Walkwithwheels: Hello everyone!
Fraudir: This was a quick update.
Ehlen: And a short chapter.
Walkswithwheels: I had planned to make this longer, but I decided that can wait until next chapter. Next chapter will be quite long though, since we'll meet some new people.
Richelle: Does this mean we are not going to be in the chapter intros anymore?
Walkwithwheels: Not for a while, no.
(Richelle cries loudly)
Aaron: Cut that out!
Rorando: I will say the disclaimer. Any characters or settings that the author uses, except for her originals, are properties of their respective companies.
Ehlen: Oh, and the story and quotes that Glory uses in the middle of the chapter are from the Book of Job. It is an abridged version and the original quotes can be found here:
Aaron: Other than that, read and review!
5: Men and Morals
As I clutched my third purchase, I muddled over what exactly we would do next. I couldn't think of anything else to buy at the moment, and Fraudir seemed like she would spend all day in here. Come to think of it, the others probably would too. While I would not get bored, I was left to my own devices. On these devices, my schedule was completely random. Who knew what would happen after!
Sitting around here would not help the situation any.
My mind was blank as a sheet of unused paper, so my only option would be to ask Fraudir.
I turned and stated my question.
"What should we do next?"
Fraudir opened her mouth to reply, but that which left it was not her voice.
Instead, we were both alerted to the deafening chiming of the clock.
It pierced the sky in the sharpest manner, ringing repetitively in a flurry of noise. Like a tornado, it swept across the land, picking up and devastating whoever heard its caterwaul. Mortals scurried and hid, attempting to avoid the destruction. Unfortunately, their efforts were for naught. The offender would not disappear. I would have pitied the poor people, if I was not locked in my own battle against my hearing.
Its rattling tormented my ears unspeakably. I would have clapped my hands over them, but this would not have done any good. Fraudir had yet to realize this, and proceeded in shielding herself. To mortals, earsplitting sounds like this were cruel torture. Considering my oversensitive hearing, it was even worse. My perceptive ears picked up every screech, every bang, every bell. From the tiniest note to the longest unison, there was no beat that I missed. It was like the finest music, except one wanted nothing more than to turn it off. The clock was more irritating than a pesky mosquito, always avoiding its rightful punishment. I shook in perfect harmony with the dreadful drone, silently hoping I would not fall over. Just when I thought I could bear no more, the noise ceased and was replaced by the low hum of the market day.
I stood perfectly still, and Fraudir removed her hands.
I was going to remark on how painful the previous ordeal was when Fraudir suddenly stopped me.
"The clock chimed 12 times! That means it's noon! We have to reunite with the others in the village square!"
"And how exactly do you know that after having your hands clapped over your ears?"
Unfortunately, Fraudir didn't answer me.
Instead, she dashed into the village without a single look back. Shaking my head in disbelief, I rapidly tailed her.
It was not long before we reached the village square. For some reason, Fraudir and I were the first ones there, which was odd considering we had not started towards the square ahead of time.
We did not have long to wait, however.
The Knight named Aaron trotted towards us, a friendly grin spread across his face. He nodded warmly.
"Hello, Glory, Fraudir. Did you get everything you wanted?"
"Yes, I'm content with my purchases." I bowed my head as I replied.
I kept my composure, but Fraudir reverted to her immature ways.
"I got items I wanted, yes, but it's just not enough! There's so much to see and do here! I have to go back for more…" She kept talking in her high-pitched and bubbly voice. Fraudir actually said quite a bit, but I tuned myself out and was not listening.
Oh how I wished I could assert my authority! I was a respected Goddess, for heaven sakes! I should not have to listen to such torture!
Just when I was about to scream at Fraudir to shut up, she was interrupted by the hoof beats of a horse. She glanced around, momentarily interrupted from her babble. Aaron and I followed her glance, and I spotted Rorando.
He was at his full height, riding toward us on a majestic golden steed. Rorando towered like a giant over buildings as he approached us. He was more than double any of us on our tiptoes, and the animal could easily crush us with its weight. And yet he knew we were good people and he would protect us at all costs. Such was the duty of a Knight for all eternity.
I bowed respectfully, letting Rorando pass me. He winked, and, with a smile, motioned for me to rise. I did as I was told, smiling back. His companion's trot slowed to a walk, shortly before he dismounted.
"I trust that I'm not late?"
Aaron shook his head.
"No, you're not."
"I'm surprised you brought Lioak with you." Fraudir commented.
"I thought I was running out of time, so I took a ride."
"I see."
To these old friends, such small talk was normal, but to an outsider like myself, I couldn't be more left out.
"I didn't know you were with the cavalry." I piped up.
"Well, now you do, Glory." Rorando commented.
He gestured in a friendly movement and I understood its purpose.
However, Rorando still spoke it for me.
"Such a fine lady should not get her feet dirty. When we are done here, you are welcome to ride behind me as often as you like."
Despite the generous offer, I shook my head.
"Thank you, but I am fine. I have developed a tough body so I can go without rest."
"I understand. If you change your mind, I am always here."
We didn't have much more time for talk as Ehlen rejoined us.
"How do you fare, you three?"
"We fare well." I replied.
"That is pleasant news."
"I'm glad to see you are all right, Ehlen. Where is Richelle?" Aaron asked.
"Oh, she's just tardy. She'll be here eventually." From the way he said it, I could tell he was slightly exasperated.
This had probably happened more than once.
Around 10 minutes later, Richelle did indeed dash up. She was panting, obviously out of breath. Nevertheless, she was grinning ear to ear. Richelle looked as though she had unearthed a fortune, and seeing her previous purchase, she probably had. Her giddy smile told us that she was completely oblivious to the fact that she was holding everyone up. She was almost bouncing up and down, like a dog drooling for meat. Her eyes were wide with glee, and growing bigger by the second. Richelle was speaking rapidly, her words unintelligible to even the trained ear.
She was completely lost in a world of utter bliss.
No doubt, the joy that she experienced now came from new materials that she had purchased in the village. I found the reaction silly and stupid, but could still understand her feelings.
Always the sensible one, Ehlen gave her the signal to calm down. She obeyed her older comrade, holding up her prizes triumphantly.
The grin never left her face as she shouted.
"Look, look, this shield is fantastic, and they had all sorts of items in stock! I could take on the devil himself!"
I nodded my head politely.
"I think you could!" With my comment, I took time to examine what she was so excited about. There was only a large bag of items in her left hand, so I focused on her right.
Indeed, the shield she handled was a powerful one. Mortals called it a Red Shield. This name was a bit unfitting, because silver was the primary color. However, one could not miss the little red design in the center. It stuck out like a sore thumb, and flashed brilliantly. The rest of the shield would eventually turn red too, I knew, as blood would stain its metal. Despite this, the weapon would fulfill its use.
"So, how is everyone?" Aaron started up the conversation again, and we all answered "well".
"We've all been busy with our shopping, but there is still more to do!" Fraudir chimed in.
I cleverly stifled a sigh and Rorando groaned loudly.
How dreadfully amazing it was that she had reverted to her annoying feminine personality within the course of a few moments! There weren't even stuffed animals to justify her change.
If things kept up, this day would drag on forever.
Luckily, I was not the only one displeased by the recent turn of events.
Ehlen held up his hand and shook his head.
"Hold on there, Fraudir. I know you like shopping, but the rest of us are probably all worn out from our extravaganza."
Before Fraudir could answer, Richelle spoke up.
"Rorando you're using Lioak. Does that mean you are weary?"
Assuming the unfamiliar name referred to his steed, I kept my eyes focused on the pair as the horseman answered.
"Somewhat. I took to the horse because the marketplace was larger than unexpected. I was able to cover more distance with this method, and I could also clear paths fairly easily. However, the road was long. My steed is beginning to tire, and I soon found out walking is hopeless with these multitudes of people. I do not think I can go much longer."
Taking a closer glance at the beast, I realized that the horse had indeed worked ceaselessly.
I could not see the beads of sweat forming on his fur, but I did not need that to inform me of his condition. Lioak's head was tucked low, almost halfway to the ground. The reins tugged on the saddle as he stooped lower. Instead of the prancing stereotype, his feet shuffled back and forth. The horse breathed deeply, and I sensed discomfort as the rib cage expanded continuously and rapidly. His ears drooped slightly, indicating that he had lost his proud valor. I was shocked they were not pinned back in agitation, but he was probably trying desperately to please his master.
The fact that I'd not seen the horse at the map shop struck me like an arrow. Rorando had probably wanted to give the poor thing a break. Then again, setting a horse loose in a bustling village like this was nothing more than a foolish recipe for disaster.
Thankfully, there existed an ancient spell that allowed a handler to keep his animal with him at all times as a spirit in the body. While I had complete command over this magical ability, I wasn't sure if Rorando did. He may have been a Seer, but this did not indicate any proficiency in the magic arts. I would have asked him my burning question, but now was not the time.
Instead, I turned my attention to the others.
Ehlen nodded again.
"I see."
"Resting would be a fine option." Aaron decided.
Fraudir threw up her hands.
"There is so much more to do, and once the night falls, all our time is lost!" She shouted desperately, despite being completely ignored.
I narrowed my eyes in frustration.
This tie would not break without another intervention. My comrades' ideas were all sound, but no one could agree on anything. I had spoken hardly a word, preferring to let the mortals squabble amongst themselves.
I was jolted into reality as I noticed my friends were aware of my silence. Five pairs of eyes locked onto my form. The concerned faces seemed to be daring me to speak. I did not take the challenge, because the only thing I knew how to do was to leave the question unanswered.
Unfortunately, I had no choice.
Our decision, and their eyes, rested on me.
It was now or never.
Richelle pointed out the obvious, but snappish remarks were currently inappropriate.
"What about you, Glory? What would you like to do?"
I opened my mouth, but something else spoke for me.
Pain shot through my stomach like the sharpest of spears. Soon it was accompanied by the fiercest of resounding growls. I held back a moan as the attacker overwhelmed me. I almost fell to the ground, completely defenseless against the invisible assault. The noise was so great I was sure the entire world would hear it. I could feel myself becoming enveloped in a fog; it was a wonder I could still function. The hollow pains made themselves more and more noticeable as the gurgling began its crescendo. Dimly, I recognized these discomforts as the same ones that had plagued me at the inn that morning.
I could have kicked myself for not remembering.
When I was off duty, mortal necessities became the top priority.
As inconvenient as it was, I would have to eat.
How long had it been since I last had a meal? Clearly too long. Several hours, perhaps. Lunch time was around the corner.
Straightening myself up, I spoke my mind.
"Can we find a place to eat? I am famished..."
Immediately afterward, my friends all chimed in.
"Oh! Well, the same goes for me!"
"I am too!"
"And I as well!"
"Well spoken, Glory."
"Of course we may, Glory, of course we may."
I smiled slightly.
By some miracle, I found something that we could all agree on.
I turned around, attempting to lead the way.
Suddenly, Rorando's voice stopped me.
"Wait."
"Hm?"
I spun around, meeting the dismounted knight as he led his horse by the bridle. The others crept up beside him as he spoke.
"Please take up the offer. You must be the most exhausted of us all."
"Your horse is fatigued as well. I do not wish to put him through any more strain."
"Oh surely he will not mind. Protecting the ladies is the duty of the Knight."
Again, I looked at the poor thing. I was not wearing armor or any riding clothing, so I instinctively knew I would be lighter than the original master. And yet, a burden was a burden, light or not. Carrying any sort of load on his back would weaken the animal further, perhaps to a dangerous amount.
No, it was best to let the noble steed have his rest. Besides, we might need him for something more perilous, like combat. If we wasted his energy now, it could prove fatal.
The animal was so weary that I was surprised he could take another step.
Perhaps something sweet in his stomach would help him get through the day.
As I ambled forward, it happened.
My thought died in my head, only to be reborn as something much greater. Boundaries were nonexistent; limits knew no safe havens. The lines between reality and legend blurred as I crossed them both effortlessly. Still, I aimlessly continued my trek; none dared try to stop me. Once I took my path, I knew I could not go back. With this, ordinary would no longer have meaning; I would be forever distant from my peers. And yet I regretted nothing. This was power beyond belief, power virtually unknown in the world of man, power only spoken of in the hushed whispers of the scriptures. With such strength, the role of the commoner was turned upside down. Instead, it was replaced by something more, something far more valuable than the greatest riches. Something that symbolized the place of the omnipotent, the place of the almighty, the place of the absolute.
Within a single second, I felt a warm light flow upward through my body. One could not see it, but I knew of its coming and beckoned it closer. The light spread outward like a gently flowing river. Every single moment I rejoiced, as the power steadily grew stronger. It continued its journey, embracing my entire body. It even reached the very tips of my limbs, like a blanket on the coldest nights. The sensation reminded me of the warmest summer days, although the sun did not scorch. It was complete paradise, pure bliss, and I welcomed its approach. I smiled serenely as the light came to rest on my outstretched left palm. As the light concentrated on the designated area, my entire body became illuminated with its powerful glory. The light was not blinding, but travelers kept their distances nonetheless.
By now, my friends could witness the entire spectacle. Their eyes widened in surprise and slight terror. They probably wished to rush over, but they held themselves back from the unknowing object. Who knew what such powers could do, or if they were real at all? I could tell that each of my companions guessed the exact same thing, but none of them dared to believe it. Silently, I answered that all their conjectures were correct, and that their shortly known compatriot was much more potent than any of them could even begin to imagine.
As the light grew in golden brilliance and intensity, one could make out the faint line of an object taking shape in my hand. The accoutrement became steadily more distinct as the item of my choice appeared. Slowly, I was aware of the weight I had not held before. The burden became larger with each passing moment, but I knew I would not drop my cargo. I was like an artist, painting his picture, only the picture would soon come alive. It was the paragon of true beauty, a simple testament to the tales of yore. Yet the tales were no longer legends, and the truth would become apparent.
The object refined itself, adding its last details of texture and display. It was now fully formed; the light had served its purpose. Having done its duty, the said light disappeared. It soundlessly faded away as it found its place back within my body. The results of its handiwork could still be seen, but the original creator was no more. Without a word, I opened my eyes, holding the cause of the scene.
In my hands there stood a tiny apple. Its green skin shone in the sun's rays. Its globe shaped body was nothing less than perfect as it fit squarely in the palm of my hand. The fruit's slightly hard texture was supported by my even firmer calloused body. The food was devoid of any blemishes, as though it had been picked right off a tree. Just a single thought about its crunchy inside and savory juices was enough to make one's mouth water. Indeed, I wondered how long I could hold it before one of us gave in to temptation. Were it normal circumstances, my friends would've been rushing over, whining for a share like dogs.
Unfortunately, I knew they were not concentrating on the fruit.
I had done the unthinkable.
I had crossed the boundaries of mortals and assumed the role of the almighty.
I was not fit to be called human.
I had created life from absolutely nothing.
I had not intended to use this or any of my other arcane powers when I was off duty, so it took me a second to react.
It was a second too long, because I did not get a chance to explain myself.
"You… this is impossible…" Richelle murmured in disbelief.
"The power of creation... An ability only known to a select and scattered few..." Ehlen whispered in both awe and reverence.
"Well, well, well, there is more than meets the eye. It seems you truly are worthy of the name Glory." Rorando strode over, the first to recover from the initial bewilderment. He beheld a smile, but I could not tell if he was pleased or simply impressed with me. I didn't want to risk using my powers again to find out.
"These powers were thought unobtainable in the mortal world, yet here stands someone who can wield them. The wisest scholars have tried their hardest, but can only master simple things. Tell me, how is it that you command such prowess?" Aaron's question was not meant to be intimidating, but it posed a threat anyway.
Now was not the time to reveal my true identity.
Rapidly, I made up my excuse. It was thin and sorry at best, but it was the only card I could play.
"I have been training with divine powers for quite some time. Eventually, my studies paid off, and these found me worthy. Why they chose me, I cannot guess, but now I can use them without thinking."
"Well, quite a blessed woman you are." Aaron replied, clearly taken by my poor acting.
Before I could speak in reply, I heard someone stammer.
"But… but…" I snapped my head around, and turned in the direction of Fraudir.
"Come now friend, what troubles you?" I asked as innocently as I could.
"That apple… Surely it can't be real?"
"You would doubt my claim?"
Fraudir nodded.
I gestured at Rorando, who brought his horse forward.
Gingerly, I held out my hand with the treat. Lioak blew on the fruit, as though he had his own doubts. Extending the delicacy further, I allowed him to take it from my hand. Once the fruit was in his teeth, it took him no more than a second before it was chewed into a pulp. The tattered shreds of the fruit dribbled from his mouth, the horse clearly enjoying his savory treat. His master dropped the reins, allowing the steed to forage for every last bite as it dropped to the ground. When Lioak finished he glanced up at me, his eyes containing their former vibrant glow. The horse butted his head against my body, but his efforts to find more treats were in vain.
In contrast, I was not disappointed. I grinned broadly in satisfaction.
No one could disbelieve me now.
"So it's true. You are one of Her chosen." Aaron confirmed.
"But still…" Rorando protested.
"What's wrong?" I asked again.
"This is."
Ehlen once again attempted to explain.
"The Glory Goddess wielded powerful light that could create matter from nothing and lay even the greatest of evils to waste. When this world was created, she infused the lesser gods and spirits with parts of her power. That is why the gods in different tales also have the power to create. Just because they are minor does not mean we should disrespect those with the power of creation. It is said that if a mere man is on par with the Goddess and Her follower deities, then he has crossed the boundaries of his species and committed unforgivable sin."
"I've yet to receive divine retribution, so I've clearly committed no sin."
Richelle interrupted me before anyone else could.
"But surely it is foolish for a human to…"
"I am clearly not human."
Before anyone could interrupt, I continued.
"The power of creation has long been spoken of since the beginning of time itself. Man's foolishness in acquiring this power has also been spoken of. In one of the ancient scriptures, a creator god speaks with one of his future servants. The mortal man has been cursed by evil, and longs to figure out why. He is a pious soul, but the devil toys with him. He does not realize this, and his friends and family tell him to turn against his creator god. The man appeals to the heavens, and the god visits in a storm. According to the story, he does not answer the man's questions but instead poses several of his own:
Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand.
Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it?
On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?
Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, that it might take the earth by the edges and shake the wicked out of it?
Have you journeyed to the springs of the sea or walked in the recesses of the deep?
Have the gates of death been shown to you? Have you seen the gates of the shadow of death?
Have you comprehended the vast expanses of the earth? Tell me, if you know all this.
What is the way to the abode of light? And where does darkness reside?
Can you take them to their places? Do you know the paths to their dwellings?
Surely you know, for you were already born! You have lived so many years!
Have you entered the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of the hail, which I reserve for times of trouble, for days of war and battle?
What is the way to the place where the lightning is dispersed, or the place where the east winds are scattered over the earth?
Who cuts a channel for the torrents of rain, and a path for the thunderstorm, to water a land where no man lives, a desert with no one in it, to satisfy a desolate wasteland and make it sprout with grass?
Can you raise your voice to the clouds and cover yourself with a flood of water?
Do you send the lightning bolts on their way? Do they report to you, 'Here we are'?
Who endowed the heart with wisdom or gave understanding to the mind?
Who has the wisdom to count the clouds? Who can tip over the water jars of the heavens when the dust becomes hard and the clods of earth stick together?
Do you hunt the prey for the lioness and satisfy the hunger of the lions when they crouch in their dens or lie in wait in a thicket?
Will the wild ox consent to serve you? Will he stay by your manger at night?
Can you hold him to the furrow with a harness? Will he till the valleys behind you?
Will you rely on him for his great strength? Will you leave your heavy work to him?
Can you trust him to bring in your grain and gather it to your threshing floor?
Do you give the horse his strength or clothe his neck with a flowing mane?
Do you make him leap like a locust, striking terror with his proud snorting?
He paws fiercely, rejoicing in his strength, and charges into the fray.
He laughs at fear, afraid of nothing; he does not shy away from the sword.
The quiver rattles against his side, along with the flashing spear and lance.
In frenzied excitement he eats up the ground; he cannot stand still when the trumpet sounds.
At the blast of the trumpet he snorts, 'Aha!' He catches the scent of battle from afar, the shout of commanders and the battle cry.
Does the hawk take flight by your wisdom and spread his wings toward the south?
Does the eagle soar at your command and build his nest on high?
The creator god showed his strength through this discourse and asks the man to answer the questions and compare. The man, clearly unable, states:
I am unworthy- how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth.
I spoke once, but I have no answer—twice, but I will say no more.
From then on, the people knew that the creator gods were not to be blamed in times of misfortune, and that no one could surpass them. Only when a person sins is a god to take action. The man in the story became blessed by the creator god, and carried that blessing for the rest of his life.
I nodded, finished with my tale.
"Impressive. You know your lore." Rorando commented.
"Are you perchance a scholar?" Ehlen inquired.
I shook my head.
"No, I am simply an avid reader."
"You'd have to be." Richelle chimed in.
Aaron suddenly broke up the conversation, reminding us of our original task.
"We should go. It's getting late."
"Yes, let's make haste." Fraudir added.
At that moment, I remembered how hungry I was.
A mischievous grin slid onto my face, and I could have called myself a little urchin.
"Glory, what is it?" Richelle questioned.
"Last one there buys all the food!" I shouted gleefully, speeding off into the distance.
"Hey, no one said this was a race!" Fraudir moaned.
Unfortunately, I could no longer hear her or the others.
The only thing I could hear was the rush of the wind against my face and my feet pounding along the walkways as I left my compatriots in my dust.