Chapter 28- Slayer Scrolls
Chapter 25- Borazon, Samuel
Day15 – morning- Prelude to Darkness
Runil's Hut
Borazon was just getting up when Runil asked. "How did you sleep?"
With a stretch Borazon remark. "About as well as could be expected."
"Bogroll is locked up if you two wish to get out and do a few things now would be the best time." Runil informs them.
"Yeah, I want to check on Ember's stall and food I want to change up the mixture, so she'll gain some weight faster." Borazon remarks taking the cup of Hot cider Runil silently offers him.
"I want to see if I can help Zira with some potions if that is okay and Nelly is wanting to get out in the sun." Samuel says as he gets out of bed.
"How did you find this out?" Borazon asks.
"I was just coming back from my morning rituals and Nenya let me know that the guards will be working extra shifts to reinforce the town." Runil informs them as he finishes making some oatmeal. "She also let me know about him being locked up for almost attacking the Healer. He has a fever and is a little delusional."
"How are they reinforcing the town?" Samuel asks.
"Well, Sheldon has come through and found several powerful runes that will target Werewolves. So, the guards will be carving them everywhere. Plus adding to their stockpile of firewood. Lotz, I heard is making more silver arrowheads."
"Where did he get the Silver?" Borazon asks in surprise.
"The Jarl Sidgeer opened the vaults for silver weapons for the guards first and silver charms for towns people. There is a small cost for the charms but that is to be given to Jernna the Jewelry Artist for her time. It is a limit of one per person. If someone wants more the cost, goes up and most of it will go back to the vault."
"Really I thought he was greedy." Borazon off handedly remarks.
"No actually that was the previous jarl. But he was sending all our gold to a certain jarl to fund a certain rebellion." Runil relays
"That explains a few things." Borazon mumbles. "Explains what grandpa?"
"Just the way things were changing in the Rebellion."
"How so?" Samuel asks.
"We were getting paid at first for several years, but the pay became less over time. We weren't allowed to raid on allies or non-combatants, but I heard more about troops doing just that." Borazon explains with sadness in his eyes.
"That would explain why there are lot of new attacks by Stormcloaks."
"I don't understand." Samuel points out.
"War cost money and if you don't pay your soldiers, they will find money where they can." Borazon sadly answers.
Even though Samuel didn't ask the question "Did you?" It was all over his face. To which his grandpa shook his head no.
"But if the new jarl just stopped the money why where there attacks before?"
"The council of elders cut the funding off months ago." Runil answers from his seat.
"I thought the Jarl ran things." Samuel says.
"They usually do but a council of elders can overrule him with enough votes on such things." Runil explains.
"Are they who made him stop being Jarl?" Samuel asks.
"Sort of."
"Who makes up the council of elders?"
"Most those who have lived here the longest and have the oldest ties to the land but some Young Thanes."
"Why did they choose to have him step down." Samuel asks in between bites of food.
After taking sip of hot cider Runil answers "Actually, they didn't remove him he removed himself."
"What? Why?" Borazon inquires.
"The council of elders was overriding all of the jarl's major decisions when it came to the war and where the money was being spent. His actions were causing some loss of life of our people. And that is why the council of elders stepped in. He tried to have them arrested for treason but that didn't work out. The council of elders was going to have to vote to have him put to death so that he would be removed permanently. His nephew stepped up to stop the matter before there was bloodshed.
"How?" Samuel asks.
"He gave his uncle a choice to step down as Jarl and become a Thane or be permanently removed." Runil answers.
"I guess I should give him more respect. He looked after his own even when they were doing something he didn't agree with." Borazon humbly says. "Thank you for the breakfast." He continues as he puts his axe on his back. "Let's head out. Hey Runil since you have done so much for me and mine, I would like to treat you to lunch at the Inn if you are free?"
"Lunch at the Inn it is." Runil smiles
Day15 – morning- Prelude to Darkness
Stables in Falls Creek
Borazon and Samuel headed for the stables first. They both were quite surprised at the change in the stables. Not only were the stalls cleaned but it looks like Gruffnar had gone through the place with a toothbrush and cleaned.
"Gruffnar what did you do stay up all night?" Boarzon teased but knew the moment Gruffnar turned around he had guessed right.
'
"Hell, yeah couldn't sleep so I cleaned, and I am putting these runes all over. I am even wearing some wolfvane but it itches." Gruffnar answers while itching his red neck.
Showing his own pouch Samuel says. "You should be wearing that in a pouch not directly next to your skin."
"Do you have any extra of pouches?" Gruffnar almost begs.
"Yeah, here. That'll be 4 gold per pouch."
"What? Why?"
"1 gold for the string, 1 gold for the cloth, and 2 gold for me to sow it." Samuel answers with a hand waiting. Borazon just smiles at his grandson while Gruffnar gives them both a half-hearted sneer as he is giving the gold over.
"You look like you need some sleep, so I'll keep working on the carvings after I check on Nelly." Borazon offers.
"He better take a bath first with lie." Samuel remarks.
"Why?"
"That rash will spread if you don't." Samuel answers.
"If you really mean it, I'll head for the bath then bed." Gruffnar grumbles.
"Yeah, go get cleaned up." Borazon insists with a pat on Gruffnar's back.
"Don't get the Wolfvane wet it will make the bag itchy." Samuel warns him from the stall as he was checking on the starts, he had left there.
"Thanks, I won't." Gruffnar says as he heads in the back to get some clean clothes for his bath.
When Gruffnar comes back, him, and Samuel leave together but once out on the main street they head for different places. It was about an hour after Gruffnar had returned and went to bed Borazon had finished with the carvings when he heard someone calling out from below.
"Gruffnar you hear?"
"He's not available at the moment can I help?" Borazon answers from the hayloft above the man.
"Where is Gruffnar?" A guard asks.
"Why are you looking for him?" Borazon asks.
"I am Naven and us guards are seeking some help from any able body man."
Borazon wipes of his hands and asks, "What with?" While climbing down the latter.
"We are prepping the town in case of another attack." Naven answers with a little bit of awe at the man who took on the werewolf.
"So, I saw. What do you need help with?" Borazon asks.
"Stocking up on firewood for starters." Naven answers.
"I'll help." Borazon offers.
"What about Gruffnar?" Naven inquires.
"He stayed up all night cleaning and carving. I sent him to bed."
"That's what's different about this place." Naven remarks as they walk out of the barn and over to the sawmill.
Day15 – morning- Prelude to Darkness
Sawmill in Falls Creek
"Hey guys look who wants to help." Naven says as they approach a few other guards.
"Hey. Borazon it's good to see you out and about." Rimeneer says shaking Borazon's hand. "This here is Jonna, Ryder, Hemmin, Hovedin and Tohmava. I would introduce you to the rest, but the Steward has us all on different jobs and the night crew is sleeping right now."
"Nice to meet you fellows. It's good to be out and about doing things. So, what's this?" Borazon asks as he points to a metal pot.
"We started a friendly game of seeing who could split the most. You want in?" Ryder snidely says.
After looking the guards over Borazon says. "Sure. What's the rules?"
"Chop until you are tired, and you can only use regular wood axes." Ryder who was sitting next to the pot says as he points to Borazon's battle axe on his back. "We all know that Axe took on a werewolf." This causes all the guards present to nod their heads in agreement.
Borazon takes off the Axe and his shirt and puts them off to the side then says "Sounds fair. What's the wages like?"
Ryder points at the old metal bowl saying, "Everyone puts a couple of gold into the pot who ever chops the most wins the pot."
"Breaks for water?"
"Nope you tire you quit you are out, and we keep track of how much everyone splits. But no over working yourself." Naven puts in.
"So, it's by rounds?"
"Yup." Ryder answers.
"Teams or singles?"
"Singles only." Ryder answers.
"Who is the Judge?"
"I keep the records but someone else counts. That way the night crew can get in on it." Ryders remarks with a sly smile.
"Who is watching to make sure you don't change the records?" Borazon inquires.
"Why would you ask that?" Ryder fakes being offended.
"The dragon born said that in her world they had an expression that it's not the ones who cast the votes but who recorders of the votes that has the true power." Borazon says with a knowing smile.
"How about old man Ranmish. He wants something to do, and he can't get around very well." Naven suggests. At the suggestion Ryder gave a slight groan and realized that Borazon had figured him out.
"Don't know who he is." Borazon shrugs.
"Nosey guy who watches everyone and everything." Naven remarks.
Tossing a handful of coins in Borazon gives him a look that says, "Go get him." then heads over to the fresh pile rounds.
Tone, tanned, sweaty muscles went on show as the contest progressed for the woman and men of Falls Creek. Many ladies made excuses to go over to the sawmill and watch the contest. A few of the women tripped over themselves as the shirts came off from the hard work. Most of the guards went too fast too soon and quit just as quickly. The later ones who took the time to watch Borazon match his pace which kept them in longer.
"Damn Jonna, I thought you would last longer than 120 rounds." Ryder remarks.
"How is the grandpa doing?" Jonna asks after drinking some water.
"He's at 200 right now but he looks to be going strong. Not even breaking a sweat." Ranmish says from his seat under the shade with a cold mug of water.
"How does he do it?" Ryder questions while staring at the scares on Borazon's gleaming back.
"He set a pace and is sticking to it." Naven answers.
"That pace he is doing is insane." Hemmin remarks as he is rubbing his sore arm muscles.
"I heard he was part of one of the deadly groups of the Storm cloaks." Jonna inputs as he wipes the sweat off his head.
"Yeah, it's said that one of them could take on a whole squad of the Empire's legionnaires." Naven remarks while he drinks some water.
"I would love to have him as a captain. He sure could teach us a lot." Rimeneer mutters.
"Don't let Captain Marco hear you say that he was a Legionnaire." Ryder remarks.
"He's the one who told me about Borazon's group." Naven inputs.
"Captain Maro wants to retire. Think we can get Borazon to become our next Captain?" Jonna remarks after drinking some more water.
"I heard he's looking to buy some land to leave it to his grandkid." Hemmin remarks.
"Being captain comes with land when you retire." Captain Marco says as he walks upon his men.
"Sir!" All of them stand in attention and respond at the same time.
"You are right he would be a good choice." Captain Marco says then looks directly at Ryder. "Especially since he not only spotted the troublemaker but handled him without skipping a beat."
"We are so getting extra assignments." Rimeneer mutters.
"Yes, you are." Nenya says as she comes up behind them. "I am thinking we will need more logs for the firewood and more carvings."
"Yes ma'am." The guards responded.
"But first thing tomorrow." Nenya says coldly. "Captain, I wish to speak with about some defenses we might change over to."
"Certainly." The captain says and he and Nenya walk away.
"Yes, ma'am." The men respond in relief as she walks away.
"I got to know how they always do that?" Ryder asks as he wonders how those two always pop up on them and they never know that they are there. "I swear they are using some kind of invisibility spell."
Day 15 - Afternoon – Prelude to Darkness
Outside Dead Man's Drink
Just before lunch time came around Borazon ducks out and let the guards continue their little contest. Borazon did a quick clean up outside the Inn with just a few observers.
"No need to go inside." Valga says as she hands him a cloth to dry off with.
Taking the towel Borazon asks "Why?"
"Me and a few of the ladies around got together and set up some food and drinks out here for everyone working so hard. There is a jar at the end of the table if you wish to leave some gold."
"That's kind of you."
"Not really you see I will need you" Valga pokes his bare chest and continues "To go hunting again for more meat as this will use up almost all of what I have."
"Now wait a minute. I haven't even stayed at the Inn for a while even though I would like to." Borazon remarks because he felt like he was imposing on Runil.
"I'll pay in gold." Valga lets him know.
"What about the Jarl requiring them to have first selection of any meat for sale?" Borazon counters.
"You have a deal with Valga, so I suggest you keep it." Nenya says as she pops up behind him startling him a little as he was suddenly pinned in.
"And Samuel needs to get me more herbs." Zira remarks from the other side while giving Borazon a lustful eye.
"Grampa got." Samuel starts to say.
"Don't finish that." Borazon snaps out as he is squirming away from the women.
"Game." Zira smirks and winks. "Though my husband may have something to say about that."
Borazon groans in grief.
"I have just one thing to say to you Borazon." Runil says from the porch where he was smoking his pipe.
"What?" Borazon frantically asks.
"Run." Runil snickers to which all three women glares at him and he just smiles back. While the women are glaring at Runil, Borazon quickly puts his shirt back on.
"Grampa I have more orders of Wolfvane and need to replace some of the starts I got when….." Samuel says with a bit of sadness.
"Fine, I'll go tomorrow. Just let me eat in peace." Borazon groans as he is in line to get food.
"I'll be going with you to help Samuel fill his cart so you can use my cart to get a few elks or deer."
"Why so many?" Borazon asks.
"We will be laying to rest Lavinia the day after tomorrow." Runil tells.
"And we will have an even bigger spread to celebrate her life. It is common to bring something for the family to make it just a little easier for them.
"I would like to wear the nice tunic and pants for that." Samuel tells his grandfather while they were in line for the table of food that was set up outside on the porch. "I would also like to go the store to pick something up for them."
"After we eat, we can go to the store. Then this evening we can go to the bath house to drop off our clothes to be cleaned. We can get a bath tomorrow when we get back and pick up our clothes when we are done." Borazon tells Samuel which he gives a small smile back.
Day 15 - Afternoon – Prelude to Darkness
Grey Pine store Falls Creek
"Afternoon. What can I get for you?" Solaf asks when Borazon and Samuel walks in.
"Afternoon. I was wondering if I could buy some of the at blue satin sloth?" Samuel asks.
Getting out the roll of material Solaf asks "Sure, how much do you need?" Samuel points the at a couple of cut marks on the counter.
"That's a lot are you sure?" Borazon remarks.
"I am going to make one for me with her name and my parents name on it. I just don't know how to do it." Samuel says.
"What are you making?" Solfa asks.
"He's going to make some wolfvane bags for Lavinia's family. I want to put her name on it but I don't know how."
"I can show young man." An old woman wearing a purple shawl sitting next to the fire says.
"Really?"
"Yes."
"Mom don't bother them." Solfa says.
"She's not bother me." Samuel says as he takes his new cloth over to her to where she was sitting.
"Ma'am?" Borazon asks.
"My name is Tilla since my son is too rude to introduce me." Tilla says as she gives her son Solfa an evil glare.
"You don't mind helping him for little while." Borazon inquires.
"No, it would be nice to teach someone." Tilla says with a smile. "All my boys wanted to learn was how to fight."
"I teach Samuel everyday how to use a knife, sword and bow but it's good to be well rounded." Borazon says.
"That it is. Why don't you go help the guards and I'll watch Samuel." Tilla says.
"Thanks. Meet you back at barn before dark."
"Okay." Samuel happily says.
"What can I get for you?" Solfa asks Borazon.
"Those Silver neckless you were talking about the other night are they still available?"
"I saved them for you."
"Lotz didn't need them for my axe?" Borazon asks.
"Nope. He had enough after the priest gave him the silver. Looks good on that axe of yours."
"Yeah, it may look great but throws the balance off just a bit. But it's an easy work around." Borazon answers.
"Do you still want the neckless?"
"Let's see them."
Solfa takes them out and shows them to Borazon. He looks them over and sees that they are straight sliver and nothing fancy on them.
"Samuel, can you make you bags fit on these?" Borazon gestures the necklaces.
"Yeah, those would work great."
"I'll take them. How much?"
"50 gold for each."
"Bit steep."
"Around here silver is more valuable them gold right now."
"I get it. Here." Borazon says as he lays the amount for each one on the counter. After paying Borazon hands the necklaces over to Samuel. "Here now you can say they are from both of us."
"Okay." Samuel says as he takes them from his grandfather.
Just before heading out the door Borazon sees a couple of fishing poles and gear. He checks to see that Samuel wasn't looking then points at them. Seeing what he was up to Solfa writes down the price. After paying for the items, he took them and left.
"See before dark." Borazon tells his grandson as he was leaving. Borazon smiles fondly as he sees him wave at him while he is learning something new."
Borazon heads back to the fire pile to see it going strong with the next shift and different guy taking count and different guard recording but still having Ranmish taking his job very seriously watching everything from his post while drinking his water. Borazon heads back to the barn to continue craving more runes. Samuel showed up with Nelly just before the sun was setting. When he arrived, Borazon checked Ember one more time they head for the bath house and drop off their nice clothes to be cleaned.
Day 16 – morning- Prelude to Darkness
Runil's Hut
Borazon was up with Axe in the ready when the second knock on the door came. Runil carefully approaches the door and asks. "Who is it?"
"Naven and Ryder." Naven answers through the door.
"What can I do for you, my sons?" Runil asks as he opens the door.
"I hear to deliver this to Borazon." Naven answers as he holds up a pot half full of gold coins.
"Come in." Runil says as he steps aside allowing the two men to enter with a small pot between them.
"You won the contest coming in at 421." Naven tells him.
"That's a lot more there than I thought there would be." Borazon remarks looking at the pot.
"That's cause almost every man in town got in on it a couple came closet to reaching 400 but you are the only one to go over." Ryder says then asks. "How did you do it?"
"Only 421 I am getting old I could do over 500 a few years back but damn I am feeling." Borazon remarks as he pops his shoulder.
"What do you want us to do with this?" Ryder remarks as he was struggling under the wight.
"Put it on the table." Runil says.
"No."
"What?"
"Give half to Lavinia's family. Then split the rest between you gaurds." Borazon answers.
"But I heard you wanted to buy some land. This is here is more than enough to do that." Naven remarks.
"I do want to, but I think others need and deserve it more." Borazon says while Samuel beams with pride looking at his grandfather.
"We'll let them know it's from you."
"No, it's for the town and us."
"Are you sure?" Ryder says in surprise and respect.
"Yes." Borazon says as he looks at his grandson's face.
After the two guards leave Runil looks and Borazon and says. "You are one sneaking bastard."
"What?" Borazon says in mock offence.
"You saw them struggling with that and so you are making them work out more. Plus it makes you look good by giving up the gold."
"They are a little on the puggy side."
"You would make a good Captain."
"What does he mean you would make a good Captain?"
"I don't know."
"The guards were talking about how you would make a good Captain because you lead by actions not just barking orders. Then your grandfather spotted the troublemaker and put him in his place without missing step."
"So, he was."
"How did you know?"
"He reminded me of someone I was in a troop with who was a troublemaker."
"What did you do grandpa?"
"Do you remember when Chrissy was telling us about her world?"
"Yes."
"Do you remember when she tried to explain how people were elected?"
"Yes."
"Remember when she remarks the elections could be rigged?"
"Yes, she said something about politicians using the cemetery vote and another thing about note being the votes the matter but the ones who record the votes that matter. I still don't understand that last one."
"Simple if you vote you know your vote, but you don't know who other people vote for. The only one who does is the one recording the votes. Which means they could change the votes to who the think they should be for."
"That's not fair."
"Right."
"So, what does it have to do with that gold you just gave away?"
"Your grandpa had someone watching the one who was recording the person recording the score of the little contest he was in. Which totally blew Ryder's little scheme."
"What scheme was that?"
"I heard he figured he could fudge the numbers in the favor of whoever he put his gold on. Didn't work to well." Runil smirks as he recalls the little fight he prevented.
"Huh?"
"How do you know so much?"
"Well as a Priest I hear many things I am not allowed to share." Runil answers with a wink.
There was another knock on the door.
"Having you hear sure does make for a livingly morning." Runil remarks seeing Borazon go for his ax again.
"Better to be safe then dead." Borazon answers.
"Who is it?" Runil asks.
"Zira."
Runil opens the door and asks. "What can I do for you?"
"I am here to see if the guys are ready." Zira answers.
"Yeah, we are." Borazon answers.
"Same way as last time?" Zira asks.
"No, you guys can leave through the gates." Runil remarks.
"Good the horses are ready and outside. You will just need to get Nelly and hook up your cart as we leave through the gate." Zira says.
"Do you actually need anything in that direction?" Borazon asks, remembering his encounter with the skunk when they went that way.
"No, we just need to get Nelly's cart. We need more bees and wax."
"Okay then let's go." Borazon says heads for the door.
Ember happily neighed when she saw Borazon. Borazon slips Ember couple of apple slices.
Day 16 – Afternoon- Prelude to Darkness
Outside Falls Creek West Gate
As they are leaving Borazon gives a slightly smirks a little as he sees Naven and Ryder struggling to take the pot back to the barracks. Zira and Samuel spent the day filling Nelly's cart with herbs, insects, and other items Zira felt she needed for her potions. Borazon was able to able to kill 3 bull elks, 2 bucks and couple of rabbits.
"You sure are on a role today." Zira remarks as she watches Borazon hanging the rabbits on the side of the cart.
"Just a little plus this is a test for Ember to see if she is strong enough to handle a full load." Borazon answers.
"So, you are planning on leaving soon?" Zira asks.
"That depends on how she does." Borazon remarks.
"Really grandpa?"
"Yeah. If you are going to be considered a travel merchant, you have to travel." Borazon points out.
"I would hate to see you leave but I understand as my shop is getting quite full.
"We won't be leaving right away may be back to River Run and then back here." Samuel suggests.
"You are going to eventually need more clients then just our two towns." Borazon remarks.
"I know. I just am nervous about meeting new people." Samuel answers.
"Samuel. Just do like you did with me and you will do just fine." Zira encourages him as she gets up on the horse behind Borazon.
"Okay." Samuel says as he leads Nelly behind them.
"Don't go getting worried yet. We still need to see how Ember is going to do." Borazon says as he directs them back towards Falls Creek.
"Why do you keep looking around?" Zira quietly asks Borazon.
"I feel like we are being watched but I can't tell were from."
"So, we be worried?"
"No sure they have been doing it all day but haven't made a move against us. Let's keep an eye out for trouble." Borazon remarks as they keep heading back to the gate.
"He is quite good." A male vampire hiding in the shadows of a boulder remarks to another.
"Yes, or we need to get better at hiding." The female vampire next to him remarks half hoping for another show of muscle that she had seen the day before.
Day 16 – Evening- Prelude to Darkness
Falls Creek
They arrived at the western gate as Hemmin was just about to close the gate.
"Closing a bit early." Zira remarks.
"Stewards orders. Good see you that you made it back safe and sound." Hemmin remarks as he closes the gate behind them.
"Anything happen?" Borazon asks.
"Not really."
"What do you mean not really?" Borazon asks.
"Few new travels came bought some stuff then moved on but other than that nothing." Hemmin remarks with a shrug. "Other than that, quiet as usual."
"Don't let your guard down." Borazon said with a smirk.
"Not like I haven't heard that before." Hemmin smirked back.
Borazon delivered Two elks and the rabbits to Valga while Nenya purchased the rest. Zira only bought about half of Nelly's cart. Explaining that her shop was full now and that he could sell it in River Run. After dropping off Zira they took Ember and Zira's horse back to the stable.
Day 16 – Evening- Prelude to Darkness
Falls Creek Stables
"Grandpa. I was thinking that you might want to get a cart for Ember." Samuel says while watching his grandfather unhitch Ember from Zira's cart.
"That is a good idea we can keep our camping gear in her cart when I don't have game to sell." Borazon remarks.
"When Ember gets stronger, she could carry Nelly and pull Nelly's cart that way we could get to places faster." Samuel remarks.
"That is a good idea. In fact, she did so well today that we could take a trip to River Run the day after tomorrow." Borazon remarks. Now let's head over to the Bathe House and get clean up."
"You are looking for a cart?" Gruffnar says as he comes out of a stall.
"You have one?"
"But I think the Stable Master in River Run may have one or at least he did a while ago." Gruffnar remarks.
"Thanks, I'll keep that in mind. Night."
"Night."
"Night."
"Where are we eating tonight?" Samuel asks as they are leaving the stables with Nelly in tow.
"The Inn I spoke with Runil and he'll meet us there."
"Do you think they'll allow Nelly?"
"Valga said she is always welcome." Borazon says.
Day 16 – Evening- Prelude to Darkness
Falls Creek
Borazon and Samuel took a bath in peace and quiet. While they were bathing, they had their regular clothes also cleaned. Well at least in quiet but not peace for when Borazon tried to relax in the bathing area, but Hansee kept flirting with him from across the bath. Which made for some awkward questions from Samuel for him to answer while they were getting ready to leave.
Runil showed up a few minutes after they ordered and had found a spot close by the fire. They mostly ate in quiet. Runil and Borazon had a few spokes about the blessing that was on the sword as it was the first done in long time that was not directed through a priest or priestess. Samuel half listened and barely ate anything. Nelly on the other hand chowed down on some cabbages and carrots brought to her by Valga. After dinner they head back for Runil's hut. Along the way they noticed how the guards were a little tense for the abnormal quiet.
Day 17 – early morning- Prelude to Darkness
Runil's Hut Falls Creek
Samuel barely slept during the night but when he did all he dreamt was of failing to save first his parents then Lavinia. The next part of his nightmare consists of the Werewolf chasing him and Nelly. He even dreamed that Chrissy and his grandfather tried to stop it but each one fell to the claws and death of the furry monster. He and Nelly were the last ones to stand against the ghastly monster. Nelly fell to the creature's claws and Samuel was just too terrified to move or even scream until it came at him then and only then did, he let out a blood curtailing scream.
"Samuel, son.. Wake up. Son wake up." Borazon says as he shakes Samuel awake.
"OH, thank the Divines!" Samuels says with a start when he sees his worried grandfather above him. Samuel is so relieved to be from the nightmare he jumps into his grandfather's arms.
"Easy son. I am here." Borazon says in a soothing voice.
"Grandpa I had a nightmare." Samuel cried while clinging to Borazon.
"It's okay."
"No. It's not. Lavinia is dead and I couldn't stop that thing from killing her."
"Samuel I couldn't either." Borazon reminds him.
"Why do the divines do this to us?" Samuel cries.
"It's their greatest gift and greatest curse." Runil answers which cause boy and man to stare at it him in disbelief.
"Let me explain. Samuel what is your favorite food?"
"Honey nutters."
"What if that was all you could ever eat and nothing more."
"I can't eat more than 5 or I get sick."
"How do you know that?" Borazon asks.
"Mom made some for a party and I wanted them so when she wasn't around, I tried to eat them all, but I got really sick after 5." Samuel explains.
"Did you like being sick?" Runil asks.
"No."
"Who choose to eat them?" Runil asks as he gives him a glass of water.
"I did." Samuel shamefully says.
"So was being able to choose a good thing or a bad thing."
"Bad?" Samuel sort of answers as he felt bad now and after he got sick but not while he was eating them.
"Why?"
"Because I got sick, and mom was made at me." Samuel says in a gloomy tone.
"Did you like Lavinia?" Runil asks.
"Yes!" Samuel answers with a bright smile thinking about how she was his first friend his age.
"Did you choose to be friends with her?"
"Yes!"
"But something else chose to take her from you and everyone else that cared about her. Now do you understand why it's the greatest gift and the greatest curse?"
"I don't like what that thing did." Samuel argutely says.
"Neither do I. But I choose to hold onto all the precious memories that I had with her." Runil says with a sweet sad smile. "I like to hold onto image where she was neighter happy or sad just content. Would you like to hear about it?"
"Yes, please."
"It was during one of my services and I lost my place, so I had a long pause. She looks up to and honestly asks if I was done. I said not yet. I just need a moment long. She said Okay. With a gentle smile, patiently waited for me to find my spot." Runil said with a fond smile.
"Then I choose to do the same." Smauel smiles. "I will always remember how she was the first person my age to play a game with me and how patient she was in teaching the game."
"These still some time before morning why don't you tire go back to sleep. And choose to think of all the happy times you had with her as you go to sleep." Borazon says as he tucks his grandson back into bed.
"Okay." Samue says with a yawn.
Day 17 – mid morning - Prelude to Darkness
Falls Creek
The morning was somber and low key. Almost all came to say their goodbyes to Lavinia. The ceremony started in the Hall of the Divines then her casket was carried out to the cemetery by four guards followed by Runil, her parents, then the rest of the town. As the guards are lowering her pine box into the ground Runil is channeling blessings from the Divines to protect this child and guide her safely in the afterlife. It was after the last dirt had covered Lavinia's grave did Samuel approached her parents who were just staring at, they only child's grave.
"Lavinia…loved you two. I couldn't save her, but I thought could give you two something to keep you safe." Samuel says as he gives them the pouches, he made that had Lavinia's name and some of the runes sewn on them. Each one was full of wolfvane.
"Thank you, child." Lavinia's father solemnly says.
"Thank you Samuel I will wear this always." Luciana says as she puts it on with tears in her eyes.
The weather emulated the towns' people for the tears fell the heavens cried too but it waited for all to say their goodbyes to her before its tears were felt across the land. After the service the town's folks head over to the Inn to continue.
Day 17 – Evening - Prelude to Darkness
Inn Falls Creek
"So, what are your plans?" Solfa asked Borazon.
"Samuel and I are going to head back to River Run for a couple of days."
"Why?"
"They might have a few things I wish to purchase. Plus, it's a good opportunity to test and see if Ember is up to some traveling." Borazon answers as he takes a puff off his pipe.
"Will you be back?" Solfa asks while trying to hide leeriness about him leaving.
"No sure at this time but we need to find a place to live before winter comes."
"Well, you will have a room here if you need it." Valga says as she fills up their mugs with warm cider.
"Thanks that is appreciated." Borazon tells her with a huge smile.
"People are going to miss you." Solfa states as he looks around the room.
"We will miss them too. But we would also like to check on our friend Chrissy."
"You think the Dragon born is there?" Solfa perks up when hears she would be close.
"She said she would leave word at the Inn or Traven in the places she goes for us if we don't meet up. Say Valga can I leave a letter with you for her?"
"No problem." Valga says and Borazon pulls out a sealed scroll for her to hold to. "You knew." She accused with a slapped to his shoulder using the letter he had just given her.
"Samuel and I spoke about its last night, and we decide to write it then." Borazon smiles at her. "And Thank you."
Day 18 – morning - Prelude to Darkness
Public Stables Falls Creek
Morning came fast but Borazon and Samuel were already at the stables, waking up Gruffnar.
"Borazon the sun isn't even up. Why are you two?" Gruffnar grumbles as he opens the doors.
"We are heading out to River Run." Samuel with a smile that had both sadness and happiness in it.
The answer he was given woke him up faster than if someone drank him into a frozen river. His eyes were wide open, and he was standing up straight as he asks. "What? Why?"
"Zira's shop is full so we thought we would go to see Genny back in River Run. Plus Chrissy might be there." Samuel says.
"What are you going to after you get there?" Gruffnar worriedly asks.
"Not sure but we will come back this way, eventually." Borazon tells him while giving Ember her special mixture.
"Don't like the idea of you guys out there." Gruffnar remarks referring to the monsters that had been out and about.
"We are wearing the bags and we have a plan." Samuel says.
"What?"
"Travel only during the day then bed done at our camp." Borazon answers.
"Will a camp be safe enough?"
"There is a cave that we can sleep in and cover it up so no one knows were are there." Samuel says.
"Don't tell me the one he got skunked in?" Gruffnar snickers.
"Actually yes. Gramdpa just startled her and that is why she did that. If I go in first there shouldn't be a problem." Samuel answers.
"How can, you be sure?" Gruffnar questions.
Putting Ember's halter on Borazon answers with a smile. "Samuel is good with animals. They seem to treat him as one of their own."
It didn't take long after that they were heading out the east gate as many of the residents of Falls Creek were watching them leave with various emotions of them leaving.
Day 18 – Prelude to Darkness
Traveling to River Run
The morning is slightly overcast but the clouds start going away within a few hours of the sun rising. Samuel collects more herbs, bugs and other items that are used in potions and food along the way. The closer they get to their hidey hole Borazon starts feeling uneasy since Ember, who had been easy going started acting aggressively.
"What's wrong with her?" Samuel asks, noticing that Ember keeps trying to step in front of Borazon.
"I don't know. There might be something out there she doesn't like." Borazon remarks noticing how her ear kept perking up then laying flat back in anger.
Looking around Samuel asks. "Werewolf or Vampire?"
"Don't know. Let's just stay on our guard."
Nelly seemed to pick up on something too and kept trying to put herself in front of Samuel. It was at that point Borazon drew his bow and knocked it. Samuel drew his bow and arrow. Lowering her ears back flat against her head, Ember snorts in a direction. Borazon raises his bow and is ready to fire. Samuel watches the surrounding area like Nelly was doing.
It was a few tenses few moments pass when suddenly the momma Fox comes desperately running out carrying one of her kits. She sees Samuel behind Borazon and runs for him in frantic need. That frantic speed saves her from being shot by the creature that was chasing her. Borazon sees the projectile that had hit the spot where the momma fox had been, so he changes his aim watching for the creature to come out of the shadows.
A large spider emerges from the darken shadows and is about to fire again, but Borazon beats it by letting his arrow fly. The aim was spot on and went directly between the pinchers of the large spider. The spider reals in pain but Borazon doesn't have to time to celebrate as the creature falls to the ground two more reveal themselves by shooting webs at him and his group. Ember charges at them taking the webs the chest but that doesn't stop her, she blows right over the top of them. The dog size spiders are knocked on their backs and Ember attacks. She switches from stomping the one in front of her to kicking the one behind her towards Borazon. Borazon has his Axe and is ready as the spiders is kicked towards him. Borazon slices the incoming spider back into a tree killing it.
Nelly bah's a warning as another larger spider shooting its web at the them hitting the cart. Samuel shot back the much lager spider, hitting it in one of many eyes. The hit only pissed it off more, which it ran even faster towards Samuel util Borazon throws his battle axe. The axe split the spider into two.
Running over and grabbing his axe Borazon asks, "Do you see anymore?"
"No." Samuel says as momma fox with her baby hid behind him under Nelly's cart.
"First vampires, werewolves now giant spiders' bye the divines is going on?" Borazon mutters as he heads over to Ember who just stood proudly by her kill.
"Grandpa I am going to collect stuff from these things. Would you keep an eye out?" Samuel says as he grabs out some of the bottles Zira sold to him."
After getting Ember he heads back to the cart with her. After getting his bow and arrows ready Borazon nods. "Go ahead."
Samuel had just finished gathering up the items from the spiders when he heard a whimpering noise coming from the cave that the skunk was living in. "Grandpa I hear the momma skunk whimpering."
"Follow me." Borazon says as he heads for the cave.
Samuel puts the Momma fox and her baby into Nelly's cart and follows his grandfather. They find that the cave entrance was covered with cobwebs, but the sound of injured animals could be heard coming from inside. Borazon starts to slice away the webs making his way in. The cave had several large egg sacks along with some different animals' different stages of life as the spiders had been slowly drinking. Borazon checked out the whole cave and didn't find any more spiders but does finds an old chest and easily opens it. Inside Borazon takes out several bags of gold, some gems, necklaces, lamp oil and some hides the items were wrapped in. Borazon ties the items in the hide and takes them outside.
Samuel started to free each of the animals that could be saved. Samuel smiles as he frees the rest of the momma fox's kits then the momma skunk and her babies. The large animals like the elk and deer were too far gone. After all the animals are freed, Borazon collects the deer and elk and takes it outside while Samuel collects a lot of webs and eggs from the large eggs' sacks. When they have finished cleaning out the animals and items they go back outside. At the entrance Borazon sets the webs on fire to clear out the cave.
"That fire should clean out the cave. We can stay in there when the fire is done. I saw spot where we could set up a fire to keep warm." Borazon says while watching Samuel feed each of the animals who he had placed in Nelly's cart.
"So, we aren't staying in our hiding spot?"
"It's not big enough for us and Ember."
"Okay this place is also big enough for the animals I just freed." Samuel says as feeds some of the berries from the entries to the babies who greedy eats them. Borazon gulps as he eyes the skunk. "Don't worry grandpa she wont bother you. You just scared her last time."
While the fire consumed the webs Borazon gathered up several logs that would fit over the entrance. When he had enough Borazon tied them together and created a door. It didn't take long for the fire to destroy what was left of the cobwebs throughout the cave. When the fire was out Borazon tests the door. While they were busy with the cave Ember and Nelly ate on the grass nearby. Borazon lights his travel lantern and head inside. Borazon smiles at how large the cave is as it will fit all of them with quite a bit of room to spare.
They brought Nelly with her cart in only to unhook her from it then they took her back out to eat while they set up the cave to be more comfortable. Samuel set up a fire pit close to one of 3 small holes they could see light coming through. He stacks the rocks close so that they form a stone fire stove. It didn't take Borazon very long to collect several armloads of firewood. By the time he had over ten loads of firewood it was getting dark. After the last load he brought in Ember and Nelly, closing the door with smile as he saw that Samuel had planted some Wolfvane.
Samuel had been very busy while Borazon had collected the firewood as the bedrolls were set up. He had a place close to the small stream for Ember with her special mixture in a bucket waiting for her. Nelly too had a bowl of food set up. Food was cooking on the stone stove.
They spent a comfortable quiet night in the cave. The mommas and their babies slept peacefully next to Samuel and Nelly while Borazon kept his distance.
Day 19- Day- Prelude to Darkness
Cave between Falls Creek and River Run
Even before the sun was up Borazon and Samuel got up, ate, and got ready to leave. This morning was a bit wetter as a slight drizzle of rain came down. Before leaving Borazon cuts a hole in the door big enough for all the small animals to come and go as they want but yet be protect. This action makes Samuel smile huge. Samuel only collects a few mushrooms along the way as Nelly's cart was almost full. They managed to make it to just as the sun was setting but strangely found the gate locked.
"Who goes there?" A guard calls out.
"My name is Borazon and this is my son Samuel we are traveling Merchants."
"Let them in I know them." Assmune the stable master says as he walks over to the guard. "Back again. Good to see you."
"Good to see you too. What's with the new guards." Borazon asks as he and Samuel come through the gate which is closed and locked as soon as they are through.
"You haven't heard?" Assmune asks in disbelief.
"Heard what?"
"Dragons have returned." Assmune dramatically says.
"Yeah, I heard but just thought."
"And get this the Dragon Born has also returned! And from what I can tell it was your friend. But she isn't here."
"Damn we were hoping to meet up with her. So, the guards are here because of the Dragons?"
"Yeah. See you got a new horse come on you can stable her at my place." Assmune says as they walk towards his stables.
"Yes. I heard you might have a cart for sale."
"I sure do. It should fit her nicely."
"Do you have tack too?"
"Yup."
"Show me."
"Grandpa I am going to take my herbs to Genny and see if she wants to buy them."
"Come to the stables when you are done."
"Okay." Samuel says as he steers Nelly towards Genny's Herb shop.
Day 19- Evening- Prelude to Darkness
Genny's Herb Shop – River Run
"Young Samuel is that you?" Genny asks when the door opens to show Samuel.
"Yes ma'am."
"What can I help you with?" Genny asks.
"I have been out collecting herbs, bugs, and other items you might like." Samuel says.
"Oh really. Let me see what you have." Genny says as she steps outside to investigate the cart.
"I am keeping the starts." Samuel says as notices her looking over the starts.
"You have a good eye." Genny remarks as she continues to look at each item.
Day 19- Evening- Prelude to Darkness
Public Stable River Run
"This is one nice looking horse you have. She could use a little more weight on." Assmune remarks as he watches Borazon brushs down Ember.
"Yeah, I know, and you should have seen her before." Borazon remarks as he gives Ember some of the mixture he had made.
"What's that?" Assmune asks.
"It's what I've been using to put weight back on her considering how bad of shape she was in why I got her." Borazon says while petting her.
"Bad?"
"Skin strength over bone."
"Damn. Well, she looks much better now."
"Yeah, now about that cart and tack?"
"Yeah, it's over here."
Little while after Borazon had purchased the cart and tack Samuel arrived with an almost empty cart.
"Good time at Genny's?"
"Yes, she purchased most of my cart, but I saved some of the spider's fang, vemon, and other items for Zira. I also kept my starts for when we get our own place."
"Well let's head for the Inn."
Day 19- Prelude to Darkness
Inn River Run
"Well hello stranger." Delfine smiles when she sees Borazon.
"Hi Delfine." Both Borazon and Samuel say.
"It is good to see you two." Delfine smiles back at them.
"It's nice to see you again. Could we get a room and some food?"
"Sure, I still have the room you stayed in before. I got a roast with potatoes."
"We'll take the food and the room." Borazon says. "Town seems quiet."
"Yeah, the men just got back from burying dead from Helena. You heard that it got attack by a dragon?"
"Yeah. Then I guess there was another attack at White Run."
"Yeah. And from the description I would almost bet your friend is the Dragon Born. Is she?"
"Don't know I haven't spoken too to too her in a while." Borazon answers. "So how much for the room and food?"
"Same price for the room the roast is 5 gold bread comes with it." Delfine informs.
"Is that Jaffa Bean Juice I smell?" Samuel says as he sniffs the air.
"Yes, it is. I took your friends suggestion." Delfine tells him as she pours them both a mug it. "Your friend also left you a letter." Delfine answers as she gets the scroll out and hands it to him making sure to hold his hand seductively. "She paid for me to hold it, but you owe me to get it."
"I have my grandson but maybe later." Borazon says with a wink as he takes the letter.
"We'll take the food at a table."
"No problem. I'll have it out to you shortly." Delfine says then fills a mug of another customer.
Borazon and Samuel find a table by the fire pit. The eagerness to read the letter from Chrissy with written all over Samuel's face. They sat close and read it together.
"Grandpa we have to go to White Run."
"Why?"
"She's there."
"Read the letter again."
"I've read it three times now."
"We told her we were going to Falls Creek if you really want to meet up with her we should go there." Borazon explains.
"Okay we can leave tomorrow I don't want to miss her." Samuel excitedly says.
"And along the way you can pick your herbs and I can hunt."
"Are you going to turn in skins you got from the animals the spiders killed."
"I'll do it tomorrow before we leave. We have a plan." Borazon says as the food arrives.
The two eat quietly listening to the bard sing of the Dragon Born Return and killing the dragon. A new song was sung about a black shield of death vengeance it wielded. After several songs new and old the two headed off to bed. Halfway through the night Borazon snuck out to have a little fun with Delfine. He returns a few hours before Samuel wakes to get some sleep.
Day 20- Moring - Prelude to Darkness
Inn River Run
"Grandpa.. Grandpa.. Grandpa!"
"What?" Borazon grumbles.
"Are you going to get up? We need to leave so we can get back to Falls Creek and meet up with Chrissy."
"I am wake."
"But not up. Here!" Samuel says as he gives his grandfather mug warm Jaffa Bean Juice. "You shouldn't have stayed out so late."
"Well, I needed to take care of something."
"You mean someone. Grandpa played the game." Samuel smirks at his grandfather's wince when he realizes Samuel knew.
Borazon drinks the juice with a groan but then gets up and they gather their belongings. Once the two were packed they headed out the door to eat in the Inn's main air. When they entered the area Delfine gave Borazon a sassy wink which he returned with flirting grin.
"Oh, just quit we have to eat and go." Samuel muttered at his grandfather's action as he walked up to Delfine and asks. "What is there to eat this morning?"
"I got some hot oatmeal for 2 gold. There is some bacon cooking know but that is 3 gold."
"We will take both. Do you have any milk and sugar we can at to the oatmeal?"
"Yeah, milk is 2 gold."
"Could you also add 2 more Jaffa Bean Juice." Samuel says as he lays the gold out for her.
"Sure, thing kid. Find a seat and it will be ready shortly."
"Thank you."
Borazon could till his grandson was getting impatient to get moving as Samuel's leg was bouncing all through breakfast. Borazon almost laughed out right when Samuel pulled him towards the stables.
It didn't take long to pay for the use of the stables and get the animals ready to go. After that they headed towards the Blacksmith.
"Moring Lucus." Borazon called out the Black Smith.
"I remember you. Your Chrissy's friends."
"Yeah, I am Borazon. I take it she made quite impression."
"Yeah, she sure did. Yeah, not only did she save my nephew, but she took out all those bandits up at Bleak Falls." Lucus remarks with a handshake.
"Glad to know she was helpful." Borazon says with a grin. "I got some hides to sell if you're interested."
"Let me take a look." Lucus says as he looks over the hides in the cart. "Not bad by chance you got any horns to sell?"
"I have a couple." Samuel remarks as he points to his cart.
Day 20- Day- Prelude to Darkness
Traveling to Falls Creek
Lucus bought every hide Borazon had and a set of horns Samuel had. Afterwards they headed out. Even with Samuel collecting more items for the herbalists and Borazon hunting they made it to the camp area in good time. The mommas with their babies came out to greet Samuel and Borazon when they reached the camp site. After setting up the camp they had enough time to go fishing. Borazon smiles broadly when Samuel excitedly catches the first and largest fist. The smile faulters slightly as a memory of the last time he went finishing was with his son and Samuel. He shook off the memory as his line got a bite. They spent the night in the cave again. The small animals slept with Samuel again after he fed their favorite berries.
Day 21- Day- Prelude to Darkness
Traveling to Falls Creek
Borazon was happy for the quiet night and easy of the morning as they got into preparing to leave. Samuel made sure to leave plenty of the berries down for the animals. Seeing that it was going to rain Borazon had Samuel help him attach Nelly's cart to Ember's bigger wagon so that they could get their fast. Nelly walked along with Samuel. This allowed them to reach Falls Creek a little while before sundown. As they entered Falls Creek Borazon had an uneasy feeling. The rain coming down only seems to cause the feeling to grow.