Troubles of the Mount Pais Vasco Aery (55)

In part, I expected a chance for a good climb to refocus my mind before meeting the Phoenixes. It would also be a chance to think through everything that I had discovered during this short trip. Four full formed phoenixes awaited us at the top edge of the foothills where the badly maintained trail ended. The horses whinnied once but remain calm and silent as we approached the majestic flaming predatory birds. As we moved closer, I could spot the humanoid birds saddled upon the grand phoenixes. They shared the flame coloured feathers of the true bird but their form had aspects more related to flaming angels. Down feathers for hair that crested down their backs to spread into their flame coloured wings. The deep set reddish hue on their skin and the talon shaped hands and chitin covered feet completed their predatory bird-like attributes. I scanned with my eyes and my mind the group of phoenixes to note the handful of nearly human looking members of the race. The ruddy completion of their skin appeared as the only tell-tale sign of their inhuman origin. I pondered while we slowly rode up to meet them if this was a sign of cross-breeding or an evolutionary adaptation caused magically by them.

“Being your first meeting with us,” a human looking woman started, “we do understand your possible surprise at the many forms of our race.” She curtsied at us with a face devoid of emotion. “We will explain what we know of this diversity.” she continued easily. “Be well meet at the Pais Vasco Aery.” she concluded. She curtsied to us once more as we disembarked from our carriage. They seemed to ignore Cole's feminine attire as if they had witnessed plays like that before today. I bowed deeply to her while my team followed suit.

“It would be of great interest to learn more of your race.” I replied casually. “It was a shock being meet by flaming winged angels.” I admitted with a wry smile.

“We fear they are the source for the fallen angels who's wings burn for eternity tales.” she returned with a sigh. “My name is Pecado and I will serve as your guide Lord Kestrel.” she continued. I sensed her mind's forced whisper at me. “May Meakita advise us in our cursed mystery.”

“I will attempt to perform as the perfect envoy for those that sent me here.”I returned quickly. She smiled as she realized I heard her desires.” Sertian, my honour guard and marshal protege.” I began the introductions. “Mekiliean, my healer, and Colêsträ, my attache to the Council of Atlantis.”

“All very honoured guests to our Aery.” Pecado replied. She acknowledge each in turn with a swift half curtsy. “We offer you wings to avoid the hardship of a quasi impossible climb.” she told us. She waved toward the four great birds that knelt with bowed heads to us. “Best we wing away from here before human eyes discover us.” she concluded. She gently took my arm to lead the party to the feathered mounts. She scrabbled easily upon the last bird's neck and held back a helping hand offered to me. I chuckled while using my invisible wings to leap high and land gently upon the seat behind her on the great bird's neck. I only had a moment to glance back to the others before we were airborne racing in a spiralling arc around the mountain.

“What is this mystery that plagues the phoenixes?” I stated. I knew the wind and distance would mute our words from the others.

“Our forms.” she replied over her shoulder to me. She brushed her hand against the side of our mount's feathered head as she whispered quickly into his ear. She turned at the waist to face me more fully without loosening her leg grip around the bird's neck. “More accurately, phoenixes being reconstituted with human forms.” she continued. “And noticing phoenix' souls being reborn in purely human bodies.” she added quickly.

“Very interesting development for a mythic race as ancient as the phoenixes.” I returned softly. I scratched at my chin pondering to halt the angry retort I sense forming in her mind. “Have the phoenixes been mating more with humans?” I enquired. She made a confused face as I felt her thinking through my question. I took the chance to examine her external and internal physiology while she pondered. Flaming red hair was mixed within sparse patches of feathery down on her head while the reddish hue of her skin could easily pass for a mildly sunburned human. Even her bones lacked the air pockets typical for all the feathered species but, I could see the soul-fire inside her. This soul-fire gave the phoenix the ability to return living through their fiery self purging and reconstruction of their body seen as a form of immortal rebirth.

“To my knowledge ...” she began slowly, “... only the reborn in human bodies have been brought under wing.” I could see in her mind when they failed to safeguard and spirit them away. The dire consequences of an infected human destroying half a town in an unstoppable blaze because of their phoenix' soul-fire unleashed due to fatal illness. “They wish to remain separated fully from humans in all things.” she concluded. I gleaned the chain that occurred to create the different ones I saw upon my arrival.

“The grand phoenixes go into their flaming molting to shrink each time as their form slides closer to a human shape.” I announced. She nodded back as I scanned the airspace for my other companions. The three other mounts had passed us to be nearly at the summit that hid the Phoenix Aery.

“Then they reform into the flaming angel form.” Pecado supplied. “The new fledgling hatched taking the newest form as their starting point.” she explained. “To protect our grand form, we control mating combinations very strictly.” she continued. “No reproduction is allowed between any of the tiers below the true original phoenix form.” she concluded.

“Lessening the birth rate which would force the phoenix' souls reincarnating into the bodies of other more prolific races.” I returned. “Or having your race slip slowly into a purely human form without losing its soul-fire abilities.” I hazarded softly. I saw the flame kindling in her eyes at my words. “It would hopefully prevent spontaneous combustion destroying human dwelling areas.” I added. She shook her head as flame tongues played around her eyes and a sad squawking laugh escaped her.

“Would the Atlantian Council allow their citizen to be born looking like powerless humans?” she retorted. Her eyes blazed hotter as she spoke. “It is seen as a miracle that they did not neuter the half beast guards in gratitude for sparing their lives.” she remarked. Flames now played in her hair as I felt her disgust toward my thoughts. “No race would wish to be lost into a weaker joke of a race.” she added.

“Your anger and your flames are pointless when directed at me Pecado.” I stated forcefully. Her eyes widened as I mentally forced her flames back into her soul. She gasped as she realized that, without lifting a finger, I had nullified her powers. “I would rather human stayed human but that is impossible when the mystic races seem drawn to curse them daily.” I continued mercilessly. As I spoke, I allowed black coloured flames to wreath my features in a hawkish mask. “My counsel was to lessen the contamination of the true humans.” I told her pointedly. My eyes shifted to the midnight depths of empty space while I ignored her fear-filled whimpering. “And it may give the phoenix' egoistic pride a taste of humility.” I ended. Her mouth worked in silence as she attempted in vain to break through her chest constricting terror. I let the dark flames fade as my now blacken eyes slowly returned to their raptorial amber orbs of my name sake predator.

“Dark Phoenix...” she squeaked out. It had taken a quarter hour for her to regain her voice. She still stared in wide eyed fear at me while our winged mount continued lazily circling the mid point of the mountain in a ponderous accession.

“I am called kestrel with good reason.” I replied calmer. “Small, vicious, and capable of dealing with much larger targets.” I explained sheepishly. “Doesn't help when my soul is the child of Madness raping Passion.” I added half in jest.

“Meakita is the Ancient Alal?” she remarked hoarsely. I nodded slowly without emotion in admittance to her. “But not the feared monster of our legends?” she continued haltingly. I smile as I nodded once more to her. “Refrain from wearing that flaming kestrel mask before the others.” she advised calmer. “I doubt they would live through that mistake.”

“I believe our mount drop us if I were the true Dark Phoenix.” I returned casually. This thought was filed away as I saw the possibility of controlling the phoenixes from all Aeries with this underhanded method. “I am sorry for causing you panic but I could not allow your anger to blind you from basic facts.” I explained. “Since the low birth rate is the only reason for phoenix' souls being born in human bodies.” I made clear to her. “But I have no answer for the shifting form that is assaulting your kind.” I continued. “But it would give you the control the true humans lack.” I added. I shrugged my shoulders while holding my hands out at my sides as sign of helplessness.

“I ask for your forgiveness for my cross words Lord Kestrel.” she stated. “And heartfelt gratitude for your open minded advice.” she added quickly. She turned instantly to squawk commands, or requests, to our mount. It rocketed to reach the other three as they started landing on a ledge at the peak level.

“Problems?” Sert interjected. He remained on the ledge by the mounts waiting while the rest entered ahead of us.

“I simply required to confirm the cause of a minor issue the Phoenixes face.” Pecado answered easily.

“Similar to the broken cart we encountered on the path here.” I commented. “Which rises a question in my mind regarding that trio of humans.” I said slowly.

“Few humans travel in carts for leagues around Pais Vasco.” Pecado remarked. I nodded my agreement to her words. “I will give you time to discuss privately.” she offered, Sert eyed me quickly before nodding his acceptance to staling entering a few more minutes.

“What did you make of our stranded trio?” I asked Sert honestly.

“They were not what they appeared to be.” he replied quickly. “I sense no true deceit or evil intentions in their machinations but something felt inhuman about them.” he explained softly. I stared at him questioningly without speaking. I want him to state his full thoughts without being held back or guided by my words. “It is easier to be overlooked and not challenged if they appear as simple humans than what they truly were.” he concluded. I nodded my understanding.

“I thought the same but, like you, I did not see any evil intentions in them during their requested help.” I returned to Sert.

“I doubt they truly needed help but wanted to know if humans in the area would be open to assisting them instead of ignoring or preying on them.” Sert replied. “I just feel very bad having Cole and Meli drag them into their silly bickering.” he moaned. “I wonder if they think all women are vain now?”

“And if I confided in you that I believe they knew Cole was not a woman?” I remarked. “And I may have encouraged them to select him?” I added in a whisper. Sert did not attempt to hide a chuckle that escaped him.

“At the very least, it gave us a few hours of silence during the ending of our trip.” he conceded bashfully. “Will you tell me what they truly were?” he asked suddenly.

“I would if I knew without any doubts.” I lied to him. “It felt draconian but something was truly wrong about it.” I falsely admitted. I waited to see what he would consider them being so I would know what would be told to Annianka. Sert shrugged as he nodded acceptance to my words. “We should enter before Cole makes a mockery of this meeting.” I suggested. “Considering they are stuck with Meli and Cole, we could have another who is the prettiest contest started.” I added. Sert shook his head and hung his shoulders as we entered through the simmering image that hide the Aery from view.

Once pass the illusionary barrier, we finally could see the true Pais Vasco Aery around us. Their shield hide the top quarter of the mountain peak which held tree perches, grand nests, and climbing vines sturdy enough for even a full grown human to climb without fear. Smaller nests were nestled under the grand ones to offer more protection from the rain for the new human formed phoenixes and infected humans. The adaptation made to help and protect those reborn as lesser in comparison to the true phoenixes showed the acceptance of these members. Pecado waited a yard in from the barrier with a trio of fledgelings. The one that showed as being purely human stared wide-eyed at us as we approached. I had removed the glamoury that shorten Atlantians to human height when we disembarked from the carriage. The humans linked to the Eibar Goblin Enclave received warning of our giantess size but I feared the newer members of the Aery had not benefited from such a warning. I did not sense fear but awe and excitement from the infected human while the other two seem unaffected by the sight of giants among them.

“Those are Atlantians?” the boy muttered. I notice one of the others nodding to him. “They truly are giants among men!” he continued in awe.

“Hush Darwin.” Pecado told him. The others giggled in sharp squawking tones. The lone human hung his head as he blushed. A pained look of pity crossed Pecado's face as the boy's shoulders slumped.

“We may be tall but very nice people.” Sert remarked. I did not stop him as he strode casually to the boy. He crouched in a frog like pose to attempt being closer to the boy's height. “Only a bit taller now.” he stated. The boy rose his face slowly to look up at Sert. “And not so scary up close.” he continued. The boy stared at him intently studying his features in silence. “I hope not as scary.” he added in the silence. It took another minute before the boy giggled at Sert.

“Only real difference is the slightly pointed ears.” the boy announced. Pecado sighed as she shook her head.

“You should not be defining each race solely on looks.” she chided him. The boy shrugged but remained silently smiling at Sert. I chuckled which drew the child's attention back to me. I let myself shrink back to my normal human height before his eyes. I received only a gulp for my performance.

“Not everything you see with your eyes is filled with truth.” I told the boy. “If you look beyond with your inner fire, you may be surprised at what you truly are looking upon.” Pecado move forward ready to speak as the boy closed his eyes in concentration. I glared at her as I place my index finger across my lips to silence here objections. The boy's eyes reopened revealing a thin line of reddish-orange flames around his iris. He examine Sert and myself before turning to examine Pecado.

“That is utterly impossible!” she challenged me. “You must be the cause of this!” she added. The other two Phoenix fledgeling cheered him as as they saw the human boy's flame touched eyes. The child blinked once his gaze had returned to me with normal eyes.

“If the soul is present, it's powers will be there also.” I informed them. “I simply reminded him about it.” I continued casually. “When did you first see through your soul-eyes?” I asked softly. I saw Pecado once again wanting to interrupt us but said nothing.

“I was four or five.” the boy replied. “It scared me because, while my family looked the same, I was made of fire.” he confessed. “I had not thought about it until you mentioned inner fire.” he admitted bashfully.

“And this changes how and what we teach these phoenix souled humans.” Pecado stated.

“If nothing is held back, you may find they equal the true blooded phoenixes.” I returned quickly.

“I doubt they can reconstitute themselves through flaming immolation.” she replied. “Their body does not produce the correct oils to manipulate flames without burning their flesh.” she continued slower. I shrugged back to her waiting for the interruption I felt coming from Sert.

“Would lighting a candle from a distance be considered as acceptable flame manipulation like that of a phoenix?” he asked boldly.

“It is not part of the traditional phoenix training.” Pecado returned quickly. “But please explain your thoughts in this matter.” she continued amicably.

“It is something Meli, Mekiliean, was thought regarding elemental control and release.” Sert informed us. I nodded for him to continue as a mild blush touched his cheeks. “If they learn some of the fire manipulation techniques of elementalists, they would not need to touch the flame while manipulating it.” he explained hesitantly. “Mekiliean could explain it better with more details and examples.” he added quickly.

“It would also help increase their control over the inner fire they possess.” I remarked casually. “Which could also lead to new form of manipulation the other phoenixes might be able to use.” I hazarded.

“This would change many of the derogatory ideas for us reborn out of feathers.” Pecado replied softly. “We will ask lady Mekiliean for any simple exercises we can start teaching the class.” she told Darwin. “I think a great change for phoenixes everywhere will start with those simple lessons.” she added. It was the first moment since I met this woman that I sensed happiness in her. The power of the hope that formed deep inside her grew quickly as I saw her thoughts forming along this secondary line of teaching for the wingless avians.

Dinner, Flower, and Dragons (54)

      Even with the grand surroundings, I expected simple fare. As servants carried out platters of roasted meat to the tables, my shock at these goblin increased again. The only difference shown between the head table and the lines of common tables appeared in the serving method. The platters of meat, the deep bowls of mixed root vegetables, and flagons of wine and ale were placed along the tables allowing the diners to serve themselves. Empty serving dishes were quickly replaced by the servers with filled ones. The head table received a direct delivery from the servants who would spoon out the requested amount on our plates. My eyes could not detect a quality improvement in the food or libation dispensed at the head table versus the common fair. The equality shown in the meal coincided with the equality between sexes that these goblins lived by.

      “It is odd for outsiders to see a society based on skills and abilities without belittling those that lack in those fields.” Isabella whispered to me. “I find myself constantly holding my tongue studying the goblinoid ideology.” she added.

      “It is no different from Atlantis.” I returned calmly. “For me, it is the prosperity gained by the goblins through allying themselves with a small faction of Spain's populous.” I continued. My eyes drifted along the common tables noting that nearly a third of the beings were humans and most of those were children. “Nor have I seen allies feeding those less fortunate they are linked to.” I added. A deep mirthless chuckle escaped her.

      “Their prosperity made them generous to those allies in need.” she told me. “Especially the younger ones that have been cast aside by Spanish society..” she added. I could sense the contempt she held against her own race's beliefs.

      “It is nature's way to remove weakness within a species.” I remarked softly.

      “But humans should be wiser than animals in their behaviour.” she retorted.

      “Agreed.” I interjected calmly. “But society is still evolving toward a better future.” I continued.

      “A hard concept to believe since the new generation is being born empty headed and empty handed.” she returned.

      “Which is why teaching them compassion is as important as teaching them to defend themselves.” the Goblin Queen commented. I chuckled as I nodded to her words. Isabella blushed slightly as I felt her embarrassment and I heard the whispered thought of being inferior.

      “Not all humans understand that a soul holds knowledge of many past lives, your highness.” I stated calmly. “Souls and spirits are what animates the flesh and blood bags we see as ourselves.” I explained slowly. “The teaching we receive in the youth of each new life we live directs how we can use our soul's knowledge.” I continued in the same relaxed pace. “Knowledge is also passed within our own bloodline because our body is a combination of two other being.” I told them slowly.

      “The instinctive reaction to fire most beings have no matter they be animal, goblin, human, or Atlantian.” Cole remarked. “But we should be relishing this wonderful meal instead of bantering about ingrained knowledge sources.” he added. I chuckled as the three of us nodded. I glance at him one last time before digging into my meal. I spotted the little smirk he wore and read from his mind the doubt of a human at this time could understand the complexity of soul and body combination leading to an enlightened mind. I did in part fear he was correct in his views but could wait until tasting the medley on my plate before attempting again.

      The roast was sliced paper thin mixed with mushrooms and onions in a creamy mildly spiced gravy. The taste was delicate with a mild earthen undertone heightening the texture and flavour of pork. It was truly amazing to taste such a flavour but unsurprising from goblins that specialize in raising sows, pigs, and boars. The mixed root vegetables was simple. The turnips, beets, yams, bush potatoes, and bush carrots must have been cooked separately to have them all at the same partial firmness against the teeth while still being properly cooked. The colours remained true even with the presence of the beets that would dye anything it normally would touch purplish-red including the butter lightly coating the small mixed chunks. The taste was mild while unblended until chewed slowly in my mouth. I raised my cup to my lips to sip the honey sweet wine which nearly evaporated on my tongue. The surprises this meal raised my interest in knowing if the common tables actually received the same food. I simple touch to their minds showed the same distinctive flavours I had tasted.

      “I may want to steal the recipes for these dishes.” I stated to the King. He shrugged as his wife giggled.

      “His majesty's recipes are considered Enclave secrets.” she told me. “But I am sure a trade could be accomplished for it in return for recipes we lack here.” she added. Isabella sighed at my shoulder making me turn to face her.

      “Does that rule cover the cooking secret for the vegetables you learned from us?” Isabella asked softly. The queen giggled back as she shook her head. “Then why would keeping a simple recipe a secret be of importance?” she continued. A small smile formed on her face as she spoke. “It would be impolite behaviour toward a long time ally of the Enclave.” she added. I held back my laughter unlike Cole that chuckled as he applauded her words.

      “But stealing the royal recipes would be very unseemly for an ally to do.” King Diaz replied.

      “I believe we can come to a mutually understanding.” I returned quickly. “My healer knows many tea recipes that could be a change from simple water.” I continued.

      “Some of her teas are truly magical to taste.” Cole pipped in. “Some even have mild curative abilities.” he added.

      “Very useful for this Enclave now being linked to humans.” the King answered. The meal continued as the voices at the head table lowered in volume and in length. It ended quietly as the laziness of being well feed fell softly upon us. The remaining conversations hushed to soft simple comments and calm bantering. Cole as per his norm had slid into simply listening in silence which the Goblin Queen also did. The King, general and Sert spoke of military ideas while Meli and Grenadine discussed possible use of the combination of lighting and aeration in subterranean gardening. Isabella mostly continued to gauge my differing views about goblins and humans in comparison to the Atlantians. The common tables emptied while we spoke quietly and sipped wine.

      “It may be time to retire for the night.” I mentioned. I punctuated my sentence with a badly stifled yawn behind my hand. I received slow nods of agreement circled the table quickly. “I bid you all a good night.” I continued. I slowly raised to my feet to bow in turn to Goblin Elder at the table. I did not wait or look back to see if my team followed me as I walked away. A guard waited to lead us down a side passage to a set of four small caves with curtains hanging across the opening for privacy. I barely considered the males truly using the privacy curtains but was happy that Meli could be given a closed space of her own. I entered the circular room I was assigned for the night. A thick pallet lay at one side and a tub still steaming at the back but the rest of the room was empty. I glanced back to find the curtain drawn closed to my room. I chuckled under my breath before checking the heated water and having a quick bath before sleeping the night away.

      I awoke the next morning not to a knock or a call from Sert or Meli but to the loud bickering between my companions. I dressed slowly half listening to the comments being stated forcibly by Meli and, to a lesser extent, by Sert aimed at the Atlantian word for “flower”. When I drew my curtains aside from the entrance to my room, I nearly choked on the laughter bubbling through me at the scene.

      “I am sorry if my fashion makes the two of you look bad.” Cole retorted in a girlish voice. He was wearing a mesh of Atlantian linen cut and draped with a Spanish style travelling dress. He had deftly painted his face to give it full ruby red lips, gently flushed cheeks, and long kohled eyelashes turning into darken lines giving his eyes a cattish form. A mass of dark golden curls topped his head and hung down to cover his shoulders. “Am I not a flower in full bloom?” he remarked with a sickly sweet smile. He ran his hands up from his curvy hips to fluff and place his padded false bosom. “What are your thoughts Lord Kestrel?” he mused. He curtsied in a quick flowing motion before giving me a bawdy wink and a twirl to make the dress lift revealing shapely bare legs.

      “Are you trying to make us sick?” Meli retched at him.

      “Or making Atlantians appear as foolish transvestite!” Sert growled back. I caught a quick flash memory of Sert's first encounter with Cole's new persona which started the bickering at my door. Cole flicked open a fan hiding the lower half of his face while batting his eyelashes at Sert with a flirty giggle.

      “What is the true meaning of this?” I asked in false indifference.

      “To look helplessly ravishing.” Cole returned. His thoughts revealed the benefit of having a hidden sword if we faced bandits or other opposition. It was a constructive use of his pure deceitful nature. He stood feigning a convincing empty headed look while Sert and Meli still glared at him in silence. I shook my head with a groan before following the guard back to the surface.

      “We have a open carriage readied for you Lord Kestrel.” the guard informed us. “It has seating for four plus a driver if you require one.” he continued.

      “But I am the prettiest Atlantian to walk upon the outside world!” Cole commented behind me.

      “You are falsehood Flower!” Meli retorted back.

      “I will drive it.” I told him. “It will give me a chance to be away from the brewing conflict.” I commented to the guard in a whisper. He chuckled back as he bow to me.

      “We must sit side by side so Sert can judge which one is prettier.” Cole remark to Meli. “He is a good judge of aesthetics considering his wonderful distraction method.” he continued. A lewd smile had formed on his face as he looked hungrily at Sert. I held back the laughter as I heard from the trio of minds. “Naked time is always fun time for us Atlantian girls.” he added with a giggle.

      “No man would even consider you beautiful.” Meli retorted. “They would barely see you as female.” she added angrily.

      “I am sure we can find some male to judge us while we travel.” Cole returned. I blocked Sert from taking the driver's seat by mounting into position while the goblin guard held the half door open for my companions to take places in the carriage. Cole held out her hand toward the guard and Sert for a helpful hand into the carriage while Meli followed unassisted. Sert peered at the two noticing that Cole moved to assume the seat next to Meli leaving him a full seat at the back of the carriage. I heard him grumbling to himself as he climbed into the open carriage. He was forced by Cole's feet to take the middle spot on the seat barring any hopes for Meli to move away from Cole.

      “We have nearly a full days journey over rolling terrain.” I stated to them. “I do hope you children will behave properly.” I warned them. I received a giggle from Cole, a grunt from Meli, and nothing but a wave from Sert as I looked back at them. “We will discuss this tactic once we have arrived at the Aery.” I added bluntly.

      “Do not be afraid to show some leg Meli.” Cole remarked. I snapped the reins putting the horses into a quick gallop. I did wish to still have the war mounts from Lorenzo for their sheer power and extra speed. “I doubt Sert will find fault in those over muscled workers' legs of yours.” Cole added. I blocked out the rest of their comments while receiving flashes of emotions from the trio. The burning anger raging in Meli, the desire to escape even if it was by death from Sert, and the teasing merriment from Cole as he continued goading Meli into tantrums. Sert was forced to attempt playing diplomat and peace keeper between the two giving me a chance to ignore them during the quiet cross country drive. It was pass midday when the broken waggon with a trio of humans came into view. I could clearly see the two males pretending to work on the the axle while a younger woman waited to one side. She glanced at us as I felt a feathery touch on my mind before she started to wave frantically at us.

      “Please help us!” she screamed. “Our wheel has come undone.” she added. I waved back hearing the bickering silence behind me.

      “Seems we have humans in need of assistance.” I remarked over my shoulder. “I will see if I can help while you three remain ready if something is amiss.” I continued. I rode closer to them to stop a few feet from their broken waggon. I leap to the ground and dashed over to the young woman.

      “You may call me Muse.” she whispered to me. It was one of the abilities of the original draconic race to whisper directly to a being without fear of being heard by others. I hid my bow to her by appearing to examine the undercarriage of their cart. “I am happy we have this chance to speak and meet even if it is very short.” she continued in that same directed whisper.

      “Let only the words needed be spoken Princess.” I responded mentally to her. “If you remain divided from the other dragons then you may be able to hide for longer and grow stronger before you are called into action.” I continued. I mimicked her direct whispering technique. I and one of the other disguised male dragons held the cart aloft while the other male replaced the wheel properly. “But be warned that some might hunt you if they discovered your secret.” I warned in a hushed tone. We lowered the waggon to test the strength of the bond it now had with it's wheel. As they thanked me for my assistance, Cole rushed at them with Meli at his heels. Sert followed at a slower pace to join us.

      “We can let these wonderful men decide which is prettier.” Cole gushed. “They seem to understand beauty.” he added. He tilted his head toward Muse as he spoke.

      “You are being foolish.” Meli returned. “No man would ever confuse a hag like you as being pretty.” she retorted. I had but a moment to sense the confusion from Princess Muse's guards as they stared blankly at both of them. I knew they could not be confused by their eyes at which was truly female and a dressed up male doll. My darker shade of humour clearly showed as I mentally told them to select Cole as the “pretty one”.

      “Why would they believe a comely lassie would ever compare to a full figured beauty like myself.” Cole retorted.

      “It is not our place to judge women.” one of the guards stated. He tried backing away as Cole grappled his arm. Not to be out done by a man in a dress, Meli had hold of the other guard's arm. They gave me another desperate look as I mentally repeated to chose the man before them. I had barely noticed Sert coming to stand by Muse. My mind snapped to attention as I remember his ability to see through the guise of Anubis' guards nearly a year prior. He examine the young lady's face without sensing fear but knowing it was not humans that stood there.

      “You must excuse them good lady.” he stated calmly to her. He bow to her as she replied with a quick curtsy. “They do not get much time away from the cloisters the physicians assigned them to.” he continued. He remain passive showing no humour in his stinging words. I could see in his mind that he thought them friends of mine without truly knowing or caring which species they actually were.

      “We select this one.” both guards stated together. They pointed at Cole as I could feel a revulsion forming inside them for their lie. Cole in turn bubbled and flirted with them for a few minutes while Meli returned to the carriage awestruck by their chose. Muse had chuckled but I feared she wanted to scold me for my actions.

      “I thank you again sir.” she told me. “We must be off quickly brothers before mother and father die of worry.” she called back to her guards. They forcible disentangled themselves from Cole with Sert's help.

      “It is unneeded for a chance to help others.” I replied. I bowed to her as she mounted the back of the cart. She gave me one last glance. “Follow the path you see fit and all will be well.” I added quietly. I turned to help Sert drag Flower back to the carriage while the guards used this time to get their ox moving quickly away from us and the path we followed.

      “No reason to sulk just because they are enlightened enough to see the incredible beauty I have inside me.” Cole commented. He sat across from Meli who sulked next to Sert. Other than Cole bubbling with pride at being the prettier one, the rest of the trip to the aery was done in quiet contemplation.

Interlude: Meeting with The Spire (14)

     Shortly before reaching Lakshadweep islands of India, the skies turned black as thick grey clouds filled it around noontime. Paintbrush strokes of lightning jumped between and inside the dark clouds casting only momentary dim vision of the ship. To the surprise of captain and crew, their passengers helped to man the deck under the commands of Marina. Crimson was half way to the crow's nest when the first sheet of heavy rain slammed into the ship with the blasts of wind that drove it. The waves followed the rain line buffeting the ship then cresting to wash over it. Marina glanced up to spot Crimson hanging one handed from the rigging with a tendril of red flowing from his free hand.
     “Where did that madman get a whip?” the captain screamed in her ear. The lacking light, crashing waves, pounding rain, rolling thunder, and screeching wind made screaming the only way to communicate in the raging storm.
     “Sirrah Crimson is a resourceful man.” Marina screamed back. The captain patted her back. She glanced around verifying on the Amazons' safety. It was a slow process as her hands worked automatically to tense and release the jib sail to help guide the ship in the gale. She used the flashes to check on one and marked the position of her next target in her peripheral vision. She was halfway through her visual inspection when a hawkish screech sounded above them. Her eyes snapped skyward as a flash showed a dark winged form attempting a forced landing into the crow's nest. Darkness stole her sight as she grappled to the rail and ropes to remain standing.
     Her screamed “No!” was stolen by the cacophony of the storm as a glowing red orb suddenly surrounded the crow's nest. Marina stood like a statue grappling the rail and ropes. The captain spotted her during the next flash showing the white exposed flesh as her eyes stared lost upward. The after image leaved her white skin standing out of the darkness like the flaps of the bundled sails. The captain follow her gaze skyward to spot the shimmering red hued sphere that sat atop the main mast. It stood out like a bloody beacon in the storm casting a pulsating redness to the ship below. Silhouettes of two beings pointing beyond the prow of the ship showed within the globe during the next lightning strike.
     “We have a warning ahead!” he screamed at Marina. She still stared blindly upward unmoving. “Get closer to the prow on this side while I spot from the other side.” he ordered. She did not respond. He forced a spyglass in her hand as he placed his face an inch before hers. “You spot front starboard while I take front port!” he screamed in her face. She blinked once before her eyes refocused on him. “Something is ahead of us in this storm.” he continued. “We need to scope for it now!” he added. Marina quickly nodded back mutely before darting down the right side of the ship. Her body moved from memory and experience alone as she dodged sailors and debris deftly with barely a conscious thought. Her mind only screamed of her fear that Crimson was lost to her again. She refused to look back at the captain or at the ball of scarlet that now crowned and illuminated the ship. She locked her legs to the rail in position while glancing through the spyglass. The tube slowly moved to scan the barely discernible horizon.
     Luck and her sailor's eye gave her the edge to see a nearly translucent ball moving toward them rapidly. Marina released a shrill whistle as she looked across the ship to the captain. He glanced over to spot her signalling with two fingers where the target was. With both sets of eyes on this oddity, a flash lit the sky behind it showing another vessel cutting through the storm. I took only a few second to realize the course of the other ship was aimed directly at their vessel. The captain was waving to the helmsman to veer to the left as Marina tracked the other ship. Its course change to remain on a path to cross theirs. Marina pointed to her exposed eye and at the ship in a quick motion she repeated as she felt the ship swerve wildly right and left through the stormy waters. Their unknown phantom matched their course changes nearly as quickly as they made them. She felt a hand touch her shoulder. She glanced to see the captain flipping a thumb upward to the bloody spheric crown the ship wore. She nodded back understanding how the other ship was tracking them.
     “I'll climb up and see if sirrah Crimson can turn it off.” Marina screamed at the captain. He nodded back quickly. She ran now in control of her skills to the rigging before carefully but swiftly shimmying her way to the crow's nest. She stopped as she reached the solid blood globe that protected the crow's nest. She pounded on it with both fists while her legs held her fast against the ropes of the rigging. Her fist suddenly slipped through the membrane to grapple on the edge of the hole leading in the crow's nest.
     “This is the beacon the other ship is tracking.” she told them. She stared at Crimson spotting crystal blue eyes while vaguely realizing that all the elements of the storm were blocked out by the orb. “You need to turn it off so we can escape without a collision.” she continued. She glanced around the crow's nest finding the black hawkish looking bird laying on its side. “You did this to protect the bird?” she asked.
     “And give us a chance to see what was around us better.” Crimson retorted.
     “You did it to save that bird.” she repeated. “Now can you shrink it to the size of the bird so we can bundle it up and and make our escape from being crushed?” she continued.
     “There is some sort of shield protecting that ship from the storm.” he reported. “Like the Leviathan might have?”
     “It did not have a storm shield.” she returned. “Which brings up the question of who's ship that is.” she continued. “Try dimming the light it's producing while I warn the captain.” she concluded. They smiled at each as they pounded their heart to have their fist explode open as they latched their fingers together between them. She nearly slid down all the way the rigging in her rush to get to the captain.
      'What's the word?” The captain screamed at her. The reddish light dimmed around them but did not vanish completely.
    “The other ship has some type of storm barrier.” Marina screamed back. “We cannot be sure it is friend or foe but sirrah Crimson attempting to hide us so we may escape them.” she added.
     “Keep spotting for it while we try avoid it.” he ordered back quickly. He glanced up one last time at the orb that now glowed like a minor lantern on the main mast. “They may still be able to see that beacon but we will try to out manoeuvre them.” he added gruffly. Marina returned to her starboard post to scan the oncoming ship while their ship began bouncing from wave to wave erratically to dissuade the other ship. The stalker ship continued to re-correct their course to aim at their ship.
     As it approached they spotted a dozen men holding stave toward the storm. With a bounce over a wave and a twist it landed back in the sea parallel to theirs. Grapple hooked lines shot through their shields to attach to Marina's ship. As the hulls touched, four stave bearers jumped across to pull the magical appearing shielding over both ships.
     “Sorry for being impolite.” one the strangers called over. “Just thought it would be easier to ask permission to come aboard after we got you out of this storm.” he continued. “Permission to board?” he added.
     “A little late to refuse now.” captain Coy returned. “Thanks for the assistance.” he added quickly. Marina scanned the other ship taking note that only the staff-mages and their captain boarded.
     “Captain James Talbot of the Spire.” he announced. We followed your call lantern to came to your aid.” he stated calmly. His eyes glanced up to the the crowning orb of red as a startled choking sound escaped him. “Thought that was an assistance call lantern!” he sputtered. The bloody orb blinked out of existence as they spotted Crimson vaulting to the rigging to slid down to the deck. “Your their Magus?” he added softly.
     “Sirrah Crimson is a only a traveller on board.” Marina replied quickly. She took a hold of Crimson's arm as he came to stand by her. “We travel to Thiruvananthapuram with our troupe of performers.” she explained.
     “Better to redirect yourself away from the southern tip.” captain Talbot interrupted. Ashstar moved to join this gathering on the ferry's deck. “That city like most of the southern tip is besieged in priestly wars.” he informed them. “We can get you safely to port in Kavaratti.” he suggested.
     “I would accept this offer.” captain Coy continued. “If the differing priesthoods wage war, it also explains this storm assaulting us.”
     “A wall of tempest keeping the warriors in place while preventing external interference.” Ashstar stated slowly. “Where could we make landfall away from the conflict zone?” she asked quicker.
     “Mumbai.” both captain stated in unison.
     “You would have a week or more before and if the battle reaches there.” Talbot continued. “But I would avoid any travel southward.” he added.
     “Any foreseeable problems for us starting our trek in Mumbai?” Crimson asked in Amazonian.
     “We will have to change our disguises before landing.” Ashstar replied. “Amazons are greatly feared which could cause our party to be hunted on sight.” she explained. “We should be able to adjust.” she added in the common language the sailors spoke.
     “My next problems is discovering the owner of this bird.” Crimson stated. He held the black bundle of feathers in a one arm cuddle like it was a baby. “It arrived upon us with the beginnings of the storm.” he explained. The two captains shook their head slowly as they examined the bird.
     “It appears to be a gyrfalcon which is unknown in these parts.” Talbot returned.
     “And why are you able to recognize the bird type?” Ashstar asked.
     “Truly not a trait for a mariner.” Marina added.
     “I was not born in these parts.” Talbot admitted. “I tried making myself rich on the Silk Road but, after multiple bandit raids on my caravan, I turned to a sea route to transport my goods.” he explained. “During that time, I learned about falconry as a defence and warning system against bandits but I never owned my own bird.” he continued. “Have not truly had a chance to study all the Indian bird of prey types.” he added.
     “But it is not your bird or owned by a crew member, correct?” Crimson returned calmly. A shrill squawk of the bird in his arms drew his attention to it. The bird's eyes were open showing red rimmed golden coloured avian eyes. Crimson idly scratched at the bird's neck receiving a cooing sound from it. “The storm has not been kind to it.” he added absently.
     “Sirrah Crimson recently lost his hawk.” Marina explained softly. “Maybe the deities of his people have sent him a new feather companion.” she mused in a whisper.
     “I will verify with my crew but no birds to my knowledge fly with the Spire except a few gulls.” Talbot replied. He chuckled softly as he watched Crimson's behaviour toward the mid-sized avian. “But it would appear to me that you have been chosen by that feathered stalker.” he continued. Crimson gazed up at him while his hand moved automatically to scratch the bird. “You do appear as a knowledgeable falconer.” he added.
     “My people received a bird companion that would stay with them for life.” he returned. “When the bird would die, one of it's offspring would replace it.” he continued to explain. “Like Lord Kestrel and his Little Thunder.” he added. Marina nodded her understanding.
      Setting aside this mysterious bird.” Talbot started. “My own curiosity has been piqued about you.” he stated calmly. His eyes remained locked on Crimson. “What was that red orb?” he asked bluntly. A nervous tic ran up the side of his face.
     “A minor protective sphere.” he returned casually. He glanced around at the Staff-Magus on the ship. “I was simply giving the ship's spotter assistance to guide us out of the storm.” he explained. “Barely the strength of your own Magus.” he added quickly.
     “And protection for the injured bird.” Marina chimed in with a giggle. “His pacifist nature shows in his kindness toward animals.” she added softly. She held tightly on his arm as she spoke. Captain Talbot nodded and smiled softly at them.
     “It is the colour that had me curious.” he said slowly. “I have only seen a scarlet coloured orb once during my earlier years in India.” he continued.
     “Your kin?” Marina whispered in Amazonian. A slight shake of Crimson's head was the only reply she received.
     “Do you know whom performed those magics?” Crimson stated.
     “Only rumours without proof.” Talbot replied. He leaned forward toward Crimson and Marina. “The Blood Magus of Kali.” he whispered. “Many conflicting stories surround that goddess.” he added.
     “A skill I lack.” Crimson retorted.
     “I doubt you lack the ability to learn it.” Talbot whispered back. “We will guide your ferry safely to port in Kavaratti quickly.” he continued. “We can discuss your path from there.” he remarked casually. “But this storm will not abate in days if not weeks.” he added sombrely.
     “Unless the deistic battles subside.” Crimson surmised. Talbot nodded to him. “I thank you for your enlightened counsel.” he added with a slow bow.
     “Best we move to safety right away.” captain Coy ordered. “We will have words shortly sirrah Crimson?” he added. He did not wait for a reply before walking away grumbling to himself.
     “I return to my ship now.” Talbot told them. “You are free to board the Spire if you wish to speak.” he added quickly. He gave them a half bow before turning smartly on his heels to march back to his ship in silence.
     “Would your people be the origin of this Kali religion?” Marina muttered at his elbow.
     “I would need to learn more of that goddess and her principles before answering.” he mumbled his reply. “But first we must face captain Coy's annoyance.” he added.
     “I must believe captain Talbot would be amicable to us joining his crew.” she returned. “Could use this fact to pressure Coy's hand?”she continued.
     “Thinking like Amazons.” he stated. Ashstar nodded as a vicious grin formed on the trio's faces.

The Goblins (53)

      “I have gained us the use of the Mound's portalling device to reach the Goblin Enclave.” Cole announced. “It would be faster and more secure than travelling the roads between Bermeo and Eibar.” he informed us. He waved off the offer of a plate from the servant. “Lady Rosalia informed me of bandits along that path.” he explained.

      “It is true but only sever beatings without death have been noted thus far.” the servant reported to us.

      “I would rather not involve Atlantis in a blood bath that the Spanish military can deal with.” Cole told us. He glanced at the woman for but a second. “Which would arrive upon that roadway at the time we are using it.” he stated quietly.

      “It would not be hard to explain our presence as simple travellers.” I remarked. “But best to err on the side of caution.” I continued pensively. “Being Atlantian would change nothing in their eyes if we are found embroiled in a fight with the bandits.” I stated.

“It is an unfortunate truth since they would question why we have not presented ourselves to their royals.” Cole supplied. I nodded my agreement to this minor change in plans. “Worse outcome would have us all executed as spies.” I added. Both my other two companions gulped at this possibility as they nodded their agreement to our new transportation method.

      “We can leave once you done breaking fast.” Cole stated.

      “Are you not joining us?” Sert asked.

      “I have already eaten.” Cole replied with a slight blush.

      “Shared a meal with Lady Rosalia?” I mused. Cole reddening face was the only answer I received from him as he joined our table. Sert chuckled under his breath at him while Meli missed the blush. “What should we expect from the goblins?” I asked to the table. The servant had walked away as we started talking once more.

      “Goblins are seen by humans as evil because they are scavengers mostly.” Sert remarked. “They are neither formidable fighter nor formidable craftsmen.” he continued pensively. “It is these lacks in skills that makes them attempt stealing items from the nearby humans.”

      “Agreed.” Cole interjected. “But they do have good tunnelling and engineering support structures underground.” he corrected. “Their entire Enclave is underground and goes to a good depth under Eibar.” he continued. “Do not confuse this with good mining abilities.” he warned me. “They cannot seem to collect ore properly nor have the technology to smelter it into purer forms of metals.”

      “Which explains their lesser quality of product.” I returned calmly. “Would sharing technology and training them to collect ore cleaner be a problem with the Council?”

      “No foreseeable problems unless you intend to hand them the ability to make Atlantis quality weapons and armour.” Cole replied with a shrug.

      “Just good enough to help them defend against equally armed and armoured humans.” I returned easily. He scratched his chin for a few minutes as I read his thoughts. “If we give them better than human technology, they become a threat to humans which will cause a war between the Goblins and Spaniards which should be avoided.” I told him directly. He simply nodded back.

      “Not a truly great problem since the Goblins are pacifist when it comes to humans.” he returned.

      “Which would suggest they would become easily overrun by humans if they attack them.” Sert commented.

      “Best to have them ready to defend themselves properly than having them removed from existence.” Meli pipped in.

      “Fully agreed which is why I would convince the Council on this matter.” Cole replied. They both stared in shock at him being agreeable to their suggestions.

      “I understand you ideals Cole.” I said softly. “But we must attempt to keep a balance between the humans and mystical races.” I reminded him. He nodded back to me with an agreeable smile. “It will make Atlantis appear as a peaceful force in the world.”

      “Which will keep us being embroiled in conflicts.” Cole returned. “And have the world turn to us as mediators instead of going to war.” he continued. “Which in a way allows us to control them by avoiding conflicts between our allies.” he concluded. A little smirk formed on his face as Meli and Sert groaned at his suggestion.

      “Gives Atlantis a chance to guide them without placing a slaves collar around their necks.” I remarked. My companions looked at me in confusion by my suggestion. “As a guide, Atlantis would be seen as a friendly partner instead of a tyrannic dictator sitting above the humans.” I explained.

      “And the Council would see it as having enough control to stop any threat from those allied nations toward Atlantis.” Cole stated with the same self satisfied smirk. “Every party gets a benefice while neither truly looses any power.” he added. Meli looked and felt confused still while Sert nodded as he smiled. He reached across the table to shake Cole's hand amicably.

      “Truly a conniving mind but with a good purpose for once.” Sert told Cole. Cole nodded back with a deep chuckle. We finished the meal as I sensed the change that took root in Sert's and Meli's mind toward Cole. Rosalia met us as we walked toward the portalling unit.

      “May I have a moment before we leave?” Cole asked softly. A small blush coloured his cheek as he looked at the fairy Ambassador. I nodded my agreement and watched as he took Rosalia by the arm for the remainder of the short walk. I watched to notice they whispered to each other while both had flashing moments of blushing. As we reached the portal, I saw how they stood while mentally both resisted performing the action they wished to not hide anymore.

      “Kiss her already Cole.” I stated loudly. “Maybe this Mound will realize that having Council representative favouring them is a boon instead of a curse.” I added. Sert signalled toward Cole to proceed while Meli giggled at his side. Cole finally turned to take Rosalia's chin in hand to guide her lips to his in a slow chaste kiss.

      “I will see you on Atlantis soon.” Cole half whispered to her. She smiled as both blushed one last time before we stepped through the prepared portal. A trio of goblins stood at attention as we exited the portal under the city of Eibar. “Lord Kestrel and myself, Colêsträ, are here for diplomatic discussions with the Eibar Enclave.” he announced. They chuckled as they bowed to us signalling us to follow.

      The trio lead us through the brightly lit tunnels. Sparkles from gems and minerals veining the walls added light and gave the tunnel a feeling of life. Triple candle lanterns hung every five to ten feet from the wooden counter beams that crossed the ceiling. I smelt the air half expecting the odour of staleness and burning wax. My sensitive nose met clean air with only a hint of the stenches of life which should be found in tunnels. I glanced at the nearest lantern spotting the minor flickering proving air currents constantly refreshing the breathing air in this underground complex. I half turned toward Sert to signal my eyes and nose at him. He shrugged back as he smiled blankly at me.

      “They do have some technological ideas fitting their subterranean needs.” I remarked to him. I watched Sert as he glanced more closely around him, sniffed the air, and slowly nodded back to me. “Teaching them basic smelting and forging might be easier than we originally considered.” I whispered to Sert. He smiled as he nodded his agreement.

      “Truly a incredible change from my last visit here.” Cole remarked to us. “It was my first visit after they established this Enclave.” he informed us. “And none of these ideas are Atlantian influenced.” he added. I felt his mild shock and surprise formed in him from seeing these changes. The trio of guards chuckled once more suggesting they understood Atlantian.

      “What is the origin of the aeration system?” I asked in Goblinoid. The one closest to us turned while still following the path blindly.

      “A small group of humans we have been in contact with.” he replied in Spanish. He chuckled as he looked forward once more.

      “When did they begin contacting humans?” Cole asked slowly in Atlantian.

      “About two months ago.” the goblin responded in Spanish. The other two chuckled back at us. “We have made arrangement to help in mining support structures for mineral smelting.” he continued. “The lighting is the idea of one of our tinkerers which is being adopted into the closest human mine already fitted with our structural support system.” he explained. He had easily change to Atlantian as he spoke. I held my laughter in check at Cole's stunned look. “We have also been able to earn human money by working the mine as extra help supplementing for ill, injured, or vacationing workers.” he add with a smile.

      “Sounds like a good level of exchange between this Enclave and the Humans.” I pondered out loud. “How did it come about?” I asked softly.

      “That will be explain shortly.” the lead of the trio stated. “You will understand all of it easily once you meet our ruling group.” he added quickly. We continued through these well made tunnels to reach a central cavern where goblins and a few human children played together. I scanned the room seeing a handful of humans going about as if this was natural. At the far end of the room, three older goblins sat in throne like chairs with a human woman using the last throne. I did not need to look back as I heard the strangled choking sound emanating from Cole.

      “I bring greetings from Atlantis to the Eibar Enclave.” I announced. I let the camouflaging magic slip off my companions while allowing myself to grow to their size. I bowed deeply before the four on the thrones in fluid Atlantian fashion. I know my companions followed suit behind me and now waited like myself to be introduced.

      “Lord Kestrel, Envoy of the Ones On High, noble representative of the Living Heart Annianka of Atlantis!” a voice proclaimed through the chamber. I tried finding the source of the voice but it remained a mystery. “He is accompanied by his Honour Guard Sertian and his Healer Mekiliean.” the mystery voice boomed out. “He comes to us with the Noble Colêsträ representing the Council of Atlantis.” it added.

    “Might I request an explanation of Lord Kestrel's title and whom he represents?” the human asked the trio of goblins. The other elders turned to nod at her. She smiled at me politely before speaking again. “Please explain to me your title and whom you represent?” she now directed at me. As she spoke, she leaned forward to be closer to me.

     “I am in Atlantis under the mantle of the Ancient Ones who sit above the present deities of this world since they can no longer manifest here.” I replied slowly. I took a step closer to her as I spoke noting that the goblin guards did not move from their position. “Her Holiness Annianka sent me as her diplomatic spokesperson to this Goblin Enclave.” I continued. I saw in her mind the connections forming with my oration.” “She is a religious leader accepted as a counterpart to the Council.” I concluded. She nodded slowly at me as the piece fell all in place in her mind. I stepped back as she straightened on her throne.

      “I thank you for your description and patience with a mere human female.” she returned softly.

      “There is nothing mere about a woman that sits with the Goblin Elders of the Eibar Enclave.” I told her quickly. I bowed to her in a slow but flawless Spaniard style. “I must ask if your presence represents the city of or the Enclave of Eibar?” I stated. “Or the human allies of these Goblins?” I added quickly. One of the elders chuckled as the woman looked confused by my request.

      “She is the selected head of the human families allied to this Enclave.” one of the elders replied.

      “Her standing is equal to ours and is as much part of the Eibar Enclave as ourselves.” the other female continued. I watched as the scarlet hue of a blush spread across her cheeks.

      “As a human female, she has problems accepting equality with males.” the last added. The throned trio of goblins chuckled as her face turned a brighter shade of red.

      “I must add to Lord Kestrel's personification of Her Holiness Annianka.” Cole proclaimed. He moved to stand by my side as I heard the grinding of teeth from my other two companions. “Her strength upon Atlantis is equal in all ways to that of the Council.” he informed them. “Neither sits above the other which is reserved only for the royal bloodline of Atlantis.” he concluded. He bowed his head toward the human female before stepping back to join Sert and Meli. I glanced back to spot their glanced at Cole while mild curiosity bubbled in their minds.

      “The open minded and curious human is Lady Isabella Trastámara representing a large extend family of allies.” the first goblin elder announced. “General Cortez who is the military head for the Enclave.” he continued. He motioned to the man sitting closest to Isabella. “Lady Grenadine representing the tinkerers of the Enclave.” he rimed off. The aged female bowed her head to us before replacing her odd eye-wear to its proper position on her face. “And I am King Diaz of the Eibar Enclave.” he added. His did not change between the introductions to make any one seem more important than the other which included himself.

      “Well met your Highness, Ladies, and sir general.” I replied for our group. I did not glance back knowing my party bowed and curtsied behind me a second time. “I bear words from Her Holiness Annianka of Atlantis for your Enclave with a list of newly acquired products for trading.” I informed them. The scroll appeared as if by magic in my hand which I held out before me as I bowed to them. I waited until a goblin to retrieve the missive from me and carry it to their King before straightening. “My last duty is on a more personal note regarding your heirs.” I explained hesitantly. He signalled me to continue speak. “Her Holiness hopes that your Princes, Princesses, or one of each are in good health.” I concluded. The King laughed as the other three throned nobles smiled at my comments.

      “Prince Razling and Princess Rosalind are in very good health.” he answered beaming. “With the help of a human wet-nurse, they are growing strong quickly.” he continued joyfully. “And I am sure you noticed the human children playing with our own goblin offspring?” he mused. A small crooked smile formed on his face as I felt pride coming from him.

      “It would be the best way for the goblins and humans to understand each other better.” I conceded with a smile. “But at this time I allowed Colêsträ to take control of the discussion regarding Council matters.” I stated. I bowed one last time before stepping back while signalling Cole forward. I mostly ignored Cole's dialogue with the goblins while I examined the subterranean hall around us. I knew with a quick glance that Sert and Meli would split their time between listening to Cole and examining the hall. It took maybe an hour for Colêsträ to complete his diatribe to the Elder Goblin Council. A dozen scroll were handed to them before Cole congratulated the King on his new heirs.

      “Now to the feast since I am sure the Elders and your groups have questions they wish not to speak publicly.” King Diaz stated. All the scrolls were collected in a tightly woven basket by a young goblin page with a much younger human following him. Cole added to his odd behaviour by waving me into the lead position once more. He fell in step with Meli and Sert at my back. General Cortez fell back to walk with me down a new tunnel.

      “I must wonder why the Council's representative walks behind you?” he calmly asked. His voice was loud enough for my three companions to hear clearly. “Both of you stated equal power in those you stand for.” he mused. I sense no anger from Cole at these words.

      “Colêsträ is also my attache to the Council because I am an Envoy.” I replied easily. I heard a small chuckle escaping from Cole. “Her Holiness assigned Sertian and Mekiliean to me avoiding conflict with Colêsträ's duties to the Council.” I explained calmly. A soft trio of chuckles arose at my back from my companions. It is at that moment realization dawned on me of Cole selected behaviour. He was showing his proper position hoping it would cause the goblins to see Annianka as the greater force upon Atlantis.

      “It does not avoid all conflicts.” the General remarked. “Most Atlantians see the Council as an enemy within Atlantis.” he added softly. Cole caused the rumours of Atlantians still standing against the Council. It gave Annianka an opening to proclaim acceptance of the Council's misdeeds.

      “You would understand as a military leader that doing what is best for your people is not always perceived as correct by your people.” I returned. He nodded back slowly at my words. “Good intentions can lead down the darkest paths.” I added quickly. A bark of laughter escaped Cortez.

      “Good intentions can lead you into a hellish cavern of lava and brimstone gases.” he snapped back. I saw in his mind this event as he stood thinking this would be the end of his race. “All to save people that believe you are nothing but evil monsters.” he added. The anger of ancient hatred was in his tones and in his mind. I quickly glanced at him to know he stared at the back of Isabella's head.

      “Actions that placed goblin in double the dire danger from their actions to cause a chance for peace.” I surmised softly.

      “The goblin squad dragged a dozen injured humans from that Hell back to their own people.” he reported. “One foolhardy goblin rushed back into the black smoke alone.” he stated. Fear mixed with pride inside the General's heart as he spoke. “Just to free one human while fighting in vain to remain conscious in the brimstone laced air.” he continued. His voice lowered in magnitude as the tale dribbled out of him. “We believed them lost and begged forgiveness from the human healers working on the survivors.” he started. He stopped speaking as I felt the emotions choking his words at that moment before a great joy flooded into him. “From the fire splattered smoke crawled a human carrying my son on his back to safety.” he concluded.

      “A good deed is always repaid in kind.” I mused out loud. “You must sometimes walk through hellish darkness to see the light within ourselves and others.”

      “Wise words befitting the voice of Her Holiness of Atlantis.” he returned softly. “Also a good view from Her regarding the Council.” he continued. “I hope Her wise words reaches the Atlantian citizens.” he added. I nodded my agreement to him. We entered another grand chamber where tables and chairs sat with a dozen servant ready to carry food to us. The seating arrangement centred on the King and his Queen at the main table. I was placed between her highness and Isabella while Sert sat by the General at the King's right. Grenadine sat between Sert and Meli while Cole took the spot on the other side of Isabella. I did wonder if the partners of the other Elders felt displaced at this main table while forced to eat with the other goblins and the small number of humans at the secondary tables.