Author's Notes
Same old, same old. Perhaps if y'all have specific questions/comments, I'll change this section for each chapter. Enjoy!
Chapter Two:
An Uninvited Interruption
The ride to the caves, which Maxim had done on more than one occasion, was very peaceful. It housed plenty of silent time for one's own thoughts, although Maxim did not find any he wished to dwell on.
The caves, themselves, Maxim loved to look upon. On the outside little was seen, but weathered and dirty stone covered by dying mosses. Within, however, they shimmered an exuberant orange, due to the mineral deposits left by the ancient water that had carved its winding passages.
For the next couple of hours Maxim searched the glittering caves for his bounty, but found no sign of harmful life, and very little sign of any life at all. It was a relatively small cave system, with pools littered here and there, as well as various cracks and crevices. Maxim was not told (for no one knew what it was exactly) what he was hunting and what he searched for stayed well hidden if it was there at all.
Tracking was a tough line of work that required many skills, including strength and courage, but also a great deal of patience. And Maxim had performed this job for years, so Maxim was not as frustrated by this lack of action as others may have been. Still, great patience is a very hard skill to build and use by anyone, as I'm sure you know, and he had plenty of room for improvement as well.
Maxim finally decided to break for dinner, made camp amidst a small grove of trees to protect himself from the wind and settled in for the lonely night. Luckily, he liked the solitude with nature. He felt like he was at home, wherever he was, if he was outside. He enjoyed his life, quite comfortably really.
The next day Maxim was up early at his trade once again. He scoured crevices, trees, bushes, and everything in the surrounding area, yet still found nothing, nor any sign.
It was when he returned to a cavern that something entered the silence, breaking up his comfort. Although Maxim was very aware of his surroundings as far as humans go (and even elves for that matter), he was taken by quite a surprise.
"You were easier to find than I thought" came a female voice about twenty-five feet behind Maxim.
Maxim was caught off guard by the voice, yet his reaction was quick. He jumped to his feet, while turning around, and quickly had his bow in hand, the string taut with an arrow. "Speak your name and business here, my friend. And use caution if you want to remain so."
The intruder to the caverns was a slender woman, shrouded by her dark purple robe. Underneath this shreds of her dark green hair, which looked tinged with dark purple because of her coat, peeked out.
"You have not shown yourself worthy to win my name, but my business will soon become clear. Let your name suffice for the moment, Maxim," she said with no apparent emotion, while she gingerly placed herself on a smooth, outcropped rock.
"How you have happened upon my name I do not know, nor will it matter that I do not have yours. Again I say, speak your business," Maxim said without moving. He saw that this woman was quite an imposing figure, taller than most women he had seen in Estpolis. The intruder was slender, shrouded by her dark purple robe. Underneath the cloak, shreds of her dark green hair peeked out.
Without emotion, after lowering her hood, she continued, "Are you aware of the balls of light that streaked across the sky a few weeks ago?"
Having never lost those thoughts he said, "I saw them, yet of what importance are some shooting stars to either of us? Tell me why you have called upon me or continue on elsewhere." Maxim asked this last question, growing exponentially less patient as time moved along.
"It has plenty to do with us both. In fact it has to do with all life on this planet, friend." This sarcastic use of "friend" was an empty word on Maxim's ears, yet the declaration that went with it caught a bit of his attention.
"I understand your doubt," she said seeming to read Maxim's thoughts. "Much that is true is seen as incredible. Time has begun to change. The evil this world has seen is but a mere wave, soon to swell into a tremendous assault on all of humanity."
Maxim was quick in his thoughts, saying, "That's ridiculous, you are nothing more than one of those crazed Wanderers, aren't you?" Maxim laughed as he lowered his bow, more than confident of his skill over that of his visitor.
The Wanderers were a group of people in the northern parts of what was known as the Westlands, which was located just over the Sea south of Elcid. They were known for their fanatic beliefs and disdain for all forms of Estpolisian society, save the most ancient incarnations. "Time is always changing, m" Lady, yet your fear is unfounded with where our days are leading."
"These you call the Wanderers are few and insignificant. If they have happened upon what is to come, they are but prized in the skill of guessing. You, on the other hand, are most significant in the times laid before us," the lady said, unaffected by the way Maxim was taking her words.
By this time Maxim was loading his equipment onto his back, ready to move out of this cave for some fresh air, while staying at the ready should an attack from his visitor be unleashed. "And what exactly is my significant contribution going to be, if I may know that." This was quickly becoming comical to Maxim and he made it sarcastically clear.
"Foolishness can be harmful, Tracker, so I would choose your words more carefully when in the company of those you do not know." The visitor showed no sign of movement or anger, yet there was a slight change in her voice to a sweeter tone afterwards. "Yet you also have the power to confront the swell that rises, if you wield it with wisdom."
"Me?" Maxim laughed out loud. "A simple Tracker, as you seem fond to point out, against this mighty assault on all of humanity. If only your strength were as grand as you think your wisdom to be you could easily handle that yourself," he continued as he started to walk away from the visitor.
"You may see my full strength at some point, but my words are all I offer now," she said as calm as ever. But as she said these words her stature seemed to change. She appeared to grow taller and seemed more powerful to Maxim than he earlier gave her credit for. Maxim could not tell if this was just in his mind or some trick of the cavern's lighting.
She did not seem to fit the description that Maxim had heard of the Wanderers, but she still seemed to be quite queer. Despite this, Maxim started to think there was a hint of truth in what she was saying, even though he could not explain why this change of thought had occurred.
"And what were those balls of light? If I am the chosen one to fight this 'swell of evil", it would help to know this," Maxim continued, his voice full of sarcasm.
A tiny smile finally cracked her face, at Maxim's innocent humor. "Good to see that you come to some of your senses," she said matching his sarcasm, "but what makes you think you are going to do this alone?" Maxim said nothing.
"Don't feel hurt," she said as her smile broadened. "There is strength in numbers and there are others who can confront this evil with you. You have quite a journey laid before you, ready to be walked. And there are people to meet. What you believe and what you do with this is your choice. It's good to see you are taking my words a little more seriously, though."
With that last sentence Maxim felt as if his companion could see straight through him. His state of mind went from thinking the whole talk was ludicrous to a feeling of uneasiness. The atmosphere of the cave seemed to change before him. Something in his heart was stirring at her words, and he wondered if it was some sort of spell this lady had charmed upon him. For what seemed like a time longer than reality neither one spoke, Maxim deep in thought, while the woman was waiting patiently.
She broke the silence first. "You are beginning to see it in your heart. You agree there is at least some truth to my words?" the visitor called out. "You have heard rumors, perhaps, that spark your belief?"
Not sure what he should say Maxim came up with, "There is usually truth hidden in everything for a lie is simply a distortion of the truth. However much distortion is contained in your words I do not know, but I guess it to be plenty. I do know that I am ready for some fresher air, however." He decided to not let on to the change within in his thoughts.
Maxim was really only fooling himself, though, for the lady was quite adept at reading people's thoughts from their demeanor. So she was quite happy with how their meeting was going.
Silence came again as Maxim was struggling with his thoughts. Something from deep within him was still rising, and he did not like it very much. He was beginning to think the woman spoke more truth than he earlier wanted to believe and it was beginning to scare him.
"I have so many questions..." Maxim began, surprising even himself, while stepping closer to the lady. He was cut off by her next words, though, before he could ask any of them.
"Many of those questions will be answered if you walk in the way laid before you. The only question I will answer is this: my name is Iris." With that she straightened up and walked around a corner in the cave.
"Worthy enough to hear your name now, I see," Maxim quipped and then looking up he noticed her leaving. But by the time Maxim got to that part of the cave no sign of the stranger could be seen. He searched for a minute or so, but once again he seemed to be completely alone.
The rest of that day, questions raced through his mind. Could an evil like she described really be coming? Was he equipped to deal with anything the woman was speaking of? Who would help him? Who would he meet? How did Iris find him? Why did she tell him this if it wasn't true? Was he going crazy? What did his future hold? And why was he even considering these crazy things? Maxim left the cave for fresher air and a clearer mind.
Thoughts tormented him and nothing seemed clear. Something told him that Iris" words rang true, yet how could they be? Doubt now shadowed what he thought about Iris" words as flames danced in his stone-ringed fireplace. He knew not what to make of the feelings aroused within when Iris had talked with him. Should these be trusted or doubted? A bit of both, perhaps?
But even if the events she described were true, did Maxim want to be a part of it? Was it really his part? As the night wore on he decided it was not his part, if this was fiction or reality. His life was not that bad, in fact it was quite comfortable.
But then again, he sure liked adventure. What if he went on this journey, yet it all turned out to be a lie? Would not his adventure still be had? He figured he would not have missed much of his regular life. So his decision flipped.
Again he considered that Iris might be correct in her story. The adventure could prove mighty dangerous then. Was he willing to take this risk? But should fear of his life drive this decision? And so he continued to flip and flop back and forth.
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The next day, at about three o'clock in the afternoon Maxim found himself in the nearby bustling town of Sundletan. He had stayed up much of the night and early into the next morning fighting in his thoughts. On top of that he had woken up early in the morning, which does not leave much room for sleep. His body was tired, his mind was exhausted, and he wanted some rest. So he decided to get a room in town and sleep his weariness away.
Over the next couple of days Maxim spent too much time in these thoughts. He slept more each day than he had been able to the day earlier, but still needed and desperately wanted more. He wanted to simply escape reality. Yet, even in his dreams, his mind still wondered and questioned and confused himself.
He tried countless activities to try to distract his mind from his worries and the questions that accompanied them, but they helped only for a short time, if they helped at all.
The next day, and unwanted like a few days before, there was a surprise awaiting Maxim, though. This one began with less tension while it ended with just as much confusion. He slept much of the day away hardly venturing out of his room at the inn, trying his best to ignore this line of mind-racking thoughts.
Later in the evening, however, he began to wander the streets through the center of the town, which was much larger than his hometown of Elcid. And as he walked by a field spotted with oak and birch trees he took a seat under the shade of a large tree. After only a few minutes of sitting (and continued thinking over the strange meeting), a familiar face sat down silently beside him.
It was Tia herself, who would often come to town to get needed materials and ingredients for her father's restaurant. Her young face, framed by her chestnut hair, was a much-needed sight for Maxim's eyes and mind. Once the surprise was upon him he had rather enjoyed it. Finally, something of the life he knew was occupying his thoughts.
"Tia? What are you doing here?" Maxim almost yelled, not hiding any of his excitement as he stood up and gave Tia a warm hug. This, of course, was well received and returned by Tia.
"I'm just visiting my aunt and her husband before dad meets us here to move on to the Ceremony." By ceremony, of course, she meant the Prince of Alunze's royal crowning. "He said he could handle the business for a few days by himself, while I visited Aunt Aubbie. I decided to let him see how much he needs my help," she added proudly in a joking way.
"I began to think I wouldn't see you until the Ceremony. How did the hunt go?"
"Well, let's go talk over some cider," Maxim said spotting Leeti's Cider House on the far side of the dusty road. He jumped at the chance to escape what had consumed his thoughts these past two nights. So they went in, sat down in a brown, leathered booth, and caught up, with Maxim not offering Tia anything about his encounter in the caves, except his lack of a catch. Really nothing of substance was spoken of at first, so I shall not bore you by recalling it.
Soon into their discussion, though, Tia felt something was strange. "Something has happened that you are not telling me about. Is there anything I can help with, Max, even if you just need an ear?" She did not figure it was much of anything at all, however, so she said this quite jokingly.
"Nothing too out of the ordinary," Maxim lied. And then he changed the subject, not wanting to open up his feelings and confusion to Tia on this. She decided he would tell her when and if he needed to and she got lost in the conversation again.
After a short while Tia began, "You're going to think this is strange, Max, but I had a dream about you last night."
Between fits of laughter Maxim managed to say, "This can't be good...your dreams are always weird. What were you reading before you went to bed?"
"That's not important, Max. Anyway after being chased by a cave troll...don't say anything, Max...I ran into this house and the troll was gone. I was wearing different clothes...yes I noticed that...a very cute blue dress with flowers on it...and you were there. Next thing I knew I was sitting down and you were standing right beside me. And then you slowly moved away. You weren't walking away, but sort of floating. And I didn't really see your face, but I somehow knew it was you. Eventually you were out of the house and I was just left there.
"That's when I woke up with the strangest feeling that you were going away. Well, of course, it was just a silly dream. I doubt either of us will be going anywhere soon. Good ol' Elcid." Maxim was obviously affected by these words. He was unable to hide the change of countenance on his face and Tia noticed that many thoughts seemed to be filling his mind. Yet he said nothing.
"Right, Max?" Tia said, laughing, trying to at least regain his attention. Maxim seemed to snap out of his trance, but then refused to make eye contact with his lifelong friend as he shifted awkwardly in his seat. Tia also shifted nervously in her seat across from Maxim, waiting for the answer to appease her worry.
"What? You are...aren't you?" Tia said, wildly confused and nearly speechless as the possibility entered her mind.
"Yes," was all Maxim would say after a moment of silence, still not making eye contact.
"But...why?" is all Tia could blurt out. Her head was probably spinning more than Maxim's was the day before. She had no idea what Maxim was thinking.
Trying to find the right words with all that had happened Maxim finally looked into Tia's chocolate eyes and spoke, "The balls of light in the sky."
Tia shook her head in confusion, "The shooting stars, you mean?"
"I know this sounds weird, but..." before he could finish Tia interrupted him.
"Of course this sounds weird," Tia said, not being able to contain herself, but then regained control, "but I'm waiting for you to make sense of it for me." Tia tried her best to smile and calm herself. She was usually quite the good listener, typically making the one who was talking feel very comfortable. And Maxim's uneasiness started to fall away with her friendly smile...slightly.
With that Maxim started, "Let's start from yesterday. You know I was tracking, but I couldn't find a sign of anything. Well in the early afternoon, I finally saw some life." He then recounted to Tia most of what happened (leaving out that he was snuck up on) and what this Iris had told him about the balls of light.
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"World destruction from a ball of light? I can't believe that! We are still here aren't we?" Tia responded to his tale. "This Iris girl is crazy."
"I knew you'd think it was weird..."
"I said crazy, not weird," Tia quipped bringing a small smile from Maxim. "Why you believe this, I don't know, but even if you think it's true why do you have to go? And where...and..." she added slamming her arms on the table much harder than she intended, receiving a harsh look from the waitress behind the counter and a few other guests, whom Tia quietly apologized to.
"Iris also told me that I have the power to face this evil. It's strange, but I feel something within me telling me this is true. Remember how we always talk about this new world not fitting us? Well, this feels like it fits. I just want to know, Tia. I need to know.
"Ever since I was born it seems, I've had certain skills, like swordsmanship. No one taught me, I've learned on my own. I just knew. It's all so natural. How did I get this ability? What am I supposed to use it for? Surely it is more than being a Tracker. I have to know."
Something stirred within Maxim as he spoke and it was easy to see the passion behind his words. In the adventures to come, this was perhaps the surest he felt that he was called upon for this tremendous task. As the words formed in his mouth, beyond his own will it seemed, he felt unknown strength, will, and compassion well up inside of him. He had actually surprised himself with his the confidence of his words.
"It appears you have wrestled with this a lot. It's...it's true that you're stronger than most, but still...I mean you said yourself that this is suppose to be a tremendous amount of evil" Tia stumbled as she tried to make sense of Maxim's resolve and talk him out of it. Her world seemed to be crumbling around her, making Tia wonder if it was her own personal world that the balls of light sought to destroy.
"It's not just me, Iris said there were others I would meet."
"If this evil is as powerful as this Iris says, it will take more than just a couple of you." She continued after a short pause, "But I've seen you this way before. You seem completely convinced, so you're not going to change your mind are you, Max? It's not going to be the same without you..." she stopped short. Tia didn't really know what to say. She was horrified at the thought of Maxim going away and possibly never coming back, but she knew his resolve.
"No, I won't be able to see you for a while. I must check this out. I'm not sure when I will come back, but I think we have more than just a few more days together" Maxim said with a smile, trying to console his friend.
"Where are you going, by the way?" Tia inquired. "What did Iris say on that?"
"Well...I kind of did not ask her about that part," Maxim said sheepishly.
"Then how do you know where and how to start?"
"Well, she probably would not have answered it if I had asked that anyway, but I have decided to attend the Ceremony and go from there." This he had decided only about an hour before Tia came upon him under the tree.
"That doesn't sound like that good of a plan, Max!" Tia barked in half-hidden frustration. This time it was Tia that would not make eye contact, swimming in thought.
Maxim did not know what to tell her, for he did not know where he was to go. He just knew that he was to go, and wondering all the while when he would find out the "where."
No one spoke for the next minute or so, although it felt much longer to them both. "That's not true," Tia said, almost to herself, apparently responding to a part of their conversation that had already passed and that she was replaying in her mind.
"What's not true?" Maxim asked, confused by Tia's statement.
She took a deep breath before explaining herself. "You are going to be able to see me because I'm going with you." With these words she locked eyes with Maxim, who was completely blown away by her declaration.
He stumbled with his response saying, "What!? No way. I will not take you with me, Tia. I cannot. It could be very dangerous. I have no idea where I'm going and I would never forgive myself if anything happened to you. That is simply out of the question. What about your father?" Maxim was much more animated now, and the cider shop owner let them know it in no uncertain language. Quieting down he continued, "Your decision is too rashly made."
"Did I beg you to take me with you? I know a little swordsmanship myself, you know. You've taught me well. I can take care of myself. And even Iris told you there would be others. Well, I am the first one of those. We shall face this uninvited interruption of our lives together," she responded much more calmly than Maxim thought her words should allow. He was speechless, trying to find a way to battle what he saw as Tia's madness.
Heated debate was followed by stubborn silence and emotional exhaustion. It was eventually decided that they would sleep on this and talk again in the morning, when (as Maxim said) Tia would have a clearer and more rational mind to think with. Maxim followed Tia to the town inn and got a room for himself. They ate dinner at the inn, but did not talk much. They attempted on a few occasions to talk about random events, but their minds were in the same place and that is what they didn't want to talk about it.
After their near-silent dinner they decided to retire to their rooms. Both, however, could not stay still and before the middle of the night had taken place they had taken separate walks around the town. When Maxim returned to his room he was not as confused as he was the nights before so he got more sleep. He was trying to think of a way to keep Tia willingly at home, though, so it was not as early a night as he wanted it to be. Why could not life be as simple as it was only a few days earlier?
Tia, on the other hand, was more confused than she was the night before. First (and still) she was bewildered about Maxim's decisions and even more so about her own declaration to accompany him on this peculiar endeavor that would probably lead to nowhere.
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At the end of lunch the next day Maxim had given in to Tia's demand to accompany him. He did not like bringing Tia into possible danger, nor did he like 'losing' their discussion, but a part of him was greatly relieved and comforted at the prospect of having his childhood friend at his side during this unknown time ahead of him. He also hoped that even if his journey continued on past the upcoming weeks that she would long for home and return to more assured safety.
He finally told Tia that he would allow her to come only because he was confident that he could protect her. I believe she saw through this outer reasoning, though. He did promise himself that he would not allow anything to happen to her, as well.
Next they would have to convince Tia's father of her desired parting. Tia wanted to speak to him as soon as possible, and with the Ceremony coming up they were short on time. They both also wanted one last look on Elcid before heading off to the town of Alunze and who knew where else.
They accomplished both purposes they set out upon that day. After much convincing, Tia's father agreed to allow her to accompany Maxim. He cared greatly for his daughter's safety, but also realized she was now an adult and needed to make her own decisions. He also had great respect for Maxim, charging him with the care of his daughter. And perhaps he did not fully believe and understand what this adventure might really entail.
And secondly, they were given a chance, albeit it a quick one, to say good-bye to their hometown. Both felt they would return here at some point, but there was a twinge of uncertainty and gravity in Maxim. Tia's expectation was rooted in a denial of the scope this journey could extend to. Maxim's was due largely to his confidence in his own skill.
The Ceremony would soon be upon them, however, so there time was cut much shorter than either of them would have liked. Maxim began to realize how different his life might look in the near future, even though he was unsure of what it would look like. He was leaving plenty behind that he did not desire to see for the last time. It's always easier to see the joys of one's everyday life, when you realize you will be leaving them behind for the unknown.
Of course the thought of leaving at an earlier time, leaving Tia behind, had occurred to Maxim, but something within him would not allow him to go back on his earlier word. He decided that that would be the dishonorable thing to do. He very much wanted, especially the night before, to sneak off without her knowledge, but he did not let himself.
So, two mornings after arriving back in Elcid they set off for Alunze. The day was a bright one, raising their spirits, while the few good-byes from their friends and the diminishing sight of their homes seemed to burden them.
They had borrowed a horse from Maxim's friend Josip. Maxim was told, it was a late birthday present (about one and a half months late) to carry their small provisions and equipment. She was a brown mare with flecks of white across her chest, named Eve. Maxim had traveled many places before with her and treated her as one of his own family.
As they left the town the simple, familiar houses of wood faded into the distance. Maxim wondered if he would ever lay eyes upon his home again, but quickly brushed that thought aside. Tia was wondering how soon they would be able to return, assuming that the return was a given and not too far away.
Same old, same old. Perhaps if y'all have specific questions/comments, I'll change this section for each chapter. Enjoy!
Chapter Two:
An Uninvited Interruption
The ride to the caves, which Maxim had done on more than one occasion, was very peaceful. It housed plenty of silent time for one's own thoughts, although Maxim did not find any he wished to dwell on.
The caves, themselves, Maxim loved to look upon. On the outside little was seen, but weathered and dirty stone covered by dying mosses. Within, however, they shimmered an exuberant orange, due to the mineral deposits left by the ancient water that had carved its winding passages.
For the next couple of hours Maxim searched the glittering caves for his bounty, but found no sign of harmful life, and very little sign of any life at all. It was a relatively small cave system, with pools littered here and there, as well as various cracks and crevices. Maxim was not told (for no one knew what it was exactly) what he was hunting and what he searched for stayed well hidden if it was there at all.
Tracking was a tough line of work that required many skills, including strength and courage, but also a great deal of patience. And Maxim had performed this job for years, so Maxim was not as frustrated by this lack of action as others may have been. Still, great patience is a very hard skill to build and use by anyone, as I'm sure you know, and he had plenty of room for improvement as well.
Maxim finally decided to break for dinner, made camp amidst a small grove of trees to protect himself from the wind and settled in for the lonely night. Luckily, he liked the solitude with nature. He felt like he was at home, wherever he was, if he was outside. He enjoyed his life, quite comfortably really.
The next day Maxim was up early at his trade once again. He scoured crevices, trees, bushes, and everything in the surrounding area, yet still found nothing, nor any sign.
It was when he returned to a cavern that something entered the silence, breaking up his comfort. Although Maxim was very aware of his surroundings as far as humans go (and even elves for that matter), he was taken by quite a surprise.
"You were easier to find than I thought" came a female voice about twenty-five feet behind Maxim.
Maxim was caught off guard by the voice, yet his reaction was quick. He jumped to his feet, while turning around, and quickly had his bow in hand, the string taut with an arrow. "Speak your name and business here, my friend. And use caution if you want to remain so."
The intruder to the caverns was a slender woman, shrouded by her dark purple robe. Underneath this shreds of her dark green hair, which looked tinged with dark purple because of her coat, peeked out.
"You have not shown yourself worthy to win my name, but my business will soon become clear. Let your name suffice for the moment, Maxim," she said with no apparent emotion, while she gingerly placed herself on a smooth, outcropped rock.
"How you have happened upon my name I do not know, nor will it matter that I do not have yours. Again I say, speak your business," Maxim said without moving. He saw that this woman was quite an imposing figure, taller than most women he had seen in Estpolis. The intruder was slender, shrouded by her dark purple robe. Underneath the cloak, shreds of her dark green hair peeked out.
Without emotion, after lowering her hood, she continued, "Are you aware of the balls of light that streaked across the sky a few weeks ago?"
Having never lost those thoughts he said, "I saw them, yet of what importance are some shooting stars to either of us? Tell me why you have called upon me or continue on elsewhere." Maxim asked this last question, growing exponentially less patient as time moved along.
"It has plenty to do with us both. In fact it has to do with all life on this planet, friend." This sarcastic use of "friend" was an empty word on Maxim's ears, yet the declaration that went with it caught a bit of his attention.
"I understand your doubt," she said seeming to read Maxim's thoughts. "Much that is true is seen as incredible. Time has begun to change. The evil this world has seen is but a mere wave, soon to swell into a tremendous assault on all of humanity."
Maxim was quick in his thoughts, saying, "That's ridiculous, you are nothing more than one of those crazed Wanderers, aren't you?" Maxim laughed as he lowered his bow, more than confident of his skill over that of his visitor.
The Wanderers were a group of people in the northern parts of what was known as the Westlands, which was located just over the Sea south of Elcid. They were known for their fanatic beliefs and disdain for all forms of Estpolisian society, save the most ancient incarnations. "Time is always changing, m" Lady, yet your fear is unfounded with where our days are leading."
"These you call the Wanderers are few and insignificant. If they have happened upon what is to come, they are but prized in the skill of guessing. You, on the other hand, are most significant in the times laid before us," the lady said, unaffected by the way Maxim was taking her words.
By this time Maxim was loading his equipment onto his back, ready to move out of this cave for some fresh air, while staying at the ready should an attack from his visitor be unleashed. "And what exactly is my significant contribution going to be, if I may know that." This was quickly becoming comical to Maxim and he made it sarcastically clear.
"Foolishness can be harmful, Tracker, so I would choose your words more carefully when in the company of those you do not know." The visitor showed no sign of movement or anger, yet there was a slight change in her voice to a sweeter tone afterwards. "Yet you also have the power to confront the swell that rises, if you wield it with wisdom."
"Me?" Maxim laughed out loud. "A simple Tracker, as you seem fond to point out, against this mighty assault on all of humanity. If only your strength were as grand as you think your wisdom to be you could easily handle that yourself," he continued as he started to walk away from the visitor.
"You may see my full strength at some point, but my words are all I offer now," she said as calm as ever. But as she said these words her stature seemed to change. She appeared to grow taller and seemed more powerful to Maxim than he earlier gave her credit for. Maxim could not tell if this was just in his mind or some trick of the cavern's lighting.
She did not seem to fit the description that Maxim had heard of the Wanderers, but she still seemed to be quite queer. Despite this, Maxim started to think there was a hint of truth in what she was saying, even though he could not explain why this change of thought had occurred.
"And what were those balls of light? If I am the chosen one to fight this 'swell of evil", it would help to know this," Maxim continued, his voice full of sarcasm.
A tiny smile finally cracked her face, at Maxim's innocent humor. "Good to see that you come to some of your senses," she said matching his sarcasm, "but what makes you think you are going to do this alone?" Maxim said nothing.
"Don't feel hurt," she said as her smile broadened. "There is strength in numbers and there are others who can confront this evil with you. You have quite a journey laid before you, ready to be walked. And there are people to meet. What you believe and what you do with this is your choice. It's good to see you are taking my words a little more seriously, though."
With that last sentence Maxim felt as if his companion could see straight through him. His state of mind went from thinking the whole talk was ludicrous to a feeling of uneasiness. The atmosphere of the cave seemed to change before him. Something in his heart was stirring at her words, and he wondered if it was some sort of spell this lady had charmed upon him. For what seemed like a time longer than reality neither one spoke, Maxim deep in thought, while the woman was waiting patiently.
She broke the silence first. "You are beginning to see it in your heart. You agree there is at least some truth to my words?" the visitor called out. "You have heard rumors, perhaps, that spark your belief?"
Not sure what he should say Maxim came up with, "There is usually truth hidden in everything for a lie is simply a distortion of the truth. However much distortion is contained in your words I do not know, but I guess it to be plenty. I do know that I am ready for some fresher air, however." He decided to not let on to the change within in his thoughts.
Maxim was really only fooling himself, though, for the lady was quite adept at reading people's thoughts from their demeanor. So she was quite happy with how their meeting was going.
Silence came again as Maxim was struggling with his thoughts. Something from deep within him was still rising, and he did not like it very much. He was beginning to think the woman spoke more truth than he earlier wanted to believe and it was beginning to scare him.
"I have so many questions..." Maxim began, surprising even himself, while stepping closer to the lady. He was cut off by her next words, though, before he could ask any of them.
"Many of those questions will be answered if you walk in the way laid before you. The only question I will answer is this: my name is Iris." With that she straightened up and walked around a corner in the cave.
"Worthy enough to hear your name now, I see," Maxim quipped and then looking up he noticed her leaving. But by the time Maxim got to that part of the cave no sign of the stranger could be seen. He searched for a minute or so, but once again he seemed to be completely alone.
The rest of that day, questions raced through his mind. Could an evil like she described really be coming? Was he equipped to deal with anything the woman was speaking of? Who would help him? Who would he meet? How did Iris find him? Why did she tell him this if it wasn't true? Was he going crazy? What did his future hold? And why was he even considering these crazy things? Maxim left the cave for fresher air and a clearer mind.
Thoughts tormented him and nothing seemed clear. Something told him that Iris" words rang true, yet how could they be? Doubt now shadowed what he thought about Iris" words as flames danced in his stone-ringed fireplace. He knew not what to make of the feelings aroused within when Iris had talked with him. Should these be trusted or doubted? A bit of both, perhaps?
But even if the events she described were true, did Maxim want to be a part of it? Was it really his part? As the night wore on he decided it was not his part, if this was fiction or reality. His life was not that bad, in fact it was quite comfortable.
But then again, he sure liked adventure. What if he went on this journey, yet it all turned out to be a lie? Would not his adventure still be had? He figured he would not have missed much of his regular life. So his decision flipped.
Again he considered that Iris might be correct in her story. The adventure could prove mighty dangerous then. Was he willing to take this risk? But should fear of his life drive this decision? And so he continued to flip and flop back and forth.
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The next day, at about three o'clock in the afternoon Maxim found himself in the nearby bustling town of Sundletan. He had stayed up much of the night and early into the next morning fighting in his thoughts. On top of that he had woken up early in the morning, which does not leave much room for sleep. His body was tired, his mind was exhausted, and he wanted some rest. So he decided to get a room in town and sleep his weariness away.
Over the next couple of days Maxim spent too much time in these thoughts. He slept more each day than he had been able to the day earlier, but still needed and desperately wanted more. He wanted to simply escape reality. Yet, even in his dreams, his mind still wondered and questioned and confused himself.
He tried countless activities to try to distract his mind from his worries and the questions that accompanied them, but they helped only for a short time, if they helped at all.
The next day, and unwanted like a few days before, there was a surprise awaiting Maxim, though. This one began with less tension while it ended with just as much confusion. He slept much of the day away hardly venturing out of his room at the inn, trying his best to ignore this line of mind-racking thoughts.
Later in the evening, however, he began to wander the streets through the center of the town, which was much larger than his hometown of Elcid. And as he walked by a field spotted with oak and birch trees he took a seat under the shade of a large tree. After only a few minutes of sitting (and continued thinking over the strange meeting), a familiar face sat down silently beside him.
It was Tia herself, who would often come to town to get needed materials and ingredients for her father's restaurant. Her young face, framed by her chestnut hair, was a much-needed sight for Maxim's eyes and mind. Once the surprise was upon him he had rather enjoyed it. Finally, something of the life he knew was occupying his thoughts.
"Tia? What are you doing here?" Maxim almost yelled, not hiding any of his excitement as he stood up and gave Tia a warm hug. This, of course, was well received and returned by Tia.
"I'm just visiting my aunt and her husband before dad meets us here to move on to the Ceremony." By ceremony, of course, she meant the Prince of Alunze's royal crowning. "He said he could handle the business for a few days by himself, while I visited Aunt Aubbie. I decided to let him see how much he needs my help," she added proudly in a joking way.
"I began to think I wouldn't see you until the Ceremony. How did the hunt go?"
"Well, let's go talk over some cider," Maxim said spotting Leeti's Cider House on the far side of the dusty road. He jumped at the chance to escape what had consumed his thoughts these past two nights. So they went in, sat down in a brown, leathered booth, and caught up, with Maxim not offering Tia anything about his encounter in the caves, except his lack of a catch. Really nothing of substance was spoken of at first, so I shall not bore you by recalling it.
Soon into their discussion, though, Tia felt something was strange. "Something has happened that you are not telling me about. Is there anything I can help with, Max, even if you just need an ear?" She did not figure it was much of anything at all, however, so she said this quite jokingly.
"Nothing too out of the ordinary," Maxim lied. And then he changed the subject, not wanting to open up his feelings and confusion to Tia on this. She decided he would tell her when and if he needed to and she got lost in the conversation again.
After a short while Tia began, "You're going to think this is strange, Max, but I had a dream about you last night."
Between fits of laughter Maxim managed to say, "This can't be good...your dreams are always weird. What were you reading before you went to bed?"
"That's not important, Max. Anyway after being chased by a cave troll...don't say anything, Max...I ran into this house and the troll was gone. I was wearing different clothes...yes I noticed that...a very cute blue dress with flowers on it...and you were there. Next thing I knew I was sitting down and you were standing right beside me. And then you slowly moved away. You weren't walking away, but sort of floating. And I didn't really see your face, but I somehow knew it was you. Eventually you were out of the house and I was just left there.
"That's when I woke up with the strangest feeling that you were going away. Well, of course, it was just a silly dream. I doubt either of us will be going anywhere soon. Good ol' Elcid." Maxim was obviously affected by these words. He was unable to hide the change of countenance on his face and Tia noticed that many thoughts seemed to be filling his mind. Yet he said nothing.
"Right, Max?" Tia said, laughing, trying to at least regain his attention. Maxim seemed to snap out of his trance, but then refused to make eye contact with his lifelong friend as he shifted awkwardly in his seat. Tia also shifted nervously in her seat across from Maxim, waiting for the answer to appease her worry.
"What? You are...aren't you?" Tia said, wildly confused and nearly speechless as the possibility entered her mind.
"Yes," was all Maxim would say after a moment of silence, still not making eye contact.
"But...why?" is all Tia could blurt out. Her head was probably spinning more than Maxim's was the day before. She had no idea what Maxim was thinking.
Trying to find the right words with all that had happened Maxim finally looked into Tia's chocolate eyes and spoke, "The balls of light in the sky."
Tia shook her head in confusion, "The shooting stars, you mean?"
"I know this sounds weird, but..." before he could finish Tia interrupted him.
"Of course this sounds weird," Tia said, not being able to contain herself, but then regained control, "but I'm waiting for you to make sense of it for me." Tia tried her best to smile and calm herself. She was usually quite the good listener, typically making the one who was talking feel very comfortable. And Maxim's uneasiness started to fall away with her friendly smile...slightly.
With that Maxim started, "Let's start from yesterday. You know I was tracking, but I couldn't find a sign of anything. Well in the early afternoon, I finally saw some life." He then recounted to Tia most of what happened (leaving out that he was snuck up on) and what this Iris had told him about the balls of light.
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"World destruction from a ball of light? I can't believe that! We are still here aren't we?" Tia responded to his tale. "This Iris girl is crazy."
"I knew you'd think it was weird..."
"I said crazy, not weird," Tia quipped bringing a small smile from Maxim. "Why you believe this, I don't know, but even if you think it's true why do you have to go? And where...and..." she added slamming her arms on the table much harder than she intended, receiving a harsh look from the waitress behind the counter and a few other guests, whom Tia quietly apologized to.
"Iris also told me that I have the power to face this evil. It's strange, but I feel something within me telling me this is true. Remember how we always talk about this new world not fitting us? Well, this feels like it fits. I just want to know, Tia. I need to know.
"Ever since I was born it seems, I've had certain skills, like swordsmanship. No one taught me, I've learned on my own. I just knew. It's all so natural. How did I get this ability? What am I supposed to use it for? Surely it is more than being a Tracker. I have to know."
Something stirred within Maxim as he spoke and it was easy to see the passion behind his words. In the adventures to come, this was perhaps the surest he felt that he was called upon for this tremendous task. As the words formed in his mouth, beyond his own will it seemed, he felt unknown strength, will, and compassion well up inside of him. He had actually surprised himself with his the confidence of his words.
"It appears you have wrestled with this a lot. It's...it's true that you're stronger than most, but still...I mean you said yourself that this is suppose to be a tremendous amount of evil" Tia stumbled as she tried to make sense of Maxim's resolve and talk him out of it. Her world seemed to be crumbling around her, making Tia wonder if it was her own personal world that the balls of light sought to destroy.
"It's not just me, Iris said there were others I would meet."
"If this evil is as powerful as this Iris says, it will take more than just a couple of you." She continued after a short pause, "But I've seen you this way before. You seem completely convinced, so you're not going to change your mind are you, Max? It's not going to be the same without you..." she stopped short. Tia didn't really know what to say. She was horrified at the thought of Maxim going away and possibly never coming back, but she knew his resolve.
"No, I won't be able to see you for a while. I must check this out. I'm not sure when I will come back, but I think we have more than just a few more days together" Maxim said with a smile, trying to console his friend.
"Where are you going, by the way?" Tia inquired. "What did Iris say on that?"
"Well...I kind of did not ask her about that part," Maxim said sheepishly.
"Then how do you know where and how to start?"
"Well, she probably would not have answered it if I had asked that anyway, but I have decided to attend the Ceremony and go from there." This he had decided only about an hour before Tia came upon him under the tree.
"That doesn't sound like that good of a plan, Max!" Tia barked in half-hidden frustration. This time it was Tia that would not make eye contact, swimming in thought.
Maxim did not know what to tell her, for he did not know where he was to go. He just knew that he was to go, and wondering all the while when he would find out the "where."
No one spoke for the next minute or so, although it felt much longer to them both. "That's not true," Tia said, almost to herself, apparently responding to a part of their conversation that had already passed and that she was replaying in her mind.
"What's not true?" Maxim asked, confused by Tia's statement.
She took a deep breath before explaining herself. "You are going to be able to see me because I'm going with you." With these words she locked eyes with Maxim, who was completely blown away by her declaration.
He stumbled with his response saying, "What!? No way. I will not take you with me, Tia. I cannot. It could be very dangerous. I have no idea where I'm going and I would never forgive myself if anything happened to you. That is simply out of the question. What about your father?" Maxim was much more animated now, and the cider shop owner let them know it in no uncertain language. Quieting down he continued, "Your decision is too rashly made."
"Did I beg you to take me with you? I know a little swordsmanship myself, you know. You've taught me well. I can take care of myself. And even Iris told you there would be others. Well, I am the first one of those. We shall face this uninvited interruption of our lives together," she responded much more calmly than Maxim thought her words should allow. He was speechless, trying to find a way to battle what he saw as Tia's madness.
Heated debate was followed by stubborn silence and emotional exhaustion. It was eventually decided that they would sleep on this and talk again in the morning, when (as Maxim said) Tia would have a clearer and more rational mind to think with. Maxim followed Tia to the town inn and got a room for himself. They ate dinner at the inn, but did not talk much. They attempted on a few occasions to talk about random events, but their minds were in the same place and that is what they didn't want to talk about it.
After their near-silent dinner they decided to retire to their rooms. Both, however, could not stay still and before the middle of the night had taken place they had taken separate walks around the town. When Maxim returned to his room he was not as confused as he was the nights before so he got more sleep. He was trying to think of a way to keep Tia willingly at home, though, so it was not as early a night as he wanted it to be. Why could not life be as simple as it was only a few days earlier?
Tia, on the other hand, was more confused than she was the night before. First (and still) she was bewildered about Maxim's decisions and even more so about her own declaration to accompany him on this peculiar endeavor that would probably lead to nowhere.
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At the end of lunch the next day Maxim had given in to Tia's demand to accompany him. He did not like bringing Tia into possible danger, nor did he like 'losing' their discussion, but a part of him was greatly relieved and comforted at the prospect of having his childhood friend at his side during this unknown time ahead of him. He also hoped that even if his journey continued on past the upcoming weeks that she would long for home and return to more assured safety.
He finally told Tia that he would allow her to come only because he was confident that he could protect her. I believe she saw through this outer reasoning, though. He did promise himself that he would not allow anything to happen to her, as well.
Next they would have to convince Tia's father of her desired parting. Tia wanted to speak to him as soon as possible, and with the Ceremony coming up they were short on time. They both also wanted one last look on Elcid before heading off to the town of Alunze and who knew where else.
They accomplished both purposes they set out upon that day. After much convincing, Tia's father agreed to allow her to accompany Maxim. He cared greatly for his daughter's safety, but also realized she was now an adult and needed to make her own decisions. He also had great respect for Maxim, charging him with the care of his daughter. And perhaps he did not fully believe and understand what this adventure might really entail.
And secondly, they were given a chance, albeit it a quick one, to say good-bye to their hometown. Both felt they would return here at some point, but there was a twinge of uncertainty and gravity in Maxim. Tia's expectation was rooted in a denial of the scope this journey could extend to. Maxim's was due largely to his confidence in his own skill.
The Ceremony would soon be upon them, however, so there time was cut much shorter than either of them would have liked. Maxim began to realize how different his life might look in the near future, even though he was unsure of what it would look like. He was leaving plenty behind that he did not desire to see for the last time. It's always easier to see the joys of one's everyday life, when you realize you will be leaving them behind for the unknown.
Of course the thought of leaving at an earlier time, leaving Tia behind, had occurred to Maxim, but something within him would not allow him to go back on his earlier word. He decided that that would be the dishonorable thing to do. He very much wanted, especially the night before, to sneak off without her knowledge, but he did not let himself.
So, two mornings after arriving back in Elcid they set off for Alunze. The day was a bright one, raising their spirits, while the few good-byes from their friends and the diminishing sight of their homes seemed to burden them.
They had borrowed a horse from Maxim's friend Josip. Maxim was told, it was a late birthday present (about one and a half months late) to carry their small provisions and equipment. She was a brown mare with flecks of white across her chest, named Eve. Maxim had traveled many places before with her and treated her as one of his own family.
As they left the town the simple, familiar houses of wood faded into the distance. Maxim wondered if he would ever lay eyes upon his home again, but quickly brushed that thought aside. Tia was wondering how soon they would be able to return, assuming that the return was a given and not too far away.