime you please, but where?" asked Anna now no more in humble but still in low and sweet voice.
"Then we are of to Raiden" he replayed simply and forced his horse forward in a slow pace. Marsh and Anna followed his example. Soon they disappeared in dense forest they went in, leaving only raised dust after them.
The figures were returning to inn assured that they will never meet that death in human form again. That was a good thing. They drinked some more in that name.
Next day around noon they reached inn. Stopping so horses could get some good food for first time in a week they packed themselves inside that little inn drinking and eating and of course shouting. Gaof stayed outside for a time. Company in there was not his favorite, although they would like to be with him. For a short while anyway.
Village looked deserted. People where either on the fields working or in houses fearing to go to streets until this merry band of mercenaries leaves. He looked back where they come from and saw that forest nearly touches first houses of this village. Remembering what happened last night his body trembled for a second.
"I have to go in to arrange needed things for my departure" thought he "But fist lets look at this" he finished his thought and started unwrapping ribbon from a hand. Wound looked better and in his opinion there was no more need to be bandaged. Coming to nearest water pump he washed his wounded hand with cold water. It felt so good. After washing his face and cooling off his neck with that cold water he finally went for inn slowly warping ribbon around his left hand wrist.
Opening the door smell of ale, wine, roasted meat and sweat filled his nose. Looking around he noticed that only place left unoccupied was in corner furthest from door. There was no windows close either. "So the trap is set." he thought. Then he noticed commander at table closest to corner one, chair closest to that table. "Still you decided to keep your word and keep me alive. Then I'll walk into this trap"
Slowly moving towards empty seat in the corner he was carefully looking around. In the corner right next to the door seated Anna and Marsh. It was first time, since he gotten to know them that he saw them in daylight but his eyes were forced to move on. He was walking in trap intentionally. If he is willing to leave this place alive he must take note of every little thing he could use in his advantage. Some of mercenaries were impatiently grinning. "Fools" flowed his thoughts "not only that your trap is so obvious but that grinning would be enough for an goblin to figure it out". After a good look he saw an obvious pattern of big guys firs. Then there was fact that everyone carrying heavy and slow weapons is set on his sides. The main bulk with swords was there just to distract him. Thieves are close to bar because that is tallest part of inn. Normally no one could possibly get away from that corner. But his prophecy did not come. He knew he would live.
While moving by the last table hilt of commander's broadsword hit Gaof in his ribs. Looking at commander's face he has clearly seen question "Can't you see? Are you blind or nuts?" As answer he slightly moved his right hand creating sign that means madman. All he heard was angry growling through teeth coming from seat.
Taking his seat he took another look around. Only thing he noticed is that commander is locking his sword in scabbard and detaching it from belt. Everything else was still peaceful. "Lad over here" he called and waved his hand "one ale and fast" Then she tossed few silvery coins in air. Boy rushed towards barrels and broth him ale as fast as possible.
"Come closer lad"
Boy went around table standing right next to Gaof staring at his left arm, but his eyes were not set upon coins but upon horrible scars there. He was no more than 15 years old but in rags and with his hair cut so short that is almost totally gone he looked quite older. Deciding that he is smart enough Gaof started conversation.
"Who runs this inn?"
"My father Sir"
"Tell your father I send him unwelcome greetings"
Kid obviously didn't understand. Looking around he saw obvious. Heat was rising up quickly and there was no time for small talk. Grabbing boy by collar he pulled him toward his face moving his mouth to his ear "Tell your father things here are going to go out of hands, a LOT out of hands, and soon for that matter." Putting coins from his left hand in boy's pocket he pushed boy towards what he assumed is his father. Boy ran and talked to that man. Soon all breakable things started being replaced with wooden or metal ones.
During that time Gaof made last preparations for upcoming fight. Detaching scabbards he putted them over his knees. Next he removed his cloak. Last he pushed table little forward so it could be kicked over with ease. Now he was ready and started drinking his ale.
At a table right ho him one man, acting like he was making himself more comfortable, unhooked his axe from belt and putted it on bench next to him keeping his hand on hilt. By the bar one throwing dagger disappeared from its slot. From the other side of inn sound could be heard as someone is slowly puling sword out of scabbard. Everyone was ready. Only question remained who will make the challenge to give this a legal appearance. Who will be sacrificed?
After a loud smack of wood against wood made but hitting the counter with cup, a challenge begins. "Gaof" yelled a man across the room. It was a young man of some 18 years of age. A bright red breastplate, red arm plates, greaves and boots with blue clothes showed that that youngster liked showing off. His face was smooth and pretty. His state so arrogant. Sword on his belt was nicely crafted as well as its scabbard. Around his neck was a necklace of ivory. All in all, a newcomer who was not looking at a bright future before but now is going straight to death.
"So they decided to kill of the weakest. How typical. Sorry for this kid but you were stupid enough to challenge me." Gaof whispered to himself.
After dramatic pause that man finally got the guts and without a word slammed his sword in floor. That was official enough of a challenge. Before he could charge a hand stopped him. At a door Marsh was leading out Anna and one other priestess of Marfa.
Gaof never stand up. He just holed his swords in his hands in his usual reversed position ( blade down ) and foot on the edge of a table. His mug was on very edge of table just left to his foot while his whole body was slightly off bench to make appearance of sitting but at a same time allow much faster movements. His cloak was carefully laid on bench to cover that deception. That was very demanding position for both strength and balance but waiting will not be long.
As soon as door closed behind second priestess, man in red armor grabbed his sword, taking it out of the floor. Rising it over the head he charged straight forward with terrible war cry.
Gaof waited for a second for attacker to come somewhat closer. At a right moment he kicked table, standing up along the way, tossing it over and sending mug flying. Not waiting to see results of his reaction he turned right toward that man who earlier moved his axe. Making two quick steps he shortened distance between them enough to bury hilt of his sword in that man.
Reacting slowly because he was sitting man with axe just started his swing when hilt of Gaof's right-hand sword buried himself in his forehead clouding his mind and throwing him aside. He fell over man sitting next to him loosing consciousness. Left-handed sword was already coming looking to rip open his throat but as he fell his left arm fell between blade and its target. Gliding through flesh and breaking bone sword missed its target but man was unconscious, and with his body he was holding another one down rendering him unable to fight for a while.
Spotting his next target Gaof stepped on bench, the table and finally jumped at a man who had drawn his sword holding it in usual stance. During jump he putted his left sword across his chest to protect himself from the sword he was flying at and pulling his right hand back planning to rip that man's guts open immediately after collision.
On the other side that young man that was charging was so unskilled the he didn't even avoid that mug. That wouldn't mean much to him if split second later commanders sword in scabbard didn't come flat faced across that mug. The blow was so forceful that wooden mug was shattered against youngsters face. That throw him backwards a little after which he tried to maintain balance running backwards. Eventually hitting wall full force he fell face forward with blood gushing out of his crushed face.
One of men at commanders table threw something. It was a metal ball that had some 5 cm in diameter. It was normally used tied to a rope for a crueler version of whipping but now it made perfect projectile. The thief for whom the ball was meant was aiming his throwing dagger at Gaof. With being busy with aiming he didn't noticed ball and it hit him sideways just behind his right eye. Crushing sound was heard and thief fell to the ground screaming in great pain.
All this happened in some 10 seconds when commander shouted "STOP". Man in gray and red robe at commanders table finished his chant and jerked his hands upward. First blue and purple sphere surrounded man with small lightings dancing over it. It was clear that that man was in great pain but he shouted one more word lowering his hands to his chest and then rushing them forward together. Then sphere disappeared and room was filled with sparks. Everyone in room experienced strong muscle spasms all over the body. Many that were standing fell to floor. Some fainted. Gaof who was already in air managed somehow keep grip on his swords but his left hand jerked upwards leaving his chest wide open. Luckily that man he flew at was weaker and dropped his sword falling on his knee. Bodies collided throwing man on his knee somewhat backwards and on the ground. Half in shock of what happened, half of obedience from army discipline everyone was just standing where they were even when spasms stopped and sparks disappeared. The room that went in chaos just a moment ago fell in total silence.
Finally one sound was heard. It was a sound of a man that chanted this spell falling face first on table. The chanting and pain of casting the spell exhausted him completely. After taking a look at his fainted companion commander spoke
"I taught I have ordered you to leave him alone until he leaves my jurisdiction. Also I taught I promised my personal wrath to anyone who tried to harm him before such time." as he waited for reaction no word could be heard, only a sound coming from people that were standing up. Since there was no comment on his words commander continued "Now if you wish to continue this you will have to fight us too"
Everyone at commanders table was standing up except that man that casted a spell few moments ago. There were 7 people ( including commander but not that fainted sorcerer ) and they were all past their prime years but still of strong and of healthy body. Scars, looks and their stance showed that they have putted many battles behind them. Also it was well known that all of them are commanders personal friends and that they were in last 15 or so battles together which gave them lots of experience in fighting as a group. Gaof showed once again that his speed and skill made him more than match for anyone in this room and that he could, despite the heavy odds, fight his way to nearest window opening to himself an escape route. It was only two enemies away and one would be already lying dead if that spell wasn't casted. Considering all that, even though they were outnumbered at some 8 to 1 rate, they had good chances.
Tension was in air and those who didn't want to fight this new fight were exiting the inn fast. When that was finally over the odds were greatly changed. Now it was some 3 to 1 or 4 to 1 odds. It was almost no doubt that Gaof with commander and his group would win, especially since that gray and red robed sorcerer came to and started chanting surrounding himself with dancing flames. And seeing how Gaof was in battlefield it was possible that no one would be left alive. Both sides were coming to edge of their nerves. Everyone was prepared for upcoming battle. Only Gaof was still on his knee. But no one wished for battle in which one side would probably be slaughtered. And no one wanted to withdraw.
Seeing what would be inevitable, most experienced of attackers dropped his sword, kneeled bowing his head and said "We apologize master. We have acted wrong and brought dishonor to your noble name. When we return I will dishonor myself and leave mercenaries forever" Several others followed his example dropping their weapons, kneeling and saying "So will I" but most skipped those words. Few thieves that remained inside inn just resheated their weapons turning their back to Gaof.
As commander wanted to say something a scream was heard from across room. Young man that made a challenge to Gaof was conscious. He was for a few seconds. With his mind still greatly shaken up and eyes filled with blood coming from his forehead he didn't know what was going on. All he wanted is that someone pays for what happened to him. And through all that blood he saw a figure of one he challenged. Still weak in mind and body he raised using his sword as support and charged forward raising his sword above his head. When he screamed he was already charging sure of his success.
Not wanting to kill that youngster because that could lead to fight in which lots of good mercenary lives would end ( not that he cared for that one, as he said before he was too stupid to last anyway ) and being on his knees Gaof sprung forward leaving only his left foot on ground. When his body reached about 45 degrees angle they were close enough to strike. Young man started descending his sword but Gaof's hands were already halfway in punch. Hit by both hilts in chest the young one was thrown back a step after which , loosing all air from his lounges and ability to make any sound, his knees gave out and he has fallen on them with his upper body still traveling backwards in such manner that it will eventually fall. On the other hand Gaof touched ground with his right foot in a loud bang as he transferred all his weight upon it. Immediately he started making a turn that transformed in a roundhouse kick in waist level. Before young man fell that kick caught up with him hitting him, with metal reinforced toe of Gaof's boot, in chin. Kick closed his mouth in a worst possible moment since his tongue was between his teeth. It was not bitten off but teeth went in quite deep causing massive bleeding. His whole body was raised for a moment as he flew backward. His legs straighten out and some 2 meters further he fell unconscious.
One of men at commanders table, which had purple cap, sign of priests of Falis, rushed toward now half dead attacker turning him face down and rising his body to table so he could cough out blood and avoid suffocation.
With all this happening before anyone could react now silence fell upon inn again. All stood in amazement of speed with which Gaof reacted. He was incredibly fast before but this was beyond limits of possibility. As he started cleaning his swords while looking around everyone could clearly see that whites of his eyes were completely flooded in blood leaving no part untouched.
"Now, anyone else?" was heard as commander broke the silence. The pale faces and wide opened mouths were enough of an answer. They were mostly seasoned mercenaries that saw almost all the horrors of the world but this was far beyond what they imagined possible. His speed made him a big black blur as he moved until he stopped with his feet in position in which it kicked. "Then call in those priestesses of Marfa to tend the wounded"
The man closest to the door recuperated himself and exited still in awe of what he saw.
"There is no need to dishonor yourself" started commander "We all know why you acted like this. If it were not my duty to bring him back to Lord Dorric in state he was after battle I would gladly join you. This way this is what had to be done. So rise of your knees. You are all brave man for you attacked one who kills as death itself"
Gaof was still standing looking upon man who kneeled first. His eyes showed bloodlust but his face showed control over it. It was inner battle of his in which winner could not be known.
Anna and that other priestess of Marfa came in. After seeing situation Anna pointed to young one on table that was coughing blood in large amounts. Then she saw Gaof and realized his inner struggle. Coming to him and grabbing his head sideways she slowly raised it to make him look at her face and started sweet voiced chant. At first time nothing happened but after a while blood started retreating from his eyes. His face started softening expression. At the end there again it become emotionless.
"Again I must apologize" he said bowing his head and pulling it out of her hands "This was not meant for your eyes to see"
She just went to check on thief on ground but then noticed body lying across bench with his arm almost cut off. Coming to him she slowly started to spill some liquor on wound praying. Putting the bottle on the ground she lifted her hands slightly over wound and chanted "Marfa, goddess of all creation, help this man in time of need, cure his wounds" Shimmering white light could bee seen and wound slowly changed color as bleeding stopped.
Gaof now saw everyone around him with normal eyes. Realizing what happened he lifted his left foot on nearby bench he started cleaning with some rug he pulled from somewhere under his mail. Finishing that he went to young man he bashed up so badly few minutes ago. Looking at him and checking his neck and mouth he simply said "He'll live". Then eyes went to priestess of Marfa that worked on wounded youngster.
She was calm and didn't take an eye from her patient. Then he noticed that her robe at her lap is a pool of blood since all the blood that youngster coughs out ends up there.
Turning he came to commander. "We both know I must not stay another minute. Pay me off and I'll be gone"
"You know the rules, if I pay you now you get only half, other half is mine."
"I know. Just give me the money and I'm off"
"Wait a moment, I need to get it" said commander and left the inn.
Gaof went straight for his corner taking scabbards he reheated his weapons and attached them back to his belt. Picking his cloak he threw it over his back and locked huge round buckle that holed cloak in its place. Slowly going to counter he ordered another ale. Boy run and brought it. While waiting for commander he drank it in single gulp. When he looked around he saw that everyone was either back by their table, outside or helping injured. No one wanted to challenge him again.
"Here is your half" Yestller said throwing him leather pouch so filled with coins that it was barely closed. And when he came really close to Gaof he gave him one other, much smaller pouch whispering "And here is another quarter of deal if you leave Flaim and avoid it for a while"
Gaof nodded and moved towards innkeeper attaching pouches on belt and throwing them inside his pants. Pour man thought it's death coming to get him. He started walking backwards, hit chair and fell on back.
Grabbing hand with which innkeeper covered his face he pulled him up. Holding innkeeper with right hand Gaof use left one to pop up another pouch from his pants. Diving his fingers in he started mixing its content. Finally he pulled his fingers out with eight or nine small golden coins and putted that in innkeeper's hand.
"That should cover for ale, mug and table" he said and turned moving towards priestess of Marfa. She still attended that youngster which stopped coughing up blood but was still fainted and will be for quite some time. Returning pouch that hanged out in pants he popped one of the new ones. Taking five large golden coins out of it he gave them to her ( raidens ).
"That is my doing" he said looking at her lap filled with blood "Allow me to compensate for that this much at least"
"But that is too much" she said and it was true. That money worth at least 50 robes, and robes of much finer material.
"Then take the rest to your temple lady" He said and turned his back not waiting for answer. His eyes fixated Anna and he was coming to her pulling out another five raidens. Coming to her she turned and he gave her the money.
"Thank you for your devotion to healing. This is small token of appreciation for temple that makes such kind beings"
"Thank you" she said and returned to bandaging that arm.
As he went toward exit he saw that the rest of people were returning inside. After he waited for everyone to clear the door he moved to exit. Everyone was clearing of his path. As he passed Marsh he said "I won't forget" and went out. Turning left he entered stable. Taking his pitch-black horse out of his box he started saddling it. Commander entered stable.
"As I said the minute you leave this village we are enemies. If you leave Flaim and stay clear of it we will most probably have no encounters. But if you enter Flaim again I'm going to find you"
"Understood, I go now" he said putting his newly acquired money in saddle pack.
In inn Anna finished bandaging that man. picking her things up she straighten her robe and moved to leave inn. The other priestess of Marfa looked at her strangely but one meaningful look from Anna was enough to resolve confusion. She left the inn.
Marsh looked at her intrigued. She usually stays to make sure she could do every single little thing she could to help someone, but now she acted in conflict with her usual manners. He had to know what is going on so he followed her. Exiting he saw her washing hands and near water pump. She slowly proceeded towards stables and Marsh ran to catch up with her. Grabbing her hand few meters from stable door he slowly and carefully but firmly never the less turned her towards him.
"What's happening? Why did you left so soon"
"I'm going with Gaof" she said plainly.
"What? Going with him? But why? You have devoted your life to helping everyone in need and he is most cold-blooded killer there ever were. You cure and bring happiness and he brings only death and dismay"
"That is why I want to follow him. There are other reasons I can't discuss"
"What are..." Marsh wanted to say but squeaky sound of large stable door interrupted him.
In the doorway was Gaof on his horse. The door was pushed open by commander and he said
"Remember what I said to you. Don't come back"
Gaof haven't reacted in any way. Just slightly moved his feet ordering his horse to move. Before his horse completely exited stable Anna came running. She took five raidens out of her robe and gave them back to him.
Gaof was totally convinced she found that present insult for temple since all he created was destruction. But he wanted to repay somehow for what she did for him.
"I know that this..." he started talking meaning to add "donation is better suited for temple of Kardis considering that I create only destruction, but this is a small symbol of my will. Will to stop this but am unable" but he was cut off by words that surprised him totally.
"You can give this to me when we separate" looking at ground like a shy girl she said "I ask to come with you. I devoted my life to easing pain and around you I will be able to do this. I beg of you, allow me to ride beside you"
Even his face didn't show it, Gaof was surprised all right. Looking at her he took some time in making an answer. Since he had no words to say right now he used this moment of silence to finally take a good look of her in light of a day.
She had a long dark brown hair, which was a little wavy and so tick that it covered all of her back reaching to its end. Forehead was partially covered in an ornament in shape of a thick outline going three quarters of a circle. It was all of a golden color and was kept there by a golden colored string. That was sign of priestesses of Marfa. Her face was smooth as it could possibly be and her cheeks were round so her face looked a lot younger. She looked like a schoolgirl or a peasant girl of some 18 of age but they he knew better. Her lips were maybe just a little bit too high, her brown eyes a little too small, her nose bone a little to strong, but all that suited her perfectly and just gave her a new qualities. Needless to say she simply radiated with healthy beauty. That nature's masterpiece of a face stood on a long aristocratic neck with same smooth and healthy colored skin as the rest of her. Directly under her neck wide white robe of rough material started leaving the rest for imagination. Even so there was something nice in the way it fell along her body.
Only other things not covered by that robe were her hands. They had long, thin and elegant fingers on them. No jewelry were on them except a small silver ring that looked more like a silver wire bent in circle with two small balls on their ends that what it was. He knew those hands, at least their touch. That touch was so warm, soft and kind that he would dare to say that that touch itself was caring.
Finally some words left his mouth.
"Of course you may come with me. One like me always needs someone as kind and skilled as you" he said and stopped for a moment then added "I will try not to keep you too busy lady of Marfa"
"I thank you for that" she said "Would you mind waiting for me while I get my horse ready?"
"I will wait for you in the forest at the south edge of this village. It wouldn't be very smart if I stay here. Some more lives could be wasted"
Again his legs moved slightly hitting his horse and horse obediently moved forward. He was still confused a bit but that didn't bother him any more. She wanted to come with him, although he has no idea why, that is not a bad thing. Looking in front on himself he saw Marsh who was still looking at Anna in disbelief. As he passed by him Gaof simply said "Guess I'll be seeing more of you too"
Question was simple but no answer came. When those words finally reached Marsh, Gaof was already gone. "Yes, you will" he said more to himself and started running towards stable. Passing by Anna he opened his box and pulled his horse out. Since he was always riding without a saddle, like his father taught him to, he threw saddle pack and blanket that he used instead of saddle over his horse. After securing the saddle packs he pulled his horse going towards Anna.
She was just finishing adjusting her saddle with help of Yestller and was going for two baskets connected with leather belt. Once they held healing herbs and extracts but now was almost completely empty as she had to use them on this warriors after the battle. As she reached for them mans hand showed up picking them. Turning around she saw Marsh smiling, but it was obvious forced smile. Then something else caught her eye. Behind him was his horse prepared for riding. She focused her eyes upon him again.
"I'm going with you two" he said before she could do anything.
"But just a moment ago you were talking me out of it. I don't understand." looking him in his eyes she understood that it is not him that he is following but her. What came across her mind was too hypothetical for her so she threw that thought away. "That couldn't be, we are just friends"
Seeing her face, which was uncomforted, he closed his eyes and forced even bigger smile "Before it was about you, now it is about me. He made me a promise and I intend to follow him until he fulfills that promise"
Wanting to believe anything else but that first thought she accepted that. Her face softened again and she said "Then we will go together. It is better to have a friend along side"
Now he just couldn't restrain himself. It wasn't in his nature "Is he not your friend? It is not a custom to ride with an enemy"
Still looking at him she smiled cheerfully at him thinking about his simplicity of thoughts. He would never guess. "No, he is not a friend, nor an enemy. He is something else"
Now it was his turn to look uncomforted. Not wanting her to see that he walked right past her to her horse. Putting those baskets over horses back and tightening leather belt to secure them he said "Then shell we go. He is waiting for us and you don't want HIM to get grumpy, now do you?" Bursting in laughter he moved for his horse. That was best he could do to hide what he felt at that time. If it was like he was afraid it is, although that was very unlikely, what he felt that moment would hurt both him and her. He couldn't allow that.
Finally they both left stable on their horses and went for south exit from village. Gaof was to wait for them there.
Riding behind Marsh her thoughts were about man in front of her. "I hope it is not what I first thought it is, because if it is I would like to return those feelings to you. But now I can not, now my feelings must work for greater good, now they are tied for another man by my and not their will. Please don't let it be like that. Marfa I pray to you don't let it be like that. Don't let him suffer so" Raising her head she saw broad shoulders and strong head with short hair in front of her. She knew that man for a long time, since childhood. He was always strong and warrior in heart but also kind and gentle towards ones in need and to her. She always held him in her hart as a dear friend, maybe even more but now her heart has to bend to her will and pretend. Pretend it loves someone else for the sake of all the Lodoss. Small tear left corner of her eye and she quickly wiped it out. Her conflict must remain buried deep inside herself, for both of them mean much to her and both could get wrong idea from it.
While she was thinking they reached Gaof. He was sitting leaned on a tree, first one of the forest looking in distance, but now he was already walking toward his horse. Positioning himself after one big leap he turned around. Village street was empty except for Yestller and two or three other figures looking towards him. Seeing what he wanted to see he simply said.
"Shell we go?"
"We can go anytime you please, but where?" asked Anna now no more in humble but still in low and sweet voice.
"Then we are of to Raiden" he replayed simply and forced his horse forward in a slow pace. Marsh and Anna followed his example. Soon they disappeared in dense forest they went in, leaving only raised dust after them.
The figures were returning to inn assured that they will never meet that death in human form again. That was a good thing. They drinked some more in that name.