Chapter 10

The next morning, Solrryn departed before the camp was stirring.  He and Aldren exchanged some final thoughts and he was once again on his way south and west toward the Keep.  The rest of the troop was preparing for the days march when Aldren sent for Mirgan.  

Aldren offered the young man the chance to ride with him and Ameni.  He wanted to get to the tower as soon as possible and was going to push as fast as he could.  Mirgan was delighted, and then screwed up his courage to ask if Kiran could ride with them as well.

Aldren gave the young man a slight smile.  “Any reason that we should speak of a bonding soon?”

Mirgan blushed a deep red.  “I... I don’t think so sir.  I just thought that... well... she might enjoy the company.”

Aldren put his hand on Mirgan’s shoulder.  “Of course she may ride with us.  You know, you could do a lot worse than that girl.  She is pretty, and smart.  But she is very shy, so you may have your work cut out for you.”  Ameni came walking up then leading the horses.  “But consider how living with someone with Elven blood can be.”

That last remark got him a dirty look from Ameni, and another blush from Mirgan.  He laughed and then sent Mirgan off to find Kiran and get ready to ride.  Ameni looked over at Aldren.  “What was that all about?”

“Seems our young Mirgan has found someone who has turned his head.  I asked him to ride with us so we could talk a bit, and he asked if Kiran could come along as well.”

“This is going to be a swift journey.  If she does well, then she will be worthy of him.”

The young couple rode up as Aldren was making final plans with Vabryn.  He smiled at them and then mounted up and headed up the road, Ameni at his side and the young couple close behind.

After several leagues, they turned off the main road and took a smaller trail that would be a more direct route to the tower.  They rode along with Aldren and Ameni in the lead, quietly discussing recent developments and what could be done about them.  Mirgan and Kiran followed a couple lengths behind to give them some privacy.  The effect gave the younger couple some privacy as well.

Mirgan finally got the courage to talk to Kiran about many things: their past lives, what they were looking for in the future, etc.  They even commented on the pair ahead of them.  By the end of the day’s ride, they started to realize the attraction they each felt for the other was mutual.

That evening, the couples paired off.  Aldren and Ameni elected to take the first and second watches allowing Mirgan to sleep.  He and Kiran bedded down close enough to talk to each other while Ameni took her place on the other side of the camp.  A few hours later, Aldren gently awakened her and took her place to sleep.  When it came time for Mirgan’s watch, Ameni went to let him know.  She was surprised by what she saw.

They were both snuggled together, with Mirgan’s hand firmly over Kiran’s breast.  Her hand was covering his and there was a smile on her sleeping face.  As quietly as she could, she called to Mirgan.  He opened his eyes, looking a bit confused.  He realized just where his hand was and blushed.  He started to apologize, but Ameni just chuckled and told him that it looked as though Kiran was enjoying where his hand was.  When he stood, she could see the bulge in his leggings, but chose not say anything.  He took his place and she lay back down next to Aldren, placing his hand as Mirgan’s had been.

The party arrived at the tower just before sunset the next afternoon.  The guards had seen them approaching and given the signal for the huge gates to be opened.  By the time they had made it to the steps of the tower proper, there were people to take the horses and gear.  Aldren led the way into the main chamber, stopping to tell the page that he wished to see the captains at their convenience.  Then, he asked for supper to be brought in so he and his companions could eat while they talked.

The captains started to arrive while Aldren was still eating.  He bade them to sit and started while continuing to finish his plate.  “Men, while this campaign was successful, we found out some things have caused me to rethink our position.  We have been content to just stay in the tower and watch over the areas close to us.  I have seen what havoc that the king’s garrisons, with the help of the priests of the new God, are doing to the free peoples.  Furthermore, the size of the king’s armies is growing.  I fear that we may not be able to do much more than survive, while they destroy the free races at their leisure.  I propose to call for a uniting of all the races.  What I need from you are any thoughts on this matter.”

Aledelm, one of the older and most respected of the captains spoke up first.  “Lord, I can see the reasoning behind the idea.  But can we get to all of these different races and their many clans and bands before the king’s forces could wreak havoc upon us...and them as well?”

“A point worth considering.  However, we must try.  There are enough troops here to hold the garrisons of the king at bay.  We will ride out in patrols that will protect the areas they are assigned.  While you are out, you will have to recruit and teach those you are protecting to defend themselves.  But first, we must send out riders to spread the word.  Select only those that will understand the need to be thoughtful of who they are meeting. We are looking to make alliances, not more enemies.”

Uskar, who had ridden in earlier from the town of Makael’s Crossing further south asked to speak.  Aldren nodded for him to continue.  “The King’s armies are still well trained and loyal to the crown way south.  However, the further North you come, the more disorganized they seem to be.  A young princeling by the name of Isray is trying to gain some power near the wastelands.  He is not a real threat but he is drawing the court’s attention.  This could be an advantage for us since they have to deal with him as well.”

Aldren crossed his arms in front of him as he leaned closer to Uskar.  “What kind of man is this Isray?”

“A man who it is said escaped bondage and has gathered a good number of followers that are in disfavor with the court.  From those that have talked to him, he is headstrong but fair.  He has carved out the areas that border the wastelands and when the king’s troops come to try and take him, he and his followers melt into the wasteland.  They know the area, and like as not, the troops never return.  They are becoming more cautious about going after him.  If he was allowed to govern the area, he would make a formidable ally.”

After a few more comments, Aldren called the meeting to a close.  The captains left to choose who would be the emissaries for Aldren’s council.  Kal-angarr appeared while Aldren was finishing his wine, and they spoke of the rescue and plans for the near future.

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Mirgan had departed for his own quarters as soon as they had arrived.  This left Ameni and Kiran alone while Aldren held his council.  They had taken a small table near the kitchen hearth as a place to have a quiet meal.  Kiran was very quiet while they ate and Ameni respected her silence.  After they finished, Kiran finally spoke.

“My Lady, I thank you for allowing me to ride ahead with you and Lord Aldren.  I am not as comfortable with the girls my age as I am with more adult company.”

“I can understand what you are saying though.  When I was a child, my father taught me the arts of the sword and the bow.  He had been one of the elders in our clan and the only one that understood the threat that was coming.  He taught my brother and me how to protect others and ourselves.  I was serious enough to his words that I had little time for the giggling.  While the other young girls were trying to catch the eye of the elven lads, I was practicing with my bow, bringing in meat for the family.”

“Is that how you met Lord Aldren?  I’m sorry, I should not ask such things.”  Kiran turned her attention to the top of the table.

Ameni just grinned.  “That is alright.  Actually, our village was attacked and everyone was killed.  I maimed three of them before they ganged up on me.  They hauled me away, tied me up to a tree, and left me to die.  I had a cut along my side and would have died except Aldren had decided to camp nearby that night.  He found me and nursed me back to health.  We have been together ever since.”

Ameni then told her about some of the adventures they had experienced.  She was very interested in Mirgan’s part of the tale.  Ameni took advantage of this to further any bond that was forming between those two.  “Mirgan may be a bit young, but his valor and honor to his word has carried a lot of respect among those that know him.  You know he is interested in you, don’t you?”

Kiran blushed.  “I had hoped that he was.  But he has not come forward as of yet.”

Ameni patted her arm.  “He will, but it may take a while.  He is not too wise with the opposite sex as of yet.  Just give him some time and watch for the signals.  Now we need to find you a bed.  Tomorrow we can plan for your future, both here and with Mirgan.”

They headed up the back stairs where Ameni put Kiran in a comfortable room down the hall from where her and Aldren’s quarters were.  Kiran crawled between the blankets, enjoying the softness of the grass-filled mattress.  She was soon asleep, dreaming of the vastness of the tower, and wondering how she could be of help to the ones she owed her life to.

Kiran found herself once again in the kitchen the next morning.  She had awakened, and after taking care of her morning needs, realized that she was hungry.  She had stopped at the entrance, not quite sure if she should enter or not.  A rather portly woman, her graying hair hanging in tendrils, spotted her standing there.

This woman waved her into the room.  “Come in, child!  I haven’t seen you around here before.  Did you ride in with the Lord and Lady?  Come and sit down.  You hungry?  I bet you are.  Kareena, bring this child a bowl of boiled cereal and honey.  And some of the hot tea.”

Kiran found herself in a whirlwind of activity.  This woman could talk faster than a trader trying to cut a bargain.  But, the friendliness in her smiling oval face and the concern in her tone made Kiran relax a bit.  She eagerly accepted the bowl of grains and the cup of tea.

After she had eaten most of her breakfast, the woman came back and sat opposite her at the table.  “We have been busy this morning.  Lord Aldren is simple in his needs, and never complains, but we all wish to have anything he would need or want at the ready, that we push ourselves.  Now that I have a few minutes, I thought you might like to talk a bit.  I am Isabella by the way.  And who are you?”

Kiran swallowed the mouthful of cereal and introduced herself.  She answered the Isabella’s questions and laughed at the tales of happenings around the tower.  When Isabella recounted when Aldren had been proclaimed Lord of the Tower, she was enraptured.  So much so, she did not notice the guard who appeared next to the table.

He cleared his throat and both women looked up.  “Are you the one called Kiran?”  She nodded at his gruff question.  “The Lord of the Tower wishes to speak to you.  Come with me.”

Kiran stood and followed the man.  She had to wonder at his attitude.  Was Lord Aldren upset with her for some reason?  Had she said something that was not proper?  These thoughts were circling in her mind as she followed the large guard through the passages toward the main hallway that she had first entered last night.

The guard led her to a room off the main hall.  She looked inside to see Lord Aldren sitting behind a large table that had many books and papers scattered about.  A small fire in the grate cast off the morning’s chill.  Along the walls were shelves that held what looked like volumes of lore.  Shoved in among the volumes were pieces of parchment.  She stood at the doorway until Aldren looked up.

“Ahh, Kiran.  Come in.  Take a seat and I will be with you in just a moment.”  He then spoke to the guard.  “Dunlane, ask the riders to meet me in the main hall before they leave.  I want to give them some last-minute instructions and to wish them well and good speed.”

Aldren then turned to Kiran and smiled.  “Did you get a good nights rest?”  When she nodded, he continued.  “Have you given any thought to what you might want to do while you are here?”

“Anything you need of me, my Lord.”

“That isn’t the question, Kiran.  What could you wish to do if you could do anything in your dreams?”

Aldren spoke so kindly to her that she decided to take a chance.  “If I could, I would wish to learn to fight like your lady.  I just admire her so much!  She can take care of herself and yet she is very much a lady.”

Aldren just looked at her for a few moments.  She became afraid that once again she had said something untoward.  He finally shook his head as if he was coming back from a thought, then focused on her again and smiled.  “I believe that we might be able to take care of that.  But in exchange, I would ask something of you.”

Kiran was overjoyed, but held it in.  Keeping her face neutral, she answered.  “If it is within my abilities, my Lord.”

“I seem to remember hearing that you understand many languages.  Is this true?”

Yes, sir.  I used to help my father in his trading business.  He was one of the few that traded with all who had need.  I found out that I could pick up their language easily.  When I was old enough, I would travel with him to different settlements where I would translate for him.  It made him popular with his customers and I would often get little gifts for my labor.”

“Would you be willing to do the same for me?  It would be very helpful to me and to all free peoples.  I don’t want problems due to something as trivial as a lack of understanding.”

Kiran was stunned. Her uncle had dismissed her as little more than a nuisance.  He kept telling her that she was not worth the food he had to feed her.  He had slapped her for talking to one of the customers in their own language, saying that they had to speak only the common tongue if they were continue to trade.  Now, this man, who she saw as her lord and protector, was asking her to use her talent.  Even more, he treated her as an equal and wanted her input!

“It would be an honor to do what you ask.”  She then switched to Elvish.  “I am proud to be of service to the Lord of the Tower.”

Ameni stepped into the room as she was speaking.  “It is refreshing to hear the language of the Kindred spoken.  Hail Kiran, one who speaks the words of the kindred.”  Ameni bowed with her hands crossed at her chest.

Kiran repeated the bow, watching the elf carefully.  Aldren spoke up turning to his mate.  “Kiran wishes to learn to defend herself.  She is very impressed with your knife and bow.”

Ameni smiled and told the young woman that she would enjoy teaching her.  “If you are done my mate, I should take her to the armory to see if there is something that would suit this warrior.”

Aldren gave his leave to them and headed for the hall to speak to the riders.  Ameni took the awe-struck Kiran with her to the armory and then to the practice grounds to start her on her education.

The riders had been gone two days before the troop accompanying the rescued women arrived at the Tower.  Housing was found for them all and they were soon to work helping wherever their skills were best suited.  Dulca went to the healer’s building and was soon trading cures with those that ran the hall.  

A few of the others had spotted Kiran being taught swordplay and asked to learn as well.  One of the captains, who had learned respect from Ameni, volunteered to teach the basics to those interested.  The armory made a lightweight longknife that seemed to be ideal for the women to use.  They were all diligent in their practice and were soon competing with the men.

Those, with the talent and the inclination, set themselves up as ladies of pleasure, providing a service that was welcomed by the men.  They took care of a need and those that availed themselves of the ladies’ services were careful to treat them with respect.

With their ranks swelling, Aldren started to look toward the canyon that they named Dragon’s Hold in honor of the meeting with Balroth.  Plans were made to fortify the narrow part of the canyon with the idea of populating it as a second base of operations.

Recruits were coming in almost every day.  Some had badly needed skills and were put to work immediately, while the others were put into training somewhere that would help in the running and expansion of what was now being considered the Northern Kingdom.  

Aldren knew it was reaching the point when he had to start accepting the responsibility that had been thrust upon him.  Gone were the days that he could freely come and go as he pleased.  Now, there were hundreds if not thousands who depended on him for protection, and in reality for their very lives. Aldren sighed as he stood from his chair.  He left the main hall where he had been brooding and started up the long flight of stairs to the top of the tower.  The chamber of the ancients was where his history had been first revealed and where he realized his life was no longer his alone.

He settled his body near the glowing coals once again.  He had not had the nerve to return to this place since the first time, but he was hoping the answers would reveal themselves here.  The breezes started moving through the many openings that surrounded him.  And with the breezes came the words of the ancients once again.

Ameni was waiting for Aldren in their chambers.  She had been looking for him earlier in the evening when Kal-angarr told her he had seen her mate heading for the chamber.  She had known that Aldren had been wrestling with something.  He had tried to shield her from it, but she knew from his demeanor.  He had seemed to be much more distant since the raid that rescued the women that now were integrating into life in the Tower.

Aldren removed his tunic and leggings then sat on the bed.  Ameni moved over and sat behind him.  She reached up and started to knead the tense muscles in his neck and shoulders.  Aldren let his head fall forward and gave a low groan as her strong fingers worked on the knotted muscles.

“I know you are feeling the weight of responsibility my love.”  She whispered in his ear, “and I am willing to help you with the burden if you will allow me to.”

He reached up and grasped her hand in his, squeezing gently.  “My Love, it is that I feel responsible for all of these people.  Not only in the tower, but those in the surrounding villages as well.  The king’s troops are starting to venture north and I cannot be everywhere to protect them all..  I feel it is my responsibility to keep them from harm since I am the one who the king and the priests are after.  And I am failing that responsibility.”

Ameni was thoughtful for a moment.  “I know that you feel that it is your fault the troops are coming out more, and to some degree you are correct.  But eventually the people would have been overcome anyway.  By doing all you can to teach them to defend themselves, you are giving them a better chance to survive.  It is their choice to resist and they must be prepared to take the consequences of their actions.  They are willing to follow you because you are fair in your judgments and respectful in your dealings.”

She went back to massaging his shoulders.  “It is their choice, freely made and you cannot control that.”

Ameni then put her arms under his and hugged him from behind, her hands across his chest and her breasts pushing against his back.  He could feel her nipples pressing into him and the way her hands were wandering left him with no doubt that she was becoming excited.  He reached behind him and pulled her around so that she was half lying on his thighs.  He stared at her beauty for a moment and then bent down until his lips met hers.

Ameni could feel his manhood becoming hard under her back.  She returned his kisses with force, opening her mouth to receive his tongue and using hers to start the ancient duel.  His hands moved to her breasts, covering them at first, and then bringing his fingers up until he held just her hard nipples.  She was starting to moan her pleasure into his mouth.  

She changed positions, struggling to keep their kiss until she sat astride him.  Her wetness was coating his member as she thrust her pelvis against him.  When she finally felt he was hard and ready, she rose up and maneuvered him into position.  Then slowly, she settled herself down with his cock deep within her.  She felt him throbbing deep inside and responded by clenching the muscles of her opening.

Aldren then broke the kiss only to move his head lower and suckle on her breasts.  This caused her to moan louder as her thrusts downward became more violent.  As she started the climb to her climax, Aldren grabbed her ass with both hands for leverage and began thrusting up into her as he pulled her down.

As she tripped over the precipice, her movements became chaotic and she let out a low wail.  Aldren quickly followed grunting as his cock pumped his seed deep into her.  He collapsed back onto the bed with Ameni following him down, his cock still buried deep within her.

“The ancients did well bringing us together.”  Aldren whispered as he stroked her hair.  She raised her head and smiled down at him.  He could see in her eyes complete love and devotion.  He also knew that the same feelings were being reflected back to her.

Ameni reached over and pulled a cloth off the top of a trunk to place between her legs.  She was sure that if she had tried to stand, her legs would not have supported her.  She did find the strength to turn and move under the sleeping furs.  She was asleep almost before her head had settled against the rolled blanket.

Aldren got up long enough to douse the candle flames.  He then crawled in beside his mate as he studied her features in the light from the fire.  In the midst of all the change and turmoil that was happening, this woman was the one thing that remained steady.  Without her input, he would have made some very bad decisions.  Well, she was right in the idea that he could not be responsible for the protection of everyone within the northern lands, but he vowed to protect his mate above all else.  With these thoughts running through his mind, he joined her in dreamless slumber.

The riders that Aldren had sent out started returning.  Most of the villages of men were more than willing to join in the defense of their lands against the tyranny from the south.  Those that were not sure would be left alone if they did not raise a hand against their neighbors.  The priests that were around soon disappeared, either dead or fleeing back to the south.

Aldren decided that it would be best to visit the other races himself.  The riders reported while they had been received well enough, communication had been difficult.  The other races were still leery of just who they represented.

Out on the training grounds with Ameni, Aldren watched the progress of his troops.  The new recruits were training up quickly.  Since they were here of their own free will and had the desire to defend their own, they put everything they had into it.

One bright spot was the progress of the women.  After Kiran had requested and started receiving training in arms, others felt that they too should learn to defend themselves.  This caused some discord among the men, many of whom were taught that women should be meek and helpless.  A few openly laughed at their first attempts, but as they progressed, respect was grudgingly given.  The swords and bows were lighter in weight and they were being taught to use the weight and bulk of their opponent against them.  The elvish way of fighting, hanbra, came to them easily.

Aldren called Kiran over to them.  She was red-faced with exertion and panting slightly as she jogged up to them. “Hail, my Lord and Lady.”   She greeted them in Elvish, bowing low with her arms crossed.

“Hail to thee, Elf friend and warrior maid,” was the reply from Ameni.

Aldren then addressed her.  “We have need of your abilities, Kiran.  Would you be willing to ride with us to visit the other free races and translate for us?”

Kiran’s smile threatened to consume her entire face.  The Lord of the Tower truly wanted her to ride with him and use her unique talent to help him!  “Of course, my Lord.  I would be honored to help in any way I can.  Is Mirgan coming too?”  She then put her hands over her mouth, embarrassed at that last outburst.

Aldren laughed out loud.  “I am sure it can be arranged, if he is willing.  I was thinking of taking him anyway.  Now, I am sure he must come along, since you requested it.”

Kiran was blushing from the top of her head to past where her tunic covered her.  She bowed her head and left to get her things together.

While Kiran was making up her traveling pack, she thought of Mirgan.  The young man was shy around women, especially her. This had caused her own innate shyness to fade and she began to try and make sure she was around so he could notice her.  All the planning had finally paid off when he had finally kissed her as they had walked through the side gardens of the tower.  It had not been a long kiss, but it had made her tingle down to her toes.  And then, he had taken her hand in his!  She had felt like she was walking on the clouds.  Now every time she was near him, her heart would beat like it would come out of her chest.

She stirred herself from the memories but was still smiling as she packed her gear.  She knew this was an important job and she would have to be alert and ready.  They would be riding into wild country that could be full of dangers, not only from the wild animals but also from the men who lived there.  Finished with her bedroll and other items she needed, she checked and oiled her leather jerkin and honed her sword.  Then, she went out into the dusk to eat and talk to Mirgan before getting some sleep.  They would be riding with first light.

The troop had been on the trail for almost two sevendays when they approached the settlement of Elves where Aldren and Ameni had spent several months.  

As the troop approached the border, they were met by four elves on horseback.  Ameni recognized Marden as the foremost rider.  “Hail Marden, warrior and friend.”  

“And hail to thee, Ameni of the Kin.  It is good to see you looking well, Aldren half-elven.  You and those with you are expected.  We are to be your guides to the settlement.”  

The troop turned off the main road and started down a trail that was clear only to their guides.  Aldren took note of the elves that were perched in trees along the way, well hidden in the tangles of limbs and foliage.

When Aldren inquired about the hidden elves, Marden explained that they had been having trouble with bands of rogues attacking and trying to take over their lands.  He then said no more on the matter, noting that all would be told in council.

Kiran rode in her now accustomed place behind Aldren and Ameni and next to Mirgan.  She was quietly observing the guides, listening closely to their speech and figuring out the few words that she was unfamiliar with.  By doing so, she almost missed what Mirgan was saying.

“I was just commenting on how much I am reminded of the times when I was small and my father would take me and mother to the village of his kin.  I was very young, yet I remember feeling like I was more at peace with them than anywhere else.”

“Do you remember anything special?” was her gentle reply.

“Not so much anything that stands out, but just the general feeling of peace and belonging.  It was something that I never felt in the presence of my mother’s family.  They had never forgiven her for marrying someone outside of her race.  They tolerated me for her sake, but there was no real acceptance.”

“Well, I cannot see you passing that kind of prejudice on to our... I mean your children.”  Kiran turned beet red and hoped that he missed that slip of the tongue that betrayed her true feelings.

Mirgan had heard it clearly, but wisely decided now was not the time to pursue it.

The sun had just moved behind the treetops when they came to the settlement proper.  The party was led to the square where the elders greeted them and bade them all welcome.  Marden then led them to buildings that had been prepared for their use.  Aldren, Ameni, Mirgan and Kiran were all told that they could settle in to refresh themselves and then there would be a feast in their honor.

Mirgan and Kiran were requested to go with Aldren and Ameni. They were led to a cottage that was cozy with a bright fire in the hearth.  Since there were only two sleeping rooms, Ameni looked at their guide.  He quickly explained in elvish that since Aldren might wish to have his squire near, they had supplied them with a dwelling that would allow such.  Since Mirgan and Kiran had been holding hands and talking quietly together, it had been assumed that they were bonded.

Kiran hid her smile from their guide and Mirgan was trying to get her to tell him what was being said.  She waved him off for the moment.  The guide left when their gear was brought in.  As soon as they left, Aldren let out a hearty laugh.

“Mirgan my lad, you must look more regal than you think you do.  The advance scouts were under the impression that you are my squire! And they were kind enough to provide us with a place with two sleeping rooms so you could be near in case I needed you for something.”

Ameni was smiling at the two young people.  “I will go and try and explain that you two are not bonded and that Mirgan is not Aldren’s squire.”

Aldren spoke up, more serious now.  “There is no need to correct our hosts, that is if Mirgan would agree to take on the duties as a squire.  I would not want a servant, rather someone I could trust to handle messages for me, and to speak in my stead when needed.  I do not want you to think that you are being degraded, but rather it would be more like a promotion.”

Mirgan was almost speechless.  “My Lord, I would be honored to take on the mantle of your squire.  I will do my best to live up to your expectations.”  

“It will be so then.  We will pass the word later tonight.  Now, let us get cleaned up for tonight’s festivities.”

Mirgan looked at Kiran and blushed.  Neither one moved toward the second room.  Mirgan finally spoke.  “Kiran, you go ahead and take the bed.  I will go in after you and change.  I can sleep out here on the floor tonight.”

Kiran thought for a moment.  “I would not mind if you wished to lay your blankets in the room.  It has a hearth that would keep you warmer than you would be out here.  I trust you since we have been camping together for a while now.”

Mirgan thought to himself that he didn’t trust himself, but followed the girl into the room.  Once inside, he placed his blankets on the floor as far from the bed as he could.  He pulled a clean tunic and leggings from his pack and then left the room so Kiran could wash and change.  Kiran washed and dressed in a few moments.  He traded places with her to do the same.

The feast was held in the main hall of the elves village.  The room was as large as the main hall of the tower.  The exposed wooden beams were carved with scenes from their past telling the stories of their settlements.  A huge hearth stood on each end, their fires blazing brightly.  The walls were carved with designs which the elves favored, trees and vines flowing gracefully around each other making intricate designs that moved around the many windows.

This night, long tables were set down each side to accommodate the revelers, ending at the dais where the elders and the Lord of the Tower were seated.  The food was delicious, and not a person among them was left hungry.  Conversation was lively and the mixture of Elvish and the Common tongue didn’t seemed to stop them from sharing their jokes and laughter.  Songs were sung and tales were told.  It was long into the night before they all became exhausted and left for their respective dwellings.

Once back to their room, Mirgan became suddenly shy.  He pulled his boots off and slipped between his blankets before removing his leggings.  He made sure that he turned his back to Kiran as she got into the bed.  After he heard the rustling of the mattress, he realized that the candles were still lit in the room.  He warned Kiran that he was going to put them out so she could turn away.

With looking in her direction, he slipped out from between his blankets.  With just his tunic covering him, he moved quickly to extinguish the candles.  He stirred the fire and added fuel to make sure it burned through the night.  The stones on the floor could become chilly before morning. He turned to go back to his covers, and looked toward the bed only to see Kiran staring back at him.  She had a smile on her face that he could not quite figure out.  She didn’t look like she was laughing at him as he scurried toward his bed, but it was more of a smile of something she was remembering fondly.

He started to get into his blankets when she called out softly to him.  When he looked back, she had moved toward the far edge of the bed and was holding the covers up in invitation.  “Come and join me Mirgan.  The floor is too cold and hard to be comfortable.  I will feel bad if I get to enjoy this bed and you do not.”

“Kiran, that may not be a good idea.  You are a beautiful woman.  And I have had more drink that I am used to.  I can’t guarantee that I could control my actions.”

“Do you think I had not considered that?  I am willing to take my chances.”

Mirgan thought about her words.  He cared for her, very much so.  He even loved her.  And she had hinted that it might just be mutual. Taking a deep breath, he moved over to the bed and slid in.  He settled down on his back with Kiran on her side next to him.

She snuggled up to him, laying her head on his shoulder.  He put his arm behind her neck in order for them to be comfortable.  They lay there for a few moments, each one thinking their own thoughts.  Mirgan was thinking about how warm and soft Kiran felt snuggled up against him.  He enjoyed the texture of her hair where it touched his cheek, and the firm feeling of her breast as it pushed into his side.  He even imagined that he could feel her nipple trying to bore a hole into his chest.  But most of all, he was enjoying the feeling of contentment and excitement of having his vision of a perfect woman next to him.

Kiran was having the same kinds of thoughts.  She reveled in the strength of his arms and chest.  She could smell a certain scent that was most definitely male.  She could even feel the beating of his heart.  Shifting her leg, she touched his hardness with her thigh.  He jumped when she did, and she moved back just a bit.  But she was now assured that he was excited to be with her!  For her own part, she felt like she was on fire!

“This is so much more comfortable, Mirgan.” Kiran sighed.  She tilted her head to look up at him.  “It would be perfect if you would put your hand on my breast like you did the night we slept together going to the tower.”

Mirgan caught his breath.  “How did you know about that?  I thought you were asleep.”

“I had been, but when you moved your hand, I woke up from your absence.  I felt so safe with you there.  With all the things that I had gone through, I was afraid I would never feel safe again.”  Since he had not moved his hand yet, she reached around and pulled his hand until it covered her breast.  She also moved his hand until he got the idea and started caressing her on his own.  She moaned as her excitement started to rise.

Mirgan’s thoughts were confused.  He was not experienced with women, although the prostitutes in the tower were more than willing to teach him.  Some had offered for free!  Now, he had the girl that he had grown to love lying next to him and she had put his hand on her breast.  Judging from the sounds she was making, she was enjoying it.  Rather than worry about what he did or didn’t know, he decided to just go with the feelings he was having.  He reached over, pulled her on top of him, and then kissed her.  The girls in Ramas were more than willing to kiss a guy, and he had taken the opportunity to learn that skill.  Now, he applied everything he had learned to Kiran’s lips.  Since she was on top of him, he reached down to stroke her butt.  To his delight, he discovered that her tunic did not come down that far.  His hands connected with her warm, soft flesh causing his passion to rise even further.

Kiran broke the kiss and lifted herself up until she was sitting astride him.  His fear that he had done something wrong vanished when she reached for the hem of her tunic and pulled it over her head.  There, in front of his eyes, were the most perfect pair of breasts he could have ever imagined.  They were not large, but looked perfect on her frame.  They rode high on her chest standing out proudly.  The nipples were sticking well clear and were colored in her excitement. 

He started to reach out and touch those beautiful globes, but Kiran had other ideas.  She started pulling on his shirt trying to remove the last piece of clothing that either one had been wearing.  With him helping, they quickly removed the garment and paused to take stock of this new appearance of their lover.

Mirgan’s eyes started from where her strong thighs were wrapped around his waist.  He could see the dark patch of hair between her legs that thinned enough to show her nether lips were splayed apart lying on each side of his cock.  As his eyes traveled upward, he saw her flat stomach that led to her chest.  His gaze finally stopped on her face that was flushed in passion and zeroed in on her eyes.  The deep blue that was normally there had almost been replaced with the blackness of her pupils as her eyes dilated in her arousal.  Her gaze as she looked at him was something he had never seen before.  Her smoky penetrating stare was one of sheer, unadulterated lust.

Kiran was on fire.  Once she had removed Mirgan’s shirt, her lust had inflamed as she took in his muscular chest, bare except for a smattering of fine hair grouped between his pectoral muscles.  Looking down where she was kneeling she could see the tip of his cock between her pussy lips.  The head was almost purple and coated in a clear liquid.  She also discovered that if she moved at all, the sensation sent spasms running throughout her loins.

Though her knowledge was limited, she knew that she had to feel him inside her.  She rose up on her knees and put her hands around the base of his cock, raising it up and aiming it at her wet entrance.  She started to settle upon it and found that the angle was not quite right.  Groaning in frustration, she shifted forward and tried again.  This time, she wet rubbed the head between her lips to moisten it, feeling spasms run through her body as she brushed it against her clit.  She finally found her entrance and pushed back feeling the head slide past the ring of muscles at the mouth of her hole.

Mirgan was entranced with the sight he was witnessing.  He had felt the absence of her pussy against his shaft when she had raised up but it was replaced with the sensation of her hot wetness as she moved him between her lips.. Nothing could have prepared him for what he felt when she lowered herself down onto his cock.  It felt like he was trapped in a sheath of hot wet velvet.  He could feel the walls of her vagina push open to accept him.  She kept up the slow, downward movement until she had him buried and her clit was nestled in his pubic hair.

Kiran lowered herself down until she was lying on his chest.  When her uncle had used her as he had her mother, it had hurt so bad that she had passed out.  The second time hurt as well since she was dry down there.  Fortunately, her uncle’s member was not well developed, certainly not like the one that was in her now!  This time, she was able to really enjoy what had happened.  And she was not one to usually take the lead in anything.  But this time, her lust was had been in control and she knew she had to have this man that was now trailing his fingers up and down her back.  His touch was sending shocks throughout her body.  Once more, she raised up over him and started to raise and lower herself onto him.

Mirgan picked up her rhythm and started pushing up into her in time with her movements. It wasn’t long before he could feel his seed start to rise, and he started moving even faster.  She seemed ready as well since she matched him stroke for stroke.  Suddenly, he felt her muscles clamp tight onto him and her sheath started to vibrate along the length of his cock.  He pushed one last time hard into her and felt his seed rush up and out of him.  Mirgan heard his own growls combine with hers as they both felt their release wash over and through them.

Kiran collapsed onto Mirgan’s chest, panting in exertion.  She had never felt anything close to this.  She could feel him still inside her and she never wanted to lose that feeling.  He reached down and caressed her back and buttocks.  She sighed happily from his touch.  She had never felt so relaxed and in love with anyone before.

Migran’s cock finally started to deflate and it slipped out from inside her.  She groaned as she moved, but she got up and found a piece of cloth to stop the flow of their combined juices.  She then crawled back into Mirgan’s waiting arms to cuddle and kiss until they both fell asleep.

Inside the next room, Ameni caught the sounds of the younger couple’s lovemaking.  She smiled and whispered to Aldren to listen as well.  They both chuckled at the thought of the lovemaking going on there, but were very soon aroused by the sounds of passion that they were soon adding their own cries.  With Ameni on her back, her knees pulled almost to her breasts, Aldren took her pushing them both to their climaxes within a very short time.   Both couples slept soundly, content that they were with their mates and wouldn’t be separated by choice again.

Word came that the dwarves would be coming in to join in the council.  This held the talks off for a few days to allow them to arrive.  In the meantime, the troops had a chance to sharpen their skills and their weapons.  For Aldren and Ameni, it was a chance to renew friendships that they had made during their stay there.

The first one was to the healer’s house.  Old Belwin was still in charge and pleased to see them once again.  She invited them into the house and bade them to sit at the table.  One of the apprentices brought a hot herbal tea and some biscuits that were buttery and melted in your mouth.

Once they had settled in, Belwin started the conversation.  “I can see that much has happened to you both, but especially you, Aldren.”

“You are right, Old One.  I found that I could not disregard the path that the ancients have laid before me.  Many of the things that have happened were not of my choosing, but I have learned to adapt and accept them as part of my destiny.”

“One thing I can tell is that you have found the very thing that terrified you can be controlled.  I can feel the power coming from you, surrounding your being like those who have gone before.  It is still a dangerous thing and one that bears your constant vigilance.  Have care when you let loose your power for those who are not prepared could be harmed.”

She then turned her attention to Ameni.  “Elf daughter, I see that you have decided to follow this man and have accepted what is to come because of that.  Yet I sense something in you that was not there when the last we met.”

Ameni then told of how she and Aldren had met Balroth, the black dragon.  Taking turns, the warriors told the healer of how Aldren had saved the dragon’s life and how Aldren had learned of his heritage.  Belwin listened without interrupting, but taking in every word that was said.  When they finished, she sat very still for a long while.  Finally, she stirred and spoke in a low voice.

“You now know what I had felt within you from your first time here with us.  For many years, I kept the scrolls of the Dragon Clan hidden away.  They contain the secrets of their lives, what they believed, what they understood of their brethren.  I now think it is time for me to pass these scrolls on to the scion of the clan.  It is only right I do so.”  With that, she got up and left the pair at the table.  It was not a short while, but the healer returned carrying a heavy volume and two scrolls that looked ancient.  These she handed to Aldren with a bow.  “Receive the history of your clan, Lord Aldren.  For it is the history of those who will once again bring this world back to a time of peace for all free peoples.”

Aldren accepted the book and scrolls with much thanks to the healer.  She then spoke to Ameni about being bathed in the blood of a dragon.  “Ameni, you may have noticed that your senses have been sharpened.  In addition, the magics that the elves still possess are within your grasp to control and wield.  This includes those that have long since fallen from memory.  To you, I pass this book that contains those magics.  Learn them well for they may save you or those close to you some day.”

They visited with the healer for a while longer, and then decided to take their leave of her.  Before they left, she asked them for one favor.  They agreed and it was decided that when they departed, Isowan would come with them.  During the time they had been gone from the village, the girl had grown both in height and in knowledge.  She would be able to teach those in the tower that were healers much that might save lives.  For her part, Isowan was excited to go along. She was to stay with Belwin until it was time for them to depart.

On their third day in the elvish settlement, the dwarves arrived.  Murdaek was in the lead followed by twenty men of his court all dressed in the chain mail that their race favored.  There had not been any contact between the dwarves and the elves for many long years but it was not from any hatred, but rather it was due to the fact that both races had until now kept mainly to themselves and had not reason to interact.  However, both races were wary of each other much as anyone would be when confronted with a complete stranger.

The leaders were guided to the great hall where the feast a few days before was held.  Inside were two long tables that were butted together on their long sides, forming a rough square.  The elves took the side opposite the dwarves, leaving Aldren and his company between them. 

Aldren started the council by explaining what he knew of happenings in the south.  He told of the king and his losing control to the priests and courtiers.  How the local lords were allowing the brutality to increase.  Of raids, and the destruction of all those who oppose their rule.

Next to speak were the dwarves.  Murdaek told of a contingent of the king’s men, led by one who claimed to be high in the council of the king, who came to demand the dwarves pay homage to the King.  The dwarf’s use of the common tongue was excellent as he told the tale, his deep voice reverberating through the hall.

“I listened to his demands and told him we would make our decision in three days.  They departed to their camp for that time.  When they returned, I told the leader that we had been a free people for as long as time had been measured.  We had worked alongside the Ancient Ones and had been at peace since.  We will not subject ourselves to rule of another race.

He then stated that we would either become subjects of the crown or we would be destroyed.  We shut the gates and they attacked the keep.  I am sure that Aldren can testify that our defenses are considerable.  They tried to ram the gates, but our archers rained down arrows that decimated their numbers.  They next tried fire, but the rock wouldn’t burn.  Now they are laying siege to our keep using catapults.  It is a slow process but they may eventually breech the walls.  Since time beyond memory, we have lived in peace requesting nothing from the outside world.  Now, we are here to request aid from the other free races.  We are willing to form an alliance to stop this invasion, but is there hope against such a force that the king can draw on?”

Aldren stood and bowed to both the elves and the dwarves.  “We, and I include all free peoples are at a crossroads.  Long have we lived our separate lives in relative peace.  We have followed the old ways - ways that preserved peace and harmony for countless generations.  Now a common enemy that wishes to eliminate or make subjects of us all brings us together. 

But it is not all men who believe like this.  Many wish to remain free to practice the old ways.  But one race alone cannot hope to defeat such a menace.  The priests of this new god are able to get people to believe that their way is correct.  And when a religion is at the basis of the fight, those under the influence are willing to fight to the end.  They lose all thoughts of logic and come to depend on the edicts of the leaders.  We must band together into a fighting force that is united in the goal of returning the lands back to all the races.”  Aldren then fell silent and sat back down.

There were several minutes of silence as the leaders of each race were lost in their own thoughts.  Finally, Valelael, the spokesman for the elves spoke.

“I can see where we need the cooperation of the other races.  But I don’t believe that we will be able to destroy this evil completely, for there will always be those who wish to control the lives of others.  Our best hope may be to contain the evil.  Drive those that believe alike to an area where they can be kept isolated to feed upon themselves.  We can declare the lands surrounding them to be free for all races.  I speak for my clan, the North Mountain Clan when I say that we will form such alliances of cooperation as is necessary to accomplish this.”

There was more discussion but in the end, it had been decided that they would just defend the areas around them keeping in mind that the future goal was to free the lands north of the river Rimdalt. 

This was the long-term goal.  For the immediate future, they knew they had a long series of fights ahead.  First was the breaking of the siege at the kingdom of the dwarves.  Murdaek said that there were at least 500 troops held the siege.  These troops were clueless of the other doors out of the keep, which was how the dwarves were able to come to the council.

 Before the leaders adjourned for a meal, Belwin appeared at the doorway of the hall.  After receiving permission to enter and speak, she slowly shuffled her way in to face the council.  Behind her was Isowin, who was holding a standard.  The attached banner was tightly bound, hiding the device that was upon it.

She spoke in elvish, but  Valelael translated for those who did not understand the language.  “Leaders and representatives of the free peoples of the land,  I stand before you to return a banner long closeted and kept by those who retain the lore and wisdom of the elves.  Long ago, this banner was bravely flown by a clan that was of the highest reknown.  Now, it is returned to the last survivor of that clan.”

With a flourish, Isowin unfurled the banner.  It showed a black dragon in flight against a dark red background.  Valelael and the other elders in attendance all gasped in surprise.  They knew of this banner, but only from legend.

“Isowin, where did this come from and why do you display it now?”  This came from one of the elders at the dais.

Isowin answered in a strong voice.  “It has been foretold that one would return that could claim the right to carry this banner once again.  Now that time has come.  My mentor’s foresight has been proven true.  Aldren, half-elven has been proven to be the one.  For he has called the dragons to his aid and they have acknowledged the right.  Balroth the Black, mightest of the dragons of legend, has declared Aldren, Dragon Kin.  Aldren  healed Balroth, which can only be done by one who controls the dragon magic.”

The dwarves were left out of the exchange.  Kiran, who had come to the council at Aldren’s request, translated the discussions for them.  The dwarves discounted the legends of the elves for the most part.  However, seeing the look of concern and even fear in the expressions of the elders made them rethink their preconceived notions.

One of the elven elders spoke up.  “How can we believe this is true?  No one, man or elf has been allowed to practice the wild magic for generation uncounted.”

When Mirgan heard the translation of the elf’s words, he stood and asked to be allowed to speak.  He had been in awe of the great leaders that were here, but it rankled him that they did not believe what Aldren had done.  “Lords, this wise woman speaks the truth.  For I have seen the power that my Lord Aldren possesses.  I have seen him in battle, surrounded by flame and unstoppable.  He is careful of his use of this magic for he has told me that with such power comes a terrible responsibility.  You can believe this lowly knight of the tower or not as you wish.  But I do not lie.  You have to only look into my soul to know that what I say is true.”  With that, Mirgan moved back and fell silent.  He never had been one for speaking so forcefully, but he had felt that it needed to be said. 

The elves went back into a private conference for a while.  Then Valelael spoke for them all.  “We who know Aldren tend to believe what is said, but many will still be wary of one who carries such power.  Thus we give consent for those who follow Aldren to fight under the banner of the Dragon Clan.  However, we ask that the banner not be revealed until such time that we are in battle and have need of such power.”

Isowin furled the banner to it’s staff , masking the heraldry that was displayed on it’s field of red.  She passed it to Mirgan, who took possession of it with a mixture of awe and not just a little pride.  He stood behind his lord, tall and stern with the responsibility for being a part of the ancient legends unfolding.

The discussions stopped long enough to let the leaders eat before deciding how to free the dwarves.  Stepping outside, Mirgan approached Aldren during the break.  “My Lord, it is really not my place to understand what you need to decide, but I have a suggestion for you, if you wish to hear it.”

“If it would help save the lives of our troops, I would be very interested, Mirgan.”  Aldren then stepped over to Mirgan and grasped his forearm in a warrior-to-warrior salute declaring, “And I wish to thank you for coming to my aid during the discussions.  You shall be my standard bearer when we go into battle, fighting alongside me and the men of the tower.”

Flushed with pride at his new position, Mirgan was momentarily at a loss for words, but with encouragement from Aldren to speak his mind, Mirgan quietly and quickly laid out his plan.  As he listened, Aldren started to grin.  By the time Mirgan had finished, Aldren was barely able to keep from laughing out loud.

Mirgan thought he had made a fool of himself until Aldren grasped his shoulder.  “Young Mirgan, with ideas such as this, I believe I need to include you in all my councils!  There may be a few problems we will have to work out, but the idea is brilliant!  Come, we will return to the hall and have you present your plan.”

Together, they walked through the ornate doors, leaving the sunshine behind to plan the future of the free races.