Blood Brothers Song

by Apprentis

Lance (see Foundling of Wayreth) is now 18 and out to find his place in life. After his 18th birthday he leaves the only home he has ever known and embarks on a journey with his blood brother Luca and his cousins. Where they end up does not really matter to them but what they will find will change them and their lives forever.

13. Song of Sorrow Part Three

Song of Sorrow: Part Three

Khurn had been out all night, he had not intended to be, and had only just now found the strength to drag himself homeward. He entered the shop quietly and ascended the stairs at the back that led up to the main house. There was no sound to Lance was likely still asleep. He opened the door and shut it softly behind him before folding into one of the chairs near the cold fire place. A soft "caw" drew his attention to the rafters where Krif, Rosemartas ancient crow, sat. Having caught Khurns attention the crow fluttered down from his resting place to sit upon the white Minotaurs shoulder. Khurn smiled and stroked the birds head.

"Hello my feathered friend. How are you this evening?"

"Evening? More like a rather early morning" Krif shared Gremelkins ability of being able to communicate with others through his thoughts. A gift which was shared by all mage familiars. Khurn chuckled,

"Yes you are right"

"As for how I am. I could be better. And you?" Khurns face crumpled and he lowered his head.

"I miss him terribly. I should have been at his side. I should have been there to protect him. I might have spared Lance this pain"

"You cannot blame yourself. If you had been with him the chances are high that you would have died too and Lance would be far worse off than he is now"

"Cant I? Had I known I would have done something. He was keeping a secret from me all this time, all these years. He had never done that before"

"He had a damn good reason. He did not want you to take his place. How do you think Marz feels? Someone else died for his son. He will live with that for the rest of his life"

"It would have been better if it had been me. I have no son, no one to..." Khurn trailed off, unable to say what was in his heart though it did not take Krif much effort to guess.

"But you have a nephew who loves you and then it would have been Kalas in your place. You still have a sister who would grieve for you just as much. I would miss you. Do you really think your life so worthless?"

"I still wish it had been me and not Kalas" He wanted to let go of his grief. To let the pain in his heart pour out of him but he could not do it here. He must wait till he was away, back home where he would not have to hold back. He could wait. He could wait. Sensing that there was little more that he could say and even less that he could do Krif hopped down from Khurns shoulder onto his lap and turned to face him.

"Lance is still asleep and I am going now. It is not right that you should hide your grief in his way. Till another time my friend" Krif ruffled his feathers, spread his wings and then was away out an open window. Khurn remained where he sat and allowed himself a single tear. Eventually he drifted off to sleep where he dreamed of his life with Kalas, their boyhood spent together before they had left home to come to Ansalon.

Lance woke with his head in a fog, which he did not understand since he hadn't drank that much. There was no sound from the kitchen so he was the first up. He groaned as he sat up then dressed without caring and walked out into the main room of the house. He found Khurn still asleep in a chair. He smiled, shook his head, and continued to the kitchen. After a quick look around he decided on cheese omelets with pan fried potatoes. Thus decided he found two pans, greased them, then set to the task of peeling and chopping the potatoes. A bellowing scream from the main room caused Lance to drop the knife he had been holding,

"Kalas! No!" Lance ran out of the kitchen to find his uncle bolt upright in his chair, his eyes wide open but seeing something that only he could and one arm outstretched as if to grasp at something.

"Uncle!" Lance dashed to stand in front of Khurn and placed his hands upon his shoulders, his uncles face was covered in sweat, "Uncle, what happened?" Khurn blinked awake and turned his head to regard Lance with the dazed expression of one just woken from a dream, or a nightmare. Gradually a look of anguish took over and Khurn lowered his head into his hands. A sob escaped from him. Lance felt a lump rise in his own throat as he knelt before his uncle, hands still on his shoulders, trying to comfort him. A few moments passed as Khurn gathered himself, took in a let out a long deep breath, before speaking, his face still in his hands,

"Thank you Lance. I had hoped to keep myself under some control until I returned to Taladas but the Memorial service is yet to come and I suppose I..." he could not continue.

"You do not need to hide anything uncle. It is not fair to you. There are people here who care about you uncle, like me, who can help you. What are you going to do? Wait till you get back to that old house and let it all come pouring out then? Alone? Men go mad that way" Well that had been the plan, thought Khurn but his nephew was right and there was no one else here at the moment.

"Well so long as it is only you and I here I suppose it is okay" Lance took this as a small victory and accepted it. A small smile turned up the corners of his mouth as he nodded.

"Of course uncle. You have always been here whenever I needed you. It is about time that I returned the favour"

"You can still count on me Lance" Lance nodded once more and gave his uncles shoulders a reassuring squeeze,

"I know" after a few more moments he rose to his feet, "If you are alright now uncle I should get back to the kitchen and finish our breakfast. Okay?"

"Yes...I am fine my boy"

"Okay" Lance smiled again and walked slowly back to the kitchen. Khurn got up and followed his nephew to the kitchen where he poured himself some tarbean tea and took a sip.

"This is good Lance. Thank you"

"You're welcome uncle. I am glad to know that my tea making skills have improved" Lance chuckled as he folded over the omelet he had made, two more eggs and a handful of potatoes and cheese remained for the second one. "I wonder where Will might have gotten off to last night. Gone home I suppose"

"Well that boy has been socializing with our local Paladins quite a bit so who can say?"

"That is true. I suppose he might have passed out in the Inn's floor or something too" while saying this Lance moved the finished omelet to a plate and moved on to the second one.

"In either case he is in good hands. They will have set him up in a room, laughing the whole time"

"Yes I suppose they would have. He will turn up then sometime today. If not well then no need to worry, he cant get into too much trouble in his own home" Lance laughed and stirred a large pile of potatoes he had set to fry in the second pan.

"Your uncle will turn up Lance, after all he is a fairly powerful Mage"

"Are you sure you're still talking about Will?"

"You doubt him my boy?"

"I would not call it doubt uncle. I would willingly trust him with my life but you must admit that he is accident proned and getting lost was not a one time thing"

"A fine thing to say about your uncle" Khurn chuckled, "I suppose that's why you have to have him with you whenever you go adventuring. You and Luca are the bonding glue that keeps everyone else together and working as a team Lance. Always remember that"

"I shall" Lance folded the second omelet, "Luca and I were talking of that you know. About going adventuring again. Perhaps within the next year or just as soon as I feel I am up to it"

"It just may do you some good Lance"

"That is what I was thinking uncle, and what Luca is praying for I'm sure" Lance plated the second omelet and gave the pan of potatoes a final toss, "Breakfast is ready uncle" Lance poured potatoes onto the first plate.

"Thank you my boy, it smells very good"

"You are welcome uncle" Khurn took his plate into the main room and sat down at the table to eat. Lance filled his plate with the rest of the potatoes then poured himself a cup of tea before joining his uncle at the table.

"Thank you for this Lance. I need a little stability right now"

"You and I both uncle" Lance was quiet for a while, thinking about last night. "Solana came to see me last night" Khurn looked up from his plate.

"Oh. And?" he tried to be as nonchalant about it as possible.

"Well I suppose she had gone to the Inn to look for me but when she saw that I wasn't she became worried and came here. She asked if I was alright. I told her I was sore from having fallen off my horse earlier that day when we returned with Magdar and his men. She offered to help and I invited her to stay for dinner"

"Ah, that was nice of you Lance. I trust that nothing but your pride and dignity were seriously harmed in the fall?" he grinned and Lance smiled back.

"Yes pretty much so. A few good sized bruises which will heal within a week, give or take a few days"

"I am glad to hear that"

"Thank you. Well we shared a bottle of wine after dinner and then she went home"

"I would say that it went rather well for you then Lance. A very nice evening" Lance stared down at his half empty plate.

"Not entirely I am sorry to say"

"How is that Lance? Why not entirely?"

"I...I made her cry. Not because I said anything cruel to her. She was crying, I think, for me. Because I told her I did not know if I would ever feel the same about this place or Solace ever again. How home was beginning to sound like a thing of the past" a contemplative silence filled the room and Khurn pushed his plate aside to lean forward upon the table.

"I am going to ask you some questions Lance and I want you to seriously consider them before you answer. Do you think you can do that?"

"Alright uncle"

"Where is your heart at?"

"What do you mean?"

"Where is your heart most satisfied?"

"It used to be here" Lance pushed his own plate aside, "It always used to be here. But so many things have changed, so many things I can never get back. Its not the same and it never will be again"

"But never the less is your heart not still here in Solace? Think carefully now" Lance regarded his uncle questioningly for a moment then thought hard upon his answer. He tried to focus upon the past, his ties to this place. Solace was the only home that he had ever known and it held so many memories, good memories, that he could look back on. Lance nodded slowly,

"Yes I suppose that is true" Khurn smiled in spite of his grief.

"Then to you Lance my nephew I say that Home is where the heart resides. My brother and I grew up on Taladas and our parents home is still there. Once we came to Solace though we knew this was our new home because our hearts came here to stay"

"The way that I feel now uncle I wish that I did not have one"

"And do you think that I do not feel the same way Lance?"

"No" Lance sighed and shook his head, "I did it again didn't I? Thinking only of myself, I am sorry uncle"

"No need" Khurn moved closer to his nephew and placed a hand upon his shoulder, "We are here for each other my boy as are our friends. They share the burden also" Lance nodded and offered his uncle a small smile as thanks. A knock came to the shop door then.

"I wonder who that might be" said Lance as he rose from his seat and walked downstairs to open the door. Marz, Mara, Jarrin and Aldemere stood upon the step. Mara stepped forward and placed her arms around him.

"Oh Lance"

"I know Aunt Mara" he returned her embrace.

"Where is Khurn?" she asked.

"Upstairs" she squeezed him tight before stepping gently out of his embrace and walking upstairs to find her brother. Seeing his sister walk in Khurn stood up and walked over to take her in his arms. Mara returned her brothers embrace and almost at once burst into tears. Khurn choked back his own tears and held her tighter. Downstairs Lance closed the door behind his uncle and cousins,

"Did you just arrive Uncle Marz?"

"No we arrived around dawn and purchased rooms at the Inn of the Last Home. We unpacked and had breakfast before coming here"

"I see. How has Aunt Mara been?"

"Well enough considering"

"That is good. Uncle Khurn and I just finished our breakfast. The tea pot is still full though and you are welcome to it"

"Thank you Lance" Lance nodded and led the three men upstairs. Mara and Khurn were still in one anothers arms when they alighted upon the second floor. Silently the four stood near the door, giving the two siblings the time that they needed, though the expression upon Marz`s face told Lance that his wife's sobs were cutting straight to his heart and it was very hard for him not to step forward and comfort her.

"You know that you and Lance are always welcome to come and see us brother, whenever you wish" as the sound of Marz`s voice Khurn gently released his sister and moved to give his brother in law and warriors hand shake followed by a tight embrace.

"I know. Thank you for coming brother" Marz nodded and returned Khurns embrace. Khurn smiled at his brother in law and then turned to Jarrin and Aldemere whom he also embraced but Aldemere the longer of the two. Aldemere gripped his uncle tightly.

"I am sorry uncle Khurn. I shouldn't have been so stupid. If only I had run faster then maybe"

"Do not finish that son. It was not your fault" said Marz, interrupting his youngest son.

"Your father is right nephew, do not reproach yourself. It was none of your doing. It is good that you are all here. Let us sit and talk some" Aldemere stepped out of his uncles embrace and nodded. Lance poured a cup of tea for his aunt and cousins before taking his seat.

"Thank you Lance" said Mara as she sat. Jarrin and Aldemere sat next to one another near to her. Marz approached the table but then stopped to look at Lance.

"Will the Temple doors be open so early Lance?"

"They are always open uncle. Why?"

"There is something that I have to do. Jarrin take care of your mother. I wont be long" Jarrin nodded and Marz offered him a smile before turning and departing from the house. Khurn looked to his sister,

"What was that about?"

"Your guess would be as good as my own" Mara continued to look at the door long after her husband had departed. Lance looked too but soon turned his attention to his tea. He had a feeling that he knew what Marz was going to the Temple for.

Through the quiet morning Marz walked with purpose toward the Temple of Mishkal. The grounds were empty but the doors were open as Lance said that they would be. The interior was equally as empty, as was the main hall of worship as Marz entered and that suited him well. Kalas`s body lay upon the main altar covered in a white shroud. Marz took a steadying breath and walked slowly up the isle to sit in the front row of benches. For long moments he stared silently at the body of his brother in law before shaking his head and letting loose a breath as if he had been holding it.

"This is wrong. Things shouldn't have had to be this way. It isn't fair. Aldemere is my son, my responsibility. It isn't fair that someone else should have had to die in his stead when it should have been me. Kalas why didn't you tell me? It could have been me. Jarrin could have taken care of Mara. I don't understand any of this. I was given a choice. Sarggonas himself gave me a choice. He said I could join him at his right hand or I could return to the land of the living. I chose to live, to be with the woman I loved and to have a family. If given that moment to live over again I would make the same choice because it was the right choice. Wasn't it?" Marz lowered his head into his hands, his shoulders trembling, "Someone please...answer me" he began to sob. Into the silence of the tomb a familiar voice came, shocking Marz so that he lurched upright and looked about but there was no one,

"What would you have me say brother?" it was Kalas`s voice.

"That I wasn't wrong. That I was right to live and to be with Mara. And that you forgive me Kalas. I beg you to forgive me" a vision of Kalas as he had been in his younger days shimmered into existence before the altar and Marz was driven to his knees by the sight.

"You were not wrong Marz my Brother, despite how I acted in the beginning you were right. She loves you deeply. I did this for all four of you Marz. Your family needs you"

"At least my boys would have had their mother and she would have had them. Lance doesn't have either of you now and the pain is written plainly upon his face"

"I know that he will be alight but it will take time for him to heal. He knows that I am with his mother and Gremelkin. And I know that he will have you and Khurn and the rest of the family with him" Kalas smiled at Marz, "I am very proud to have been able to call you Brother and I know that my sister is in good hands" Marz returned Kalas`s smile.

"Thank you Kalas. I too was always proud to call you brother, even in the beginning. I will love and care for Mara just as I have all these years. I promise you that. Give my love to Rosemarta, Morgen and Gremelkin for me and tell that little war lord to keep in shape because when the time comes I will be looking for him" Kalas laughed,

"I will do that and just to you know Gremelkin has been sharpening his claws just for you. He will be ready when the time comes" Smiling Kalas faded away, leaving Marz alone once more. Marz remained staring at the place where Kalas`s spirit had been then bowed his head and began laughing, quietly at first and then steadily louder until he flung his head back and filled the Temple with the sound of it. It took a few minuets for it to become quiet again, Marz found himself amazed that no one came to look and see what was happening. He sat for a while more then slowly rose to his feet, wiping the tears from his eyes and made his way out and back toward the house.

By now it had finally dawned upon Khurn why his brother in law might have wanted to go to the Temple and he smiled sadly before re focusing on the conversation at hand.

"Have many others arrived for the service tomorrow?" asked Mara before taking a sip of her tea, trying to steer the conversation away from her husband for she too had just now thought of his reasons for leaving.

"Magdar and some of his men. Ogwen and her crew" replied Khurn.

"I see. Any one else?"

"Um, Kurii and her crew also"

"Kurii?" Mara thought for a moment then nodded, "Ah yes I remember her now" she looked to Lance, "You have no objection to her attending?"

"Why would I? My father remained true to my mother all of his life. It would have been unfair of me to turn her away"

"I also understand that Angelique and Angola will be arriving also" said Khurn.

"We paid Mistress Angola a visit before we left. She confirmed that she will be here. Will is home with her now I believe" said Jarrin.

"That is good to hear. I am glad"

"As was I when I heard. She does need to get out of the house more, it is only a shame that it had to be for something like this"

"The same for Angelique. I have not seen her in quite a few years. Not since.." Khurn trailed off and glanced at Lance who nodded and a silence filled the room. The silence was interrupted when Marz walked back into the main room with an odd sort of smile on his face.

"Did not miss anything important did I?" he asked.

"Not at all uncle. Please, have a seat"

"Thank you nephew" Marz took his seat next to Mara.

"Did you find what you were looking for my dear?" she asked.

"And much more" he kissed her on the cheek and she smiled at him.

"It seems so brother. Your mood is improved" said Khurn.

"What did you go looking for uncle?" asked Lance. Marz regarded Lance steadily.

"Absolution" Khurn gave Marz a look that said there was no need and semi smiled,

"Absolution..." Marz caught the meaning in his brother in laws look and said,

"I know but it was something that I had to do Khurn"

"Understood. Would anyone like something more to drink?"

"The tea that Lance served is good for now I think brother but thank you" Mara smiled before emptying her cup.

"Oh. Very well"

"I did not mean to offend you brother. I'm sorry"

"No, its alright. I am glad that Lance has taken care of you all"

"Well if there is one thing I learned well Uncle Khurn it is manners"

"Too bad it couldn't have been how to handle women" said Jarrin. Lance frowned at him.

"You aren't so good at is yourself so be quiet" Khurn bit his lip to contain his laughter. Marz chuckled.

"You are both young yet. You will find that special woman one of these days"

"And when you do, do not let her slip through your fingers" said Khurn. Lance regarded his uncle curiously for he seldom spoke of such past things. His thought then wandered to Solana, last night and the nights to follow. To change the subject Khurn looked to his brother in law,

"How is business Marz? Still as good as usual?"

"More or less. I've had several commissions in the last week and lots of repair work. Mostly for the city guard"

"Do you mean to say that they are rough with their equipment?"

"That and most of it is quite old. They train almost all day, every day, and so that is where the damage comes from"

"Yes I can see that happening. The smiths here often need to repair the weapons of the Paladins here for the same reason"

"Such is a soldiers life and that is where the money is. Once in a while you might get a rich commission but you cannot count upon those. Mercenaries can also be good for business but there are not many of those around lately, thank the gods. Not that I ever turn away their business when they do come around but usually I have to go hunting for them once a job is done and some of the places I find them are...well not exactly the most pleasant"

"I thought you said that most times you find them at Madam Graylaces father" this from Aldemere before he drank the last of his tea. Marz cleared his throat somewhat nervously.

"Yes that is true"

"Well then that isn't so bad. It could be worse"

"Yes you are right it could be" Marz side glanced at his wife. Mara set aside her empty tea cup before turning to look at her youngest son.

"And how would you know about Madam Graylace if I may ask?" Aldemere was blushing by this point, only now realizing his error in having mentioned it.

"Um, well..." Aldemere looked to Jarrin who shook his head and held his hands up dismissively.

"Oh no don't look at me, you're on your own on this one little brother" Khurn covered his mouth in a vain attempt to hide a smile. Lance bowed his head and pretended to look at something to hide his own smile but also to prevent Aldemere from seeking any help from him. Helplessly Aldemere looked from his uncle to his cousin but seeing no help forth coming he blushed and said,

"Um...well the place isn't exactly a secret is it?"

"No but that isn't answering my question of how you know of it"

"Ah, yes well..." at last Marz could take no more and said,

"Your mother is only teasing you son. He is of age my dear and Agnes keeps a clean establishment"

"And you would know how exactly?" Mara raised a shrewd eye brow which caused Marz to colour also, not that you could tell.

"Well I...oh bugger!" Mara laughed and gave her husband a kiss on the cheek. Aldemere sighed with relief at the realization that he was not actually in trouble. Unable to control themselves anymore Jarrin, Lance and Khurn burst into wild laughter. Amid the laughter Marz hugged his wife and said,

"You're the only woman for me my dear, you know that" Mara smiled.

"Yes I know" once he had regained himself Lance leaned back in his chair and wiped his eyes,

"Too bad Luca isn't here, he would have loved to hear this"

"No doubt nephew. Lucius also"

"May I have another cup of tea Lance?"

"Certainly aunt Mara" Lance refilled his aunts cup and took the empty pot to the kitchen.

"There is a question that I must ask you my sister" said Khurn.

"Ask brother" Mara smiled at him before taking a drink of her tea.

"In regards to our parents home. I was thinking of selling it as I intend to live out the rest of my years here in Solace. However since the house is a third yours I wanted to know how you would feel about it" Mara was quiet as she considered what Khurn had said. Under the table she took hold of one of Marz`s hands.

"Palanthas has been my home since Marz and I moved there with Jarrin. It is where I belong now. Though I miss our family home on Taladas my heart is where my family is. You may sell it brother"

"Thank you Mara, as soon as I get back I will send you a portion of the money I will get for it. Is there anything that you would want from the house? Anything that belonged to our parents?"

"Nothing that I can think of now but if something comes to me later I will let you know"

"Very well. I will store what I can here when I return"

"Alright and thank you"

"Did you two have any plans for the day?" asked Marz, shifting his gaze between Khurn and Lance.

"Not really uncle Marz, at least not as of yet"

"With the exception of tomorrow I do not recall anything brother"

"Why? Did you have something in mind uncle?"

"No just asking"

"If you had anything at all in mind brother you can tell us. We are getting board to tears just waiting around and being depressed"

"I really had nothing special in mind but as it looks to be shaping up into such a nice day I thought we might go riding or..perhaps a day trip to Haven?"

"Well that doesn't sound like a bad idea to me. What say you uncle Khurn?" Khurn grinned,

"How soon can you have the horses ready Lance?"

"Faster than you can say Krifs your uncle" Lance grinned, all but leaping from his chair. A chance to get out of the house and away from Solace for a while would do them all some good.

"Faster still with the two of us to help you. Right Jarrin?" asked Aldemere as he rose from his chair.

"Right you are little brother. Lets get to it" Marz laughed as he watched his sons and Lance dash from the room, taking the stairs in bounds. Khurn laughed also.

"Ah the memories. Just as if they were boys again"

"Yes indeed brother. They were always so full of energy and ready for anything"

"They have grown into fine young men" added Mara.

"Yes sister, and proven themselves in battle"

"They shall continue to do so I am sure"

"I dare say they will" the sound of a single pair of running footsteps preceded Lance as he re entered the main room of the house.

"Horses saddled and waiting" Khurn chuckled.

"That was quickly done indeed. Right just let me grab my gear and we will all be down"

"Alright uncle Khurn, but that reminds me" Lance walked into his room to retrieve the hand and a half sword that was his legacy passed to him from his grandfather on his mothers side. He placed the massive sword upon his back before returning downstairs to wait with his cousins. Khurn got to his feet and fetched Roseblade before saying,

"Well Marz, Mara, come along the kids are waiting" Marz and Mara chuckled as they followed Khurn to where Lance and the others were waiting. Lance and his youngest cousin were already mounted. Jarrin stood next to his horse with his fathers war scythe in hand.

"I thought you might want this along father so I went to fetch it for you"

"Thank you son" Marz retrieved his weapon before assisting Mara in mounting her horse. Once everyone was saddled Lance took point to lead the way to the trade city of Haven.

"Looks like market day does it not?" asked Mara, taking note of the sheer number of people, far more than the cities population.

"It does indeed, it would seem we picked a good day" said Marz.

"Yes but now will be the trouble of finding a place for the horses. I don't think we will have much luck at any of the stables. You know merchants they will have taken up everything available" this from Jarrin as he looked around at the passers by and more particularly the merchant cart which needed anywhere from two to six horses to pull.

"We will tether them then" said Aldemere who then pointed to a lone hitching post coming up on their right. "How about there?"

"Well sighted cousin. What say you uncle Khurn?" asked Lance.

"Lets get to it before its taken" while saying this Khurn dismounted, the others did the same and followed him to the post where they all secured their mounts. This done they all took a few moments to look around. Haven at market time was indeed a sight. Merchants from all over the Continent seemed to be there selling anything and everything. Every race was represented and intent either upon buisness or pleasure. No one here knew or cared that a warrior named Kalas had passed, how fortunate they were.

"Well where should we go first?" Jarrins voice broke Lance out of his thoughts.

"I say the nearest weapons trader. I could use a good pair of daggers" said Aldemere.

"Very well little brother I shall accompany you. Uncle Khurn?"

"I'll come along nephew"

"Oh the woes of being the only woman in the group" Mara sighed. Marz laughed and placed an arm about her shoulders.

"Do not worry my dear, I shall stay with you" Mara smiled and gave her husband a kiss on the cheek. Marz hugged her then looked to the others, "You all go on ahead. We'll meet back up with you here say around lunch time?"

"Sounds good to me uncle Marz"

"I'll go along with the youngsters then and give you two love birds some time alone" Khurn chuckled and Mara blushed. Marz laughed again and the others joined him.

"It is decided then. Have fun"

"You as well uncle Marz, aunt Mara" Lance laughed and turned to walk up the street with his cousins and Khurn following. Marz and Mara watched them till they vanished in the crowd before going off on their own.

Lance found that he could not keep the smile from his face, his sadness lost in the vast market and all that there was to see. Aldemere led them to the first of many weapons dealers that were scattered about. This one was owned by a human smith who looked as though he hailed from Sancrest. Another weapons merchant called out to Khurn as they passed,

"Thats a fine sword you have there sir" he was referring to Roseblade, the sword that Lances mother had made for Khurn many years ago before she and Kalas were married. The blade had been magically enhanced so that it would never break or bend.

"You've a keen eye merchant. It is very fine"

"I would happily buy it from you sir and offer you one of my own blades freely as a replacement. What say you?" Khurn shook his head,

"I am sorry but I cannot part with it. Aside from being a fine and trusted blade there is a great sentimental value attached to it"

"But sir you'll not get a finer offer anywhere else"

"Oh I do not doubt that but my answer is still no. I am sorry" Khurn bowed and went his way. The merchant looked very disappointed but did not attempt to bargain further. At the entrance to the tent of the weapons dealer that Aldemere and Jarrin had found Lance stood watching his uncle. When Khurn sited him Lance moved inside and found his cousins had vanished. Seeing his confusion the merchant smiled and said,

"Never fear sir they just went out back to test the trueness of a pair of daggers. I've a practise area out back you see"

"Ah yes? Well I shall wait here then"

"Is there anything I can help you find while you wait?"

"No thank you, I was following my cousins and am in need of no new weapons" the merchant pursed his lips,

"I see" Lance turned his attention to Khurn, who had just walked in.

"Find anything to catch your eye uncle?"

"Nothing as of yet. You ought to have heard that last shop keep, he tried to buy Roseblade from me"

"I did hear but I wasn't worried. I knew there was no way he would be getting his hands on it" Khurn placed a loving hand upon the hilt of his sword.

"You know the best of anyone what this sword means to me, the memories that it holds. I shall never part with it" Lance nodded, a fond smile upon his lips. Aldemere and Jarrin reentered the tent, the former held a pair of fine silver hilted daggers.

"Well how are they?" asked Lance,

"Near to perfect as I think I am likely to find. I'll take them. How much?"

"Ten steel and they're yours young master"

"Five"

"Eight"

"Sold" Aldemere smiled as he placed the coins in the merchants hand.

"A pleasure doing business with you"

"And with you" replied Aldemere as he placed his new daggers in his belt.

"A fine pair indeed cousin, a good choice"

"I agree, a fine choice nephew"

"Thank you Lance and you also uncle. Are you ready to go? Or does anyone wish to keep looking?"

"I am happy with the weapons I have for now little brother and am ready to go where you lead"

"Same here Aldemere, Uncle Khurn?"

"Yes let us move on"

"Where to?" asked Lance as he followed his cousins back out into the busy streets.

"Well there were some lovely dancing girls back the way we came. Might just be your lucky day Lance" Jarrin laughed as he dogged a half hearted punch from his cousin.

"That sounds like a fine idea to me lads. The first round will be on me" said Khurn. The three young men cast surprised looks at Khurn before looking back at each other.

"Well I don't have any ideas. Do you?" asked Aldemere. When none were forth coming Lance said,

"In that case we will take you up on your offer uncle Khurn"

"And why did you all look at me like that? I am a warrior and a male the same as you" he chuckled, "Come on. I may be old but I'm not dead" Khurn walked past them to lead the way. All three laughed loudly and followed Khurn back up the road. The Gold Ring was a new but already well known establishment that often hosted dancers from many corners of the continent on market day. From inside exotic music and heavily spiced smells wafted out onto the street. Inside round tables circled a large dancing ring. A lone dancer dressed all in white with amber skin and shining green eyes was preforming when they entered. When the four seated themselves the dancer twirled near and danced before Aldemere, smiling under her veil and even gently caressing his face before returning to the centre of the ring. Khurn grinned and chuckled, not noticing the bar maid that had approached their table. She asked what they all wanted and upon receiving no answer asked again. Lance smiled sheepishly and said to her,

"Sorry, we were...distracted"

"Yes I know, now what will it be?"

"Ales all around I think, right uncle?"

"Hum? Oh yes ales all around. My apologies I was amused by Alemeres reaction" the bar maid chuckled softly and shook her head as she walked away from the table to give their order to the bar.

"Well is has been a very long time since the three of us did something like this" said Jarrin, Aldemere nodded his agreement.

"Yes quite a while. In fact the last time might have been when we were adventuring with Lance. And in my defence she is quite beautiful" Khurn gazed back at the dancer and nodded.

"Yes indeed she is" the bar maid had returned with their drinks by this time but none of them noticed her as the music picked up speed and the dancer became a white whirl wind in the middle of the dance floor. She ended her dance upon her knees with her arms raised over her head. The applause was deafening. The dancer stood and bowed, collecting the coins and trinkets that were tossed at her by the patrons. Khurn too pulled a coin from his purse but waited for the lady to pass by and pressed it into her hand.

"You are a wonderful dancer my dear. Thank you" she smiled and removed her veil.

"My aren't you sweet. Thank you sir" she leaned down and gave Khurn a kiss on the cheek before turning and departing from the Gold Ring through the back door.

"You lucky devil" said Jarrin as he took a drink of his ale.

"Experience, Jarrin my lad" Khurn winked and then took a drink. The three young men laughed and looked up as four dancers all in sky blue were next to preform.

"One for each of us this time eh?" said Jarrin. Aldemere laughed but Lance, for the first time, was silent.

"Not unless you intend fighting the whole bar for them my lad" at this Lance laughed.

"He has you there Jarrin"

"Well a man can dream" Khurn placed a hand upon Jarrins shoulder,

"Keep on Jarrin, one of these days it will happen I assure you"

"You and father have been saying the same thing for years and with each year that passes it becomes harder to believe"

"I was of the same mind once and then Da'Nia came into my life" Khurn trailed off and the cousins glanced at each other before drinking their ale and turning their attention back to the dancers. Khurn drank also and sat in silence for a time. At last he said,

"Good things come to those that wait Jarrin, mark my words"

"The both of us would do well to remember that Jarrin" said Lance.

"All three of us would. I don't exactly have girls hanging off my arms either" said Aldemere. Khurn laughed,

"I know the feeling quite well Aldemere" Lance raised his tankard,

"To beautiful women and may we all find that one special lady" the toast was seconded and returned all around. All drank and turned their attention back to the dancers. Once the four finished their dance the musicians laid down their instruments and walked up to the bar.

"Break time it looks like" said Aldemere.

"And well earned I would say, wouldn't you Uncle?" asked Lance.

"Indeed. Have you ever seen a more alluring dance my boy?" Lance thought of his evening with Solana and nodded,

"Yes, perhaps once before uncle" Khurn smiled and drank some more ale. Lanced finished his own tankard and ordered a second round before turning to Jarrin.

"What time would you make it cousin?"

"Half hour or so till noon I would think"

"After these drinks then we should head back to meet up with Uncle Marz and Aunt Mara"

"Thats fine by me Lance" said Khurn, the brothers agreed. A scent of perfume wafted over the table, preceding the one who wore it,

"Leaving without a good bye?" all looked up to see the lovely green eyed dancer that had greeted them when they arrived. None of them had heard her approach.

"We would stay if we could but we have made plans" answered Aldemere. He was the most entranced by her, his eyes never left hers as he spoke.

"Oh what a shame, you will miss my next performance"

"I think I might have just changed my mind lads. We can stay for the show. We wouldn't want to disappoint this young lady. We wouldn't miss it my dear. I look forward to it" she smiled at them and clapped her hands happily.

"Wonderful. I'll be starting in just a few minuets" she blew a kiss to Aldemere before hurrying off to the far side of the room to await her musicians. Lance drank his ale and hoped that they would not be too late.

"Aldemere, after her dance give her some steel coin" Aldemere nodded and Jarrin laughed, throwing an arm about his little brothers shoulders.

"Oh bad luck Lance, looks like she's Aldemeres"

"Well congratulations cousin. She is quite the beauty" Aldemere attempted to hide his embarrassment behind his ale mug. When the music began again the dancer in white cartwheeled onto the dance floor followed by two other dancers dressed in gold. As Khurn watched he was reminded of his younger days adventuring with his brother. Lucius and Darius. Nights spent in similar bars in port and market towns all over the continent. The dancers in gold followed the movements of the dancer in white precisely, she was the queen in that moment, in control. Lance tried not to think of Solana and focused on the dancers and also upon the growing smile upon Jarrins face. It seemed he was happier than Aldemere was that one of the most beautiful dancers on the floor was paying them special attention. Lance then looked over at his uncle and wondered if he was thinking about Da'Nia, she too had been quite the dancer when the mood came upon her. Once more the dancer in white came to their table and danced around Aldemere, touching his face with her hands and her white scarves. Aldemere sat perfectly still in his chair, held by the spell of her eyes and her smile. He found himself wishing suddenly and beyond reason that he knew her name. Her perfume hung in a cloud about him even as she returned to the floor. Khurn leaned over to Aldemere and said,

"You might need to give her a few extra my boy"

"You may be right uncle. Do you think that she would give me her name if I asked for it?"

"From what I have seen I would venture to say yes"

"I shall then" he had already made up his mind to do so but putting his conviction into words would make doing it easier. Khurn nodded his approval and patted Aldemere on the shoulder. Three powerful drum beats heralded the end of the performance, the dancers in gold back flipped from the dance floor while the dancer in white did another cartwheel and ended with a hand spring flip. She landed gracefully on one foot as the audience applauded. She searched out Aldemere and smiled at him. Aldemere felt himself colour as he returned her smile. His eyes met hers as she approached their table.

"I am glad that you all decided to stay. I hope that you enjoyed it"

"It, no you, were beautiful" Lance and Jarrin both nodded in agreement.

"Well done my dear, well done" Khurn clapped some more and she bowed,

"Thank you, you are too kind" she then turned to Aldemere as he offered her six steel coins.

"For you"

"Thank you very much. You are a sweet thing"

"I was wondering...would you...would you tell me your name?" she paused for a moment and Aldemere feared that she would refuse but then she smiled and leaned in close to whisper.

"Miranda" she gave him a kiss on the cheek before leaving to join her fellow dancers. Khurn clapped Aldemere on the back.

"Well done nephew, well done!" Aldemere managed to break his gaze from her and smiled at Khurn,

"Thank you uncle"

"Yes indeed, good work little brother" said Jarrin, placing an arm about his bother again and hugging him.

"She is a very becoming young lady Aldemere" said Khurn. Aldemere nodded,

"Yes but...oh it is foolish of me to act this way. After all after today it is not as if I will ever see her again"

"One can never tell nephew"

"True perhaps but forgive me if I chose not to hold out any special hopes"

"Brother you are starting to sound very much like someone we all know" Jarrin glanced over at Lance who looked up from his ale and raised his eyebrows.

"What?" Khurn bit his lip then cleared his throat,

"In either case drink up lads, Marz and Mara will be looking for us by now" Lance nodded agreement and drank the last of his ale, the brothers followed suit. As they all got up to leave Miranda suddenly returned to their table to stand close my Aldemere. She had changed out of her dancers clothes by then and was now wearing a simple green blouse with a heavy looking brown skirt. Aldemere motioned for the others to go on without him. Khurn nodded and led the way out. As Lance reached the door he heard Miranda say,

"Must you go?"

"Yes, you see the people we are going to meet are my parents"

"Will you be back?"

"I...don't know. I will try" she smiled then stood aside so he could leave.

"Alright" Aldemere smiled back and watched as she returned to where she had been seated with the other dancers. He sighed before joining the others out in the street.

"Lets go" Lance and Jarrin exchanged a glance but didn't say anything as Khurn led the way back to where they had said they would meet back up with Marz and Mara. Sure enough they found them standing together near the hitching post.

"Well it took you all long enough. What kept you?" asked Marz.

"Sorry father, we lost track of time" said Aldemere. Khurn grinned and Marz took notice of it. He knew enough to know what it meant.

"Just having an ale with the boys brother" said Khurn.

"I see. Well you are here now and that is what matters. Mara and I found a very nice tavern near by where we can all get something to eat. What say you all?"

"Lead the way Uncle Marz, I'm starving"

"The same here, most definitely" said Jarrin, Aldemere nodded his agreement. Marz smiled and turned to walk back down the way that he and Mara had come from. The Gilded Bird was the tavern in question. It was not very large but it had a peaceful sort of beauty about it. The large open windows with gaping panel shutters and openings in the roof left the wooden building open to the weather and also to the birds who made their way in and out. Plants of all sorts littered the interior as well as the exterior blurring the lines between the garden and the dining area. Marz led them to the terrace, which was located out behind the main building, and chose a table.

"Hmm, a nice choice my brother. Very...open" Khurn chuckled as he took his seat.

"We heard good things while we were wandering around and passed by before deciding to give it a try for ourselves" this from Mara as she settled herself in the chair that had been held out for her by her husband.

"It was a fine choice Aunt Mara. I can already tell that the things you heard will be proved right" a young waitress had approached their table by then and asked for their order.

"Four pulled pork sandwiches for me please" said Marz.

"I'll have the same" Jarrin smiled at his father.

"Those sound good to me also. What say you cousin?" asked Aldemere. Lance nodded.

"A salad will be just fine for me thank you" said Mara.

"And I'll have two steak sandwiches please" said Khurn.

"Anything to drink for you?"

"A pitcher of your famed ale that I heard so much of today for myself, my sons, brother in law and nephew and a glass of wine for my wife"

"At once sir" as she walked away Khurn exclaimed.

"Thank you Brother!" Marz laughed,

"You're welcome Khurn, I hope it will all be to your liking"

"What could go wrong?"

"Well from what I have heard the ale here might be different from what you are used to"

"I welcome the experience" Marz smiled and they waited. When the waitress returned she set the pitcher and mugs down upon the table first before handing Mara her wine. Marz thanked her then lifted the pitcher and poured himself a full mug of the almost black ale.

"A dark ale! It has been a while since I had some. Good choice brother"

"I thought it might be something you would appreciate. It has been some time since I had some of this for myself" Marz lifted his mug and took a long drink. He sighed expansively and smiled, "Most excellent" after taking a drink himself Khurn nodded,

"Indeed. What say you lads?" he looked to Lance, Jarrin and Aldemere. Lance and Jarrin drank together, both nodded their approval. Aldemere drank and then began to cough,

"Gods that's strong!" Marz laughed and placed a hand upon his youngest sons shoulder.

"It is not for everyone son. You can leave it for the rest of us and order something else if you like"

"Thank you father" Aldemere smiled, glad that his father was not cross with him.

"One day you may come to love it as we do nephew" said Khurn. Aldemere doubted it but said,

"Yes perhaps uncle"

"I will see to it little brother" said Jarrin as he threw an arm about Aldemere and took another drink. Lance laughed but said nothing. A pleasant silence fell over the table, all enjoying the atmosphere of the tavern or otherwise absorbed in their own thoughts. Twenty minuets passed before their waitress returned to their table with the sandwiches and Mara's Salad. As she handed out the plates she asked,

"Will that be all?"

"For now yes but oh just one more thing my good lady. Would you please bring us a pitcher of lighter coloured ale for my son Aldemere?" Aldemere shyly raised one hand the waitress smiled at him.

"Right away" she left and returned quickly with a pitcher of nut brown ale which she placed before Aldemere before leaving them to their meals. Aldemere poured himself a glass and took a drink before starting on his sandwiches. Khurn suddenly stood up and raised his mug, everyone at the table stopped eating to look at him.

"I would like to propose a toast to you all, my family. To my brother Marz, my beloved sister Mara, my nephews Lance, Jarrin and Aldemere. To my Family" Lances prideful smile was contagious and it spread around the table. All raised their mugs, or glass, and drank to Khurns toast. Khurn found himself deeply moved by this moment, by their return of his salute to second his toast to all of them and from them to himself. He had needed this day. To spend time with the family that he still had. As he retook his seat he wondered, not for the first time, how Mara was holding up. She had her husband and her sons to think about above herself. Mara looked pensively into her wine glass for a few moments before returning her attention to her salad.

"This is all very good Uncle Marz. Thank you"

"You are welcome Lance and I am glad that you are enjoying it"

"Indeed this is most excellent my brother, my thanks to you also"

"And you are also welcome Khurn" Marz chuckled and took a drink of his ale. Noticing that Mara had hardly said a word since they had arrived Khurn leaned over and placed a hand over one of hers.

"Are you alright sister?" Marz side glanced at his wife to gauge her response. Mara smiled at her brother and said,

"Yes Khurn I am alright. Thank you"

"Are you sure? Or is this not the right time to speak of it?" Mara set down her fork then placed her free hand over her brothers and smiled at him again.

"You know me too well brother but yes I am sure. We can talk of this later when we return to Solace. For now let us enjoy this time"

"Very well my sister" Khurn smiled faintly and patted her hand. Mara squeezed his in turn. With a nod Khurn leaned back and returned to eating his lunch. Mara did the same. Once finished her salad Mara leaned back in her chair with her glass of wine. Marz looked at her then placed an arm around her shoulders and pulled her close. Mara smiled and kissed him on the cheek before taking a sip of her wine. Once finished his own lunch Lance sat back and waited for the others. When everyone was finished and their plates were cleared away Lance looked up from his ale and said,

"When were we thinking about heading back?" this was a perfectly reasonable question he thought and asked only because he was idly curious and not wishing to rush anyone but he was made to see his mistake by the expression of surprise and disappointment had came over his uncle Khurn, who raised an eye brow in a sign of the utmost confusion.

"Well I was thinking sometime this evening nephew" said Marz.

"Very well and that is fine uncle. Does anyone have any ideas what they would like to do next?" Lanced looked about the table as he asked this. Again Marz was the one to respond.

"Not really nephew but the day is still young, I am sure an idea will come to one of us"

"I agree. Something will come up Lance my boy" said Khurn as he drank the last of his ale. Lance felt as if he could read the tension he had just caused in the air. Why couldn't he just relax and enjoy the day like the others were trying to do? Why had he asked such a question that only made everyone remember what they had come here to get away from? What was wrong with him? Abruptly Lance stood up,

"Forgive me" he then turned and left as quickly as his legs would carry him, weaving between tables and patrons to reach the street.

"Lance!" Aldemere rose to his feet. Jarrin reached out and grabbed his brother by the elbow.

"Leave him be brother"

"But"

"He knows when we will be leaving and where to find us later. Dont worry about him" reluctantly Aldemere sat back down. Despite his brothers words he could not help but worry about his cousin. Lance was not himself, though of course that was understandable. A somber silence passed over the table and Jarrins eyes suddenly found a poster advertizing a tournament. The site of it made a grin pull at the corners of his mouth.

"Any ideas yet as to what to do with the rest of the day father?"

"None at all my son but it looks as though you just thought of one"

"What about that" Jarrin pointed to the poster and all turned to look at it. Marz's smile matched that of his eldest son.

"I see. Well sighted Jarrin"

"A tournament huh? That might help with some pent up aggression" said Khurn.

"My thoughts exactly my brother" said Marz, "What say you boys?"

"I wouldn't mind trying my hand at some friendly competition for a change. We might even find Lance there" said Aldemere.

"That we might" Marz turned to his wife, "Would you mind terribly if we entered my dear?"

"No you boys can have your fun" Mara chuckled and Marz kissed her.

"Let us finish up and move on then, we have only an hour left to register" Marz finished off his ale and got to his feet. The others were quick to follow and made their way outside.

The arena the Tournament was to be held it was a makeshift pavilion in a stretch of open field likely rented from a local farmer. The line by this time at the registration desk was short.

"Name and weapon" said the old man at the desk who tapped some sheaves of parchment as Jarrin stepped up to the desk. He filled out the requested information accordingly and the others followed suit. There was no sign of Lance. They were told to join the other combatants in a practise area on the far side of the arena. Jarrin led the way there and sure enough they found a hastily constructed waiting area behind the stands where the other fighters either sat waiting or took advantage of the available practise dummies to warm up. The sound of a horn announced that the Tournament would be starting soon.

"I was sure Lance would be here" said Aldemere.

"I told you not to worry over him brother. We will see him before the days end" Aldemere sighed and awaited his turn.

Lance had found his way to the arena but chose not to compete. He took a seat in the forth row of the stands and waited to see who the first fighters would be. He knew without a doubt that the others would be here.

"May I join you?" Lance looked up to see his aunt Mara standing next to him. He nodded,

"Of course" she smiled and sat next to him. She was quiet for a while then took hold of one of his hands.

"Lance your uncle Khurn wasn't mad at you. None of us were"

"But it was such a foolish and heartless question. I should have thought more"

"It was a reasonable enough question and you could not have known the unintended effects"

"If I hurt you aunt Mara I am very sorry"

"You didn't, I promise you" Lance smiled a little and squeezed her hand. The horn sounded again, almost time.

"Are the others competing?" Mara laughed.

"Of course" the Headman of Heaven silenced the crowd and went through the usual formalities of a Tournament before turning things over to the old man from the registration desk who seemed to be doubling as the announcer.

"Firs contestants! Khurn and Dran the Younger!"

"Draconian!" Marz hissed, "Be on your guard brother" Khurn nodded and walked out into the centre of the arena where Dran was already waiting for him. Dran was the height of an average man with dull bronze scales and wearing tan leather armour. Lance leaned forward slightly. Draconians like this Dran character were rare. This would be an interesting battle. Khurn saluted his opponent with his sword and moved into his ready position. Dran hissed, raised twin battle axes and launched himself at Khurn. Drans offensive was intense, the Draconian had speed on his side but the White Minotaur had skill and patience. With a soldiers skill and knowledge Khurn was able to either block or dodge every attack that Dran made. The audience was impressed.

"You haven't seen anything yet" said Lance as a prideful smile pulled at his lips. Dran disengaged and backed away to a safe distance to rethink his strategy. Khurn moved to the ready again and smiled at Dran who ran a few steps and then leaped into the air to come down on Khurn from above, swinging both axes as one. Khurn twisted out of the way of the axes and Dran came down hard. Khurn struck out with his sword but used only the flat of his blade to strike Dran in the back, if he had used one of the cutting edges the Draconian would have been in two. Dran growled and scurried away a few paces before rising and turning to face Khurn.

"Damn you Minotaur! Stop this game and fight me!" he charged again and this time Khurn swung his sword down with enough force to not only knock the twin axes from Drans hands but to make them useless in battle. Dran hissed angrily and pulled a long dagger from his belt before advancing again but slower this time, gauging when to strike.

"This is only a contest Dran. Do not force the issue"

"Of that I am fully aware but why hold back on that account?" Dran thrust forward but then swept his weapon in a right to left arch. Khurn wasn't fast enough to avoid the attack completely this time. Drans blade caught his upper arm and opened a fair sized wound. Khurn took a few steps back and sheathed Roseblade. He then touched the wound on his left shoulder and tasted his own blood before drawing his own dagger. Battle joy filled him and Khurn smiled,

"Very well Dran and may your blade shatter" Dran laughed,

"Now that's what I like to hear!" Dran advanced again and jabbed forward before swinging his blade upward. It was a move meant to gut your opponent but the Draconian seemed to remember enough that they weren't meant to kill each other to not put nearly the desired forced behind the strike. Khurn blocked the upward thrust and then grabbed the Draconians wrist, the one belonging to his knife hand, and twisted it to throw Dran off balance. He then used all of his might to flip the Draconian over onto the ground and swiftly knelt to place his own knife to Drans throat. Dran growled but made no move to free himself from under Khurns blade.

"What in the name of the Abyss are you judges waiting for? I lost! Sound the Gods damned horn already!" as if jolted out of a trance the judges gave the order. The horn sounded announcing Khurn as the winner. Up in the stands Lance breathed a sigh of relief. Khurn backed away then offered his hand to the fallen Dran.

"I would like to pay for your damaged axes Dran. If you will allow me to" Dran sighed and took Khurns offered hand,

"Thanks but you need not trouble yourself. The loser deserves to pay from his own pocket I say. Guess its off to the sidelines for me. My money will be on you, just so you know" a ghost of a smile passed over Drans reptilian features as he turned to exit the arena.

"It would be no trouble Dran and I would be honoured to do so" Dran stopped and looked over his shoulder at Khurn for a moment before continuing on,

"Oh please yourself then. Come and find me after the Tournament is over" Khurn sighed then nodded and walked off the grounds in the opposite direction. Marz was called into the arena next. His opponent was and Elvin warrior named Galain. This fight was over quickly, the elf was no match for the black Minotaur who managed to disarm him and gain an easy victory.

Jarrin faced a red cloaked swordsman who managed to swiftly roll and duck way from all of his attacks and landed some blows to his left leg and right arm. Jarrin bled but was not ready to yield. When his opponent tried to duck away again Jarrin was ready, bringing his blade down hard into the ground scant inches from the mans nose. The cloaked man rolled away and turned to face Jarrin with a smile on his face. This time the red cloaked man made the first move and their blades locked. After a brief dead lock the red cloaked man thrust forward with all his strength and sent Jarrin staggering. Suddenly it was as if the cloaked man was attacking from all places at once. Jarrin was able to block most of the blows but not all, he was loosing more blood and was in fear of losing his senses. He decided to gable and led his shoulder into his opponent, it was a glancing blow but enough to stop the cloaked mans assault and giving Jarrin the opening he needed to thrust forward with his sword, slicing through the red cloak and nearly skewering his opponent. The audience and the judges held their breath to see what would happen next. The red cloaked swordsman looked down at Jarrins sword and then back at Jarrin. A smile graced the mans lips as he removed his hat and bowed.

"I have lost. Well done" Jarrin smiled back and offered his hand. The two shook hands and Jarrin returned to where his family were waiting for him. Marz and Aldemere cheered and slapped Jarrin on the back.

"Well done son!"

"Yes indeed well done nephew" said Khurn. Jarrin smiled again and took a seat on the benches so the medics could tend to his wounds. Aldemere lost his match to a red robed Mage and then it was Khurns turn again. Everyone who knew Khurn well looked on in shock as Da'nia the elf lady that had stolen his heart and then left him stepped into the ring to face him.

"Hello Khurn. What a surprise seeing you here. I was coming to pay my respects to your brother and could not resist the chance to test my skills. You understand" Khurn was lost for words. Da'nia smiled and raised her twin swords. "Defend yourself!" Da'nia rushed forward and Khurn caught her attack on Roseblade. Da'nia was fast, she kept Khurn on the defensive for much of their match. Khurn had his strength but it was his combat training that allowed him to keep up with her and block her strikes. Khurn managed to gain a slight upper hand when he disarmed Da'nia, sending her left sword flying far out of reach. She smiled,

"I am impressed love. You have been practising"

"Since you left I have had plenty of time for sword play" Khurn growled and moved back into his ready stance. A look of regret passed over Da'nias face.

"That is another reason why I returned. Khurn I" before she could finish Khurn charged. Caught off guard she did not have time to react. In a moment Khurns sword was at the base of her neck and the fight was over. Da'nia looked up at Khurn as he slowly lowered his sword and backed away.

"Marvellous my love, well done" Khurn nodded and turned to leave, "Khurn! We need to talk. Please"

"After the games Da'nia" said Khurn as he continued walking and did not look back.

"Are you alright?" asked Marz as Khurn rejoined them. Khurn placed a hand upon his brother in laws shoulder.

"I think that I will be my brother. Thank you" Khurn took a seat on the bench and was lost in his own thoughts for a while. Had he expected to see her at Kalas's service? He had considered it a high possibility that she would show up but he had not expected to talk to her beyond a curt greeting and perhaps a farewell if she came seeking one, the way that she had not before. Suddenly Khurn had lost all interest in the Tournament, he did not bother to who won and who lost and when his name was called again he did not hear it. The sight of Marz standing before him with a fierce grin upon his face brought him back to himself.

"Find your strength brother it is you and I this time" Khurn looked up but did not move, taking the smile from the black Minotaurs face.

"I may have won my last contest with the sword Marz but in spirit Da'nia won and I do not know if I can move from this spot let alone fight"

"If you wish to withdraw brother I will not think less of you and anyone who calls you coward will answer to my fists. If your heart is not in this I understand"

"It is not but I must go out there. For my own sake and for none others" Marz's smile returned.

"Let us go then Brother, must not keep the crowd waiting" Khurn got up and the two walked out into the arena side by side and were met with uproarious applause. The horn announced the beginning of the contest.

"I cannot remember the last time we sparred brother. Can you?" asked Marz as he took up his ready stance.

"It has been a long time" Khurn semi smiled and readied himself.

"Shall we give these good people a show then?" Khurn nodded and got a firmer grip on his sword. Marz smiled and advanced, swinging his war scythe from right to left. Khurn dodged and turned up behind Marz.

"That was a close one brother!" Khurn chuckled.

"You think so? Well hows this one!" Marz spun round swinging his scythe upward right then left down. Khurn caught the blade with his own and turned it aside before swinging in the same motion toward Marz. Marz twisted away and brought up his guard once more. The two were evenly matched in strength and speed both but also in experience, they had both been soldiers on the opposite sides of civil strife. Their fight went on with neither gaining the upper hand. At last the two disengaged and backed away from one another, smiling.

"This could well be an all day affair brother" said Khurn. Marz laughed between breaths.

"So it seems. Neither of us has dulled with age that is for sure" Khurn laughed also and the two stood for a few moments, watching each other. The crowed held a collective breath. Marz rose to his full height and scanned the crowd, trying to gauge the mood.

"Well brother shall we continue or call it a draw?" Khurn looked around then back at Marz.

"Do you think they came to see a draw brother?"

"No I don't suppose that they did. Well then" Marz spun his war scythe in an elaborate pattern around his head and torso then stood at the ready, facing Khurn, "Let us finish this brother" Khurn smiled and lunged at Marz. Marz side stepped then brought his scythe down upon Roseblade before aiming a kick at Khurns legs, looking to knock them out from under him. Khurn fell but then roll unexpectedly forward and knocked Marz off his feet before rolling to safety and getting up. Marz laughed as he rose to his feet and dusted himself off before bringing his scythe to the ready. "My turn" the black Minotaur spun round and brought his scythe over his head and then down like a bladed water wheel. Khurn blocked then used an expert move to push the blade aside with his sword while grabbing hold of the shaft of Marzs scythe and spinning them both to the opposite sides of where they had started. Lance had never seen his uncle do that before and suspected that Lucius had taught it to him. Marz turned around to face his brother in law,

"I could have used a man like you in my army days brother"

"I could say the same of you" Khurn was breathing harder now. This would have to end soon. Marz advanced, swinging his scythe in the form of a cross. Khurn blocked then quickly stepped away out of reach. There was one more card for him to play. In a breath Khurns sword was a flurry of movement, he was preforming the War Dance, a complex series of movements that turned the swordsman in to an elegant but deadly force. The large white Minotaur looked odd preforming such intricate motions with his blade as well as with his feet but anyone watching who might have thought this was too awed to say anything about it. Lance had never seen his uncle move like this and Da'nia, who had stayed to watch, was also surprised but also proud that he had remembered it and had continued to practise it. Marz was forced onto the defensive, wherever he put his scythe it was met by Khurns sword. Marz made a mental note to congratulate Khurn on his use of this manoeuvre, it was one that he himself had never been able to master. He felt his strength withering. Only for a moment his hands lost there grip and that was the end as his scythe flew from his grip to land a few feet away in the battle turned earth. Khurn came to a stop and bent over slightly, breathing hard. Marz was about to go to him but was then shocked beyond measure when Khurn laid his sword at his feet as a sign of defeat.

"The honour and his contest is yours my brother" he then turned to leave. Marz didn't understand.

"But Khurn you disarmed me. You could have" the horn blew and it was final, Marz was the victor as declared by the judges on account of Khurn conceding defeat. Marz suppressed a sigh and offered his hand to Khurn. "Well met brother" Khurn took Marz's hand.

"The contest was rightfully yours Marz, after all I did cheat by using that trick taught to me by my Paladin friends" Marz smiled but was unsure of what to say. His eyes searched the stands and found where Lance and Mara were seated.

"Lance is here brother. Why not sit with him till this is over? It would be a good opportunity to talk to him"

"I will do that. Thank you Brother, this was enjoyable" Khurn squeezed Marz's hand before picking up Roseblade and walking to join Lance. Mara smiled at him as he approached and stood up to offer her seat, saying something about needing to get a drink. Khurn nodded and moved to let her pass before looking to Lance.

"Do you mind if I join you as a spectator nephew?"

"Not at all uncle. That was a close fight. I was sure that you would win"

"Well technically I did but what I did was a might unfair to Marz. I am fine with him taking the official win. I managed to confuse the hell out of him so that it victory enough for me" Khurn laughed as he sat down. Before the final battle to decided the champion the combatants were given a rest period and a troupe of acrobats entered the arena to entertain the crowd. Lance watched them without much interest, not knowing if his uncle wanted to speak first or if he was waiting on him. To Lances surprise his uncle did not say anything regarding his nephews behaviour of earlier in the afternoon and said instead,

"I do wish they had given us this respite before our match, I might have made a better contest"

"Possibly but you fought well Uncle. I think your match went fine just as it was"

"To hear you say that means a lot to me Lance. Thank you"

"You are more than welcome Uncle" Lance placed a hand upon his uncles shoulder and Khurn smiled.

A short silence passed and both turned their attention back to the arena as the acrobats left. The next combatants were the dwarf and the mage. Before the contest began Lance had predicted the winner and was proven right when the Dwarf was able to effectively disarm and almost disrobe his opponent who left the arena in a terrible mood. The dwarf was called to remain in the arena and Jarrin came to meet him.

"Care to make a prediction uncle?" asked Lance.

"It is difficult to say my boy. Jarrin will have speed and strength on his side that is sure but the dwarf has experience which can be more valuable than either of those" Lance nodded,

"That was my thinking also but I cannot help but feel Jarrin remains with the upper hand"

"We shall see" the horn sounded and the contest began. Jarrin swung his sword down from above his head, bringing it down with all of his strength. The dwarf caught the blow with ease upon the handle of his axe before pushing the sword blade away and lunging forward with a wide arching swing. Jarrin leaped back and raised his sword to the ready. The two traded blows for a good twenty minuets before the dwarf suddenly ducked and stuck his axe handle between Jarrins legs, tripping him up and sending him tumbling into the dust of the arena floor. Before Jarrin could get up the dwarf placed his foot upon his chest and lowered his axe blade level with his face.

"Filthy trick!" cried Jarrin.

"Never the less I have won" Jarrin growled as the horn sounded and shoved the dwarf off of him before retrieving his sword and storming from the arena. Khurns eyes narrowed and his expression was clouded.

"I do hope that Marz has him in the next round"

"They are the last two remaining and so have no choice but to fight. Uncle Marz will show that dwarf a thing or two"

"After what he did to Jarrin we an bet on that" Lance chuckled and watched as Marz strode out to meet the dwarf who was leaning at his leisure upon the bladed end of his axe. Marz faced him with his war scythe firm in his grip.

"Try cheating with me and see where it gets you dwarf"

"As I was not disqualified I didn't cheat"

"That only proves that the judges are blind. The one that you just humiliated was my eldest son. As he cannot avenge himself I shall do it for him" a cheer rose from the crowd and Khurn smiled.

"Rip is head off brother!" shouted Khurn. Marz heard but did not turn, he waited for the horn to sound. Once it did the two combatants did not immediately attack. They stood quiet for a few moments looking for weaknesses. The dwarf thought he found one and strode quickly forward, swinging for Marz's torso. Marz smiled as he sidestepped and brought his scythe down toward the dwarfs back. The dwarf flattened himself to the ground and the blade whistled harmlessly over his head. The dwarf rolled once it was safely past and got to his feet, turning to face his opponent. Marz swung his scythe around in the air a few times before beckoning the dwarf forward with a slight motion of the blade. The dwarf roared and charged, swinging his axe over his head. Marz caught the blade and the two entered into a dead lock. Without surprise all watched as the dwarf tried to use the same trick that had brought Jarrin down, breaking the dead lock only to reverse his axe and attempt to thrust the handle between the black Minotaurs legs. Marz was ready for him and laughed as he lifted his right foot, pivoted on his left and brought his right foot down again hard upon the handle of the axe, snapping it clean in two and sending the dwarf stumbling forward into the dirt. Marz turned and placed his scythe blade behind his neck.

"Did you really think I would let you get away with the same trick twice?" the horn sounded, Marz was the victor, the crowd roared its approval.

"Yes!" Khurn leaped from his seat punching the air with both fists. Marz heard him and turned to face his brother in law, raising his scythe above his head with a triumphant roar. Khurn returned Marz's war cry and clapped. Lance and the rest of the crowd were also on their feet cheering and clapping. The judges presented Marz with the jewelled gauntlet that was his prize. Marz waved it above his head and bowed to the crowd before exiting the arena. Lance rose to his feet and made his way down to the arena where he was joined by Jarrin, Aldemere and Mara. He looked back once when he realized that Khurn was not following and saw him with Da'nia. Lance frowned but continued on down to greet his uncle Marz. Marz gave his wife a hug and looked up towards the stands when Lance motioned for his attention. Seeing Khurn with Da'nia Marz nodded and herded his family further away so that they might give the pair some privacy.

"That was a well fought match uncle"

"Thank you Lance. There was no way I was going to let that little cheat beat me"

"Well fought brother" said Khurn who rejoined them after only a few moments time.

"Thank you brother and thank you also for getting the crowd on their feet. That was a rare and almost forgotten feeling that you reminded me of"

"I only wish that I could have avoided that little bastards trick rather than being made a fool of" fumed Jarrin.

"Do not worry about that son. That is the sort of thing that is very hard to avoid unless you know that its coming. Since I had seen him use it on you I knew what to expect"

"Very well done brother"

"Thank you again Khurn. What say we all go somewhere for drinks to celibate?"

"That sounds well to me but would you mind if I invited Da'nia?" Marz was surprised but nodded,

"Not at all. By all means, ask her to join us" Khurn nodded then walked back to Da'nia. They spoke for a few moments then joined the others. After a short discussion they decided upon the Boars Head for their evening gathering. The barman greeted them as they entered and, seeing the jewelled gauntlet Marz was carrying, he grinned and waved his bar rag above his head to get attention,

"See here you all! It seems we have the champion of the tournament in our midst. Congratulations sir" Marz smiled as applause rippled through out the room.

"Thank you, thank you all" a few of the patrons rose to shake Marz's hand as they made their way to an empty table. Khurn swelled with pride, and also a little mischief as he could not resist having some fun at his brother in laws expense, exploiting his discomfort by declaring loudly,

"Yes indeed. That is my Brother in Law, the Champion!"

"I would say that calls for all the drinks to be on the house" put in Lance.

"Oh come now you are embarrassing me, the both of you. And we could not take advantage of this good man that way"

"On the contrary sir I agree with the lad. Yes, your drinks are on the house and that is all there is too it. Please be seated and I will see to you all myself" Marz shrugged and held a chair for Mara before seating himself.

"Seems that you are King for a day Uncle, or at least for the evening" said Lance. Khurn patted Marz not too gently on the back,

"And well deserved I might add"

"The dwarf would have been defeated if any soldier worth his armour had faced him. It was no great victory"

"Marz my dear you are too modest"

"If what you say is true father then why could I not best him?" the bitter note in Jarrins voice was not lost upon his father who said,

"It is as I told you son. As I had seen him use the same trick on you I knew when it was coming and so I could avoid it. You would not be the first nor the last to fall to such an underhanded attack like that believe me" this seemed to pacify Jarrin, for the moment and Lance gave him a pat on the shoulder.

"I for one was very impressed by your use of the War Dance Khurn" said Da'nia. Khurn looked at her and half smiled.

"Indeed, that is the first time I ever came up against that technique in a fight and I hope that it never happens again. If my Uncle Orin had been watching I never would have heard the end of it"

"Your secret is safe with me brother"

"For that you have my thanks Khurn" the bar keep arrived at their table then.

"What can I get for you?"

"Ales all around except for my wife and the lady Da'nia who will have wine. Is that right ladies?"

"Yes wine is fine my dear, thank you" said Mara.

"Wine shall be fine for me also, thank you Marz"

"Right then, I'll have all of that in a few seconds flat" the bar keep smiled and hurried off to fill their order.

"What shall you do with your prize brother? Have you decided where you will place it?"

"Not yet brother" Marz held his prize up to the light and watched it sparkle, "It isn't worth very much I can tell you that"

"A fine paperweight then" Marz chuckled and set the gauntlet down again.

"Yes that might indeed be the best use for it"

"All that counts is that we had a good time out there brother, I know that I did. The prize in the end is of little meaning" Marz nodded,

"I agree"

"As do I father though I am not sure that Jarrin can say the same"

"Any more of that out of you little brother and you will wear your ale once it comes" Khurn quickly covered his mouth to stifle a chuckle. Aldemere chuckled also and raised his hands defensively.

"On a change of subject how can you tell that the gauntlet is not worth much father?"

"Oh just by looking at the stones. Some of them are genuine but others are coloured glass"

"What of the metals brother?" asked Khurn.

"Judging by the weight" Marz lifted the gauntlet again and examined it with an experts eye. "A mix of metals Bronze, Copper and impure Gold. It is nice enough as far as prizes go but it is nothing that any decent thief would think of stealing" he set the gauntlet down again.

"A paperweight then, as I said"

"Indeed brother" the bar keep returned with their drinks then.

"Will this be everything?" he asked.

"Yes I think so" answered Marz.

"Well just holler if you need anything more" he smiled again and returned to his bar to attend to other customers. Khurn raised his tankard and said,

"A toast to you Marz my brother, to the victor goes the spoils" Lance and the others echoed Khurns toast. Jarrin raised his tankard also but said nothing. Marz bowed his head in thanks and drank with them. Marz then set his tankard down and turned to Da'nia.

"Well now tell us, what have you been doing with yourself over these years Da'nia?"

"Reforming and reorganizing our troops on Taladas. It has taken us this long just to reach some semblance of normalcy"

"I cannot say that I am surprised. It is not a task that I would have liked to have undertaken. Meaning no offence to you of course"

"None taken Marz. With our forces split between Solace and Taladas it was a difficult task to be sure"

"What shall you do now that is has be completed?" Da'nia side glanced at Khurn before answering.

"I have been ordered by the Council to return to Solace and take command there as General" Khurn was plainly shocked but did not say anything.

"I see, well now that is quite the honour. Congratulations"

"Congratulations indeed. Solace will be lucky to have you Da'nia" this from Lance who was equally as shocked as his uncle. He wondered what this would mean for Khurn.

"Thank you Marz and Lance, it was indeed a very big surprise for me. I never thought that I would be the one placed in Solace. Apparently the Council thought it in the best interests of Solace and I am led to believe that Lord Darius, Lady Arial and Lord Lucius had a hand in the assignment" at this Khurn smiled and nodded,

"Yes of course it would have been them" Lance nodded and took a drink of his ale. A silence passed over the table. Lance took another drink as he could not think of anything to say. Da'nia looked at him and said,

"You are still upset with him aren't you?"

"Upset? With whom?"

"Lord Lucius"

"Oh" Lance took another drink then shook his head, "No, at least not as much as I was. However I will never say that having the Phoenix associated with Solace in any way is a good idea"

"Aside from a few incidents I would say that the Lady Moon has been able to keep them in check"

"That does not change what they are, or what Vallun is"

"How long are you going to hate him cousin?" asked Jarrin, his tone indicating that he had grown more than tired of hearing this over the years. Lance caught its meaning and growled,

"For as long as I want. Until the day I die unless some miracle happens to make him a man rather than a spoiled brat in a mans body. If he can even be called that"

"Why do you think Lady Moon was placed in charge of them Lance? Vallun is clearly too immature to lead men, he has proven that and so they are no longer this to control"

"Ah so I am not the only one that sees it then, I was beginning to wonder. I will never grasp how Moon tolerates him rather than giving him the boot up the ass that he deserves"

"Oh yes others have seen it my boy. Which is why he does not have full control over the Flying Phoenix. As for Lady Moons conduct I am sure that she has her reasons"

"Gods willing he never shall. He doesn't even have the sense to stay well away from me knowing well what I think of him and his father" Khurn nodded. Vallun was his fathers son, brash and reckless with no thought as to what effect his actions would have on others. Marz cleared his throat,

"I am sure that he wont be much of a problem in the following days"

"He had better not or mark me Solace will see a duel the likes of which it has never seen"

"You forget yourself there Lance. I am now head of this family. Therefor if Vallun causes trouble during Kalas's ceremony it shall be me that he answers to and not to you" Lance bowed his head.

"I had almost forgotten. Forgive me uncle" Khurn nodded.

"Speaking of that though I would say that it is about time that we all headed back. Would you not say so brother?" asked Marz

"Indeed Marz. There are still things that need to be done before the ceremony tomorrow"

"Let us finish these drinks then and be on our way" all agreed and finished their drinks as quickly as possible. When everyone stood to leave the bar keep came over to them.

"Leaving so soon?" he was clearly disappointed.

"I am afraid we must, we have things to attend to back in Solace" said Marz.

"Ah I see. Well allow me again to offer my congratulations and I wish you all a safe journey home" Marz bowed to him then picked up his prize and led the way out. Da'nia had left her horse near the gate which led to the Solace road. As that was not far from where they had left their horses the group told her they would meet up with her at the gate. Once all were saddled and ready they rode to join her.

"Right on time my friends"

"Never keep a lady waiting. Right my brother?" said Marz, grinning at Khurn who playfully kicked him in the leg before riding to be next to Da'nia.

"Shall we go?" Da'nia nodded and they all rode into the evening toward Solace. Lance was quiet for the duration of the ride. Sunset was approaching fast and bringing with it the night that would become tomorrow too soon.