Chapter 82 Waging a Lone battle

Heather Dale songs

Nuada

I split up from Johann and Abe after we escorted the satyr to his destination. Somehow he believed that I was the wrong prince and left to stop the execution. The gas- tinbag was all protocol wondering if we ought to help in this problem but I declined. Another group of fae needed me as we passed the Glimpsar town. I felt sleep- deprived, the damn scroll (which was in Johann's possession) kept squealing, even though I had held a lighter to threaten it and coaxes. Finally, I was forced to wake early at dawn to attempt a suppression. All the unpleasant swear words like f and s, whatever I knew threatened to spill from my mouth. Abe did not annoy me with his jabbering. Perhaps I had been too drained to notice.

As soon as I was finished with this, I could go to a nearby inn and sleep the whole day through. The faun guiding me along had pink fur, tiny protruding horns, also a goat family like a satyr, but more polite and timid. Satyrs are brutish and rude creatures. At this moment it chattered, jumping and waving to hurry me. What does it need from me? Such a long journey? This faun didn't reply but to press on. I managed not to fall over, pushing past the market crowds on this weatherworn path. Glimpsar was one of the busiest trading places in our realm, mostly for the wealthy. Most were not elven, however. The weedy Rassins, druids, fauns, centaurs and creatures of all shapes and sizes were everywhere. Why was I doing this? I pitied the faun's misery and frantic behavior so I wished to help it.

Static crackled. I touched the button. "Yes, what?"

"Me, Abe. You're sure you don't need help? I have a bad premonition," he said, his voice pitched tenor.

Waves of grumpiness washed over my heart. On fey business, I usually managed well on my own! I wanted to berate him. But I decided not to debate any longer. "Fine. A small issue. Tell them I'll be back soon." I also intended to make this a short case myself! What more would they want? Possibly they just wanted me to translate and mediate their disputes. I stopped for awhile to drink water and eat something. The faun ran ahead then came back, kneeling at my feet with terror stricken eyes.

"I have to rest. It was a long day." I said in the common trader's tongue.

It chattered, tugging at my trouser leg. The faun did a keening sound. After awhile, the fish told me I should call if I needed help, his premonitions were always right and he would leave me alone. The sun was going down to the third hour, when the path branched to the Eastern provinces. Turning around, Glimpsar was behind us. Other fae lived here, dancing and wearing human clothes. That noisy modern music. I sneered.

When will you tell me? Are we there? I queried mentally. We had come to a dilapidated crumbling building. I did not wish to go in, seemed structurally unsound. The faun lowered its head and went in. More of them came out, looking up eagerly. When a front creature knelt, the rest followed. How did they know I'm royalty? I told them to get up, in an unknown territory I didn't want to draw attention.

There was a voice in the wind Forgive me and my heightened senses warned of a force from my left. I twisted away, my blade out to defend. Who is it? I observed my surroundings, heart beating quickly. Lugh's breath! My other weapon was the compulsory pistol, I had not brought the spear this time. Glancing at the stupid creatures, they began whimpering and shivering. "You led me to a trap!" I snapped to that one.

Because you are a noble prince. We will die unless we offer Him what he wants! That one cried. Suddenly they sounded happy and could apparently see who was coming. Fauns are notorious for trickery and manipulation- too late this fact came up. A wise man was giving a speech about it. This invisible person whipped quickly, only with my reflexes did I avoid some of the blows. Once the sword clanged against something but only ate air. Then a huge heavy hand clamped onto my shoulder from the back. My breath was forced out. Dizziness and vertigo weakened me. I fought to stay conscious, lying on my side. When had the view become dark as a rainy day? All sound was blanketed out. Who was my attacker? Pain and throbbing, fluid dripping. I reached for the hilt of my sword, but my fingers could barely brush it. It moved away by an unseen hand. Something nudged my stomach and foreign voices spoke. Now I could see though it was blurry, so I tried to find out how to describe…. The floor I lay on was yellow. But the foreign voices was not something I could understand. One of the pink fauns had scampered close, holding out its hooves in a prayer gesture. It looked almost sorry and bowed its head.

I closed my eyes and Sent telepathically to the agents. The first name was astonishing (I had got fond of his children) Hellboy, tell them… Eastern provinces, I'm wounded, broken building, yellow ground, invisible enemy, foreigners. Come… a sharp needle poked into my hand. Damn sedation. Abraham seemed to say something as he appeared briefly, but I fainted.

Extraordinary low temperature grasped me from the drug coma. I was in a cell, very dark even with my good sight. Immediately I tried to rise but I could not, heavy weights to my wrists. I was shackled in a sitting position against the stone. There were some bars in front but no windows. I was still wearing my uniform. But my belt with the communicator, gun and everything was gone! How dare they imprison me? Who's the asshole? I jerked at the shackles futilely. Soon I stopped, panting. A dull ache from the wounded shoulder nagged. I squinted. Someone had bandaged and stopped the bleeding.

Unfortunately, they were not kind. Who was the He? Why was I being offered as sacrifice?

The chains are fae-enchanted, because I'm weakened. I thought when I roused from another brief nap. The drugs must be affecting me. I must not fall asleep if they come again. Had they heard my call for help? The floor was covered by some straw, stretching my legs maybe I could search for a needle or pin. I wanted desperately to leave this cell, but if I couldn't, at least free myself. I cursed myself, how could I be so foolish not to have people with me? true, I went on fae affairs myself, yet I was meeting up mostly with colleagues! Abe you were right. I'm in a mess now, humiliating huh? I wish you had been a nosy parker and followed me anyway. Sister, Laira, Joe, Liz's children, I cannot possibly die here like this. I pricked my ears, sense of hearing was back thankfully. Gauging from the quiet outside, they had captured and placed me outside of the town. My head was woolly, it was tempting to give up. Then the amber around my throat glittered, laid warm against my skin. It had not been taken away. She would tell me, I want to give you a protection amulet too. Shush don't refuse, Noowa. You've showered us with lotsa gifts, it's the least I can do. My friend blest it. I didn't want to cause the dainin unnecessary worry so I had not told them about this predicament.

Now I felt serene. If they took my things away, what else did I have? Every agent has a spare one, that is triggered when something untoward happens. Where could I find it? Checking no one was looking, I crooked my legs. Manning had reminded us everytime... I had taken the director for granted. 'In a place no one can notice, hit it and we'll be able to track any of you gone missing.' A little string had come undone at my calf leg where the cloth and bootlip was. At first I thought it was some loose thread. I tried to reach it, yes and tugged with my teeth. The device clicked and there was a vibration. It should work, Alateir, Mathair, I need your assistance again. Please send help.

I remained awake, thinking of my family and parents. Unknown time passed. From the chilly air, it got stuffy and dry. Naturally my body needed a way to cool down. Sweating raised goosepimples and I shivered. The monster would not gain anything from me. Suddenly a noise creaked and metal clanged. The door was open! I forced myself to be alert. A small figure came in with a tray of food- grapes and bread. I glared at it.

The horns were unmistakeable. It said something. A tall figure in shadow loomed over me, his face could not be seen. The weight on my hands eased. He had unchained me.

Could I overpower the guard? That was my intention, but my strength was drained.

I picked up the food and smelled them. The bread was dry but free of mold and the grapes looked fine. Hope they were not poisoned, because I had to eat. The shadows were still there. I swallowed the last morsel and licked my lips. The door was still ajar, if I didn't let them imprison me again I could try to get to it. "What do you want?Who is your master?" I asked in a civil manner. I had to stall for time. Talking was not one of my gifts, I just wanted to figure out my next course of escape.

The shadows grunted, shuffling forth. I didn't know if I could run but I moved back.

"Hello Prince Nuada," a silky voice pierced the silence. Then blinding light made me shield my face with one arm. Finally the light was gone, and I was looking at an elf!

He was grey in pallor, grey eyes, dark limp hair. The drab grey color was….. that of a Renegade race. They had been wiped out, traitors to us to the orcs hundreds of centuries ago! How was it possible that this one survived?

"Who the hell are you? What do you want?" I switched to English. My skin crawled and I gasped. These elves are unorthodox, unlike us their diets are- more sinister. He smiled, exposing sharp teeth, not just two fangs but all were serrated. His steps were very light. "Royal blood is so sweet, better to quench my thirst with. The little sips I've had were just too tantalizing. I wonder how much you can give me."

Damn! That was the reason why I felt so dizzy and having cold spells. "Identify yourself, vampire!"

He continued preaching about the benefits of sucking blood and gaining immortality, ignoring me. I edged around, closer to the open door. But I still fixated on the enemy. He was waving his claws around like a grand master. No one else moved to stop me.

"… enjoyed the nice sleep. You see, I am intelligent not like tree huggers, I study the dark arts and alchemy. How exciting for me to experiment on a live cousin of mine and fall helpless from my drugs. It was meant to heal, and all wounds heal, yet the subject will always feel weak. Then I shall move in romancing the nice drippity drip of my feeding. Yum!"

This did not bode well. I leaned against the wall, the distance was near to the cell door. But I was weak again. He chuckled. I spoke to help myself remain conscious. "Ah I see. No wonder I kept sleeping when I wanted to move. Cowards resort to invisibility to attack." I smirked. Someone would get my distress signal and come, I have to stall for time.

"No I am far superior to warriors with small brains. I am swifter with the magic I've gained. By the way I have failed to introduce myself, how careless of me. My name is At'xia Miragewalter , the grandson of my lineage. Who was eliminated by your ancestors, Nuada Silverlance of Bethmoora," his cheerful demeanour was now dripping with contempt and hatred. My hatred was mutual as well. Why had they not done a clean job then?

My ego was intact. Who cared what he thought?

I was curious. "Hmm then how did you escape? A newborn baby can't run away. Back for revenge." If he didn't tell me, I didn't know what lineage he was from. All I needed to do was to escape when I had the chance. Even if my strength wavered, I refused to submit so quickly.

"Good question. Someone must have rescued me. I soon turned on them and grew fast. I survived."

I frowned, why did fauns work for him? He predicted this. "Fauns are my main blood supply. They're juicy and submit easily. I couldn't get access to any elves. Humans are fine, but they're so scrawny and thin blooded. Heaven is on my side, I won't starve for long now and going to have royal blood to drink." He peeled back his sleeve and his arm was corroding. I turned away. At'xia advanced on me, laughing. His dull grey eyes were glinting. Oh shit! The maniac snarled, all elven features abandoned and leapt, claws extended. I kicked him in the middle. Then I ran for the open door. Chains began to fly, from behind, I heard the metallic rings.

He shouted something. The guards floated forward to grab me. Some brushed my hair and shoulders but I evaded their grasp. One person was solid, so I used him as a shield. Then I shoved him towards them. Chains shackled some guards. At'xia still laughed.

I was outside, which direction? There were many tunnels. I ran down the middle one. Got to find weapons to defend myself. The maniac had some telepathy so I shielded my thoughts forming a barricade, and I had to keep moving. I managed to keep some distance from my pursuers and rested for a moment. My vision was clear, but I was exhausted. My shoulder wound was bleeding again, I must heal. I murmured a healing spell and covered it. Sweat broke out. I drew my arm across my face. I continued walking at even pace, holding Laira's gift with numb fingers. The stone warmed, consoling me.

Should their voices be closer, I would run again. Many rows of dungeons and skeletons hanging from chains. Actually having darkness was a good cover, now I was getting accustomed to it. Light would give me away. Did Renegade elves fear light, and garlic? This was the usual knowledge. Silver! Yes, silver should harm him. Voices drifting. I turned into a corner, deadend. There was a ledge, my fingers felt a hold and I hoisted myself up. Pain knawed but was tolerable, and the exit opened to yet another tunnelway.

Our people hate being enclosed, the dread of this place was worrying. I drew deep breaths. If I kept moving, I could find a way above. Only then will I lie down.

What a shit-day this turned out to be. Might be several days. Vampires don't allow us to revert to sandstone, they will absorb every essence to make us fade completely. That spurred me on to find the end of this depth. Hellboy, Abraham, come soon, quickly! I'm lost and… weak. (I did confess this emotion) Will try to hold on. He is a vampire and wants my blood. I'm sorry, Lirael. I lowered my head and swallowed hard. For so long, I had fought many enemies and overcome obstacles, and trials. But I had my skills, compared to now. I may fade.

To my delight, the demon replied me! Hey Waif! That ya, I heard your voice. Thought a ghost, but can't be. Ya alive, what's happening? Tell me where you are! He heard and was coming! I described where I was, leaning on the wall for a respite, gulping air. Air was not circulating. He said they were looking for me, which meant the signal had worked. We questioned many, some were helpful and pointed the way.. The crumbly building site had some of your hair and blood. Immense relief and gratitude surged through my veins, I smiled. They were helpful citizens, I would return the favor.

He taunted that I had gone soft from my desperation but I did not care. I wanted to see them, the outside world again! My heartbeat was so rapid. Didn't want to pass out completely but so tired…. Darkness was consoling. I stayed there for a moment, needed to conserve energy. All sensations were gone, until I bumped onto something cold and hard. Ghostly voices wailed. I sat up, and the narrow passage had become higher. I was able to stand and saw many things in piles and frames. A weapons chamber! Swords of every steel, gold and brass, a few rusty, treasure piles, crowns. Some bigger weapons were gilded with precious stones. The smaller swords more suitable for elves were in the centre. Carefully, I drew one, was intact and not rusting. That would have to function, for others were too cumbersome.

My soulmate was speaking. Nuada! Nuada you're injured! I was scared. Casting around was I hallucinating? I didn't answer but vowed to escape. It was true, it was the Link binding us. I admitted my foolishness. I held onto this sword and moved to the other end which was a deep darkness.

Where was the laughter from? I inched forward but was blocked. "I'm not afraid. I will kill you!" I growled, clenching hard to it with both hands. Perhaps I could wound the vampire, my arms trembled from effort. At'xia landed in a dustful of clouds. His hair had turned silver and the jaws were fully extended. "I won't die. I will wait here patiently till you submit. Go!" he pointed at me while minions flew. I held them off, some howled in anguish. The silver glowed.

I backed the way I had come in. When I passed the rack of silver weapons, they hesitated. So, afraid of the light. Planting the blade down, I angled it so more light flashed. They howled. At'xia drifted close but was not affected. Then he was horrified by something and covered his face. Ghostly voices said they would assist me for he had killed them too.

Maybe the spirits. He walked back and batted at foes we couldn't see. I knelt down behind the rack. The cold was affecting my health now.

Never had I been more grateful to hear gunshots. The bullets ripped past. I looked up, the bad elf had blood from his wounds. He screamed. Some flames also licked at him. Unug un rama pounded in his fist first. "Sorry we're late, Nuada!" Abe shouted, opening fire.

Others had the flame guns going. "Can you stand? Let's get you fresh air." I felt him support me and smiled faintly.

"Hello. I'm happy. Yes outside is good." I was led and leaned onto the fishman and an agent, and I trusted them without needing to see the way. A breeze fanned my skin. "Here ought to be better, we found a one way route in. Need to search again for an exit. Rest for awhile." Abe gave me water and food. I ate and drank a lot. Now a healer stepped forward and frowned. No doubt I was in poor condition.

His hands were gentle and music floated. People lowered me to a horizontal position and draped a blanket. Nice and warm. "Blue, thank you. Tell them I'm alright. They're worried," I said, waking from a sound.

I was looking up at a vehicle ceiling. I tried to get up but was held. HB was sleeping nearby. Abe squeezed my hand. "Yea I have. How's the body?" I leaned against the makeshift pillow. For once I didn't flinch from his touch and responded. "That's nice, a smile from angry prince. We're on the way, try not to move too suddenly. You've been dehydrated, need to give you some transfusion. The healer did most of it. Drink."

Ah, that was the tube in my hand. I was able to raise myself and drink the cooling water.

I slept again. But I wanted to talk to the Halflings and persuaded them for a phone.

"Hey it's me. I'm coming back." I said when Laira picked up. My eyes burned. She called my name a few times. "Yes. I can hear you."

"I wanna see you, Elf! Then I'll scold you for going missing like that….." I laughed hearing her angry tone. I reassured that I was not too badly injured.

Laira

I was terrified hearing him feeling sorry, and his worry. Then I couldn't get him to talk to me again. Nuada must have been lost. Was I so fiercely enthusiastic to hear him call me with a tired voice. We didn't know if Nuala's child would be affected. But we would keep it from him first before he found out. Nuada had to rest.

I sniffled. People informed me the van was back. Red jumped out, people bore a stretcher. It must be him! The blond person seemed wan and covered by a blanket. I got closer. He sat up, speaking and placed his feet on the floor. I couldn't enter the outpatients' ward. This was the hospital unit at the outer wing.

"Hey Red! Is that prince? Is he ok?" He said sure he was. Finally I could go in for a little while, everything was lighted. Nuada's chest lifted as he slept. I wanted to cry and took a chair. He stirred from under the blankets. When I was not aware, the rough hand nudged mine. He smiled.

"Don't scold me, it's bad enough. I like the stone. It was consoling." He meant the amber stone.