The Loveblade Trilogy 2 (2024)

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Liberation and limitation

Peng took Lady Mon's weight as she leaned on him on their way back from the afternoon audience. Mon had taken to rising late and only gave audiences in the afternoons. She was wearied but no more than usual. She patted his hand.

They entered her rooms and, with a groaning sigh, she was lowered into her chair and Peng arranged the cushions around her frail frame.

"Is it me, Peng, or are people becoming more vacuous? How that man had the nerve to ask me whether he should buy another pig or save the money for his daughter's wedding... oh, words fail me. The only important question was the one that I couldn't answer." She smoothed the creases in her brow as if her words were written there and she were trying to erase the irritation in her tone. "Curious! Koh Li just wouldn't tell me. It was almost as if he didn't know. What do you make of it?"

Peng poured tea into a bowl and held it to her lips. She sipped. "Not too hot? Good, My Lady-san." He offered another mouthful and then set it down on the table beside her. "Forgive my presumption, Mon-san, but I feel that there are too many factors involved to make the Seeing clear enough. The Evil Ones appear to be growing in strength or, at least, in influence. Despite the way people have chosen to interpret previous prophecies, the outcome is still far from certain. Rogue or random chance elements are holding sway. No one can expect you to give a definitive answer."

"Expected or not. Hoped for or not. The fact is I didn't give an answer and that disappoints me. More than that, it greatly disturbs me. Some, albeit a few, mages appear to have some limited Sight, nowadays. Nothing like the Deathless One or mine's, of course, but still the talent is there. In the old days, it was extremely rare to find a proleptic mage or even an archmage." She reached for the tea bowl but he beat her to it and raised it to her thin lips. She drank deeply and indicated that he put it down. "Tell me, Peng. What happens when you ponder upon the fate of the mages in Taliset?"

Peng fell into trance. His face showed the struggle and confusion before his eyes opened again. "My Lady-san. I cannot. I See a confusion of images but they all merge into each other and no definite scene forms. I'll ask my guides." His lips moved silently as he subvocalised his conversation with the spirit world.

"It is as you say, Lady Mon-san. They either can't or won't tell me. Whichever, the fact remains that they are worried. I've never known the spirit world to express concern before."

Mon nodded to herself and closed her eyes, sinking back into the pillows at her head. He thought that she had nodded off and waited for her, sipping at his tea in the meantime.

"I've sent out a message to The Deathless One. I can only hope that he receives it and comes to my summons. You spoke of presumption. It is naught to what I do in commanding his attendance upon me. He was my teacher, Peng."

"Your teacher? I thought he was just a fable, a myth. If he was your teacher then, forgive me, but he must be truly old."

She stroked his upturned face as he sat at her feet. "No, Peng, At Hanowa is no myth. He is indeed ancient - he was much more than my present age when first I met him as a child. Hence the sobriquet. He is not really immortal, of course, but unlike me, he hasn't aged in centuries of life. I am told that his life is coming to an end."

"If you are hoping that he will See more clearly then I'm afraid that you will be disappointed. I See a black giant; I'm told he is the Deathless Seer; there are two young men with him from Taliset; he tells them that he can no longer See the outcome of the fight against the Panoplia of Darkness. He Sees death for himself and for a prince of Taliset."

Mon clenched her fists and weakly slammed them down on the arms of the chair with all her might. "Damn it! Why can't we See?" She panted, exhausted at her effort.

Peng dipped his fingers in a bowl of rose and jasmine water and wiped them over her brow. "Easy, Lady Mon-san. What do you See?"

Reluctantly, she began, gaining a little more satisfaction as she continued. "Oh, it's nothing but a confusion of contradictory images. A boy murdered during sex is reborn to be a sacrifice. A youth is cut down by his lover. A young man becomes pregnant. A child with tremendous talent. I know him ... Djinn, - we've travelled astrally together. We have a strong karmic link. The Dean of Taliset becomes a mindless killer. The heir of the Northlands Empire, Go Yen, is unmaged and enslaved as a geisho. He will be released and will come here with a seer who once was my mother. The seer will train here. Taliset is infected with evil and dies. And even so, I See many archmages being born long after I am dead."

"So, the mages survive. That is good."

"Stupid boy!" He flinched at her scathing tone. "They may be evil mages. We cannot be certain of the outcome, at all. So many of the key people are damaged or lost. The balance tips towards the Darkness. The Light is, as you said, fearful. No, that is not so. It is too strong to say fear. The Light is ....concerned. I think you used that word. They cannot feel fear without denying their spiritual truth. To them the outcome has already happened. In that sense, Goodness and Light will always succeed in the end. Koh Li says that they might know the result but they are uncertain about how or when it will be achieved and therefore they are concerned."

Suddenly, her hand gripped painfully on Peng's shoulder and he winced as he prised her fingers from him.

"What is it, Your Serenity?"

"The Archdemon is about to be killed. His lover is filled with evil and is gathering his will to strike him dead."

"It is as you Saw, Mon-san. A youth will be cut down by his lover."

Frantically, she shook her head. "Assist me! This is not it. We have to try to prevent it."

Bewilderment filled Peng's mind. What does she mean? What can we do about it? We See, we say what we See. What else? We can do nothing - we must do nothing - to turn the tide of Fate. The Exalted One was slipping into deep trance and Peng felt that he had no alternative but follow her. His eyes closed; his breathing deepened and slowed.

Jenian lay on the futon and once more looked around the room that he had been allocated. Most comfortable. Thank the Lord and Lady that I am no longer on the road. Very soon, I shall see Gorian and satisfy myself that he is well. There is little harm that can come to those in Taliset if they maintain their defences but I'm worried about Elissa and Elgora. Not that I can do anything. I'm so tired! I'd better blow out the lamp before I fall asleep. He raised himself onto one elbow and extinguished the lamp. The walls softly and dimly glowed with the light from other rooms and corridors but not enough to illumine the fine paintings on the paper screen walls. He reminded himself of the deft handiwork of the artist. His nose had become accustomed to the scented oils impregnating the fabric of the room but they still worked their subtle magic, even though he could no longer smell them. The rice wine relaxed him and he drifted off to sleep.

Earlier in the day, he had been frustrated once again to discover that Gorian had been at Lord Kai's all along and his visit to Lord Zhen, where Lady Yu and her father, Lord Huang, were staying, had not brought him to his goal. Now, hours later, he was contented to know that Gorian was safe and well, was freed from bondage and would be at the wedding on the morrow. The two merchant lords had insisted on Jenian staying and had sent servants to the inn to recover his belongings and re-stable his horse.

"Prince Jen-san, we are delighted to have you confirm that our faith in Go is justified. I was quite prepared to gamble on it but this is very reassuring. I have indicated to the lad that we shall require economic advantages in return, once he is on the throne - if not before." Huang had smiled and whilst Jenian had been convinced of his merciful generosity, it was also evident that this was a very astute and determined businessman.

Jen had set down the ginseng infusion and wiped his lips on the back of his wrist, before replying. "Huang-san, I am obliged to point out that Gorian is not unanimously supported. His magedom is a not insignificant barrier to universal acceptance as heir to the empire."

"That remains my risk. But Go is no longer a wizard, Jen-san. They can no longer hold that against him."

"Political opponents can hold anything against him, whether justified or not. If I can, I will re-empower Gorian. In any case, irrespective of his actual Powers, the fact that I have trained him bars him from office, in the opinion of some. I fear that he is more of 'Kel than Algotha. It may be better if he goes there."

"What of the war? It would be unwise for either of you to go west. It must also put you, particularly Go, in a very awkward situation."

Jenian had been astounded at what Zhen was saying. "War? What war is this?"

"Why, the war waged on Taliset by the Northlanders. They are bent on wiping out all mages."

Huang had interjected that he had not troubled Gorian with this news as he had thought the lad had enough to worry about.

"This is dreadful! Taliset can defend themselves against a besieging army but eventually, unless Algotha withdraws, they will have to consider breaking oath." Seeing the bemusem*nt on their faces, he had explained. "We vow never to use magic to kill or maim. Naturally, vows can be broken and have been in the past. Most recently, by Algorath. But if they are intent on killing mages, what of my cousin the Empress Elissa and Gorian's mother, Elgora?"

Huang had shaken his head. "We know nothing certain of these ladies. Our intelligence suggests that the emperor was threatened with being deposed if he did not comply. As far as we know, he and his family ride with the army. A rumour is circulating in the empire that the witch ladies were made to renounce their wicked magic but then forced to promise to use their magic against the evil wizards of Taliset. I mean no offence, Jen-san, wizard-san. I tell it as I heard it reported not as my opinion."

Jenian had brushed away the disclaimer as unnecessary, with a dismissive gesture of his hand. "I hope - indeed, I believe, that they will have a plan which does not fit in entirely with the intentions and wishes of their antagonists and opponents. No matter! I can do naught here and perhaps you were wise and gentle to have spared Gorian the worry. I had intended to take him to 'Kel, Kelinor rather than Taliset, but now ...... Well, maybe we should continue south. There is an Arab boy." His voice had trailed off and the merchant lords had been discreet enough not to pursue the train of thought.

"We are honoured to have a wizard in my household and, naturally, you will be a guest at the wedding of my son to Lady Yu. You agree, yes? Good! You will see your student, the Crown Duke, tomorrow at the celebrations."

Jenian had dragged himself back from his introspections and grinned at them. "The honour is all mine. Zhen-san. Huang-san. Your hospitality is unparalleled. Xiéxié. I can not be completely at ease until I see Gorian for myself but I am contented to know that only a few more hours separate us."

The servant had seated them some distance from Lord Kai at the evening meal but still in a position regarded as appropriate to minor guests rather than bondsmen. Kai had already nodded to acknowledge them.

Gorian returned to a subject he'd started earlier in the evening. "Why can't you See your own future? For example, you were unsure as to how Lord Kai would respond."

Exasperation crept into Shyo's voice, though he recognised that he wasn't being entirely fair. "Think! It's hardly sensible to have foreknowledge of your own life, is it? The spirit guides tell you only as much as they deem is absolutely necessary. As for Sight, everything gets distorted through the use of the human mind. I, as with any other psychic, contaminate the true message, the clear vision, with my own preconceptions or wishes. Where things relate to me or my strong feelings, I cannot be sure that what comes to me is not wishful thinking or my fears." He smiled to neutralise the opening irritation. "Maybe, I did know that Lord Kai would support me. I have Seen myself in Chyo Ku, Go. As you were with me, it couldn't be known whether I was accompanying you or whether I was free to submit myself for examination and entry. Now, it is clear to me that I will live there."

"What of me, Shyo? Will I get my magic back? And my throne?"

"It is not your throne as yet." The answer sounded stern and harsh. The admonishment was not coming from Shyo but from the spirit. "You will be emperor all too soon." The timbre and tonalities of his voice settled back into the familiar sound of Shyo. "Yes, I believe so, Go. I have not Seen nor been told but the feeling is right."

A servant removed the dishes from in front of them. Kai was rapping the table to gain the assembled attention. The geisha trio stopped their playing.

"Thank you. That was most pleasant." He dismissed them. "My friends, I would like to invite two young men to entertain us. But before they do, I must address them. You came to my house just hours ago as bonded geisho. One purchased by me as part of a brother and sister pair, the other I have bought only today on behalf of my future father-in-law. I have been previously authorised and instructed by Lord Huang to give Lord Ah Go Yen his freedom." His hand extended to Gorian and the gathering politely clapped as they regarded him with open curiosity. When the applause died down, Kai continued. "I have also decided to give to Sei and Shyo their freedom." The room erupted into enthusiastic applause as he indicated Shyo and his sister.

"I invite my three new friends to sing and play for us."

Sei carried two samisens to the dais on one side of the banquet hall and handed one to Shyo as they met with her. Gorian sat in front of a small gamelan and softly sounded an accompaniment.

Gorian waited for the clapping to stop after their third piece, holding up his hands. "Lord Kai-san, honoured guests. Xiéxié. I apologise for the poor quality of my gamelan playing and hope that it did not detract from your enjoyment of Shyo and Sei's musicianship. We are most grateful to you, Kai-san, for your unparalleled generosity and extension of friendship. I have composed a brief poem in your honour and, with your permission, I will sing it to their accompaniment.

Ocean of Youthful Life,

Deep is your boundless love,

Strong the currents of your will.

Your waves of generosity,

Wash the shores of our need,

Slaking our aridity.

Accept the waters of gratitude,

The tears of our heartfelt joy,

For thy gift of our freedom,

And thy bounteous friendship."

The three rose to receive the acclaim of the assembled guests.

Kai came to his feet, extending his arms towards them, as he clapped. "Lord Go-san, Shyo-san, Sei-san. I am honoured by your flattering tribute. It has given me great delight to be your benefactor. I have no need for your praise." He beamed at the siblings. "I hope that when you choose your names as free persons that you choose auspicious ones."

"I already have the honour of sharing a name with you, Lord Kai-san, and my sister has the intent to honour your father by adopting his name. She wishes to be known as Sei Zhen. For the moment, I am not fully decided on my name but, if you will allow it, I wish to take Mei as a tribute to you and your bride, The Lady Yu."

Kai led the applause and they resumed their seats.

Lygor and Tarsina, Simeon and his wife, stood on the crenellated balcony above the bailey, gripping their cloaks close to them against the drizzle. Down below, the Imperial party had long since left the yard and the last few columns of infantrymen were mustering to leave Algor. In the grizzled distance, Hollian turned for the last time but couldn't see the figures on the balcony any longer. His eyes prickled and his mouth was tightly closed as he lamented on the parting with his parents. They had blamed him for Gorian's flight and subsequent unmaging. They had railed against the ill-considered decision to declare war on 'Kel and had berated Hollian for not being able to dissuade the Redemoot. His parents had told them that they departed from Algor as enemies. The unfairness of it stung him but he also realised that they were frightened and were merely giving vent to their distress. Before leaving the bailey yard, he had looked up and waved. They had not returned the gesture.

Elgora shot a sympathetic glance at her husband and reined her horse to keep pace with his. "They were wrong, dear. It isn't your fault, of course."

His thin smile wavered at her attempts to support him. "Oh, they realise that as much as I do, El. The point is, though, that they are right in principle. We did ride in as enemies and departed on the same basis. They feel, with some justification, that you and I should have stayed at Algor, resigned from the field."

"But they wouldn't let us explain our strategy." She sounded plaintive; her voice muffled slightly within her hood. He couldn't see her face.

"That may not have been a bad thing. The fewer who know of it the better." He quickened his horse and Elgora let him forge ahead a little. It was sufficient for her to know that he wished to be alone for a time. The drizzle coursing down Hollian’s face masked his tears.

Without speaking to each other, Lygor took his wife's arm and they went into the warmth of Algor. Simeon turned to watch them leave the balcony.

"They were too hard on the duke. He feels much as they do. Hollian does as he thinks is best. With or without his presence, the army will besiege Taliset. I hope and pray that he, Elgora and Elissa can limit the damage."

His wife didn't answer but slipped her arm into his. He covered her hand with his. He smiled at her, sadly, and they followed Hollian's parents.

The twins felt it before they recognised what it was. An echo of anger and hatred burst in on them, building into an almost palpable presence. It caught their breath and they stumbled as they strove to keep their feet. They instinctively knew that they must open themselves to it, absorb it, and lessen its impact at source.

<<No! Lyrian! Please, don't! Stop! You love him. In the name of Love and all the Powers of Light, Evil recede from him!>>

Athanor "watched" them clinging to each other, struggling to remain upright, the sweat beading on their brows and upper lips. He sent out his mind, opening it to whatever was out there. He Heard the summons from Chyo Ku, then Saw what Mon had Seen. Athanor lent her his strength until he realised that she was not alone. A young seer was with her. The Seer scanned afield and Saw a small Arab boy and an older man leave their bodies to join in the astral mission to Taliset. Impassively, he Observed the confrontation.

When it was over, Athanor noticed that the twins were kneeling, retching. Nothing came from their stomachs and they strained achingly as threads of bitter mucus trailed from their lips to the sands.

Far to the north, the disgust and contempt coalesced into a raging hatred of Algorath. He was a kin-slayer, an inept mage, a craven coward, and a whinging weakling. How could I ever have loved this heap of excrement? I must destroy it. Wipe this place clean of his contaminating presence. He wants to die and who am I to refuse his wish when it is well within my Power and inclination to do so?

Lyrian raised his hand; thumb, index and small finger stretched; middle and ring curled. He felt a tug, a barrage of buffets, and his attention was drawn from the target of his abhorrence. He looked about him, frantically searching for the source of his distraction. He sensed rather than saw a group of people blocking the space between him and Algorath. He felt a living shield of Light dividing him from the darkness of his anger and he let it recede. Lyri was assailed by the entreaties of his brothers and he looked down at the resignation and despair in Algy's eyes. He was stabbed to the heart by the sight of his lover, still awaiting the deathblow. He dropped his hand; loosely it hung by his side.

"Darling. I beg you to forgive me, once more. The Evil came over me, again. Oh, Christ! I almost killed you." He sank to his knees and clutched at Algy's legs, burying his tear-streaked face in the hollow of the thighs.

For a moment, Algy stood rigidly, uncertain what to do. He'd come a hairsbreadth from being annihilated by Lyri and was still unable to adjust to the mercurial change in him. What had happened to change his mind? He felt the trembling body against his knees and thighs. His hand rose of its own accord to stroke the head nestled against his crotch. Despite the recent escape from death, or perhaps, because of it, he felt his loins stir to throb on the warmth of Lyri's face. All he knew was that he loved this youth, more than life itself. Lyri needed him and he couldn't refuse that need.

As the two tenderly made love for the first time in many a while, the astral visitors and their spiritual companions withdrew. But not before the angels had woven a fragile golden barrier to temporarily isolate Lyri from the Panoplia within.

<<Again, we meet, Djinn. To interfere in the nick of time.>>

<<As I did for Algorian, sister Mon.>>

Delvar took Djinn's hand and they left.

<<He called you his sister.>>

<<To my surprise. He must be aware of our karmic links.>>

<<Were not they the couple that you Saw? Where one strikes down the other. Why did we try to prevent it?>>

<<Indeed, Peng, that was the couple. But in my Vision, it was the lesser mage who attacked the greater and with a sword. That is yet to come. I couldn't let what might have happened today deny Fate its fulfilment. Come, let's go! They need their privacy.>>

When Peng opened his eyes, Mon was in a coma from which she did not surface for two days.

Jenian rose, bathed and put on his newly laundered and perfumed robes. He hadn't worn them on his pursuit but they had been crumpled and musty when he had taken them from his baggage. He was pleased that his hosts had accommodated to his unusual request not to have a bath servant, without fuss or comment.

After breakfast, which he took alone having risen later than the rest of the household, he wandered in the direction of the gardens. They were formally set out with streams and ponds and bridges, overhung with trees. Flowers bloomed in a contrived illusion of natural carelessness but Jen suspected that each leaf and petal had been disciplined. He sat beneath an almond tree but, before he could settle to think or meditate, was called by Lord Huang.

"Nin hao, Prince Jen-san!" He shouted from the balustrade outside the door overlooking the gardens and beckoned Jenian to return to the house.

"Nin hao, Lord Huang-san." Jenian replied as he approached one of his hosts. "I sought to keep out of the way. It is clear that everyone rose early to prepare for the nuptials."

"No, no. You're not in the way. I saw you slip out to the garden and wondered if you wished to be alone. Then I decided that I was a poor host not to introduce you to the jewel of today's ceremonies. Come, Jen-san, meet my daughter."

Jenian allowed himself to be led to the large room in which the wedding was to take place. Servants and family alike rushed about with much bowing. At one end was a dais with two thrones carved with dragons, inlaid with ivory, jade and gold leaf. On one of them sat a pale young woman.

Huang waved a couple of servant girls out of the way, who had been fitting gold filigree nail guards.

"Prince Jen-san, it is my honour to present my daughter, the Lady Yu Sen Mei."

"The honour is mine, Lady Yu-san. I am delighted to meet such a radiantly beautiful bride on her special day."

Yu nodded in acknowledgement. She was apprehensive about talking with a wizard but, much more practically, she felt constrained by her dress. A large white boat shaped headress was perched on top of her upswept hair and she feared to move her head too much lest it get dislodged. Jen regarded the young bride. She was exotic and it was fascinating for him to compare the styles and conventions of different cultures. Yu was dressed in white, red and gold silks, stiffened with brocade and embroidery. Layer upon layer of undergarments and overgarments built up a rigidly and elaborately formal figure.

Jen turned to compliment Huang but found that he had slipped away. He took the initiative, as it was becoming clear that the bride was uncertain what to say to him.

"It is so kind of your father and your parents-in-law to have me as their guest and invite me to your wedding. May I compliment you on your appearance? It is a most rich and striking ensemble."

Yu smiled. The dark rosebud lips widening in the alabaster mask of cosmetics. "Xiéxié, Prince Jen-san. It is heavy and not very comfortable. I feel that to move will disturb the whole effect. My aunt repeatedly chides me if I shift position too much. I don't wish to sound petulant but it is like being a painted doll. It has taken hours to apply this face and I feel that it will crack. I doubt if you are interested but there is a thick foundation of white and over it has been applied several layers of powdered pearl and gold dust."

"The effect is quite remarkable, Lady Yu-san. Perhaps the inconvenience of it all would be more tolerable if you were less nervous. You are feeling quite apprehensive, aren't you? And I'm afraid that I am adding to your stress."

She sighed. "It is true. This is a political and business-like alliance not a romantic union. Oh, make no mistake. I am genuinely fond of my cousin Kai. We will make a good marriage. I just wish it were all over."

Jen made a stab in the dark. "You love another, is that it?"

Yu's brows raised slightly giving the doll-like face a startled look. "Indeed, it is as you say, Wizard Prince-san. Do you read my thoughts?"

Jen shook his head. "An educated guess."

"I love a geisho boy and he me. I could take him as a paid lover even as a married woman but not once he is freed. Lord Kai is releasing him and his sister from bondage. It is wedding gift from my groom. It will break our hearts to be apart but torment to stay together. As it is, I have had to deal with the fact that he has sex with other women and men as part of his duties. The hardest blow was when he and Go fell in love."

At the reference to Gorian, Jenian leaned forward eagerly. A lover! I feel envious and jealous. It was bound to happen sooner or later that he would fall for another - most likely a lass, but feelings defy anticipation.

"Then you and I have something in common, Lady Yu-san. I am in love with Gorian but I may not have him. He loves me but not in the same way - yet, he would once have been my lover had I allowed it. I'm surprised though that he has taken a male lover."

"It was karmic or so they say. I'm given to understand that it is more or less over between them at a sexual level. Not that it makes much difference to us. Forbidden love, my lord." Her smile was sad but looked comical on that porcelain pallidity. A flash of irritation pursed the painted lips, alerting Jenian to the interruption.

"Nin hao, Prince Wizard Jen-san. Forgive the intrusion. Yu, lean forward!" The woman bowed to Jenian and, peering at Yu, reached out tentatively to touch the coated cheeks with light fingertips. "It has dried. That is good. You look enchanting, dear. Try to stay like that. Kai is on his way. We should hear the groom's procession any moment." The woman bowed to Jenian once more and scurried off. Jenian looked round to watch the retreating figure as she disappeared into the gathering crowd of guests who were filtering into the room.

"My hostess, your mother-in-law, I take it?"

Yu nodded. "She's been very good but she is fussing too much. When my mother died, my father didn't have any concubines. He may have hired a geisha to deal with his needs but there is no one else to take the role of bride's mother. She has the pleasure and burden of trying to be mother to both of us."

"I better leave you. It would seem that we will each soon see the one we love and you will also have your groom."

Jen stepped back and began to bow.

"No! Stay! Please don't leave me, yet." Her nerves had got the better of her and there was something plaintively childlike in the fearful tone.

"Yu-san, it is only nervousness. Take a deep breath. In, ...two, ...three, ...four, ...five, ...six. Hold it. Keep holding it. Now, let it out. Slowly, ....slower. Through pursed lips. And again, breathe in." Jenian let his fingers rest on her wrist and sent calming vibrations into the young woman. He took her through five breathing cycles before releasing her arm from his gentle grip.

"Better?"

"Much better, xiéxié."

In the distance they could hear shouting and cheering and the clamour of gongs. She grabbed his hand but couldn't grip him as the nailguards prevented the fingers from curling. For a minute or two they silently listened as the noises outside grew louder.

"Take your places, please. The groom is arriving." Lord Huang's voice was a signal for the guests who were gathered by the door or leaning out of windows to excitedly find their places. Servants quickly made the final touches to the banquet and retreated.

Huang came upon them as they held each other's gaze. He gave his daughter's arm a squeeze of reassurance.

"You look splendid, my dear. Jen-san, I'm afraid your place is some way back. See the man in blue and silver? Take your place just there."

"Good luck, Lady Yu-san. Remember to breathe." He smiled warmly and sympathetically at the bride, bowed to her and to her father and walked back about half the length of the room.

So, we have some emotions in common, little bride. It will be a relief to see him with my own eyes, safe and sound. This is so exciting. Careful, old man. You sound just like a lovesick maiden. I can't recall feeling quite like this before. Ah, but that was before you knew that he had a lover. I now have to regard him as a sexually active young man. Yes, and it arouses my envy and possessiveness.

The hubbub of the crowd and the clash of gongs and cymbals grew louder and louder. Presently, they could be heard directly outside and they suddenly ceased. For a moment, there was silence. A silence filled with anticipation and impatience. Softer, now, the gongs and cymbals sounded out their tones. The groom's entourage entered.

The players stayed at the back as Lord Kai slowly walked the length to the dais. He was resplendent, almost rivalling his bride. Behind him walked several young men dressed in brightly coloured silk yukatas, richly embroidered. Kai reached the dais, bowed to his bride and mounted the throne alongside Lady Yu. The attendants filed into a row at the approach to the upraised platform.

Jenian swung around to try to see if Gorian was somewhere behind him. He was disappointed not to have seen the lad. He must be here somewhere. Where can he be? If he's a slave then no doubt he is confined to stay with the other servants. Unconsciously, he put out a probe to detect the presence of another mage. Nothing. He berated himself for his stupidity. Gorian had lost his magic. There was no way of detecting him in all these people. Jenian turned back to face the dais.

Something drew his attention to the back of the young man dressed in yellow. The young man in green, beside him, was whispering something. The green-garbed youth glanced back and looked directly at him. He spoke again with Yellow Yukata, who slowly turned, scanned the crowd behind him, fixed Jenian with his eye and grinned broadly. It's Gorian! My goodness, how different he looks! I didn't recognise him.

"Ugh! Stop it, Lyri! It's ...it's perverse." Myrissa shuddered with distaste and, from the looks on the others' faces, she was not alone in her horror.

"Kel's not a puppet. You can't possess him like that." Ella joined her sister's protests.

Kel stood alongside Lyri. He had risen, eyes closed, from the chair in which he had been slumped, limply unconscious. Kel had, apparently of his own accord, straightened, placed his hands upon the arms of the chair and eased himself to his feet.

Lyri grinned. "Of course, he's not a puppet, Ella. I haven't possessed him, as you put it. I'm merely controlling his movements."

"Then you are using him as a puppeteer would. You can't deny it." Lyrankiel backed his daughter.

"Alright." Lyri shrugged. "I am manipulating him but that's not the same as possessing him. I'm in my body not his."

Kel swayed and staggered forward a step. Myrissa let out a yell and jumped back. Everyone gasped as the unconscious Dean flopped back into the armchair.

"Ooops! Sorry about that. It takes more concentration than I thought. I've only tried it when I've been alone. Conducting a conversation, a hostile one at that, is a bit distracting - to say the least. I'll leave him there, for now."

Lyri explained that he had been attempting to bring Kel out of his coma. He had seen Kel's healing of Algy and sought to do likewise. He'd contacted the seething emotions, found the means of controlling the body's movements but not detected any coherent thought.

"It occurred to me that, with the Algothan forces almost at our door, we must look to our defences. We are expected to put on a display of relatively harmless but sensationally spectacular magical effects. We must also be prepared for more serious and realistic warfare, if Elgora and Elissa's ploy fails. We are hard put to find enough competent mages without having to set a rota for looking after Kel. I thought it preferable to bring him into play, as it were. A number of us can practice controlling his body and it would seem possible for whoever is in control to utilise Kel's Power - either wielding it through his body or, more likely, tapping into it as an augmentation reservoir for their own spell-casting." Lyri looked around and registered the reservations and resistances in his audience. "Look. I know it's not very palatable and it's been a bit of a shock for most of you but we have to be practical. We're at war, the twins are away to the south, there are few mages available...” Algy winced at the last mild reference to his massacre and Lyri tried to look sympathetically at him. "Anyway, the thing is, we cannot afford to detail people to look after Kel and contain his wild Power. After all, it's not just taking care of his body, is it? Before you say it, Ella, I will be the first to concede that in recent days there have been no significant episodes of lashing out with raw magic, but .... well, it may be better to be on the safe side. This way, we can keep an eye on him and utilise his Power."

Lyrankiel shook his head. "You might, - I concede no more than that - you might be right in principle. In practice, I doubt if it will work. Look how difficult you find it to concentrate on manipulating him and doing something else. No! I'm sorry. I can't see it as any more than a tasteless party trick. It would just over complicate things to pursue this plan of yours."

Lyri surveyed the people in the room, the cousins and the mages from the university. He seemed dejected at the opposition. "It should only be a matter of practice."

Myrissa stood forward again. "I find it disgusting. Even if you could all learn to work the Dean's body, I would still object to it. I can't use magic, yet, and Algy has sworn not to. I suggest that he and I look after Dean Kelorian."

There were murmurs of agreement around the room. "Aawh! Aunt Rosie." Lyri whinged and they all looked startled, including him. "What made me say that, I wonder?"

"Karma." Said Helena. Colour drained from Myrissa's cheeks and she felt light-headed. She'd heard of Lyri's foster-parents but little suspected that she'd have link with one of them. She steadied herself against the wall. No one seemed to notice her distress, least of all Lyri who was continuing.

"Of course. You may be right. I give in. There may not be enough time to practice, anyway. The Algothans should be here tomorrow, the day after at the latest."

Jenian was so relieved to see Gorian that he could scarcely concentrate on what was happening during the ceremony. Thank, the Lord and Lady, he is safe! He looks well and happy enough. Jenian tried a mental probe and picked up some superficial thoughts about what Gorian was observing but nothing deeper, no answering thought. Insistently, Jenian pressed against the strange barrier in Gorian’s mind. It's hardly an obstacle, more a fog, a void or an emptiness. Not exactly that, either. Rather a sink into which all is absorbed, drained. Damn it all! I can't describe it, just a peculiar sensation.

The gamelan band of drummers and percussionists accompanied the priests as they processed. The clamour of the gongs and cymbals was far from tuneful and jarred on Jenian's ears. The priests carried staffs bedecked with strings of threaded paper strips, some white, some red, some green and others yellow. Beneath the clang and clash, one could hear their rustle like a wind through the branches of a tree.

They walked around the bethroned couple and one of the white‑clad priests splashed them with water, dipping his fingers in a bowl that a boy monk carried. Three circuits brought them before the thrones, where josses were lit. Another priest blew the incense smoke over Kai and Yu. Yu sneezed and someone close to Jenian whispered to her companion that it was fortunate to get rid of the baleful spirit that had been hiding near the Lady Yu.

The third priest faced the couple and the sounding brasses fell silent. Jenian couldn't hear what the elderly man was intoning and ventured a probe to catch what Gorian was hearing. He was no nearer to understanding. He could hear the words ‑ if they were words, but they made no sense to him at all. Gorian obviously couldn’t understand the language any better, as there was puzzlement in his mind.

Yu and Kai sat impassively as the man wailed on in his singsong voice for what seemed hours though in fact was less than a quarter hour. Rice wine was poured into a bowl and held out to Kai who put his lips to it. It was clear that he was not intended to hold the bowl for himself. The bowl was withdrawn and offered for Yu to take a mouthful.

The strange procession started again but without the noisy accompaniment. Three more circuits around the thrones and this time the oldest priest held out thin silk cords across his outstretched palms. The two other priests each took an end of one cord and tied them around the wrists of the couple, one on Kai and the other on Yu. This was repeated with a cord around their brows.

A sentimental sigh soughed across the hall and the gathered guests smiled at one another. For the third time, the priests and their assistants circled around the thrones. The one resuming his water sprinkling, the other his censing of the couple. The third circuit completed, the band started up again and the priests wandered out of the room.

Lord Kai and Lady Yu stole a glance at each other and smiled. One by one, led by the couple's parents, the guests came forward to touch the couple, pressing small paper packages into their hands. Every so often, these would be deposited into baskets held by servants on either side.

Jenian watched Gorian and his companion approach the thrones. Once more, he probed in the hope of discovering what was expected of him. All he could gather was that some, but not all, packages contained money. How much is one expected to give? And does it really matter? If not money, what else does one give? Gorian and his friend gave no money but still handed over tiny parcels.

Gorian turned to look back at his friend and tutor. His grin turned to frowning puzzlement as Jenian mouthed his question. Jenian tried again, this time in Ogham against his forearm. Immediately, Gorian nodded and signed back. They were parcels of rice, salt and money wrapped in paper inscribed with prayers for the couple's happiness, prosperity and fertility.

Jenian approached the thrones. He had no large sums of money, any rice or salt. He didn't even have the paper to form a parcel. He chewed his lip, then straightened up and strode forward more confidently. He knew what he could give.

Reaching the throne, he placed a hand over each of the bound wrists. Kai looked uncertain about this strange wizard and tensed under the touch.

"I regret, honourable wedding pair‑san, that I have not a parcel. I did not know of the custom. Nevertheless, you have my congratulations and blessings. I anticipate that this evening you will have fireworks." Kai nodded and Jenian grinned. "In that case, my friends, this city will see fireworks such as they have never seen before. This will be my gift to you."

Djinn snuggled into the crook of his great uncle's arm and trembled. <<I'm frightened, Delvar. Things feel so bad. What's happening to my cousins in Taliset?>>

<<I wish that I could say that there is no need to worry yourself. To be honest, I don't know, Djinn. Until you came, I had little concern for 'Kel and certainly had never tried contacting them. As it is, I could only telepathise with any archmage and it is only recently that there have been any in recent times.>>

Djinn felt Delvar's arm tighten around him and began to relax a little. He felt safe in Delvar's arms and mind.

<<Well, I could hardly do more. I wish I'd never tried now. Lyri is possessed by evil and wants to kill her friend. I daren't touch her mind. We did do right in going there to stop her, didn't we?>>

<<Yes. At least, I believe so. I'm not accustomed to this sort of thing. It was you who started all this astral travel.>>

<<I had to. I was asleep and an angel took me to see Gorian when that nasty creature was stealing her magic and destroying it. She would have died, you know.>>

<<I know. You did well. You saved her life even if she did lose her contact with the Source. But somehow, you got involved with this seer. The old lady - what did you call her?>>

<<Mon. The three of us are karmically linked in a previous life. Not Gorian - maybe her, too, - but you, Mon and me. The angel told me.>>

Delvar shuddered slightly but Djinn noticed and looked up sharply into the man's face. By way of explanation, he thought, <<I recall that you told me that before. I was your daughter. All this psychic and mediumistic channelling is alien to me. I wasn't aware that mages or, in our case, archmages could do it. It makes me uncomfortable.>>

The boy clung to the man, trembling and beginning to cry. <<Evil is in Taliset. You .... You saw .....saw what was ha ..... happening.>>

Delvar cradled the frightened child, rocking him as he sobbed. <<I wish that I could tell you not to be afraid. You are correct. I already follow your argument, Djinn. The entire world as we know it is under threat. We are obliged to develop and utilise whatever talents, gifts and skills we have. We will train ourselves to be better seers and channels.>>

Djinn wiped his snotty, tear-streaked face on his sleeve and grinned sheepishly at the silent admonition from his great uncle that it was not the action appropriate to a prince of the desert.

<<They need us, Delvar. We all need to do as much as we can. Our cousins in 'Kel and Gorian, too.>>

<<I wonder how it is that you are so attuned to these people.>>

<<'S'easy to explain. Karma. In our last lives, Daniel was my father - as he has been many times. Raniel was, as now, his brother. Lyrian and Algorath, my father's parents. Gorian was another uncle, brother to the cousin twins. How can I not respond when they are in trouble?>>

<<How do you know this?>> He held the boy away from him and scanned the small face.

Startled by the surprising revelation that his uncle could not see the angel, Djinn spoke out loud. "Then you don't see her or hear her? The angel. You can't see her."

"You keep mentioning angels. What angels do you speak of?"

"Didn't you see them when we went to save Algorath? There were countless angels. One came back with us and is standing over there."

"This isn't pretend, is it? No, I guess it's not."

<<She is a beautiful boy, a big boy, bigger'an me. In gold and white with sparkly smoke spreading out from her. She's told me all these things. She's helped me before, like with Gorian.>>

<<I suppose that I should feel reassured that we have the angels on our side but, somehow, I can't escape the suspicion that if angels are putting in an appearance then we really are in trouble.>>

<<Ophiel says that they are always with us not just in hard times. But I don't need her to tell me that we have every reason to be scared.>>

<<Ophiel? I take it that it's the angel's name.>>

The little body trembled again as the lad nodded his reply. Despite his fear, his lids were soon heavy and drooping with fatigue. His lashes fluttered as sleepiness made his blinks deeper and more frequent. Delvar carried the sleepy boy to his bed and tucked him in. Djinn felt the gentle kiss to his brow as he settled down. He was already asleep as Delvar tiptoed from the room.

The guests having presented themselves to the couple were drawing to the far side of the hall and chatting amongst themselves.

Gorian caught Jenian's sleeve, who flew round to embrace him.

"No! Don't!" Gorian held him at a distance, with a rueful grin. "It's not that I don't want to hug you but it isn't done in public. Oh, Jen! It's so good to see you. I knew that you'd find me eventually. Perhaps, I even knew when I first fled. I half hoped for it anyway."

Gorian held Jenian's hand firmly in his, beaming at the mage. Jenian's eyes were glistening with unspilt tears of joy, as he contented himself, for now, with clapping the lad on the shoulder with his free hand. Shyo watched with curiosity at the outlanders and felt as if as, far as they were concerned, he didn't exist. He decided to make a discreet withdrawal. Out the corner of his eye, Gorian caught sight of Shyo turning away and his hand flicked out to grab Shyo's obi. The young man spun round to be met by a wide grin from Gorian.

"Don't you sneak off. I apologise for neglecting you. Any way, I’m sure that you understand why. Are we forgiven for ignoring you? Good! Let me perform the introductions. Shyo, this is the Prince Jenian, Duke of Kelinor, Mage Magister of Taliset and my former tutor. Jen, may I present my friend and lover ‑ for the time being, Shyoku Mei‑san, accomplished musician, masseur and shiatsu‑sensei? He is also a psychic and medium."

They nodded to one another warmly, but rather warily. Shyo was a little nervous about meeting what he regarded as a powerful wizard and Jenian was uncomfortable to meet Gorian's lover. Yet as he looked into the man's lilac blossom eyes, Shyo felt as if he knew him, very well indeed.

Shyo swayed unsteadily, stumbling forward and Jenian steadied him with his hand to the youth's upper chest. The lad's eyes fluttered and then he opened them wide, gazing deep into Jenian's.

"Are you alright, lad?" Jenian was filled with concern for the young man.

"Yes. Yes, thank you, my dear." Shyo nodded and placed his hand over Jenian’s as it supported him on the chest, removing it and holding it affectionately. "Now, look at my little Jen, grown into a fine man. Do you remember the time when your great uncle, Warden Myrlyrian, died and we took you to Taliset for the first time for the funeral and the enthronement of your father's cousin, Elyrian? How old were you, now? Quite small. I think Keljenna was eight and you were six."

Jenian's jaw dropped and he turned quite pale. What the hell!? The young man's voice had changed and he spoke in unaccented 'Kelic.

"I recall that you were very excited at seeing the city and wanted to know when you would come to your Power and be able to live there as a student. I was sad not to see you go there but, of course, I died before you reached twelve. And we weren't to know that your grandfather was to die the same year as his brother. That was a sad year for me, Jen. To lose a brother‑in‑law and friend and then my dearest, sweet Kelinor." Shyo turned to Gorian and stroked his cheek.

Jenian felt his flesh go goosey and a shudder tingled down his spine. Shyo sighed, closed his eyes and yawned deeply. When he opened his lids, he was embarrassed to find Gorian and Jenian staring at him so intently and with the edge of fear in their eyes.

"It's nothing to worry about, Shyo-san." Gorian was keen to reassure his friend. "You channelled your incarnation as Jen's grandmother. Belinda."

"That was unnerving for the moment. You really are very talented. Are you going to be trained at Chyo Ku?"

"That is my hope and dream, Jen. I do not offend by calling you thus? Because I feel I know you so well, though it feels odd to see that you are a man much older than myself."

What was the thing about Gorian? The lad as Grandmother Belinda had turned to Gorian as if he were Grandfather Kelinor. Jenian wanted this clarified immediately.

"Oh, yes, Jen." Gorian chuckled gleefully at the teasing thought. “I was your grandfather. That is largely why we two became lovers." He pointed between Shyo and himself, with an air of propriety. “The karmic link, you see. That seems to be much weaker now. We are now more like friends than anything else."

"Is there somewhere we can sit?" Jenian looked around, then drew his young companions to sit together at one side. "I'm still rather shaken by what you did, Shyoku. You spoke perfect 'Kelic. You took me back to my early childhood. Are you by any chance proleptic, too?"

Shyo tilted his out‑splayed hand back and forth. "Not appreciably. It requires a deal more training and practice."

"Don't believe him, Jen. He can be quite good so I've been told. He will be a seer one day."

Shyo smiled in gratitude at Gorian. "You flatter me, Go. I might never develop enough to be a seer. And, in truth, I am not much better than you."

Jenian's eyes widened and he rounded on Gorian in surprise. "You?"

Gorian's face fell solemn and he gave a slight shake of his head. "Now it is Shyo's turn to flatter. He has been encouraging me to develop some psychic skill. I've had some very modest success. For example, I'm not sure when but you and I have been husband and wife. When I gaze into your eyes, I can half recall it. I suppose that I was attempting to find something to compensate for what I'd lost." Gorian turned solemn and his jaws tightened with grief and resentment.

"Oh, I pray you, Go, don't let us upset you with talk of loss." Shyo was well aware of how much had been gained and lost by them both in recent times. He didn't want Gorian to start weeping, right here and now.

"No. It's fine. I'm certain that Jen can imagine exactly what it feels like for me to ..." Gorian's voice trailed off. There was no need to finish what he was saying.

"We will go to Taliset soon. Kelorian, my nephew, will restore you. If he can't, no one can."

"No. No, we won't go there. Not yet." Gorian said it with a certainty that sounded almost insolently rebellious. Jenian felt a surge of exasperation and an impulse to discipline the cub.

The determination in Gorian's jaw eased as he saw the irritation in Jenian’s face. "That didn't come out the way I meant it to. My wyrd takes me south, Jen. There is a small Arab boy who I must deal with. I have seen him, in the same dream that I met Shyo and Lady Yu. You were in it, too. It was when that Herpes man attacked me. I must go south. First to Her Serenity, The Exalted Mon and then to Sabani, I suppose."

Jenian recalled the attempt to protect Gorian that night, weeks before. There had been another presence, a powerful mind. A child archmage. An Arab boy. "Well, it is a fact that some of the rulers in the desert are mages. Indeed, I believe that Ankiella wed a mage prince in Sabani. But I greatly doubt that anyone there could surpass the talents of Taliset." Still, if what Zhen and Huang say is true then to return to 'Kel is unwise and I did have the prompting to go to the young Arab archmage. Perhaps, he is right. The child may be the person to help us.

"Just trust my intuition, Jen. Don't ask me how but I know that Kelorian can't help me, not now."'

Not now? What did he mean by that? What prompted that little tag‑on phrase? Had something happened to young Kel?

"You may be right, at that. Algotha is at war with 'Kel. My position in that conflict is clear but yours would be most ambiguous." Jenian expected some flicker of surprise in Gorian's expression but there was none. "You don't seem taken aback by my revelation."

Gorian smiled sadly and his shoulders shifted into a minimal shrug. "No, not really. Saddened, irritated, disappointed, and horrified ‑ all of these and more but no, not surprised. I Knew." The word was given the capital letter, the significance of which was not missed by Jenian. "I would have thought that my loyalty was clear by now, despite the fact that I am no longer a mage. In matters such as this, I am with my mother and grandmother. There is more of Taliset in me than Algothenberg, I fear. What possessed my grandfather to act thus?"

"I won't go into it now. Let us say that he had little choice."

A strong but gentle voice interrupted them. "Ah so. You have found one another, I see. That is good."

"Lord Huang‑san." The three stood up and were waved back down.

"Sit! Sit!" He bent to lean on the back of Gorian's chair, bringing his face to a confidential level. "I was wondering if the young gentlemen would do us a favour. Please, if it's not too insulting for free men, would you consider singing and playing for us, this evening, before the fireworks?"

He beamed at them and they said that it would be an honour and a privilege to do so.

"Good! We thought that it would be most generous of you, to let us hear the songs that you have composed for Yu and Kai. We require no more of you than that." Huang was quite clearly pleased to have their agreement and he swept his gaze round all three of them. "There is now to be a procession through the streets of Jin Gei, to let the people see the happy couple. We would be honoured if you would all join us. I regret but you will have to travel in the fifth carriage. There are so many relatives and important business friends that must be honoured."

With a nod, he straightened up and left them.

"The fifth carriage! That is no insult." Shyo was amazed and excited.

Jenian chuckled at him. "And why not? You are no longer geisho. In any case, remember that I am a Royal Prince and here we have the heir to the Empire of Algotha. You no less are, or once were, the Princess Belinda of Kelinor, sister‑in‑law to the once Warden of Taliset."

They all laughed, but Gorian was beginning to feel the final thawing of his frozen pain. Now that the worst was over; here with friends; united with Jenian; a freed man once more; the depth of his loss seemed unbearable. Much of the sadness had been expressed now there was an anger and that aching void, frustratingly beyond the reach of the Source.

Jenian read all this and his heart went out to the desolation of his young friend and student. "Do you feel up to this? Would you like to talk? Or would you prefer to be alone for a while?"

Shyo looked at the nobles. "It is the unmaging. I need no telling. But to understand the loss is beyond my imagination. Perhaps it is like, for me, losing my spirit friends." He squeezed Gorian's arm in sympathy.

"I shall be able to join the cavalcade, or whatever, but before the celebrations tonight I need to face my losses once more." He placed his hand over the one that Shyo rested on his forearm. Sadly, he looked up into those almond brown eyes. "I do not wish to reject you, my dearest friend, but I suspect that it is better for me to grieve with Jenian. He will benefit from hearing my story and, mayhap, I his."

"Of course. And I cannot avoid speaking with Lady Yu any longer. After the procession, she may have some time for me."

"Then, until after our ride, we shall forget about our concerns. Today, there is much to celebrate despite the clouds in our hearts."

CHAPTER NINETEEN

Siege

Gorian was impressed with the rooms that had been given to Jenian. The furnishings were very lavish and the painted wall screens were embossed and appliquéd. The suite was spacious and cool. He ran his fingertips appraisingly over the decorations. Jenian watched with a quirk to the corners of his mouth. Gorian half turned to Jenian.

"I don't wish to appear to be undervaluing your status but at a time like this, with relatives, business associates and other wedding guests to be accommodated, I'm surprised that such apartments are given to ‑ well, let's be blunt, an uninvited stranger."

"Oh, no offence taken, Gorian. I take your point. Despite being a prince in my own right and a mage adept, to these people I am nothing so, I am most honoured and privileged by their hospitality." Jenian replied in a tone of tolerant amusem*nt. As Gorian returned to his scrutiny of the wall designs, the prince sank down onto the floor cushions, grateful for the rest and cool quietude. "My goodness, what a reception. The whole city must have been on the streets to wave and cheer. I was beginning to wonder if we'd ever get back inside. Perhaps, I'm getting too cynical in my old age, but I rather think that it was less to do with love towards either Kai or Yu than because this marriage will bring greater trade and money to Jin Gei."

Gorian had moved to sit next to Jenian and, although he grinned and nodded at his tutor's words, his thoughts were already straying elsewhere and elsewhen. The clouds crossed his features and cast shadows of pain on his face. He shuffled on his cushion to lean against Jenian's body, to be cradled in the crook of his arm. Tears spilled silently down his face. Jen tousled the hair and caressed the side of Gorian's face.

"I can imagine, darling, - at least, I think I can imagine. Rather than speak, let me mindlink with you as you replay those painful memories."

With a rush of emotional and sensory impressions, Jenian was swept away on the swirling and giddying psychic tide, as Gorian, logically and sequentially, reviewed his memories from the time he left the gates of Algothenberg. Together they rode the storm of Gorian's helpless rage at his unmaging and, later, his repeated rape. Jenian helped absorb the painful recollections and added in clarifications and some details of his own account along the way. Fully two hours later, Gorian lay spent, his head resting on Jenian's lap as the prince soothed and stroked his hair. As he rose, Jenian helped him up and placed a kiss to his brow.

"Thank you for being with me, Jen. When I regain my magedom, I shall treasure it all the more for having lost it. My opponents in Algotha little realise what is in store for them, once I return. I see the consternation in your face, Jen. Relax, I mean no revenge nor retribution, merely that they do not know what it will be like for them to have a Mage Emperor ‑ and note the order of those two words. But now, I must rest a while, before preparing for this evening."

"Surely. And I must think over a few spells and cantrips for the pyrotechnics that I have promised." As Gorian left, Jen mused to himself. He's changed. It may be maturity, or losing his contact with the Source or this relationship with the escort boy. Whatever, I think that I approve.

What's happening? Someone has entered my castle. Invasion! Intruder! Call the guard! Help! I have to defend the castle against attack. I must! Something is preventing me. They've entered the tower - right into the very control centre of the kingdom. Soldiers! Where the hell are the guards? Why am I alone to face this alien presence? Yet whoever it is seems gentle, careful. It isn't an army, then. A spy, a thief, perhaps. Someone creeping. Oh, no! He's behind me. I sense it. I can't turn to see him. It's dark. Blind! Why can't I see anything? Too late! He's overpowered me. Where are my guards? What's happened to my magic? I feel used, manipulated. I deeply resent this. No soldiers - there are no guards. I'm alone in this empty castle - apart from him. Helpless, defenceless, vulnerable. Who is it? How dare he? By what right is he in my castle? What does he want? I'm being moved against my will. I can't stop it. What am I to do? Whoever you are - I give in. I offer no resistance. Although I can't see him, I know this man. I sense him. Young Lyrian! How unexpected! I'll speak with him. Lyri! What's the matter? Why are you here? Why imprison me thus? Answer, damn you! Nothing. Perhaps he can't hear me. Or is it that I am deaf to his reply? I'm certain that it is Lyrian. And yet, he feels different, strange. I must calm myself. What have I to fear from Lyri? He is my friend and kin. He will not harm me. But what is he doing to me? Why? Perhaps it isn't Lyri. Someone in disguise, maybe. This feels unwholesome, not entirely evil but neither is it good. Lord and Lady! The castle is moving. He's taken charge. My castle is no longer mine. Commandeered. How does he command my servants and troops, when I can't? How can he transport my castle without my will? Why am I alone? Who will speak with me? Fear. Confusion. Anger. Paralysis.

Algy was tense and wary in Lyri's company. He desperately wanted to believe that the storm of his rages had been weathered and all was now well. Understandably, on the other hand, common sense told him that he could not depend on his good fortune and that Lyri's moods were bound to get worse and less predictable as the contamination took greater and deeper hold over the young archmage. I more than anyone else know how the influence of the Panoplia works its curse on someone. I was just like that. One could almost say that we've had a switch of personalities. Unfortunately, Lyri's greater power means that he can do far greater harm if the mood takes him. Look at him. It makes my skin creep the way in which he's manipulating Kelorian. The girls are right. He shouldn't do it. Not that I dare criticise.

Kel's fingers were flexing and extending, rather like someone practicing the fingering of a lute fret. The right hand reached out and picked up a walnut from the bowl on the table alongside it. The shell wove in and out of the finger spaces, slowly at first then gathering speed.

"Brilliant, eh!" Lyri beamed at his boyfriend. "I can do it with his left hand, too. Watch!"

Kel's hand passed the walnut to the left and the exercise in fine dexterity was repeated, though less smoothly or rapidly.

"Yes, Lyri. It's very clever. Er, ... but didn't you promise not to use Kel like this?"

"No." The voice was snappy. Lyri heard himself and consciously relaxed. "No, love. I don't think so. And, if I did, then I've probably changed my mind. I can't see that it's doing any harm. It keeps his muscles working - exercise and, who knows? - it might be helping to re-establish the blown circuits in his brain."

"Blown circuits? I don't follow you."

"Sorry. Of course, you don't. It's about a thing called 'electric'. Can't say that I know much about it, either. I'd heard about it but not many people had it when I was in Chipton. It was used for heating and lighting and making machines work."

Lyri fell silent as he inwardly reminisced. Algy thought it best not to press him. Eventually, Lyri continued. "It was something Ran told me about. Or was it Lisette? No matter, but I think it was Ran. He said the brain was like a load of paths that electric could run along. I think he said that I had burnt some of those pathways in Kel's brain."

"Oh, I see. I think I do. This electric is a sort of fuel oil that has spilt in Kel's brain and caught fire."

Lyri shook his head impatiently. "No." He sighed. "Well, maybe, - sort of. Oh, I can't be bothered to explain and it doesn't really matter. Let's just say that I hope that by using his brain and body, I am keeping the roads open for Kel to use when he's able to use his mind again."

Algy wisely let it lie. At least, Lyri was being fairly reasonable and pleasant. He decided to go along with him. "I see that you can hold a conversation now and still work his body."

"I'm sure anyone can do it with practice. It's exactly as I said. It'll make it easier to look after him and I'm certain that Kel can be used to augment someone's Power." He looked up at Algy as he stood above them. A curious smile on his lips. "Why don't you have a go? It's not very difficult. Anyone with one or two rings should be able to do it."

"Even me, you mean. Thank you but no thank you. I've foresworn magic."

"Rubbish! Of course, you haven't. What you said was that from now on you will be even more scrupulous than most about the use of Power for harming people. The plan, as you well know, is that we avoid warfare by pretending to have a magical scrap. It's all fireworks and illusions. We will need all the mages we can. We can't leave it to Elgora and Elissa versus a couple of us. That would create too paltry an effect. No, what we need is a spectacular display with some of us doing things as if on behalf of their side. It'll make them seem more powerful and us, too. As someone with six rings, your talents are needed in order to avert bloodshed not cause it."

Bitter bile backed up Algy's gullet. He involuntarily shook his head at the distaste. "Maybe, I will reconsider. I am adamant that I will not fight but a show of force, a play act, might be something to which I could agree. But, I'm equally clear that I cannot allow myself to become Kel's puppet master."

"If not you, then who? Everyone with any magic will be using it. The magisters are too squeamish to work their boss's body. Ella is set against it. Helena or Damian? They might, as might Lyrankiel, but, somehow, I doubt it. There is no one else, my dear. One advantage in you taking on the job is that you will not let the extra Power go to your head." Lyri saw his lover pale and shudder. "Oh, so that's it! How stupid can I be? And don't you dare answer that! I see it, now. You're scared that you might lose control if you use your Powers let alone them have augmented by Kel."

Algy nodded and turned away. "Don't forget, though you were only a baby at the time and have to rely on what you were told, I have had my Powers augmented before. The results were less than desirable, to put it mildly." He faced Lyri. "Don't make me do this, Lyri. I can't. I mustn't. If you need my magic, - so be it, I'll join in the charade but I will not fight. But I can't and won't manipulate Kel. If you won't let the slaves look after him then it will have to be Myrissa."

"Pity! I'd hoped to avail us of Kel's Power. Never mind, Myrissa it is then. I can't have slaves doing it. As you are well aware, I do not make use of the slaves for anything - least of all this particular task." For some reason that he couldn't explain to himself, the settling on the choice of Myrissa gave him ambivalent feelings. Part of him felt strangely content with the decision, despite his regrets about the loss of the untapped magic resources. But another part of him rejoiced - a part of him that he was struggling to keep securely under control.

Yu was silent, half‑turned away from him. He had approached the couple and after exchanging a few pleasantries, Kai had made a tactfully strategic withdrawal. Shyo bit his lip, leant forward on his knees for a moment then sank back to sit onto his heels, uncertain how to begin. There was in reality nothing to say that they did not both already know, save Shyo's plans for the future.

"Dearest Lady, we have been doomed from the start. At last, I can accept that which you have been trying to tell me for a long time. We can be no more than friends."

She raised her eyes to him, moist and watery. She nodded. "Do not undervalue the depth and richness of friendship. There is, in truth, very little which surpasses it."

He let his head hang, and unpinned his topknot to let his hair hang long, dark and free to the floor. From behind its curtain, he spoke, almost in a whisper. "I love you, Lady. More than my heart seems able to bear. It will not be easy to be your friend, though I will do my best."

Yu reached into the torrent of hair and lifted his face to meet her gaze; tears sparkled on her cheeks, stained with the kohl from her eyes. "Nothing has changed, Shyo. We have always been friends, never lovers in the true sense."

He shook his head. "I have changed, Yu. I am no longer geisho. I have the love of your husband as my friend and benefactor. I have no place here. It is too early to be able to live in close proximity and not to feel jealousy, envy, resentment and guilt towards the man who has released me from bond and offered me his friendship."

Yu felt the agitation of impending loss well up from the depths of her soul. "Please, let's not talk of this. I don't know what you mean to imply. I can’t.... You are our welcome guest here, for as long as you wish. I will not lose a dear friend like this. Shyo, my beloved friend, ... I entreat; I implore you. Look, I kow-tow to you."

He lifted her up. "You know this as well as I do, my Lady Yu. We are friends, we can be friends, we will always be friends, I hope and believe, but.... But we have other feelings towards each other, which do not marry well with our new found situation. You are a married woman. I am a free man. Our friendship will be soured if we do not part for a time. Only for a time, my darling, and then I can return. You will then be settled as a wife and I.....” He hesitated and she leaned towards him, impatient to hear his next words. "And I, ... well, I hope to be trained at Chyo Ku. You know better than most of my only other talents than being a geisho. I want to be a psychic, by choice. If I have the talent, to be a seer. I need to go and train. Go needs to consult The Exalted Mon. It is best that we travel together, and with his teacher, the Prince Wizard."

Yu slumped back away from him. She sighed, reluctantly agreeing with a defeated nod. "There is truth and sense in what you say, though I would rather not have heard it ‑ especially today. You are right, of course. Then, you will go soon." It was a statement not a question.

He rose to his feet and left her company. Head down, his heartache hidden behind his hair.

The seer took another swig of water and handed the flask back to Daniel. "There is no need for hurry, my friends. We cannot immediately return to Taliset. It is besieged. From what you say, the crisis between Prince Lyrian and his lover has passed and, with or without your presence, dear Raniel, your boyfriend will tread the path to recovery in his own time, if the Fates ordain."

Raniel shot Athanor a stricken look. "Then, you still don't see his recovery."

"Neither do I see any contrary outcome. Yet another of my blindspots, I'm afraid. Whatever the outcome, - and I'm sorry to be so blunt but long life does not confer diplomacy on me, your absence will not make any difference to Kelorian. Until he regains consciousness, he will not know that you are gone. If he never recovers, then your return will be a non-event for him."

Dan rested an arm around his twin as they sat in the shade of steep dune. "He's got a point, I suppose. When we died during the ritual, we were given no indication that we would lose Kel. He must recover."

"I know you're trying to reassure me but you’re wasting your time with insubstantial arguments. The spirit world is notoriously guarded about revealing things unless absolutely necessary. They could be relied on not to tell us. And, take it from me, their intervention in my return and in this latest matter with Lyri and Algy is something to be concerned about not feel encouraged. Unless we were totally in the sh*t they wouldn't be interfering. Besides, you're both missing the salient point. Well, two points, actually. People in coma recover faster if they hear the voices of those who are close or important to them. And, what if he wakes and I'm not there?" He began to weep and Dan joined in.

"You've both been greatly shaken and weakened by this psychic defence of Algorath. Let your tears heal your hurts. So, I return to my argument. You need time to rest and recuperate. What's another day? But even when you're ready to travel again, I do not recommend Taliset. The Arab boy is our better goal."

Dan wiped his eyes on his sleeve. "Why? He is an archmage as we are and only a child. His sole edge on us is the greater talent for psychic skills."

"To be honest, I don't know. But, surely such talent in one so young is in itself remarkable and worthy of investigation. Another consideration is that our way ahead is more likely to be towards Chyo Ku than Taliset."

Hollian's depression had not lifted but rather deepened as they drew closer to Taliset. It was only to be expected that this rubbed off on Elgora. She fell back again for the latest in an innumerable number of times. He had nigh ignored her and she had been unable to lift his spirits. Her mother reined to her side.

"Be forgiving of him, my dear. Lygor and Tarsina could have tried to be more understanding of him. Of us all. I tried to explain to them but they weren't having any. I'm afraid that I got angry with them. To no effect, of course. Not even my own satisfaction."

"I'm hurt not angry with him, Mummy. He's shutting me out. I don't like this any more than he does. I've lost my son, too. He's not the only one to feel bad about all this mess."

Elissa smiled grimly to herself. "Not even a little resentment?"

The duch*ess hurriedly opened her mouth to deny it but stopped short and sheepishly grinned. "Yes. Maybe so. But what right has he to sulk and become morosely isolated when you are taking it so much better. This is your city, your people, that we wage war against for more than his."

"True. But Hollian is a man. They do not take readily to sharing their feelings when hurt or sorrowful. In addition, he was brought up to be a minor nobleman, uncertain whether his main allegiance is to Taliset or Algothenberg. He is now trying to be a warrior. I, on the other hand, have always known where my allegiance lies. I was raised a princess with diplomatic and political training. Compromise, duplicity and circ*mspection are my stock in trade. He may have to wage war on Taliset in the end. You and I have merely to pretend to do so." She raised her eyes to squint into the distance. Excitedly, she gave her daughter a dig. "There! Do you see it? The waterfall above Taliset. The gleam against the cliff edge. The blur just below it is the city herself. We will soon be there."

She urged her horse forward to trot alongside the Emperor. Soon he called out that Taliset was in sight and the siege would shortly be set. Elgora glanced at her husband's bowed head and sighed. Once more she rode to keep pace with him. He didn't acknowledge her.

Damian burst into the room, much to Lyri's annoyance. Before he could speak, Lyri yelled.

"How dare you barge in like this? Hellspawn! Foul-assed Worm! Insignificant piece of sh*t! Stench breath!"

His outburst was so extreme that they were tempted to grin and giggle. They didn't dare. Damian cowered and fell to his knees, trembling, white as a sheet. He fully anticipated being killed by a psychic blast. Lyri saw their reactions and took a deep breath and released it in a long sigh. He waited for his ire to recede.

"You could, at least, knock before entering, Damian. You're too late for the strategy meeting. We've more or less finished our final briefing."

"I don't mean to be contradictory or insolent, Your Royal Highness, but I did knock. Maybe not very hard or long. And perhaps I should have waited to be told to enter but I did knock, sire. And, if it please you, I purposefully didn't attend so that I could keep a look-out."

"Oh, get up! Stop grovelling or my anger might come back. I'm sorry to frighten you, Damian. My irritability is so unpredictable and irrational. Forgive me. What is it? The reason for your sudden appearance? I take it that you've seen something."

"They are here, Lyrian. The Algothans. Not actually here, yet, but they can be seen."

"The time is upon us at last, my friends." He raised his arms to the assembled mages and dismissed them with a flick of his hands. "To our stations and plans, then. Have the alarm sounded. You all know what to do. No actual damage to anyone unless and until the mock fight fails."

The mages nodded and there was a buzz of excitement as they dispersed. Lyri caught Myrissa's arm as she passed and he drew her to one side.

"Your duty is no less important than the rest. I'm trusting you to take good care of Kelorian. I would wish that someone of Power had been prepared to learn how to animate him and maybe use his Power. Never mind, though. I think I know something of their reluctance. Even I don't trust myself to do it. I think that I have good reason. My control of my shadow-side is not all that I would hope. Maybe they all feel similarly in some lesser way."

He fell into a silence from his musing. Myrissa wrenched herself from his grip, which had been tightening on her upper arm. She rubbed her biceps. Lyri snapped his attention back to her. "I'm serious, Myrissa. Keep him safe .... and yourself, of course. We don't intend doing any personal harm but stray Power might land on either of you and neither of you are able to deflect it. A few more months, perhaps, and we will be seeing whether you are a mage. We could have done with another mage, .... pity. Stay out of the way, as best you can. He shouldn't have any more outbursts of raw magic but if he does, cling closely to him. You're less likely to get in the line of his fire, that way. Feed him and water him at need. As for his other needs, I know from personal experience that you can handle him."

He giggled at his pun referring to her assistance with urination when he was weak from the transfer portal. She blushed and clenched her teeth in anger.

"Only teasing. Lord and Lady know if the ploy will succeed but if we have to fight for real, it is even more important for you keep Kel and yourself out of harm's way. OK, you better go to him. Relieve Helena in his suite, she has magic work to do."

She looked about to say something but changed her mind and left with a slight shrug.

Lyri took Algy's hand and drew him to the balcony. Together, they watched the troops slow to a halt about half a mile beyond the city limits and set camp. As cavalry and infantry, they would be expecting to begin fighting in the morning. They would be surprised. The mages on both sides knew that the pyrotechnics would have greater impact against the night sky. The Algothans would get little sleep tonight.

The evening meal at Kai and Yu's house was a sumptuous banquet to which a more select gathering of guests had been invited, - though the whole city would witness the closing firework display. During the meal, geisho and geisha played and sang, occasionally glancing towards the newly freed young ones with envy and hope. Towards the end of the serious eating, Kai dismissed the entertainers and called upon his new friends to sing and play.

"If I may have your attention. Thank you. My friends have graciously agreed to give us a song or two. May I present to you, The Crown Duke Go‑san, Imperial Heir to Algotha and Shyo .... I'm sorry Shyo‑san, I still don't know your new name."

Shyo stood forth proudly. His hair was scarcely more than collar-length, now. "My Lord and friend, Kai‑san, I am honoured to call myself Shyoku Mei, in honour of you and your lady wife and in token of my future profession."

"Then, Shyoku Mei‑san." Gorian and Shyo did not miss the startled look on Yu's face nor the fact that she was moved by the gesture.

The young men, resplendent in another outfit from the clothes given by Kai, stepped to their places and, settling themselves, sang the songs to Yu and Kai which Gorian had previously composed. After each there was much appreciative applause and on finishing the two items, Shyo made ready to go back to his seat. He stopped, bemused, as Gorian stayed put and addressed the guests.

"I hope that you will not be too distressed to hear me tell of my recent history, - of how I come to be here."

Gorian began and, within a few moments, Shyo had re-tuned the samisen to a minor key and was softly playing an accompaniment to the poem.

" The noble youth his fate did flee,

He could not stand it more.

His mage rings shone for all to see,

Signs of the Powers he bore.

They stared at him in awe and hate,

This heir to Empire born.

Sworn both to Magic and to State,

He fled their fear and scorn.

He rode away at dawn's first light,

Uncertain where to go,

Escaping now with all his might,

To meet his unknown foe.

The stranger came into his room,

To sing his life away,

But left the lad to face his doom,

Unmaged at light of day.

With soup, the landlord came to ply,

That body drained and shocked.

Though near to death, he did not die,

Assassin's plan was blocked.

So weak and naked still he made,

Attempt to journey on,

And struggled to a wagon laid,

With furs, to hide whereon.

When later, transferred to a boat,

They found the hapless duke,

The Eastmen merchants came to gloat,

With lust in every look.

That night they raped him and again,

On each and every day,

Humiliated tears of pain,

Swayed not their evil way.

And bonded slave, he came to land,

But there to make a friend,

Another geisho at whose hand

The torment was to end.

The karmic lover healed the youth,

Of damage lust had wrought.

Of love and power, he learnt the truth

Which once his tutor taught.

But naught could take away the ache,

The pain of Gifts bereft,

But thanks to love, he knew he'd make

The best of what was left.

Then rich and powerful allies came,

To aid the bonded slave,

And to his cause they lent their name,

His freedom to him gave.

Tonight, I thank all that gave aid,

To Gorian in his flight,

And pledge to honour vows I've made,

With all my unmaged might.

From here, I travel on again,

I must reclaim my Powers,

And once re-maged, I will regain,

My northern Empire's towers."

For a moment there was silence. The boy had attempted, yet again, to write in this foreign tongue. The metre was a little strained in places but the emotional impact was great on those who heard it. Into the silence, Lord Kai spoke.

"It would not be honourable to applaud such a story, Go‑san. It honours many here and we thank you for your honesty and sincerity. You have told us of wrongs done by men of our race and we are dishonoured by their conduct ‑ though I admit that it is probably not an unusual abuse. You have our gratitude. And, now, if you will allow, I think that we should have the entertainers back to play a more joyful theme."

Gorian was worried lest he'd given offence. "Did I do wrong, Shyo?" He whispered.

"No. Be unconcerned. Your tale was a serious one, full of pain, but it honours your friends. I, for one, am moved by your tribute to me. Come let us retake our seats."

On the evening of their second day travelling north east, Athanor encouraged Raniel to try to contact Djinn. They sat huddled against the cold night of the desert.

"I'm not certain that I can do it. It is he who contacts us."

"It can be done. You will succeed. I've Seen."

Dan took his brother's arm. <<Relax. That's all you need to do. It's like when we went back to Taliset to protect Algy from Lyri's wrath.>>

<<That was different. We were sort-of summoned and we knew the way to Taliset. I don't know where Djinn is.>>

<<It doesn't matter. Perhaps it's more accurate and useful to regard it as a particular form of telepathy. After all, we contacted you over millennia.>>

<<Then you do it with me. Match breathing. In, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Hold. Out, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.>>

The twins fell into linked trance and separated from their physical bodies. They ranged ahead, trying to tune in to the not yet familiar enough aura of the child.

Djinn felt them. He was in linked trance, too. He was on maintenance duty in Tirna. The whole group sensed the twins through the small archmage. Quickly Djinn explained, in thought, who they were. He made contact with his archmage cousins.

<<Welcome. We have found you, cousins.>>

<<Hello, Djinn? You seem different.>>

<<I'm at work. Linked in with my sister mages. We will guide you. Can you travel at night? Are you rested enough to come tonight?>>

<<We think so. It depends on the distance.>>

<<That is of no concern. We will set psychic markers at regular distances for you to teleport to.>>

<<Problem. We travel with a seer who has no Power.>>

<<Then carry him between you.>>

<<Well. You may be right. He is very tall but not particularly heavy. Nevertheless, we will need to rest between jumps.>>

<<That is more convenient for us. We will transmit a marker for you to focus on each hour for no more than a minute. As I said, we are working. We cannot spare the time. You will have an hour's rest between hops.>>

<<Very well. Give us a few minutes to gather things for the first jump.>>

<<Right. You must be ready in five minutes.>>

They returned to their bodies and told the seer what the plan was. They gathered their belongings and with their arms linked around the old man, they waited for the signal. It came in a flash and they "hopped" to collapse in an ungainly heap.

Bergyth entered Algarn's tent. The emperor and his family looked up at the warlord. Algarn indicated to the saluting warrior that he should pull up a seat and join them.

"Sire. I shall stand. There is little to report. The men and horses are settled and fed ready for the morrow's conflict. We shall give them one last chance to change their mind, to surrender, before laying siege."

No one replied and the Hild Rede began to feel uncomfortable under their gaze.

"I realise that none of you are committed to this action. I'm sorry. Sorry that you do not agree with the necessity of it, Your Graces. If I have your permission, I'll withdraw and retire."

Algarn almost smiled at the man's discomfort.

"Sorry, Hild Rede. You do not have my permission to leave. I think that I speak for my family when I say that we accept your clumsy attempt at sympathy. Prepare the men for battle."

"Battle? Now? In darkness?" Bergyth was mystified. No one could see to wage battle at night. Send spies, yes. Assassins, saboteurs and other such creepy crawly sneaky people. Sometimes such measures were necessary but no real men would see honour in such things. You can't wage war in the dark!

Hollian broke the silence of days of withdrawal to answer him.

"Hild Rede. We do not besiege a warrior city. There are few soldiers, if any, here. These are largely civilians, bondsmen, freemen, farmers, tradesmen, merchants and what have you. There will be no army to leave those gates to the field of battle in the morning. Neither will the tiers and parapets swarm with archers and troops to defend these walls. Any action will be by magic. This is just as likely to occur at night as any other time. They know we are here. They are as ready now as they will ever be to defend their city. The Empress and my wife are just as ready now as they will be in the morning." He heard Elgora clear her throat and he raised a hand to acknowledge her objection. "My wife wishes me to correct that latter statement. They would be better rested by dawn - if they can allow themselves to sleep under the circ*mstances of declaring war on their own kind and kin. Nevertheless, they are ready to attack Taliset now. Your men will not be directly involved - at this stage. But, since we are at war, are they ready now?"

Hollian's face was drawn and stiff. Pain and guilt haunted his dark-rimmed eyes. Contempt seeped from his words and they stung Bergyth, amid his confusion.

"Your Grace. The men will be ready, as necessary. You are right. I had not considered the strange circ*mstances." He went down on one knee before Algarn. "Sire, I am not fit to lead this campaign. It is outside my sphere of experience. I will resign, if you want me to."

"Get up, old fool. You should have realised this before we set out. There is no one else with any other experience but yours. We know quite a bit more about the Taliset mages than you but neither they nor we are accustomed to battle. It is a very long time since any mage-wars. This is a historic occasion, Bergyth. We will get to experience something that has not been seen in centuries. If I didn't feel that we were doing the wrong thing, I might feel excited and honoured at the prospect of witnessing the clash of arcane powers."

"Should I muster the men?"

"You are the warlord, Bergyth. What do you say?"

"We will all be more rested in the morning, sire. But can we trust these sorcerers and witches to do the decent thing and wait 'til dawn?"

"Decent thing!" Hollian let his anger and pain blaze. "You accuse them of not doing the decent thing. Are our actions decent? We attack when they have done no harm to Algotha. My mother-in-law, the Empress, is one of them and through her my wife and son. My parents and I carry their blood in our veins. You and the others have forced us to attack our kin and the kin of our loved ones. Do you call this decency? We do not play a children's game. This is no fair play with rules."

Bergyth felt his anger and embarrassment alternate within him. "Hollian, Your Graces, I meant no offence to you personally. I'm sorry that you are in this position. But I still feel that it has been the only course of action. The men will be ready."

He saluted, bowed and left at a nod from Algarn.

"Dearest, I almost feel pity for him. He is out of his depth and he knows it. But he can't back down. I suspect that it may work to our advantage. The men will pick up on his uncertainty and it will feed their fears, especially when the performance begins. Algarn, I think that the next step is to issue our challenge and to request their surrender. They will, of course, refuse and then the whole sorry business can begin."

Algarn took her hand and kissed it. "Are you and Elgora ready for this?"

"As we will ever be, father. At least, we can console ourselves that this is a mock fight. And it might just dissuade our people from taking the next step, bloodshed and mayhem."

Elgora smiled tentatively at her husband. "I've been concerned, my love. I couldn't reach you. Welcome back, darling."

Hollian hung his head before looking directly into her eyes. "Forgive me, Elgora. I did not want to shut you out. I just ...." He shrugged.

"I know. I know. There is no need for you to apologise."

"Now that the inevitable is facing me... We are here. I couldn't stay shut off within myself any longer. It is your part that must be played now and I must stand and watch. I'm sorry that it has come to this and I haven't been able to prevent it."

"Steady on, Hollian. Go easy on yourself, man." Algarn offered Hollian a grim smile. "We have all been herded into a corner. None of us could find another way out of this mess. If anyone is to blame, it is I who made the mistakes of underestimating our opposition and being arrogantly overconfident of my own power and authority. Let us ride out to the gates of Taliset and go through the preliminaries which will set this process in motion."

Lyrian and Algorath peered down into the gloaming and watched the torchlit procession approach the lowest gate.

"That must be the Emperor and his entourage." Lyri felt exhilarated and wound up for action.

"I guess so." Algy paused until they rode nearer. "The two women - they will be the Empress, Princess Elissa, my distant cousin. The other is her daughter, duch*ess Elgora. The man to her right is her husband, my cousin Hollian, second cousin probably. Of course, you were correct to identify the Archduke Algarn. The other man is their warlord. Behind them ..... a whole bunch of lesser nobles. There's one of the villains of this tragedy." He pointed at Osmund. "The fat one in white. Archbishop and Primate of Algotha."

Lyri briefed his mage troops. <<The two women are Elissa and Elgora. We must let it appear that they are almost our match and that means pretending that they initiate some of the fun against us. They will, of course, be trying their best to stir up some of their own action but I understand that they are rusty in using the Power. Put on a brilliant show and good luck.>> He received mental acknowledgement.

They reined to a halt before the Great Gate of Taliset. A herald of some sort rode out from the shadowed trooplines to stop a few paces in front. He bowed to Algarn and blew a fanfare. Into the silence, his clear voice loudly carried up to the higher tiers where the mages waited and back to the gathered army of Algotha behind him.

"I am commanded by the Most Magnificent and Exalted Algarn, Emperor, Archduke of Algotha, to call upon you to submit and surrender up to him your land and lives. You are to open your gates to him and cast yourselves upon his mercy, renouncing your evil heresy, your witchcraft and unnatural powers. The common people and those who are without this evil taint shall not be harmed and Archbishop Osmund will receive the confession of those who have strayed from the paths of righteousness into evil magic."

A glow formed around a young man high on the city, several tiers up. It brightened and enlarged until those who looked on it were forced to look away with tearing eyes. From the centre of this radiance, a light baritone voice sounded. A soft yet booming voice laden with strength, power and restrained menace.

"Your Magnificence, Your Graces, Lords and people of Algotha. We are astonished and hurt that you invade our land and attack our city so. We have kin amongst your ranks. We ask you to withdraw and return to your own lands. There shall be no surrender. There shall be no renunciation of Power. Our magic is not evil and will not be used to fight. Unless.... " Lyri paused just long enough for optimum effect. "Unless, of course, we have no alternative. We will defend our people and city to the very last. You are the aggressors but whatever you begin, we shall finish. None have seen the might of magedom wielded in battle for generations. Withdraw now whilst you still can do so."

Lyri sent out thin tendrils of terror into the night sky, weaving them into a net of unease, which fell on the encampment below him and struck deep into the hearts of all the Algothans.

"The lad has great control and power, Algarn." Elissa whispered. "One of their archmages, probably the young prince, Lyrian. He has sent out fear as a weapon against us. A good move, my dear."

"Yes, he quite shook me. Well, I suppose you and Elgora better get on with it. The formalities have been exchanged, let the farce begin."

"This is no farce, Father. If you're ready, Mummy."

The empress nodded. The two women dismounted and handed their reins to their husbands who backed off.

A scarlet shaft of light blasted towards the haloed Lyrian from Elgora's fingers to scar the parapet just below him. Algy yelled and stepped back. Lyri reached to touch the deeply etched wound to Taliset. He felt for her and received her reply. <<Ignore it, father. It doesn't hurt me.>>

"We're all right, silly. She won't aim it directly at us until she is certain that we can counter it." <<Ready, folks! Here we go.>>

Suddenly the skies were ablaze with streaks of lightening in many differing hues but lightening which did not fade but persisted, searing complementary afterimages on the retinas. Each beam was parried or countered by another or blocked with a coruscating shield of light. The skies exploded into spheres of twinkling stars as Power met Power. Thunder crashed all around.

Horses shied, struggling to loosen their tethers and gallop away. Cries of fear were to be heard both within and without the city walls.

An incandescent flare of violaceous light exploded with a loud crack over Elissa's head.

"Lord and Lady!" she yelled, flinching from the blast. "I know they must make it seem real but that was close. Still, I am unhurt."

Algarn was nearly unhorsed and clung on, whilst trying to calm the frightened beast. Elgora gritted her teeth and flung a retaliatory ray towards the university. The fulguration was met by an albedo arch that scattered it as harmless shimmering spangles onto the lower tiers.

"This is much harder than I thought it would be." Elgora gasped to regain her breath. The effort was enormous for an unpractised mage and she had a tendency to hold her breath whilst casting. "Even with some of them creating as if from us, it should be clear to anyone with half an eye that we are hopelessly outmatched."

"That's the general idea, isn't it? We want to put up a creditable showing but convince this lot behind us that they haven't a hope of winning this siege." She yelped as her sleeve erupted into flame and she hurriedly extinguished it. "Concentrate, woman! I should have seen that coming."

"Are you alright, Elissa?" Algarn urged his frightened horse forward.

"Yes! No, I'm slightly burnt. I'm OK. Just get back, Algarn - all of you. We've enough to contend with without looking out for rearing horses."

A mist seeped down over the cascading tiers of Taliset, like a fountain in slow motion, to creep along the ground towards the Algothans. The women had enough time to notice and halt this phosphorescence but were uncertain what it was and how best to counter it. Standing together they built an exclusion zone around themselves at knee height and the glowing mist swirled around them. The men had already reined back several times by a matter of yards, now did so more purposefully as the roil pursued them.

"Stop it, Elgora. What is it? What will it do?"

Momentarily, she turned to her husband and flung out her hands as if to say "Don't ask me." As she did so, a livid bolt hit her full on the back encasing her in a brilliant ball of light. She crumpled into a heap on the ground.

"Elgora!" Hollian exclaimed in horror as his wife was felled.

High in the city, Elinor gasped. "I've hit her. She should have blocked it. Damn it all! Why can't they pay attention to what is happening?"

Meriel shrugged. "It's no one's fault. The mist distracted her. What did you use? Have you killed her?"

"No, of course not! We all agreed that we must allow for accidents such as this. She will be merely stunned and her back will be burnt - painfully sore but not too much."

<<sh*t! This causes a logistical problem.>> Lyri's voice insinuated into each of their minds. <<Their odds are halved. We can't ease up and yet Elissa alone is no match for us, even with our assistance. We must begin to attack the whole army and let it appear that all she can do is struggle to defend them.>>

Lyri summoned Lyrankiel to him. His uncle came to his side within a moment.

"Elissa is your aunt. Do you think, with my help, you could contact her?"

"We can but try. She left Taliset before I was born. We do not know each other any better than you and she do."

"Damn! Alright. Back to your post. Thanks anyway but I'll do it alone, then."

Hollian was filled with overwhelming despair as he got down from his horse to rush to Elgora's side. Elissa widened the warding circle to include him and he felt easier.

"Is she...?"

"No, Hollian. Neither side is using great power. She is stunned and slightly injured - nothing more."

Lyri's voice rang out across the plain below. "Yield and retreat. Go home! Irritate us no longer." Behind and within it, Elissa heard him speak to her alone.

<<Sorry that Elgora's inattention has resulted in this. She will be restored soon, I think. The mist is harmless, incidentally. Though not without effect, as the man next to you will testify. It engenders despair and hopelessness in all whom it touches. We can't afford to let up unless your army retreats - which I doubt. I, therefore, propose that we bombard you and the Algothan troops and you will be playing the part of defender without time to retaliate. For goodness sake, don't let your attention lapse. We don't want any further accidents.>>

"Take her away, Hollian. Ignore any feelings of abject despondency. They come from the mist. They will now attack us all and I must shield as best I can."

Hollian lifted her as the skies erupted into effulgence. Flame and beam, streak and gleam, blazed forth from the upper reaches of Taliset to dazzle in an interplay of rubescent, viridescent and fulvous energy. Whines and whistles, screams and screeches accompanied the visual display, as the lancing lights pierced the deepening darkness of night. Elissa stood, body taut, raising a luminous dome of protection above them. Minutes dragged by as she strained against the onslaught. She ached and fatigue gnawed at her mind and body. Couldn't they have more pretence and less reality? No, I guess not. This has to be convincing. And this has to be the performance of my life.

Kelorian stirred. Myrissa was startled to see him twitch. Oh, Lord and Lady! He's going to have one of his magical raging fits. I can't contain him. It takes a mage to do that. If only I can get him to Lyri or maybe one of the others, they can deal with him. She tried dragging him towards the door that led to the parapet. He was much heavier than she was, even though he had lost weight whilst in coma. Myrissa struggled to lift him bodily, bending at the knees and bracing herself against the man's greater height and bulk - slim though he was. She staggered and fell, Kelorian collapsing on top of her.

Get off! I can hardly breathe beneath him. He's still twitching. I must stop it before it's too late. I wonder if I can..... No! I mustn't even try. I can't do it anyway. At least, I don't suppose that I can. Seeing Lyri move him like a puppet made me feel quite peculiar. But what else can I do? I'm pinned beneath him and any minute he's going to unleash his magic. I could try to get out from under him but what then? I've got to try. If I can move him then that means that I'm a mage and maybe I can contain him, too, in that case. What if I can't? Well, if not - then I am in the very best position. As close as I am to him means that I am at the Power nexus, - I won't be hurt. But what effect will it have elsewhere, if he lets loose his Power? Lord and Lady, help me! I've got to try. I've got to.

She had seen the others practising their talents and had attended the theory classes. Now was the time to put things into action. Tentatively, she pushed out with her mind, sending mental energy through her contact of skin on skin with Kelorian. She met no resistance. I can do it! I am a mage. Elation filled her with pride for a moment but then she met Kelorian's unguarded mind. She gasped and winced at the brightness of unshielded raw magic rising up within him. Myrissa searched through to his limbs and clumsily moved them. Kel, with ungainly writhing, rolled off her but kneed her in the stomach as he did so. Winded, she rested a little but felt exhilarated at the realisation that she was able to do it. She struggled to her feet, rubbing at her tummy. OK. Here goes. Up you get. That's right. First the right foot then the left.

Between the ill-co-ordinated control and roughly hauling him to his feet, Myrissa was able to get him standing, swaying and lurching, supporting much of his weight. His arm was draped over her shoulder and she clung to his wrist, white knuckled and trembling with effort and excitement.

They shuffled and lumbered towards the parapet door. She gave as much attention as possible to the mindlink. Not so much a mind, though. Still the link is the important bit. I can feel his power rising. What do I do? I don't know how to contain it. Perhaps, I can do as Lyri wanted. I can direct it into the mock fight. Release a little of the pressure and he might quieten down again.

Deep within him, Kel was aware of the unleashing of magic all around him. It was a war! A mage war! Taliset was under attack. He must defend her. The thoughts were not conscious though no less clear for being deep in the unconscious mind. He knew he must answer his city's call. He was also dimly aware of someone invading his mind and body. It was not a mindfeel that he recognised. It didn't seem malign yet, nevertheless, it shouldn't be there. No one had the right to enter him without permission.

Myrissa coaxed Kel out onto the balcony outside the room and propped him up against the parapet wall. All around, the radiant glare of the pyrotechnical performance was reflected. The clamour deafeningly echoed in her ears. She panted from the physical and mental exertion. To her alarm, an iridescent sheen glimmered all about Kel's body. He was about to erupt. Quickly, she intensified her contact within him, to feel the anger and outrage spilling over into her. She felt herself fill up with Power. Engorged, bloated, stretched with raw energy, which burnt and tingled every nerve in her body and scintillated through her mind. Enraged and fearful, her feelings melded with his. Beneath them, outside the walls to the city were arrayed the troops of the enemy. There, to the front, sat a man on a horse. She knew that he was the one in charge. Filled beyond capacity, the raw magic spilled over them both to sparkle and glint all around them. Myrissa could hold back no longer.

An aureate lance of vivid light shot from them to fluoresce against Elissa's protective dome. For several minutes, the shield held. Elissa weakened and fell to her knees. Behind her, she heard a horse scream in terror and torment. Turning, she saw her husband enveloped in lambent energy. His horse fell dead beneath him. Beside him, the Archbishop was knocked from his mount by the powerful blast.

"Algarn!" The sound came from her, scarcely more than a whisper. She was too wearied to raise her voice. She knew that this was no accident, - no pulled punch. This was for real. The emperor was dead. Elissa also knew that the siege was over.

High above, Myrissa was filled with horror at what she, they, had done. She saw the scorched body crumple and slide from the dead steed. She had killed. She had used magic. She was a mage and she had murdered using Power.

The lights across the heavens went out, abruptly. The sky was even darker by contrast. <<What happened? Who did that? We've killed the emperor.>>

CHAPTER TWENTY

God, getaway, goading and grief

The ending of the spells released the Algothans from the grip of fear and despair that had been cast upon them. The troops broke ranks. Some still deeply fearful, others feeling that, with the death of the Archduke, the battle was over. Many surged forward ready to fight, to avenge the killing of Algarn. In the confusion, Oleg smiled to himself. With the Emperor dead, - Gorian effectively self-exiled, the way ahead was open to him. He raised his sword aloft and, filling his lungs, he roared the order to advance. The Algothans charged the gate of Taliset. This is what they were used to, - what they had trained to do, - second nature to them. They gratefully accepted their familiar role as warriors. The circ*mstances of magical warfare had left them bereft of function and role in the battle. Now, they could come into their own.

Above them, Lyri experienced a splitting of his mind. One part was appalled at the murder, the ruin of the plan for safe combat, - the mere show of force. It was angry that someone had unleashed a lethal bolt. Who could it be? Someone of great power and talent. Almost what one would expect from an archmage. Surely, the twins have not returned. No, it can't be. The source was close by, high in the city. Certainly, none of the magisters would have broken oath. Maybe not even when desperate. But the show was going well. There was no need to even consider using real offensive magic. Algy? Impossible! He was too scared to use the power anyway. And, too close to me here. I would have seen him.

And yet, the feeling of exultation rose within him. The enemy is killed. The paltry efforts of those feeble women have been outclassed. I must reward whoever dealt that masterstroke. The mages of Taliset will brook no interference from outsiders. How have they dared to challenge me? I am the greatest mage that has ever lived. No one comes even close as second. Kelorian knows what the price of thwarting me can be. Soon everyone, mage and nonmage alike, will prostrate themselves before my might and majesty. The rabid excitement died in his chest as he noted with horror how his thoughts were forming. Lyri forced down the alien attitudes. He had received no reply to his mental query, yet. Again, in anger and horror at Algarn's death, he telepathically quizzed the mages.

Lyri scoured the tier with his inner senses for any remnants of Power. Over there, - by Myrissa and Kelorian, there is a faint glow on the wall. What are they doing outside? With surprise and a sinking feeling, he began to suspect what might have occurred. His mind sent out the individual communication and was quickly interrupted.

"Lyrian!! The city gates! They are being breached. Our citizens will die." Algy grabbed his sleeve and pointed down below.

"Then don't just stand there, dolt! Link in with me and we shall defend Taliset." Algy dropped the sleeve as if burnt and backed off, head shaking, hands raised to ward. He saw the strange look in Lyri's eyes. An unreasonable anger, a crazed glint flashed there. Unwilling to face his lover's unpredictability, he turned and ran.

<<Join with me! All of you! We will erect a powerful warding spell.>>

A shimmering membrane formed in the lowest tier. It rapidly thickened and strengthened until no one from either side could penetrate it. It was as if the air itself had become gelid. No Algothan stood within the ward but a few Taliset defenders were caught outside. Unfortunately, they did not live for long. Lyri expanded the ward's sphere of influence and anchored it against Taliset's outer wall. There. Get through that, you bastards.

Elissa staggered wearily towards the charred remains of her husband. Who has done this? Has young Lyrian really lost his mind? My poor Algarn. You have achieved what few Algothan emperors have in generations. Darling, you have fallen in battle. The honourable end to a warrior's life. And so bloody futile. How has this happened? No mage in his or her right mind would do this. There wasn't even any strategic necessity. I was about to send notice of my surrender to Lyrian so that they could prepare for the collapse of my shield. How could this have happened?

His face was almost completely spared; only a crimsoned burn spread from his blackened throat over his chin to the lower half of his left cheek. She stooped to let her fingertips brush against his other cheek, stumbled and collapsed to her knees. "Oh, Algarn. We got what we hoped for, my dear. I never expected that it would be this way. You've paid dearly for this peculiar victory. I'm sorry." Her voice was weak with fatigue and gently affectionate. No tears came. Elissa was aware of the numbness, the sense of shock. Her eyes caught the group surrounding Osmund and her lips drew down into disgust. He had got no more than he deserved. She wasn't going to go to his aid. He had Oswin and Thorkild hovering over him, muttering prayers.

The empress spotted Hollian chafing the wrists of Elgora, as she lay on the ground unconscious. Struggling to her feet, she made her way to his side and knelt beside him.

"Don't worry, Hollian. She will come around in time. There has been little harm done."

He swiftly rounded on her. "If you call this little harm then I'd hate to see what you call a disaster. Our ill-conceived declaration of hostility against Taliset has blasted Elgora, wounded you, worn you both to exhaustion and killed your husband. You call this little harm?" She flinched beneath his angry glare and he felt guilty. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. You, of all people, don't deserve this. Please forgive me, ma'am. Perhaps, you are right. A war ended with only one fatality and two casualties is indeed a matter of little harm. How are you?"

His eyes began to brim. He let go of Elgora's hand and clasped his mother-in-law to his bosom. Limply, she let him do it but it meant little to her.

"Numb, Hollian, I'm numb. Numbed and fatigued beyond belief. Mayhap it hasn't sunk in but I know that Algarn is dead. I realise that poor Gorian is our emperor now. Not that we know where he is nor do I think that he could return yet, anyhow. In the meantime, we have a political crisis to face. But, over and above all this is the question that goes around and around in my mind. How could any mage have broken oath? Particularly, when there was no necessity, no threat to Taliset. Who could have done it? I can't understand it, Hollian. My mind won't take it in. How can the impossible, no .... not the impossible. How can the highly improbable be explained? I need to speak with young Lyrian. Excuse me, while I try to contact him."

She swayed in his arms. Again, and again, she tried to reach Lyrian's mind. "Nothing, Hollian. No response. Wait!! I can hear him asking the others who has done it. He doesn't know, Hollian. He doesn't know who killed Algarn. He's angry about it. Angry and horrified."

Myrissa let Kel sag to the ground. She bit her lip and vainly covered her ears as again she heard Lyrian's demands to be told who had done it resound in her head. Bitter acid refluxed up her gullet, threatening to bring up the contents of her stomach. She felt his eyes on her. He knew! Fear gripped her guts and wrenched. Desperately, she tried to moisten her mouth but no saliva came. Her heart pounded, struggling within her ribs.

<<Myrissa? Could it be you? Have you come to Power? Answer me! I know that you hear me. Your head has dropped. I think that I know how it happened. Myrissa!>> There was a pause during which Myrissa's panic came to its zenith, then..... <<Join with me! All of you! We will erect a powerful warding spell.>>

She fled. Down, something urged her to go down. Back in through the french window; out of Kelorian's quarters; down the corridor, her feet sped. Her breath, already shallow and rapid, was raggedly drawn in against the pressure of tight iron bands across her chest. Into the students' refectory; the kitchen; the larders; down into the cellars where she might hide. She stopped, struggling to regain her breath. This would not do. They would soon find her here. She fumbled to light a candle, irrelevantly wondering if she could have lit it by Power or even conjured handfire. Shielding the wavering flame with her curved fingers, she dashed deeper into the cavernous darkness along the labyrinth of passageways that led into the cliff. Shadows flickered with the flame, pursuing her deeper into the rock. Turn after turn, this way and that, she no longer knew where she was and felt quite certain that she would not be able to remember how to retrace her path. She was equally convinced that they would not easily find her. At last, she could stop and rest. Myrissa lowered herself to the floor of the passage, listening intently for sounds of pursuit. She released a sigh of relief at the silence.

Of course, there's no one coming after me, yet. They are all busy with the warding spell to keep the Algothans out. It won't be 'til later that they try to find me. Damn! By all that's holy! With all this panic, I've overlooked the problem of food. Lord and Lady know how long I'll be hiding here but I'm going to starve at this rate. What will I do? I can't stay here for the rest of my life, no matter how short that would be without food and drink. I will go back, in time. I will. But I need time to think. When I've thought things out then I can think about trying to find my way back. I've broken oath!! No! No, I haven't, I haven't sworn one and, in any case, it was an accident. It wasn't me anyway, it was Kelorian. I better go back. They'll be worried. I won't get in trouble. They'll know that it wasn't my fault. Yes, I'll go back.

Holding the candle high, she scrambled to her feet and went back the way she'd come. Myrissa reached a crossroads and hesitated before taking the right. The floor sloped downwards and she couldn't recall a climb on the way in just prior to the last dividing of the ways. She frowned and decided to go back up again. A few dozen steps upslope, she came upon a fork. She wondered how she could have failed to notice it on the way down. But then, the two alternatives were very closely angled. She could have emerged from one, easily ignoring the existence of the other in the gloom behind her. She took the left, thinking that it would take her to the crossroads. The slope upward was less steep and soon levelled out back to the crossroads. This time, Myrissa chose the left again. That will be straight ahead from where I stopped to get my breath, she thought. She ran forward, sheltering the candle flame against being blown out. A fork. She stopped and, thrusting her candle light at arms-length down each passageway, peered into the gloom for some clue or landmark to guide her decision.

She sank to a sitting position and sighed in despair. Even if she had retraced her path to the same crossroads and taken the correct turning this time, she couldn't remember all the previous turnings. It was so easy to lose one's bearings with all these sloping floors and bending corridors. She regretted taking her path into the cliff in such a haphazard way. A simple alternation of left and right would have been easier to retrace than the random choices that had been made.

This candle won't burn for more than an hour or so. I think that I should see if I can conjure handfire. She dripped a few drops of wax and anchored the candle to the floor beside her. Again, and again, she tried to form a glow, a spark of light on her fingertips. Almost, but nothing sustained. Myrissa demanded of herself that she must concentrate. This time, a flicker that lasted a couple of seconds and fizzled out.

<<Myrissa! Myrissa! Can you hear me? Answer! I realise that it wasn't really your fault. Kel released wild and uncontrolled Power and you had to deal with it as best you could.>>

<<Lyri! Oh, Lyri, I'm sorry. He got agitated and I tried to calm him and I had to control him as you did. I didn't like to but it was an emergency and I could do it and that means I'm a mage, doesn't it? Well, when we got outside, he just sort-of exploded and I could feel all this anger and Power and it filled me until I was bursting and I just had to let go of it. I couldn't hold onto it any longer and....>>

<<Shut up! Forget about all that. Where the hell are you? I can't seem to locate you. You seem somewhere inside the cliff.>>

<<I'm lost, Lyri. You're right. I took to the passageways into the cliff beyond the store chambers to the rear of the kitchens. There are so many different turnings. I can't recall which ones I took to get here. I was on my way back. I just panicked. And now I can't decide which fork to take and I'm frightened.>> She began to weep and shake.

<<Oh, sh*t! I remember when Dan and I found ..... Are you crying? Silly question, I can sense that you are. Have you a light?>>

<<Y..y.yes. A c... c...candle. And I w..was t..t.rying to light some handf..fire.>> Even in her thinking she was stammering.

<<Calm yourself. I'll help you learn how to do handfire and then I'll guide you out. I'll keep in touch and you just keep walking in the direction from which my thoughts are coming.>>

<<Oh, Lyri. I was so stupid to try to run away and hide. I just panicked. I'm relaxing. I'm alright now.>>

<<No, you're not but you're calm enough to work with.>>

Patiently, he coached her through the necessary stages until she could reliably conjure a bright enough flame and maintain it.

Myrissa rose to her feet, detached the candle with her left hand and created handfire in her right. Lyri's voice seemed to come from the left so she followed that limb. It sloped downward again and then began to bear right, taking her away from him. He reassured her that she need not worry but that she should take the next left turn when she reached it. She hurried as fast as she could to the next point where the passage divided and dived down the left hand. It led her in the direction from where his thoughts were radiating but he felt much higher up than she was and the path was continuing downward.

Suddenly, his voice in her head just stopped in mid-sentence and the handfire went out. She stepped back a few paces and his mental contact was re-established.

<<What happened. Myrissa? I lost you, somehow.>>

<<You suddenly went quiet and the handfire went out.>>

<<Oh, no! I remember. It would seem that deep in the cliff, magedom is shielded out or negated or whatever. You have two choices. One is to retrace your steps in the hope that a path which takes you further away will eventually lead you back towards me. The other is to continue without my guidance or your handfire and find a path that takes you upwards and slightly to the left. If you get higher without going too far right into the bargain, then I should be back in contact soon and you will find your way out at last. Which is it to be?>>

<<I don't know. Can't you decide for me?>> <<No.>> <<Very well, then. I hope this is the right thing to do. I'll carry on ahead and take any path that goes up and to the left.>>

Bravely, but with much trepidation, Myrissa crept along following her outstretched candle. The path stopped its decline but there were no branching paths for many minutes. Then a left turn with a slight incline. Ahead there was a faint light. Excitedly, she raced towards it. The light shimmered across the whole of the passageway, reflecting her candlelight. It was like silk gauze stretched from wall to wall. She bent to grab a handful of stone fragments and cast them at the apparent barrier. They sailed straight through. Then it was an illusion not a physical block. If she were to continue then she would have to walk through it, as if it were not there.

She took a deep breath and held it as she took a step through the insubstantial wall. Only the state of her overfilled lungs prevented her from gasping at the cold of that contact. Her body tingled as she completed her step. It suddenly occurred to her that she had not heard the rattle as the handful of pebbles landed when she tossed them through.

Whilst they waited for the next signal from Djinn, Athanor wandered off to relieve himself. It wasn't so much that he was embarrassed about doing so in public view and more to spare the discomfort of the twins.

Ran followed the old seer with his eyes for a moment or two. Dan watched him. He had been watching his brother for some time now. In an immediate sense for several long minutes but more generally over many days. He felt concern for Raniel but hesitated to broach the subject for fear of what it would stir up. Let's face it. What's happened to Kel is very disturbing to me, too. Just because I've found Ella doesn't mean that I can stop loving Kel. And beyond that is what is happening to Lyri. I must be honest and say that I'm not just frightened of upsetting Ran. I don't want to talk about it, either.

Ran glanced over at Dan. He knew that his twin had been gazing at him for ages. He could guess what was going on inside that head. Ran attempted a weak grin and startled Dan into looking away in embarrassment.

"Yes?"

"Nothing."

"Something." Ran insisted. "What's bothering you?"

Dan looked away again as he steeled himself to face the matter. "Well. That's my question really. You've been looking worried for days. Especially worried, I mean. It worries me, too. It's Kel, I suppose."

"Yes... No.... Oh, I don't know." Ran paused but Dan did not speak. He waited for his brother to continue and eventually Ran did. "Yes, Kel but other things, too. Everything and nothing in particular. Kel, Lyri, the Evil Ones, the war with Algotha, the news about cousin Algorian....."

"Yes. Me, too." An insight suddenly came to him. "It's not just worrying you. You're thinking. You're trying to solve a problem."

Ran laughed humourlessly.

Dan felt cross and indignant. "There's no need to laugh at me. If you want to keep things to yourself, that's fine by me. I'm trying to help, to be supportive. Oh, please yourself!"

<<Don't be angry with me, please. I'm not laughing at you. I laugh because you've caught me out, in a way.>> Dan felt the caress of Ran's silent appeasem*nt wash across his consciousness. He relaxed and sent back waves of acceptance.

"I guess that I've got into the habit of keeping things to myself. Finding my own solutions, all those years in the past without the support of other mages. Having to hide my true nature from those around me. Now, I'm in a similar position. I'm a mage amongst mages but I'm not what I seem. I'm an outsider - far more than Lyri, though he spent longer back then than I did. The difference is that he was a child. I was an adult. I've learnt things that I can't easily share with anyone here. I'm sorry, Dan, not even with you. I'll try to explain but you haven't the background training to grasp all the details. In essence, I'm worried about the declining, the waning, of magedom. Generations ago, most of the nobility and academics were archmages, not just in 'Kel but here in Sabani, too, but predominantly in 'Kel. Nowadays, we are few in number. Five in all and until very recently there were none, hadn't been for years. Mostly, it is a question of genetics. Sorry, dear, let me put it this way instead. A matter of breeding. We have few children so few mages are born. More mages have to choose nonmage consorts and spouses, so fewer mages are bred. Now, add in the matter of preference. In the past, mages who preferred their own sex tended to opt to be academics, which largely means foreswearing sex anyway. Anyway, whatever, it simply meant that they didn't contribute directly to the breeding of more mages and archmages. When there were many mages and archmages, this didn't matter much. Today, we need to maintain the number of teachers and academics, so a greater proportion are preferring the opposite sex but still adhering to the tradition of celibacy. They are lost to the gene pool. Sorry, - they can't be relied on to breed more mages. The number of mages dwindles, our powers are weaker, and our knowledge base is stagnant. Do you realise that, despite the encouragement of research, that there have been no new spellworkings in over two hundred years? All we do is pore over ancient manuscripts and grimoires, trying to recover lost arts. And now, weak, effete and few in numbers - partly due to our cousin Algy's efforts, we face the biggest challenge in centuries, if not all time, - the Panoplia."

"Are you saying - surely not? You're not suggesting that mages should breed against their nature, are you? Obviously, that's fine for me, I prefer girls. But you, for example, do you think that you should be breeding dozens of babies to repopulate the world with mages?"

"No. Well, not exactly. In any case, for the trials ahead, it's bit too late..... I think. You see, we could find ways of using mage sperm to impregnate willing host mothers - ways which don't rely on natural means. We can breed animals by artificial impregnation; we can do so with mages. No, and I grant that many would find the idea repugnant, - no, what is concerning me is that whilst we could accelerate the physical growth of infant mages, we can't shortcut the necessary lengthy training of a mage." He stopped for a moment. Dan didn't interrupt and Ran continued. "We inherit our magedom, Dan. When I was back then, I learnt about how inheritance works. In detail, Dan, in great detail. I think that I could work it so that as many babies as we want would be mages or archmages. By other than natural lovemaking or artificial insemination. But could I turn an adult nonmage into a mage? Probably not and, even if I could, he or she would still require extensive and detailed training in how to use their powers. The problem comes down to training. If, - and I say if rather than when, if we win against the Darkness, then my ideas can be used to increase the number of mages. One or two generations and things will be healthier again. But it doesn't solve the immediate and urgent need for mages now."

"Healthier?"

"Eh, what?"

"You said healthier, things will be healthier. You didn't say healthy."

"Oh, that. Um, well, I suppose that I mean society in 'Kel is decadent. A slave economy, a strict class system. It is stultifying." Dan tried to interrupt but was quickly silenced. "No, wait, let me finish. All this is rationalisation. True but beside the point. It is important, of course it is, but what is more important is that it is immoral, unethical to have slaves, to create and maintain differences between people based on who gave birth to them."

"You don't need to tell me about the iniquities of slavery. I was a slave for much longer than you were."

"Yes, darling Dan. But the class system is less of an issue for you, dear. But, having lived in a situation where I was the only mage and now living in a world where I am the only scientist, I realise what it is to be an outsider. Differences in age, sex, birthplace, colour, nation, class, belief and so on enrich us. They should be valued and cherished as essential variety, as necessary diversity, and not used to treat one person as less than another or greater. It is not just in 'Kel, the other nations do likewise. This is not what Lisette and I intended."

He smiled to see the astonishment on Dan's face. Dan had realised something that he had known for a time but not fully appreciated.

"It's difficult to conceive of Taliset as a person from back then, Ran. I can't really grasp that you and Lyri were part of all that, too. Lyri is our ancestor, - probably everyone's many times over great grandfather. Taliset, ... Lisette, rather, did all that you said, didn't she? She used herself as a brood mare to increase the number and quality of mages."

"Not necessarily in the sense that you mean. I'm sure that in her long life, she had several husbands and, maybe, lovers. What is much more likely is that she used what I taught her. She used her own body cells to create, with help and donations of sperm from Simon and others, mages and archmages. It makes it sound like monsters. They were real, healthy babies born to ordinary loving mothers and fathers but whose inherited characteristics were quite different from their host parents."

"Lyri is our Father, Lisette our Mother, our Lord and Lady."

Dan looked shocked at his own blasphemy.

"In a way, yes. Though that doesn't diminish the spiritual essence of the concept. God, whoever He, She or It is conceived to be remains the same omnipresent, all-powerful, all things to all men and women, that is contained in the world of Spirit. They are all merely partial aspects of the great totality that we regard as the Supreme Spiritual Being. Mythologically, archetypally, Lyri and Lisette are the legendary Lord and Lady, certainly."

"If that is who they are, then who or what are you?"

Ran squirmed and blushed. "It's rather embarrassingly arrogant to say this but I think that I am probably the Holy Spirit. That is what the Judaeo-Christian concept would term it. I'm the Protector, the Teacher, the Shepherd, the Inspirer, the Prime Love Object, the Motivator, the All-Wise, All-Knowing Eternal Spirit of Love, Goodness and whatever else. I am the Sacrifice, the Abandoned God, the Dead God, and the Resurrected God. I am all of these and probably more and yet, of course, I am none of them. We are each who we are no more, no less."

"And, even so, Ran, my divine brother," Dan gently teased. "We are each part of that great whole. We are all essential components of the Unity of Light, that totality that makes up who or what God is."

"Said like that, it fills me with hope and strength. Thank you. Otherwise, I feel painfully aware of the gap between what we - that is Lyri, Lisette and I, represent and who we are in reality. I see myself as a sham, a poor and grossly inadequate shadow of my mythic self."

Dan glanced up, startled to see Athanor close by. Conspiratorially, he leant forward and telepathically indicated that the old man was returning and they mustn't miss the next jump fixation through inattention. <<We must leave this for now>>

They both remained disturbed about the significance of the conversation for some time afterward.

"Haven't we lost enough?" Ella was angry in her fear for her sister.

"Don't rail at me, Ella. It's not my fault that she ran down into the labyrinth. I was doing my best to guide her back."

Helena held Ella close and Ella thinly smiled her gratitude. "That may be the case, Lyrian. But it is your fault that we lost Kel and were it not for that the oath would not be broken and Myrissa would not be lost within the cliff. Try telling Elissa and Elgora that Algarn's death is not ultimately your responsibility."

Algy shot a concerned look at Lyri, worried in case this pressure would lead to Lyri getting angry or withdrawing into himself again. He had been more his old self recently. It would be potentially disastrous if Ella's criticisms were to trigger any change in Lyrian. He received a reassuring nod from Lyri and immediately felt envious. For much less than this, Lyri had done all manner of cruel things and had almost killed him. How could she get away with it?

"My responsibility, such as it is - given that I am possessed, ended with what I did to Kelorian. From that point others' responsibilities intermesh with mine and the passage of time weakens my connection with ensuing events. I grant that without my original action this would not have happened but don't look to lay all the blame at my feet. I am sorry about what I did to John, ... sorry, I meant Kel. I regret that Algarn was killed and I am very concerned about what happens to Rosie."

"Rosie? What the hell are you talking about? Who is Rosie?"

Algy bit his lower lip and then replied before Lyri could. "Rosie was his foster-mother. She is a previous incarnation of Myrissa, if you recall. Look, Ella, I'm sure we all share in your worry about her. But it is difficult to think of anything else we can do but wait, hard though that is. Blaming Lyri will get us nowhere."

He touched her arm and sent <<And frankly, you're pushing your luck. If he is getting confused between one set of incarnations and another, then his contact with present external reality is beginning to weaken.>>

She shot him a look, mixed apology and fear. She stepped free of Helena's support and fully facing Lyri made excuses for herself.

"I apologise, Lyri. Forgive me, I'm overwrought. We're all tired from all that has happened. I didn't mean to shout at you."

Lyri smiled. Algy knew that smile. It fooled him not one whit. The others, however, relaxed.

"Might I suggest that we get what little rest we can. We will keep you informed if... or rather, when anything develops. Lyri and I will take care of Kel." He glanced down at Kel's prostrate form as the other mages reluctantly began to say their goodnights and leave.

Lyri watched Algy for a long moment or two. Algy didn't return the eye contact.

"Look at me." He said it softly but there was no tenderness in it. It was no less an order. "That's better. You have become adept at reading my moods, haven't you? Well, there's no surprise in that, I suppose. Your life has depended on it, hasn't it? You don't reply, my dear." The endearment sounded menacingly and Algy flinched from Lyri's gaze.

"Don't you think that Ella was right to blame me? Of course, you do. But then, you're in no position to criticise, are you? Are you, Kinslayer? Archdemon. Child-killer. Torturer."

Tears blurred Algy's vision and overspilled his lower lids to trickle down his cheeks. "It wasn't your fault, Lyri. It was an accident that Algarn was killed. You are not to blame for Myrissa getting lost, either."

"And if I say that it is my blame? What then?"

Algy gulped, mouth drying. He desperately tried to moisten his mouth and failed. "Then I must repeat my disagreement, Lyri. I am weary of being taunted like this. If it pleases you to hurt me, then so be it. I can no longer live in fear of my death at your hands."

Again, the image of death. One mage running another through with a sword. What can it be? Who kills whom? Is one of them you, Algorath? Then which is which and who is the other? Somehow, I don't think it is I who does the killing.

"I won't kill you, Algorath. I know that now. We are both part of a pattern, part of a prophecy. My part is coming to fruition and yours is not yet fully over. Neither of us can escape our doom. Whether the Light or Dark win is in my hands, ... - yours too. The others have their lesser roles. I can't deny that. My arrogance doesn't lead me to ignore the fact that several of us can influence the ultimate outcome. But which choices are the right ones? There is the rub, my friend. Rather like poor Myrissa, I think. A path that seems to take you to the Light might deflect you to the Dark. The darker path may lead to the light at the end of the tunnel."

The grim humourless smile faded slowly from Lyrian's mouth. The smile which had never reached his eyes. Eyes which appeared to dull to a livid grey when he was in the Dark mood. "Do you think that you could kill me, Algorath?"

Algy was startled. "No. You are by far the greater mage."

"Then it is only a matter of power? The will is there."

Hesitantly, Algy replied. "I can't hate you enough to consider harming you, let alone murder you. No, it isn't a question of power, really. Lord and Lady know why, but I'm fool enough to love you, still. I can't kill you."

"Not even for love, then? To release me from my torment?"

"Please, let us not talk like this. My killing days are over."

"Hypothetically." Lyri persisted.

"I don't see how I could kill someone for whom I have such deep love, even if it were to be a merciful release for both of us."

"Then let's hope it never comes to that, eh?" A gentler regard entered the depths of Lyri's eyes; the violet seemed to deepen in hue.

Nervously, Algy noted the change in Lyri and he waited until he was certain before flinging himself into Lyri's arms. It felt good to be held close and for a moment neither moved. Algy was able to pick up Lyri's sense of guilt. He pulled back from the embrace and spoke.

"To return to Myrissa, for a moment. It is understandable that Ella - maybe others, blame you in their distress. But there is no reason to blame yourself, darling."

Lyri kissed the temple of Algy's brow. "I know. But what I said still remains. It is so difficult to know sometimes what to do. I can't always distinguish between what is me and what is The Evil. I gained more control but at the expense of blurring the distinction between the two parts. Rage, unreasonable cruelty; such things have been difficult to contain but at least I could be certain that they didn't really belong to me. Now, I'm less sure about not being angry myself and, in any case, much of the time the Darkness is calm, cold and calculating." He sighed and shook off the sombre mood. "It is gone now, for a time at least. I must wait for Myrissa. You might as well go to bed."

"I can't sleep. Probably none of us can." He pulled away from Lyri and stared down at Kel. "Have you noticed? He seems different. I can't put my finger on what, though."

"I can pick up vague thoughts along with the emotions, now. But he is still in coma. Perhaps, we can hope that this betokens a gradual improvement." He turned to the balcony, and tightened his lips. "I wonder what is going on out there."

Oleg had the retreat sounded. He reasoned that there was little point trying to continue their struggle against the magic barrier. The men were unaccustomed to fighting at night and needed to rest. They rallied to his side and he led them back to the camp.

The horses whickered nervously. Inside the tent, what was left of Algarn was lying in state, wrapped in his cloak. Elgora was stretched out on a camp bed, still deeply unconscious. Hollian had taken it upon himself to treat the burns suffered by his mother-in-law. The ointment was very cooling to the skin and, after the initial sting, brought much relief of the pain. She was too emotionally numbed to mind the fact that he had her stripped to the waist as he tended her. The tent was filled with the pungent medicinal odour of the unguent and it masked the smell of charred cloth and flesh. Hollian felt Elissa relax under his massaging touch and he began to knead at the knotted muscles around her shoulders and neck. She groaned and sighed as the tensions eased and dissipated as shivers down her spine.

"Careful, if you relax too much, you'll slip from that stool."

"That is the least of my concerns. That is not the most likely consequence of relaxation at the moment, Hollian. If I relax much more, I will begin to thaw out my feelings and my grieving will start. I welcome that but before I do, we need to talk."

He paused in his work and helped her on with her clothes. She swivelled around on the stool to face him and he drew up another stool and sat on it.

"Algarn is dead and we must take him back to Algotha. Elgora will probably come around tomorrow and until then nothing much else can be done for her. She'll be all right soon enough. Gorian is now Archduke and Emperor. It'll take some time to find him and, even when he does return, there will be much opposition to him. Without his magedom, he will be more acceptable to that fat idiot Osmund, though Thorkild will still hold what happened to his brother Elric against Gorian. Oleg is an ambitious man and it is only that which motivates his opposition to Gorian. He cares not whether the lad is mage or not, effete or not and has no concern for any rumours about sexuality. However, he can and will use any of these arguments and more to whip up support for himself in supplanting Gorian. You also need to mend the rift between you and your parents. Hush now; let me speak, please. The war and siege are not over yet. We will need to speak with Osmund but I can't see his cronies allowing him to back down. The mages are still mages. They haven't repented or foresworn, as he required. Perhaps, if he is given a face-saving argument he will be won over."

As she paused, Hollian interrupted with the suggestion that she was exhausted and should try to sleep and leave all the talking to another day.

"Maybe, you're right, Hollian. Thank you, dear. Just help me to the cot." He took most of her weight and laid her on the bed. Abruptly, as he kissed her cheek, she clung to him, forcing him to his knees. She had just received Lyrian's sincerest condolences and apologies. Her body was racked with sobs as she let go of her grief.

"It is clear that the three of you must next go to Chyo Ku." Huang Lin Chen was sitting in Zhen's office with his hand outstretched to receive the green tea which Zhen's servant was offering him. Zhen sipped cautiously at his teabowl and nodded his agreement. "With Zhen's agreement - I shall pay you back for all this, of course - we will provide you with all you require for the journey."

Zhen shook his head and, for a moment, Gorian felt dismayed. "Kai and I shall supply them. Or, if you wish, we will split the costs three ways. Kai released the two boys and my lord, the Wizard Prince Jen-san, is my guest."

Shyo, Gorian and Jenian murmured their thanks.

"You are too generous, Zhen-san. I will pay my third share." Huang turned to the three again. "We feel it best if you go soon. Kai and Yu will not return from their honeymoon for another week. You have already said goodbye to them. You should not be here when they return."

"But, Lord Huang-san ...." Shyo protested. "That was only to wish them well. They fully expect that we will be here until after their return."

"No. I agree with Huang. It is for the best. No need to rub rice vinegar in the wounds of separation, Shyo Mei-san. It is better not to delay and face drawn-out heartache for you and my daughter-in-law."

Jen gently grasped the young man's forearm and offered his support of the merchant lords' argument. "I must agree. Gorian needs to regain his magedom as soon as possible. You both have received indications that Algotha is at war with 'Kel. By all that is holy, there is no need to suppose that anything will befall Algarn but, if his grandfather dies, Gorian will be emperor and must face much opposition if he is to regain his throne. If you insist, then stay, but Gorian and I will travel south as soon as we are equipped for the journey."

With a sigh, Shyo gave in to the pressure from all sides. "Very well. My head and intuition tell me that you are right." He paused, lips pursed, head co*cked on one side, and the others waited. "So, even my guide says it must be as you say. We will go the day after next."

Gorian bent forward to grin at him across the front of Jenian's chest.

"To details, then. Jen-san has a horse. The boys will have horses. There is no need for guards or retinue." Huang looked for confirmation from Jenian that he did not require the noble trappings of princedom. Jen readily concurred. "You are a wizard. No one will attack and if they do you will stop them. Go-san is a warrior and Shyo-san has been trained in martial arts to protect himself. It will be hot and you will need much water. We can give you a packbeast to carry a decent supply but such measures are a law of diminishing returns. However, many animals you use to carry water also have their own water requirements. You will need to find water before you reach the Palace of Hearing. In the same way, food will become more difficult to gather or catch. We will provide enough in dried meats and fruits to feed your entire journey. Is there anything in particular that you request from us?"

Jen smiled. "We are extremely fortunate to have such friends. Your generosity is bounteous. May I ask, is there a watertable beneath the land to the south? For if there is, I can raise water to the surface as a spring."

The merchant lords' eyebrows shot up and they exchanged startled glances. "Indeed, My Lord, Wizard Prince-san, extensive though too deep to build wells. We did not consider the might of your powers in being able to perform this miracle."

Jen tried to make light of it but clearly failed. "Then we might dispense with the need to have an animal carry our water. However, I have a favour. I do not eat animal flesh unless I have no other choice. I was informed that a delicacy here is a fungus with almost as much protein as meat. The lads can eat as they wish but, if I may, I would prefer to be provisioned with the fungus."

"Yes, a derivative of the reishi and shiitake; very nutritious and with the same adaptogenic properties as its ancestors."

Gorian frowned and shot an enquiring look at Shyo, who bent forward to begin his answer beneath Jen's irritated stare of indignation above their heads.

"If you don't mind!" He interrupted and the two young men glanced up sheepishly. "There is no need to conduct whispered conversations like schoolboys. Although I don't recognise the word that Lord Zhen used, I know the repute of reishi and shiitake. They protected against stress and helped maintain full levels of healthy immunity."

"Just so, Jen-san. It can be dried for easy travelling and reconstituted with water for eating. We can supply more than enough for one and it will supplement the boys' diet. The day after tomorrow, then."

The final hop left them tangled, exhausted, in a heap. Djinn and Delvar hurried to cover the two hundred yards that separated them from the barely conscious twins and Seer.

The boy knelt by their heads and his cool touch to their brows brought a tingle of refreshing ease to them.

"Cousins, Esteemed Athanor, welcome to Tirna."

Daniel attempted a weak grin and failed to do more than appear paralytically drunk. Djinn giggled.

"She looks funny, doesn't she, Delvar?"

"She can't help it, dear. They have drained themselves in getting here."

A number of Tirnans helped carry them indoors, where they almost instantly fell asleep, deep and dreamless.

Raniel opened his eyes to meet the gentle gaze of a young boy of about seven or eight. <<Raniel, you're awake at last>>

He raised his head to look around the room. A few feet away, Dan lay unmoving. <<She's all right. Still asleep>>

Ran sank back then lifted himself on one elbow. He couldn't see the old seer. <<The long skinny black one woke up ages ago. Of course, she wasn't doing all the work like you two were>>

<<You're Djinn, I suppose. At last, we meet. Why do you call everyone "she"?>>

<<Delvar's idea. She says that biologically speaking men are imperfect women>>

Ran frowned and curled up his upper lip and nose in puzzlement. <<Oh! I get it! Chromosomally, we have one X and a nub end of DNA called the Y chromosome; whereas women have a complete set of paired chromosomes>>

<<I don't know what you're talking about. Can you picture it? Then I'll understand...... Umhhh, I see. You mean those squiggly things are in every little bit of us? Interesting>>

<<I suspect that there is more to it - this all-inclusive feminine, than a matter of nuclear biology>>

<<Certainly. We are contradicting the sexism that is rife in our society>>

<<In ours, too. Maybe less so>>

<<Why do you look at me, thus?>>

<<You're very accomplished for one so young>>

<<Delvar has taught me well>>

<<Even so. Neither Dan nor I reached your level of competency until older. Lyri was sixteen but his situation is unusual so we can't really use him as an example>>

<<Ah. But then, dear cousin, you were not taught by telepathy as I have been. The words can get in the way. I have learnt by experiencing, oft times second-hand, what it feels like to use the Power for particular purposes. Delvar has rarely told me or instructed me>>

Delvar interrupted the flow of thoughts. <<When Daniel awakes Djinn will bring you to conference>>

"For politeness, we will speak." Delvar smiled round the circle of people seated on cushions. To his right was Djinn, then the twins and the Seer. Athanor nodded his acknowledgement of the courtesy accorded to him.

"If I may, I will begin by saying that between us, Djinn and I already know much of your mission. She is an adept at astral travelling and has taken great interest in your affairs. She is acquainted with The Exalted Mon, with whom she has travelled in spirit." He favoured the boy with a fond gaze. "Djinn makes me so proud. She is far in advance of what I can do, in many respects."

Raniel cleared his throat and Delvar gave way to him. "So, if we assume for the moment that there is nothing to explain to each other, we can move onto discussing the next move. We mages are responsible for the safety and future of the entire world, as we know it. The threat is tremendous and the loss of our kin was maybe the first step the Panoplia took to openly attack us."

"Without a doubt. The burden born by the remaining few is commensurately heavier. Djinn and I are committed to the common goal and we guide the rest of Tirna, though we cannot speak for other Sabanim. You sought a seer only to find that Athanor has lost accuracy."

Athanor stirred on his cushion. "Without being too defensive, I hope, I predict that this will be so for all prolepsis. We have entered a time of metastable flux, a period covered by critical prophecy. Any and every action may have irreversible impact on the outcome. Almost every decision or thought changes the future, moment to moment."

"And yet, maybe not." Daniel quietly interjected. They all turned to look at him and he shrugged. "I'm not disagreeing. I seek to point out that, in addition to what Athanor says, the ultimate outcome may be impervious to even the most disruptive influence. Paradox and contradiction are in operation, I fear."

Djinn giggled nervously, picking up on the fear from the others. "Forgive me. All this is difficult to follow in words and doesn't seem much clearer in thought forms. I'm getting confusion, chaos and uncertainty. Would I be right in saying that effectively we are completely in the dark and any action or inaction may be equally helpful or disastrous, and only time will tell which?"

"Indeed, my dear." He bent to kiss the top of the boy's head. Djinn snuggled up to his uncle and teacher. "So, to return to the challenges - Kelorian and Algorian require healing; Lyrian and the city herself are in the thrall of the Evil Ones; and somehow all the mages and archmages that we can gather need to act in accord to defeat the Evil Ones."

"No, not quite, Delvar." The child gazed up into the surprised face of the older archmage. "As I understand it, the last challenge is probably one which will be met by one or perhaps no more than two or three people. I expect it will be Lyrian's responsibility."

"But he is already suborned, though he does his best to reject it. Once he is enthroned, he will be lost to us. Yet if either Ran or I take his place, then we will be lost."

Djinn felt dubious but didn't reply. Athanor slowly shook his head. "What will be, will be. The whole of this conversation is premised by the fact that not even I can be certain of anything. We cannot and will not know for certain before the fact. The child is expressing the substance of the main prophecies on this matter. Prince Daniel interrupted me before to add something that I had not had a chance to say. There's no need to apologise, though. The crux of the matter is this: Whilst we cannot know what the impact of any decision we make or action we take, there is the unassailable fact that, prior to the reign of uncertainty, there were prophecies which, though unclear as to the outcome, predict that Lyrian and no more than a handful of others hold the pivotal role in deciding the outcome. Logic demands that we accept Djinn's analysis." Djinn grinned triumphantly. "Unfortunately, it also demands that we consider that, whilst the final card or cards are played by the few, the rest of us can dictate the balance of play up to that critical point."

The boy's face fell. Daniel grinned ruefully at him. "It seems that we may all be right, Djinn. Can we concentrate on the first two tasks or challenges?"

For several moments, no one spoke. Djinn glanced around the group and then up at Delvar. "Well, if none of you are going to say anything then I will. I might be wrong but I think that I am the only one who can do the healing of Emperor Algorian or Prince Kelorian. That being so, Algorian must be brought to me here and then we will go to Taliset."

The brothers exchanged bemused expressions. "Why so? Why not travel with us to Mei Chu and then to Taliset?"

Djinn shot Raniel a withering look as if he were stupid. Delvar laid a hand on the boy's forearm. "Now then, my dear, they are not to know the extent of our obligations and responsibilities. Raniel, we must explain that Tirna will move to Taliset. Djinn and I have powerful wards to set to protect this site in our collective absence. We needs must prepare all of our sisters for the journey and tasks ahead. What she should have explained is that whilst you three journey on, we have important things to do. You will find the Emperor and bring him to us and together we will all go to 'Kel."

"The Emperor? Djinn spoke of Algorian as the Emperor. If Algarn is dead then I know not whether to be exultant or dismayed. I am pleased that you seem to imply that we have won the war with Algotha but no one should have been killed in the process. What has gone awry?"

"I cannot say, dear cousin. All I know is that Algarn is dead and her grandson and heir is the self-exiled Emperor Algorian. I saw it in a dream - a special dream. There was a blast of raw Power."

"Oh, Lyri! What have you done now?" Ran clamped both hands towards his mouth, as Dan groaned, sagging against his brother's shoulder.

CHAPTER TWENTY ONE

Approach and arrest

"Certainly, I'm coming. I'd not miss a visit to Chyo Ku, - a chance to speak with my student, Mon."

"I can appreciate that but to what end? We can travel faster without you."

"Indulge an old man."

Daniel shrugged and looked towards Raniel.

"I ... oh, bugger it. I can't see why not, I suppose. We did carry him here, after all."

Ran nodded. "OK. You're not heavy. Our biggest problem, or is it better to say, challenge? - is having clear landmarks to aim our jumps towards. Maybe Djinn can help us find the way."

<<Djinn can you guide us to Chyo Ku as you did to bring us here?>>

<<What? I'm busy. No. I'm sorry. I can't. Umh.... Neither Delvar nor I know the way to Chyo Ku. You'll have to walk>>

"It seems that we have to go on foot. In which case, you are faster than we are."

Athanor gently chuckled to himself. "You youngsters are funny. Mages have a tendency to overlook the talents of what they arrogantly regard as lesser mortals. I have been to there. I will direct you."

"Ah, yes. But you can't see. We require clear visual images to focus upon whilst in the in-between, the nowhere."

"Rubbish!" The seer shook impatiently. "You may have come to rely on visual images but all you need really is any clear enough image. It doesn't have to be visual. Any uniquely identifiable image will do. It might be a characteristic sound, a particular smell or the unmistakable touch of a familiar individual."

Dan caught hold of Ran's sleeve. "He's right, you know."

"Of course, I'm right! The conceit of you! All you precious mages!"

Ran grinned at the old man's irritable vehemence. "Then, I take it that you can provide us with an inimitable and specific image or set of images?"

"Try me!"

"Whoa!" Dan threw up his hands. "Now, wait a minute! I can accept that you're probably correct but aren't we missing a vital element? We have to be the ones with the clear target to aim for not you."

Athanor smiled. "Sweet prince. Dear impetuous youth. You followed targets set by the child-mage. He did not give you visual goals. He wasn't with us as we travelled. Trust me. It can be done."

"Ahh. The difference is that we were in telepathic contact with him, albeit from time to time. We and you have no such link."

<<No, dear Dan. But we can have if we choose. He will be between us, holding on to us. Direct contact, sweet sib. Simplicity itself to read his mind>>

Ran laid an arm around the seer's thin bony shoulders. <<Give me the image, Athanor>>

A look of surprise was followed by delight. Ran passed the image to Dan, who was intrigued to receive a sense of shimmering colours, layer upon layer, roughly in the shape of a person.

"An auric field!"

"Yes, Prince Daniel. It is Mon. Each person has his or her unique auric pattern. She cannot be mistaken. No one else has the identical colour combination. Not even you two share the same aura - though I concede that superficially they are sufficiently similar for an inexperienced reader to confuse you both. If I understand correctly, all you need do is hold that pattern and emerge from the no place to wherever she is."

Ran sucked his back teeth dubiously. "Yehh..s. In theory. The thing is that we would usually choose a place to reappear that is outside a solid object. I don't think it would be wise to occupy the same time and space location of another person. Do you?"

"There is no need to be sarcastic, my young friend. Again, your arrogance leads you to underestimate my common sense. Of course, you mustn't materialise inside her. What you fail to take account of is the size of the aura. They are quite a bit bigger than you seem to believe. Nevertheless, not so big that we can afford to make mistakes. You aim for the outermost layer of the auric configuration, of course. Even so, we will suddenly appear within a few scant feet of her. Let us hope that she is alert enough to the Sight not to be surprised or shocked."

"Then what do we wait for? Let's go!"

"Dan, Dan! Athanor has already called you 'impetuous'. Let me think a while on this." They waited in silence as Raniel chewed his lower lip and wrinkled his nose a few times. "No. I can't think of any reason to delay."

<<Djinn! We're going>>

<<Eh! What? How?>>

<<Athanor will guide us to the Exalted Mon's auric field. Thanks for everything. See you soon, I hope. Bye>>

The icy blast and tingling sensation caused Myrissa to tense up against it. She gritted her clattering teeth and firmly closed her eyes. She hadn't time to analyse whether it was more fear than chill that made her shiver before sensing that she had landed slightly lower down than the level from which she had been walking. Myrissa allowed herself to relax as she fell to the floor of the passageway. She lay for a few moments, eyes still tightly shut, to recover the breath that the numbing cold had robbed her of. The surface beneath her was neither unyielding nor chilly. It felt like leather, firm and stiffly taut but comfortable. Slowly, she opened one eye a crack, aware that the dull black darkness was no longer surrounding her.

By the dim green light, she could see that she lay in a small cavern with faintly glowing walls. Myrissa cautiously opened her eyes wide and eased herself up into a sitting position, propped by her hands behind her. The surface gave a little beneath her fingers. There was a gentle low rumble and she was uncertain whether she felt it or heard it or both.

Where am I? What is this place? I feel as if I'm inside an animal or something, except that inside something would be warmer and much wetter.

<<Almost but not quite>>

<<What!?>> Fear crept into her bowels and lay tightly coiled there, heavy and cold.

<<I said that you were almost right. You are inside me, sort of. Not at first but now I've got you enclosed>>

<<What are you? Have I gone mad or am I dreaming?>> Myrissa struggled to wake up from the nightmarish feeling but failed since she was not asleep.

<<Relax, Myrissa. You're safe. More or less, anyway. If anything is safe, that I do, now. You're neither insane nor asleep. Haven't you guessed, yet? Well, maybe not. You've only just come into your Power. I'm The Altissima, Lisette - Taliset, to you>>

Intellectually, she felt satisfied but the fear, the sense of horror, remained with her. All was not well. She felt far from safe, despite the attempt at reassurance.

<<I understand your concern and accept your doubts. As you are, no doubt, aware - the Panoplia has infiltrated me. I cannot, in truth, guarantee your well being. I'll do my best>>

<<What next? What are you intending to do?>>

<< Good question. Yes, a very good question. I haven't decided what's for the best, yet. Sorry>>

<<Then can you explain what has happened?>>

<<I can but try. What you can see of me from the plains to the east of the cliff is about a quarter of a roughly spherical entirety. The rest of me extends into the cliff and beneath ground level. The cellars, corridors and caverns are places that I have vacated, leaving behind the stone walls that once contained me. As you may know, I can expand and contract different parts of myself. By wandering the passageways deep in the cliff behind the city, you are bound to find me - ultimately. The Panoplia also inhabit the depths. I should have been more vigilant or, at least, guarded myself against the sense of abandonment and intolerable loneliness which led me to welcome that which I should have shunned. Hush, now. I sense your impatience, Myrissa. I mean to give context so that I might better answer your questions. The negation of Power is the work of the Panoplia. They can shut you off from the Source. That has happened to Lyrian and Daniel, just as you experienced it a few moments ago. On the recent previous occasion, The Panoplia meant for the boys to find Argathol and take him back to Algorath so no harm was done directly to them. Fortunately, They had not realised who the brothers were, else I doubt that they would have been allowed to survive. Mayhap, I could have saved them as I did you - had it been necessary. In your case, I couldn't take the risk that They would leave you alone. You may not be much better off with me, under the circ*mstances. I extended myself towards you and thinned my skin down to a gossamer thin membrane and, when you entered me, I encapsulated you. At present I am attempting to move you further away from the parts of me that are contaminated. Those parts I have tried to keep as far away from the city part of me as I can. However, that indubitably gives you an unwarranted sense of security. The Good and Evil are not categorically separated but, rather, it is better understood as a gradient or continuum from one extreme to the other. That's assuming that anyone could class me as intrinsically Good in the first place........ or the Panoplia as entirely Evil, for that matter>>

<<All right. You have apparently saved me, - maybe, maybe not. But you seem to know about the Panoplia. Who or what are they?>>

<<Who or what they were is more to the point. Once the other archmages and I had established the post-cataclysmic world order, we became concerned that another crisis would destroy what we had built. Those with Sight agreed that the prognosis was dire and that, unless something was done immediately, the world would be torn by magical wars to rival the technological wars. We vowed to conserve magical knowledge, to train and maintain high standards of magedom according to a highly ethical code of conduct. I volunteered, nay insisted, against much resistance from the others, to become what I am now. During the working of the spell, whilst installing me into the cliff, we came to know of the Panoplia of Darkness - a collection of mainly non-human mage entities antithetical to goodness. The Panoplia, an ancient breed, were consumed with envy and a thirst for power, and interfered in the Rite, many archmages losing their lives in the process. That was the moment of decline. The seeds of our downfall were sown>>

<<Then we are going to lose!!>> The anxiety, which had begun to recede during Taliset's explanations, suddenly grabbed her solar plexus and twisted.

<<No, no, that isn't what I meant to imply. I don't know any more than you do what will come to be. I merely meant that our brave new world, our idealistic dreams, had been tainted and flawed by Them>>

<<But what are they? Where do they come from?>>

<<If it doesn't sound like too simple an answer, then the Panoplia of Darkness are the unacknowledged and suppressed greed, hatred, thirst for power and control, mean-mindedness and resentment that have been bottled up by people through all time. Originally, though, I suspect that they were formed from inchoate negative energies. Before the cataclysm, the negative energies were spread, more or less uniformly throughout the world. Now they are concentrated in the landmass to the west of the cliff-face>>

<<But shouldn't we suppress our negative feelings? We can't go about killing and hurting and stealing>>

<<We don't need to act on these feelings but you, like so many people, have got it all wrong. The more we suppress, bottle up and fear our nasty feelings, the more powerful they become. They also attract and resonate with the free-floating nastiness out there. When our bodies die, the negative feelings are released, dumped and because the Panoplia are nearby they are absorbed into the mass. By accepting them they are tamed, available to be managed and contained>>

<<Then shouldn't Lyri and you surrender to the Panoplia rather than try to suppress them?>>

<<Indeed, that is what I have advised him to do. Though surrender is not the concept. Lyri has accepted his darker side, the Shadow Self. He is less troubled and troublesome now, isn't he? As for me, well, it is as I rather sketchily tried to explain. I accept that a large part of me is now taken over by the Panoplia but I operate a sort of differential gradient with most of the nastiness submerged though not suppressed>>

<<What are going to do with me? Will you return me to the others?>>

<<That remains to be seen, my dear. I've had enough of all this burden of being the city and the fount of knowledge and history. Do you realise that every Warden has shared with me part of his or her being? I am no longer truly myself. Even before the Panoplia's infestation. My mind is not entirely my own nor my body. I want to die. I'm tired. First, though, I have to find a successor. And it occurs to me, that you....>>

<<But that can't be me! I'm don't know anything! I've only just become a mage. I'm untrained>>

<<I can train you. I can fill you with all you will need to know. But, for the moment, I have no need to decide. If the mages win, - the good side as you might designate it, then I will need a successor. If the Panoplia wins there is no such requirement. I shall simply resign and physically cease to be. There will be no need for Taliset>>

<<Then I am your prisoner until then>>

<<It would be preferable to think of you as my guest, for the time being. I might decide that you are not suitable. I would prefer an archmage. There are five, at present. Lyri, the twins and two in Sabani. Of these, I know Ran as my friend and teacher; Lyri as my father and that leaves Dan as a possibility. I would rather choose a child than an adult. The best candidate is Prince Djinn. I shouldn't imagine that anyone would want to take on the job willingly so - a mage in my grasp is better than an archmage who is outside my reach>>

Myrissa began to sob inconsolably. Taliset made her sleep.

Gorian helped Shyo to mount the horse while Jen spoke with their hosts. Shyo felt very insecure astride the beast and clung desperately tightly to the reins.

"No, no. Relax. Gently hold them. See like this. They are held firmly across the palm from between the third and fourth and thumb and index. The idea is to combine sensitivity with strength. It is unlikely that we will gallop. More likely, we will be walking and trotting rather than cantering."

Nervously, Shyo looked down on his friend's upturned face. "I feel too high up. What if I fall off?"

"Then stand up and climb back on again." Gorian laughed lightly. "Oh, don't look so serious and tense, my dear. You're quite safe. The worst thing for you to contend with will be becoming saddle sore."

Shyo grinned mischievously. "Can I count on you to massage my aches away?"

Jenian passed them in approaching his horse. "Gorian has practice at that, haven't you?" Gorian blushed deeply at Jen's taunt. "I'm sorry, Gorian. I couldn't really resist it. It was unfair of me, though, to remind you of difficult and painful times. Forgive an old man his jealousies." Jen gave the tack a final check and turning to Shyo, spoke quietly. "If Gorian won't rub your bottom then I'll not hesitate to bring a warm glow to your cheeks."

"Jen-san, you are not an old man and I would be delighted to have you ease my tense muscles."

Gorian glared at them but couldn't avoid the flicker of a smile at the corners of his mouth and in the twinkle of his eyes. "Control yourselves, you two." He hissed so their hosts wouldn't hear. "You're disgusting with your innuendoes."

Zhen and Huang stepped forward, patting the flanks of the horses as Jenian and Gorian swung up into the saddles. "May the spirits of your ancestors ride with you and all the days be auspicious. Travel well, Go-san. Jen-san. Shyo-san." Zhen walked backwards from them towards the doorway.

"If I have even just a little sense,

I will walk on the main road and my only fear will be of straying from it.

Keeping to the main road is easy,

But people love to be side-tracked."

"Go-san, I did not know you had studied the Tao Te Ching. We are honoured, are we not, Zhen-san?" He joined his host at the door.

"Indeed, so."

"It is just a snippet that Shyo-san taught me. It reminds me to follow the way of the Tao. To stick to my purpose and resist being distracted from what must be done. May I speak for all of us in thanking you both for all the honour and riches that you have given to us? We are truly grateful and indebted. Give our honourable respects to Lord Kai and Lady Yu with our regrets that we couldn't stay longer. Xiéxié. Zaijian. Tsai Chin."

All five bowed then the three riders heeled their mounts forward along the road, which had been pointed out to them. At the end of the road, they turned and waved and headed south out of Jin Gei.

There was a very nasty moment in the twins' attempt at teleportation to Chyo Ku. Just before they materialised, Athanor sensed another aura. It was too late to avoid it. The twins had spent all their efforts on the almighty jump. There was no reserve energy left to make any further effort to correct their mistake. They landed clumsily from their massive teleportation.

Suddenly, Mon gasped and moved to push Peng with all her feeble might. It wasn't sufficient to move him had she touched him. Her shove, however, didn't engage. Her hand thrust against empty air then weakly hit Dan as he fell.

With a startled yell, Peng threw himself as far as he could across the room, landing in a painful heap on the floor.

Several feet away, the three travellers crumpled at The Exalted Mon's feet. Two of them were breathlessly resisting unconsciousness as white snowflakes spun across their field of vision and a dull drumming resounded in their ears. The third disentangled himself from the younger two, unfolding himself into a tall black skeletal frame.

"I wish that I could say what a pleasant surprise or even that you were expected. We scarce got warning, Athanor-san. Mind you, I knew that you were coming but not in this manner." She spoke in her own tongue and the brothers did not understand a word, though Athanor seemed to follow her. She switched languages to address them. "Young men! You nearly killed my nurse! Damn fool mages!" Then back to the Eastern Speech. "Peng don't crouch there staring. You're not hurt. Get up and bring some chairs for our guests."

"My dear Mon-san. What a delight it is to meet with you again."

"Why aren't you dead yet?"

"Now, that is no way to greet your teacher. Come, let me see you." He bent to cup her face gently in his hands and the Third Eye stone flickered with its inner fire. She tried to turn her face away but he held it firmly. "Oh, poor girl! You're old and frail. My dear, let me kiss you." His lips brushed her forehead.

"You are a daft old fool! I don't want your pity." She pushed him away but was smiling. "I really can't understand how you've managed to stay so limber and active."

"Necessity, I suppose."

Peng brought in a couple of chairs. Athanor pointed at the bed and spoke to the boy in his own language. "One of those cushions will do for me." The lad scooped one up and placed it on the floor, taking the old seer's scrawny arm. To his amazement, Athanor shook off the proffered helping hand and gracefully folded himself onto the cushion in a slow descent.

The youngster stared in awe at the legendary figure settling at his feet. He could scarcely believe that he could be in the presence of the greatest seer that had ever lived. And he was truly ancient, far, far older than Her Serenity, herself.

"Peng!" She sharply brought his attention to the twins.

Peng helped the young archmages to their seats into which they slumped, panting and sweating.

She turned towards the twins. "He's not here yet. Rather, I should say, they are not here yet."

Ran and Dan regarded her blankly. It was difficult to think clearly, as she was being far from explicit.

Mon sighed. "Sorry! I'm old and bad tempered. I tend to miss out the redundant steps in my train of thought. Most seers can fill the missing details themselves. Let me start again, then. Welcome to my palace. I assume that you know who I am. This child is Peng-san, my nurse and a student seer." She regarded her companion with a fleeting look of tenderness and pride. Her face hardened again. "Cha, Peng! I assume you all want tea? Good." Peng left them. "I know that you are Lan Yel-san and you, Dan Yel-san, Prince Wizards of 'Kel. I also know the challenges you, we all, face. As to my terse message - the broken mage, Aw Goh Yen-san, Emperor of the lands far to our north, and his companions are not yet arrived. That is who you came to meet, isn't it?"

Ran glanced at Dan, who nodded. "Your Serenity, forgive us if we do not rise to greet you but we've travelled far and in one great jump. You do us great honour to speak in our language. Thank you. Indeed, we have come to meet our cousin Algorian. Djinn - he's a young archmage in Sabani from which we travelled, told us that he is become emperor but knows it not, as yet."

"How is the child?"

"Er... well, happy, busy. He is moving his enclave of renegade mages to Taliset once we return to him."

Mon lightly laughed and the sound was like a young woman. "You're surprised that I know him. We have met several times. In this lifetime, too. I don't count our previous lives. Still puzzled, I see. We have worked together in the astral plane. He used to be my brother, once. Your son, twice, Dan Yel-san, but in different times from my association with him. He's very accomplished don't you think?"

"Yes, certainly, ..... extremely adept."

Peng arrived back with a tray of bowls and a pot of steaming tea. He placed it on the table beside Mon and began to pour. "Xiéxié, my dear. Do you wish to follow this conversation, Peng-san?" He answered as he handed out tea to their guests. "Then, I recommend that you sit on the floor between the archmages and let one of them rest a hand on your neck."

"I request that you transmit our conversations to my student. No! Don't touch his head. Sorry to be so sharp. It is extremely rude, well, really a violation of his sacredness to touch his head. Just a hand on his naked neck will suffice. He is quite sensitive and with boys of your Power there will be little difficulty for him to pick up your thoughts."

Peng shivered at the cool touch of Ran's fingers. It was pleasant but unnervingly potent. He could feel a bombardment of thoughts and feelings, not least of which was a sexual interest in him. "Begin." Her tone was abrupt but beneath the surface abrasiveness was a warmth which they could pick up on.

"It's difficult to know where to begin. You know so much all ready." Dan paused uncertain how to proceed. He glanced at Athanor but the old man seemed deep in meditation. "Our half brother is due to be enthroned as Warden of Taliset. The Panoplia has infected both him and the city herself. The enthronement will bring their possession to some sort of culmination, we suspect. Strongly suspect. Lyrian has already tried to kill his consort."

Mon waved an impatient hand. "We know all this. We intervened to prevent the murder."

"Ah, it was you was it, who came with the astral of young Djinn? Many thanks. Anyway, as I was saying, he also attacked Kelorian, Raniel's consort, in one of his outbursts of temper. Kel is now in a coma. We currently fight the Algothans. We face the final conflict between the forces of Good and Evil and ......"

"No. No. No." The old woman vigorously shook her head such that it wobbled precariously on her thin neck. "It will not be the final conflict between Good and Evil. Maybe, just for the time being. Still, go on! I interrupted."

Dan exchanged looks with Ran, who shrugged and looked meaningfully down at the top of Peng's head. Dan smiled faintly.

Peng was trying to relax and focus on the surface thoughts relating to the conversation. He was trying to ignore the sensations between his legs. Suddenly, the hand was removed and the other youth touched him. This mind was easier to concentrate on, no distracting eroticism. Peng was uncertain whether or not he missed sensing the sexual attraction, - if he was a little disappointed the hand had been removed. He decided that he was flattered but that despite the arousal in his groin, he was not attracted to men.

Ran nodded at his brother and continued their story. "It was decided in Taliset that we needed the help of a seer and we came south to find Athanor. Unfortunately, his Sight is ...... I don't know how to put it."

"We have the same problem." Mon again interrupted. "As, no doubt, The Ancient One explained, there is much uncertainty about the issues and influences which surround you and your kin. In fact, there are karmic vibrations which pull in spirits which are not your kin in this life but were before - Djinn-san, Go Yen-san, myself and the young man who comes with Go Yen-san. He once was my mother." She appeared to submerge herself into a musing reverie and Ran was unsure whether he was meant to wait or proceed. She flicked her fingers to prompt his continuation.

"Well, as you say. The battle is shared by all though maybe only a handful will be central to it. We need healing for Kelorian and Gorian, who has lost his magedom. We need to recruit help from mages outside 'Kel. We seek guidance and foresight."

Mon laughed gently. "No, young man. You may wish for it. You may wish in vain. In any case, guidance comes from the Spirit and we are all in contact with it, if we choose to open ourselves. The Sight. Aye, the Sight - no one can reliably help you there."

Athanor turned his face to Mon then swung round to the twins. "What she says is not entirely accurate. The words are true but the inference you build on them isn't. We, those with the Sight, can help but not as much as we would wish nor as much as we are accustomed."

"Pah! He was always the pedant." Peng giggled and stifled his mirth at a sharp look from Mon.

"There is much to be done. We don't know where to start or precisely how to go about it. We hoped that Your Serenity might be able to advise us."

She spat. "Advice! No one ever wants advice. They ask for it, of course, sometimes take it, but never truly want it." She sighed loudly as she leant back in her chair, closing her eyes.

"Are you comfortable, Your Exalted Serenity?"

"What a damn fool question, Peng! Am I ever comfortable? No matter. Don't concern yourself." She shook her head and wafted his solicitude away with a flick of her bony fingers.

"The young emperor will come here with his tutor and the aspirant seer. Ah! So, you didn't know that his tutor, the Prince Jen Yen-san, your distant cousin, was with him? Well, he is. Shyo-san Something-or-other is the boy's friend who wishes to train with us. The Archduke - though as you say, he knows not his new title yet, comes to seek guidance on whether and how he is to regain his magic. I will not be able to tell him. I can't See it but that doesn't say that he won't. You will meet him and take him to the little Arab. Djinn-san is most accomplished, - though no more than you two could be. However, he can not restore Goh-san. He, his uncle and entourage; the emperor and the Taliset prince will travel together with you and The Ancient to Taliset. The combined resources will bring your consort back to consciousness but he will no longer feel fit to be head of the university. Your brother on the throne will be completely taken over by the Evil Ones. There is a mage princess -wait! I See it now. She is trapped by the city, who will not release her."

"Ella!" Dan sprang to his feet, swaying with fatigue and his hand fell from the young seer's neck. "Tell me, please. What of her?"

"I can not See more. She is lost, is all."

"Mistress. What is his concern? He has taken away my contact with the conversation."

"The boy is worried about this princess, who is his lover as I understand."

The twins looked from face to face as they tried to guess what this rapid interchange was about. Ran pulled Dan back to his seat, fearful lest he fall. He took his brother's hand and clapped it gently to the side of Peng's neck, just as the young seer said, "He is mistaken. The girl is not his. It is another young woman."

"There is no other mage princess except Ella."

"Wait!" Ran grasped Dan's sleeve. "It may be Myrissa, though."

"Ah so! That is the right name, I think. Meh Lissa-san."

"Then she has come to her Power. She is younger sister to Dan's girlfriend. Please tell us, Peng... er, san, what you See?"

Peng gazed up at the man who had previously shown an attraction for him. He was handsome, in an exotic way - if you could get used to that incredibly pale hair and those strangely coloured eyes. Peng smiled at Ran, before sobering to tell his tale. "There was a magical explosion. She and a man were involved. She was fearful and ran away. The man was not awake. It may be your ........ your special friend who was blasted by your brother in his wrath. The girl fled, as I say, and was captured by the city deep in the foundations. She is in no danger but can not get free."

Ran watched the young seer's coral lips mouthing the unfamiliar language and picked up the underlying thoughts directly, relaying them to Dan. "Is Kelorian all right, too?"

Peng felt a little disappointed to see the loving concern in Ran's face. He knew that he wasn't attracted to men, .... usually. But this was a key member in an epic adventure. A puissant archmage in the fight against evil and, maybe .........

Athanor stirred and his dry rustling voice took up the clairvoyance. "My sweet Raniel, your lover is safe. He is beginning to heal, methinks. However, he is the source of the aberrant discharge of magic. The inexperienced young woman could not contain him. He unwittingly killed the old emperor."

Ran relaxed a little. Dan's thoughts were projected into his mind. <<It would seem that Myrissa was given the job of looking after him whilst the others waged their mock battle. I would guess that Kel had one of his outbursts and in trying to contain it she came to Power. You do realise, don't you, that this boy is under your spell, brother mine? First, you arouse him with your overwhelming surge of eroticism and now he is bedazzled by your heroic potential. Power is so aphrodisiac, isn't it?>>

Ran frowned at the top of Peng's head and then directed it at his brother. The Exalted Mon shuffled in her seat and winced. "It is not so easy to say what will happen next. Mayhap the emperor will be helped, perhaps not. Peng-san, these damned cushions have subsided."

Athanor got to his feet before the youth did and plumped up her cushions, settling her back more comfortably. "It's galling to think that you are more than twice my age, yet have the energy and flexibility of a teenager. I loved you so much, Ancient One. Why did you leave me?"

"Let's not go through all that again. I could not allow myself to become anyone's partner knowing that I would live four times his or her span. In any case, it was you who would not leave with me."

"I was needed here."

"Just as I was needed elsewhere. I did not think that you would live to thirty let alone a hundred and thirty. Maybe, if I'd known or Seen ........ But then, a sexual relationship has never really held much attraction." He smiled wistfully, then almost accusingly. "You know your time - as I do, now."

It was a statement, not a question, and she nodded. "Barely enough time to complete the training of Peng-san for his role."

"Oh, no!" The young seer began to rise to his feet but Dan held him back.

Simultaneously with Peng's outburst, Athanor took her hand and said, "Not even that long, my dear."

She laughed that light young woman's laugh. "Oh, yes. Peng-san, do not be saddened. I long for my release and surely you know better than most that I will always be with you." She pushed weakly at Athanor. "As for you, old fool, we are both right. I will pass over very soon, indeed within days. Nevertheless, I will have Peng trained in time."

"Impossible!"

Peng followed the conversation with sadness and much confusion. The twins with less grief but no less bewilderment.

"At first, I could not understand how it could be accomplished, either. But now I know just how it will be accomplished. You and I will prepare him for his burden. Koh Li has told me how. Those in the Spirit will guide us, of course, but we require the co-operation of these, our young archmage friends."

<<Us! How do we fit in, Dan?>>

<<Simple, my sib. We can form a more reliable communication channel for Athanor and Mon Jin Chi to rapidly train Peng. He will experience accelerated learning via our telepathic link between teacher and pupil>>

"We would be honoured to serve the Exalted."

Peng was quite agitated and his spirit guides were trying to soothe him. "I have grasped what is intended but I am at a loss to comprehend what the purpose is. I shall, naturally, feel saddened when Her Serenity dies but, surely, the next Exalted will continue my training."

"Sorry, Peng-san! I'm afraid that won't be possible. I have assessed your talents and my guides concur with me that what the Ancient One and I can teach you in the coming week will take you to the limits of your capacity. Beyond that, no one can train you. You will be on your own."

The boy flung himself at her feet and began to softly weep. "I know that I am not very skilled, yet. I do my best. I'll try even harder but, surely, I am talented enough to warrant continued training. Please, Your Serenity, Mon-san, do not cast me aside as flawed material. There is nothing else that I wish to do - that I can do."

Ran slipped to his knees by the crying youth and held him close. He shot reproachful eyes at the old seers. "You are cruel to tease him thus. He doesn't realise the meaning of your words."

Mon looked down on the young man cradled in the archmage's arms, smearing tears and snot on the prince's rich clothing. "I'm sorry. I did not intend to mislead you, Peng-san. I thought that you might have Heard or Seen. It never occurred to me that you wouldn't know the burden that I have chosen to place upon you."

Peng frowned up at his mistress and sniffed back his tears.

"Peng-san, you are to become the next Exalted."

"But... But I am not fully trained or experienced as a seer."

"It is that to which we were referring. You will complete your training and will be exalted next week."

"What's the matter?"

"Nothing, Go-san."

"Yes, there is. What is it?"

"It isn't important."

Gorian tutted in exasperation. "Come on now. You've not said a word for a long time and I can see the worry written on your face."

"You both have been engrossed in conversation."

"You could have joined in."

Jenian frowned at his student. "Leave him be, Gorian. He's probably concerned about his riding. Are you uncomfortable, Shyo? We can stop and stretch for a while."

Shyo smiled gratefully at the mage and reined his horse to a stop. Gorian turned as his horse came to rest, too. Looking back at his friend, he watched as the youth slid down from the saddle and massaged his bottom and inner thighs. "All right. I'll not nag him but just wait and see, Jenian Kelinor. Shyo is worried about something more significant than his sore backside. I know him well enough now. If he chooses not to tell us, well, so be it."

Jenian dismounted and went for a brief walk with Shyo whilst Gorian sat astride and watched them. He couldn't hear their conversation and was a little irked to think that Shyo might be telling Jen what he wouldn't disclose to him. He shrugged. If it were important or relevant, he would be told.

Twenty minutes later, having ridden for more than ten minutes, it occurred to Gorian that neither one of them had spoken since their return. He glanced across at Jenian and judged him to be as withdrawn as Shyo. Setting his jaw, he kicked the horse into a canter, leaving them both behind.

"Should we be following?"

"No. He'll wait for us, eventually."

Shyo rode in silence for a few minutes. "I couldn't tell him."

"No. I can see that."

"Perhaps, I shouldn't have told you."

"Maybe." The mage paused for a few seconds. "No. You were right to tell me, though Lord and Lady know what I can do about it. He'll have to be told in the end."

Shyo nodded sadly. "But not just yet. There would be no benefit."

"No." Jenian sighed.

They rode on, not speaking another word but each wrapped in his own thoughts.

Algy watched the back of Lyri, noting the shadows and contours of the muscles as his lover paced, back and forth. Lyri turned and began the next length.

"Please sit down." Algy patted the seat beside him.

"No."

The path continued to be traced and retraced. Together, they opened their mouths to speak.

"I think that I'll...."

"I know! Why don't you...."

They finished in unison.

"...go and speak with Taliset. She may know of Myrissa's whereabouts or, at least, have an idea what we can do next."

They laughed. It was a long time since they had laughed together like this. This realisation sobered them ending the shared amusem*nt.

"Do you want to come with me?" Without waiting for the answer, Lyri strode off down the corridor and Algy leapt up to tag along after.

Lyri paused outside the door to the throne room to reach up and grab a torch from a sconce on the wall.

"Why did you do that? Even I can conjure handfire."

"I want to concentrate all I can on the conversation. If either one of us, Lisette or I, is significantly taken by the Panoplia then our contact with the Source is blocked."

Algy shrugged, as he was not completely convinced by the so-called explanation. He conjured handfire and followed Lyri into the chamber.

Lyri fixed the torch beside the throne and sank to his knees at the foot of the throne. He leant hands and upper body on the seat and supported his weight on the right hip and thigh. Algy sat on the dais steps.

"You will tell me what she says, won't you?"

"No." Lyri lifted his head slightly. "But you can rest your hand on me and pick up on our mental conversation, if you wish."

He placed a hand on Lyri's back, glanced at the fire in his other hand, extinguished it and put the other hand to Lyri. Whatever the reason for the torch, he was glad of it, now.

<<You know of Kel's outburst and Myrissa's flight?>>

<<Yes. I'm sorry that Algarn had to die>>

<<Never mind about that. What has happened has happened. I'm presently more concerned about Myrissa>>

<<Don't be>>

<<You know where she is?>>

<<Of course>>

<<Where?>>

<<I've got her>>

<<Thank Goodness and Light>>

<<Goodness and Light have nothing to do with it, father>>

<<?? Then you can set her on the right path and return her>>

<<Yes. I can>>

<<But I gather from your tone that you won't>>

<<Just so. I won't>>

<<Why not?>>

<<I might have other plans for her>>

<<What sort of plans?>>

<<I need to retire. I want a replacement if the Panoplia loses>>

<<Not Myrissa!>>

<<She'll do, I think. I can't expect anyone to volunteer. I did but not many people would do as I did>>

<<But that's wrong, unethical>>

<<It is. So? You are now a paragon of virtue, decency and truth, are you? Anyway, I said that I might have plans for her. I haven't decided>>

<<How could it be done? You are the city and all beneath and behind it. It's your metamorphosed body. No one can take your place without destroying it all>>

<<Rubbish! Metempsychosis or something of the kind. As I die, I let someone else's consciousness, selfhood, take over this organo-mineral body. I'm sure it could be done and I've had plenty time to think on it. We needn't go through the hows and whats now. All that is required is that my heir or heiress is a mage, preferably an accomplished one>>

<<Why not me?>>

<<You're volunteering? I think not. Who could be more appropriate, father? You abandoned me to be a pawn in the hands of Fate. You have responsibility for my present condition. And, yes, indeed, an archmage is the ideal candidate. Which one of the few available would you suggest, father? How would you persuade them? They are not all as tractable as Algy. Myrissa came to me like a gift of destiny. I'm keeping her as insurance in case no one else better suited comes along>>

<<If that is your plan then, at least, you'll keep her safe>>

<<As safe as she can be given that I am, as you are, chaotically neutral. That's putting it at its best. I wouldn't be surprised if we were not bad more than good>>

<<I take it, then, that I can't persuade you to release her>>

<<Correct. I shall keep her, feed her, and provide her with all she requires except her freedom. There is nothing more to be said on this matter. Go to bed. You have a war to fight>>

<<Then it is not yet over?>>

<<Don't be naif. Are you really so stupid, father, as to believe that Algarn's death ends it? That they will give up so easily and turn around and go home? I keep forgetting that you are still a child. You live in a fairytale world. My experience of reality has been considerably longer and brutalising. Take it from me, the morning will bring fresh attacks. Go now>>

Lyri raised himself back to a kneeling posture and began to stand as Algy's hands slid from his body.

"You heard, then?"

Algy nodded. He could no longer feel appalled at what either Lyri or Taliset did or said. Wearily, he forced himself to his feet. Lyri ignored the torch, so Algy snatched it out and replaced it outside the door.

"Are you going to bed now? Wait for me." He scurried after the retreating figure of his lover.

The days grew warmer and the nights more chill. The two of them had thrown off their ill humour or whatever it was by the time that they had caught him up as Gorian waited a mile or two down the road. Nevertheless, Gorian was not blind to the looks that they each occasionally cast in his direction when they thought he didn't see. Out of the corner of his eye, he would catch one of them gazing at him with something like pity. Whenever he looked their way, however, the look was quickly changed nonchalantly into a brief smile.

They were between towns or villages. Habitation was sparsely spread here in the south. You could travel most of the day without coming across any significant community. The further south they travelled from the river on which Jin Gei was situated, the fewer paddy fields. Most rice was grown in the cooler north between Jin Gei and Kyoku Chi. The earth here was parched and cracked. The vegetation brown and scrubby.

They had fed and were gathered round the glowing fire, quietly warming themselves. Each night, Gorian had turned away when Jen lit their campfires. It hurt him to see the use of Power. Jen realised and kept the exercise of magic to a minimum. Fire lighting and water raising were essentials, however, and Gorian had to bear witnessing such workings as best he could. Soon it would be time for them to wrap up warmly and go to sleep. Gorian lent back against his saddlepack and let his mind wander. In time his thoughts turned to their concerned looks.

It's probably about my magedom. It's something to do with me and I can't think what else it might be. Jen certainly will appreciate how much it grieves me to sense the source of Power just beyond my contact. It's like losing my sight or my right arm. Of course, Shyo can't imagine what it's like but he can feel what I'm going through. He sort-of picks up on it.

I wonder if this Mon woman can help me. Perhaps she'll send me to Taliset. That's where there is the biggest concentration of mages. Maybe one of them can help unlock me from this damned prison.

I don't think that I should go there, though. It feels.... I don't know exactly. Kind of sad and angry. Probably, I'm picking up the battle.

Whatever possessed grandfather to declare war on 'Kel? I know that it was the same people opposing me who pressed him to do so but, surely, he was more resilient than I could be. Maybe not. I guess that no one is truly free to exercise ultimate authority even those who pretend to themselves that they are autocrats, supreme rulers. We all are subject to pressures from outside, forcing us to compromise. All institutionalised power is ultimately held by the implicit collusion of the subordinates.

He glanced across at Jenian and smiled to himself. That's what you tried to tell me, wasn't it? All that power stuff that I was buying into is illusory. If I do ultimately get my magic back, should I return to Algotha? Let's face it - I've got to. If I don't take the throne when grandfather dies then it'll be that puppet of Oleg's. No, the plan must proceed. I see that clearly now. The stability of international politics depends on Algotha being tamed by a mage emperor - me. Man on the cross! Lord and Lady help me! What a responsibility.

This time the look he shot towards Jenian was resentful. Jenian still hadn't seen these glances. You bastard! You could have told me. Prepared me better for all this. sh*t! I suppose not though. I wouldn't have believed you at first and then later I wouldn't have gone along with it. I wonder if grandfather knows how he's been used. Poor sod! It's too late for him now. He can't do anything about it.

There might be a mage in Sabani who can restore me. Doubt it though. By all accounts they are not as skilled as the Taliset mages. They are more like me - rulers who just happen to have Power. Except that I am not a ruler yet and I might never have my Talents back again. At least she might be able to tell me whether I will get my magedom back and when I'll be emperor and maybe she'll have some advice about how I handle things when I return to Algotha - if I ever do go back.

Just before he woke, cold and clammy with fear, Gorian had a dream. He struggled to recall it but most of it fragmented. The best he could remember was that it was something about his grandfather handing him an old battered hat, which didn't fit when he tried it on. It was snowing heavily and he tried to persuade his grandfather to take it back, as he needed it more because of his age. The old man said that he couldn't wear it as he had fallen off his horse and banged his head. He insisted that Gorian wear it. His grandmother was in tears and said that there was no point in Gorian putting the hat on until he passed the spelling test. She asked him to spell "necessity" but it kept coming out all wrong. Someone was forcing him to put too many esses in it by hissing at him. Although he couldn't work out what the dream meant or why exactly it frightened him, Gorian decided that he wouldn't discuss it with the others. Something on the edge of awareness urged him that it was better not to know. Shyo and Jenian would probably tell him. He thought it better to forget it. He tried. He couldn't. It was his turn to be withdrawn and pensive; their turn to be frustrated at not getting a satisfactory answer.

The days dragged by, hotter, drier and more tiring.

CHAPTER TWENTY TWO

Death and departure

A creeping apprehension intensified within Gorian the closer they drew to Chyo Ku. He kept it to himself though his companions were well aware of his growing tension and its cause

What if all this is a waste of time? No seer can help restore my contact with the Source. The best I can hope for is that this Mon woman will be able to foretell if I will ever be whole again and perhaps how or who or what might restore me. I can't see how anything or anybody can undo what has been done. Oh, by all that is holy! Please let me be able to work magically again. Without it I can't see how I can return to Algotha or ever take the Imperial throne. To hell with all that stuff about my country needing a mage emperor. True though that may be. I need it! No one knows how much I need it. I imagine that someone who has been paralysed after an accident must feel similarly. Or, maybe, after a stroke when you struggle to find the words that your brain has mislaid. The loss! The frustration of sensing just beyond reach. If that snaky fellow could take it away then maybe someone else can restore it. I can't be lost! It mustn't be lost! I know it's there somewhere. I just can't get it to use it.

Shyo glanced at Gorian, briefly, and turned back to Jenian. In low voices they spoke of him.

"He's brooding again. I know that I can't help him but I wish that he would let me in."

Jenian nodded. "But he doesn't think that you can possibly understand what it must be like to no longer be a mage."

"Perhaps I can't but I can understand that his desperation increases as we draw closer to learning what the seers can offer. His hopes are so high and his expectations so low. So much hangs on what Her Serenity might say. Do you know what he's going through?"

Jenian shook his head, sadly. "No. Maybe. I don't know, probably not. I think that I can imagine it but can I really? Being a mage is so ... fulfilling. I don't mean the power. Possibly some get into that but it leads them astray. The power is illusory. It's more of a responsibility. You are accountable. The fulfilment comes from using one's entirety. I don't know if I can explain it better than that. I think that most nonmages feel as if they are functioning at part strength. There is an incompleteness, a less than total commitment or involvement with life. Being a mage helps you see colours more vibrantly, hear sounds more resonantly, and experience life more vitally. I don't truly think that we do in actual fact but contact with the Source demands a conscious awareness, an engagement with what is around you. He's lost all that. He feels that he is less than who he is. In fact, I guess that he has found other things, which he had been overlooking before. His intuition is a case in point. Maybe you can, like me, partially grasp what he is going through. If you lost your spirit guides, lost your psychic contact....."

Shyo's hands rose in horror. "Heaven forbid!" He interrupted. "That would be dreadful. It would be like trying to play the samisen with mittens on."

The sudden movement drew Gorian’s attention. He called across. "What's the matter?"

Over the next several days, they formed alternating teams - Raniel and Athanor, Daniel with Her Serenity, Mon. Servants were assigned to them and to Peng. Day and night they worked; the length of shift governed only by the limited stamina of Mon. The servants brought food, led them to their beds or to the spacious hot baths wherein they could soak their weary bodies. Peng, of course, had no breaks except briefly for calls of nature at the changeover in teams. He was fed, watered and washed by hand as archmage and seer pairs loaded his mind with all manner of fact, training and advice.

Even in sleep, the shift on duty would feed his dreams and dreamless somnolence with ideas, guided fantasies and information. At first, the twins attempted to understand the thought-forms that they were channelling from teacher to pupil but after the frustrations of the initial hours, they gave up and resigned themselves to semi-boredom. Peng asking for clarification of a point occasionally broke their ennui and then, sometimes, they had a chance to comprehend.

Periodically, the channel flow would reverse as Peng was called upon to mentally recite what he had been given. This was usually done at such speed that the archmage had little opportunity to focus on anything and each would complain that the process made them a little dizzy.

Towards the beginning of the second week, Mon slipped into coma and the training programme changed to accommodate to the change in circ*mstances. Athanor explained that it was all in the plan. The emphasis in the preparation of Peng turned to the increase in his ability to See, Hear and travel astrally. The twins were no longer needed - much to their chagrin and disappointment as this phase promised to be more interesting.

"After all the tedious transmission of incomprehensible and non-verbal concepts, we were looking forward to experiencing Peng or Mon or you practising your proleptic skills." Raniel felt irritable and he had no compunction in letting it colour his tone.

"I have had proleptic dreams and Dan likewise though less clearly, on the whole. We had hoped that something in the past week would have helped us to improve our psychic skills but no such bloody luck. And now, just when things seem to be more practical and fascinating, we are to be excluded."

"Sorry, Your Highnesses. I can now work directly in the astral plane with our young friend. Mon is already there with her guides."

Daniel gazed at the comatose old woman and stroked her hand gently. Raniel shrugged and sighed. "Fair enough, I suppose. She hasn't long, has she?"

"No, my friends. But do not grieve. She is content and is looking forward to passing over. Now that she is unconscious, there is no more pain, no suffering."

Peng allowed his eyes to flutter open and spoke with Athanor in the Eastern tongue, before sinking back into deep meditation.

Athanor grinned. "It would seem that I, too, am redundant. I do not work with any spirit guides, unlike these Orientals. Peng says that he will be supported by his guides in working astrally with Mon and her guides. Apparently, not only will they work on his development but there is the rather confidential matter of Peng being invested with memories or sacred secrets that Mon holds. I believe that your ceremony conferring Wardenship has a similar function."

Raniel watched Dan's eyes grow wide and round. He nodded towards him and explained. "Dan has touched the city. So have I, briefly, but he has regularly conversed with her. He is imagining that all the history and memories of all the previously exalted seers are going to be passed on to Peng. He is deeply concerned about such a burden. Whilst it is true that our Wardens are linked to Taliset, they only have access to her memories. They do not carry them as a burden. It is more like a library that the Warden can refer to. She retains her own consciousness, her separate personality. She is millennia old."

"Then I must disabuse him of his mistake. As far as I can tell - they have not discussed it with me so I can't be entirely sure - each Exalted does not carry all the memories of every previous Exalted. However, there is some apostolic link or chain of links back to the cataclysm and before. The essentials of something or other but not extraneous detail."

Dan moved from Mon's side and stood to look down on the peaceful face of the young seer. "Better that I do not intrude by maintaining my contact with Mon. It wasn't very clear but I gained the impression before I severed contact with her that it is something to do with their spirit guides. The spirit world acts as their resource to the previous Exalteds. But, if I understand aright, the Spirit has its own purposes and filters or edits what is given. I suspect that the secrets are more concerned with law or etiquette or, maybe, the politics of being the Exalted."

A servant or young seer appeared. It was difficult to work out who did what in this place. The twins accustomed to slaves and servants found it odd that student seers and mystics waited on their older colleagues. She took hold of Dan's arm and tugged him towards the door.

"It must be a bit like our telepathy, Ran. How did she know that this was the appropriate time to relieve us?"

Athanor chuckled. "You claim to have some prophetic skill and yet you cannot truly comprehend the Sight. She knew well in advance that at this hour she would need to lead us away from Peng and Mon. They know that Mon is dying. They know of Peng's imminent exaltation. We are redundant. She comes to take us."

Oleg stared down at the archbishop and his lip curled in disdain.

"Had enough already, eh? This is just the beginning, Osmund. Surely, you can see even more clearly now why these children of Satan must be brought to their knees?"

Osmund closed his eyes wearily and sunk back into the pillows on his cot. The damned man was a trial when his head pounded as it did. Why couldn’t he leave him alone? Still, Osmund had to concede that the mages were unrepentant. The eyes fluttered open again and he winced as he looked up at the tall duke.

"They are stronger than us, Oleg. We cannot win. They've killed the emperor."

"With God on our side,” Oleg sneered. "We can win. He is on our side, isn't he?"

"Assuredly. How can you doubt it? The mages have strayed from the paths of righteousness. The Lord will fulfil their deliverance."

Deep in his heart, the archbishop was beginning to wonder if he'd got that right. The mages didn't actually do harm with their spells. Still it was abnormal; against God's natural law. On the other hand, hadn't he himself consecrated young Gorian in his position as the heir to the imperial throne? The lad was a mage like the empress herself and his mother, the duch*ess. The lad and the ladies, too, were decent enough in their own way. Poor Elissa! What a shock it must have been to lose her husband like that. There, of course, was the proof that the mages were evil. A coward's way of killing, - to use magic. On the other hand, isn't a death a death? Killing someone in battle; in the defence of your city, no matter how, is part of the rules of combat. In itself, that can't be judged as evil. The mistake had lain in agreeing to let the two women use their powers in the struggle against Taliset. You might fight fire with fire but it was error to use wicked powers against the wicked. Sin in the name of right was no less sinful.

His head swam and the burns on his brow stung uncomfortably as they beaded with sweat. Then there was the question of succession. In theory, young Gorian was now emperor but he was lost. In the Eastern lands, by all accounts. Thank the Lord, the boy had been relieved of his sinfulness.

Oleg waited out the silence. Osmund panicked a little. Was he expecting an answer? Had he asked a question? God's on our side - that was it.

"Sorry. It's hard to concentrate in the midst of all this pain - and grief over Algarn, too. Yes, yes, God is definitely on our side. How can we doubt it? This is a holy war against sin. I was just pointing out that the mages seem quite formidable foes."

"But they are not warriors. We have the arms, the strength, the men, and the experience of battle. We will prevail. With Algarn's death, we need a leader. I shall assume command. What you need to do is to declare me heir to the imperial throne. Tomorrow will do. You'll feel better by then."

Osmund raised himself from the pillows, felt a shaft of pain lance through his temples and he fell back again with a groan.

"I..... I can't do that! I mean... I mean..... You're not the heir. Gorian is. He's the emperor."

"Not until you crown him so. And where is he? I see no Crown Duke. Ran away. And, under the circ*mstances, even if he were here, we can't have an emperor who is unrepentantly evil, now, can we?"

"A fair point, Your Holiness."

Osmund shot a caustic look at Oswin. Why couldn't the man keep his gob shut? Who asked him to chip in? "His Grace has lost his powers, by all accounts. God has saved him from sin."

"Well, maybe one of the sins. But he is not here and I am. He is immature and has no experience of strategy, I have."

"I must grant you that. But there is a big difference between acting as chief of command and becoming uncrowned heir to the imperial throne." Osmund's mind was a sentence or two back. If Gorian had been redeemed of one sin, what was the other? Oh, yes. That was a different matter. Sinful, of course, but ... well, hardly unknown even within the church herself. He recalled a time when..... His train of thought was interrupted. Oleg was saying something else.

".....insist. It is your duty." They stared at each other, each waiting for the other to speak. One to have the answer to his question the other to try to glean some clue as to where the conversation had reached.

"Well? What do you say?" Oleg paused. "Are you or are you not going to declare Crown Duke Algorian missing and name me as Heir Presumptive? If he is not returned by the time we finish all this and have ourselves returned to Algotha, then he is to be declared presumed dead and I am to be crowned."

"Oh, ... urr. ....Umhh, .. well, I don't know .... I could... But then, .... " Osmund flustered and mumbled.

"In fact, why don't you declare him presumed dead and move straight to the step of declaring me uncrowned emperor pending my coronation on our victorious return to Algothenberg?"

The archbishop shook his head in protest and immediately regretted it. His head swam painfully, the tent swung round dizzily and his gorge began to rise. "No, no. I don't think that appropriate. Let's just do as you originally suggested. You take command of this war and we can think it all through properly when we get back to Algothenberg."

Oleg scowled and harrumphed. "Very well. If that's the best you can do. I'll let you rest. Farewell."

He left the tent, apparently disgruntled but he smiled to himself. The fat old bugger had not disappointed him. He had conceded enough to wait until their victory. Thereafter, in the wake of his triumphant return, Osmund would have no alternative but to enthrone him as emperor.

The archbishop tried to get some rest. He was glad that Oleg had gone. He was an ambitious, pushy man. Osmund prided himself on the way that he had put the man off. Unfortunately, he still had a nagging doubt that he had missed something.

Three days later Mon passed to the spirit. The twins had been left much to their own devices. Athanor had been sort of commandeered by the oriental mystics. They saw little of him and spent their days eating, sleeping and walking in the ornamental gardens of the palace.

Chyo Ku, or The Palace of Hearing, was not much of a city. Really, it was scarcely more than a large village surrounding the palace itself. The name was a bit of a misnomer. Probably the majority of psychics there were indeed clairaudient but many were clairvoyant. A few were both. Females were in the majority but not overwhelmingly so. The palace, itself, was white marble, plain yet austerely pleasing on the eye. Around the large complex of buildings that made up the palace were extensive formal gardens with pools, bridges, arbours, pathways and fountains. The students and younger psychics seemed to do all the physical work of gardening, cooking, cleaning, laundering or whatever. Few people spoke to the princes but that wasn't because of any communication block. Everyone, whether they spoke or not, touched the twins and allowed them to pick up on the thoughts behind the words. No, the real reason why so little was said was that no one spoke much to anyone anyway.

At the end of that first day, after leaving Mon and her successor to their silent communion, Athanor had come to them and offered some compensation for their frustration about not gleaning anything to help their own psychic development. He set them the task of practising unfocused imaging. They were quite familiar with the discipline of a clearly maintained, vivid visualisation of a goal to effect an outcome by the investment of Power. This was in many ways the converse. It was not-seeing, not-hearing, not-focusing. Just meditatively allowing whatever entered the mind to be registered and released. The twins practised frequently, individually and jointly.

In the early hours of the third day there was a soft chanting which roused the archmages from their slumbers. The voices in unison rose and fell in gently rolling chord progressions.

<<Mon has died>>

<<I guessed as much>>

The pentatonic minor key expanded as the chant became louder and more ornamented with descants and harmonies. Voice interwove with voice, part on part, splitting - four part, eight part, sixteen part, thirty-two. The richly textured threnody filled the palace, wrapping around everything like a comfort blanket, - though there was nothing worn or faded about it. The vocal tapestry was elaborately embroidered spreading thickly around and through, over and under. Complex chords, augmentations, dominant sevenths - almost discordant but then to ultimately resolve into layered thirds and fifths.

Anxious not to make a sound, which might mar the construction, the princes thought at one another.

<<It doesn't sound very oriental>>

<<Why not? It sounds pretty strange to me>>

<<Oriental music doesn't follow the diatonic scale>>

<<Neither did this - at first>>

<<True. Restricted scales were common in much early traditional music from all over the world. Indeed, much of the Classical World designated modes for different moods and purposes. This lament began with a pentatonic scale as used by the early Christian religious orders. The five tone scales were also common in some types of oriental music>>

<<They haven't restricted themselves to five notes, though. The harmonies use more notes>>

<<That's right. More like the European motets of five or six millennia ago>>

<<You still haven't explained why you don't think it sounds oriental>>

<<Oriental music uses quartertones. They haven't used any>>

<<It doesn't make much sense for them to sing medieval motets. Since they are oriental, why this form of music?>>

<<Lord and Lady know>>

<<You know something, Ran? You're a bloody pedant. Just listen and enjoy it>>

<<Enjoy is not the word for such plangency>>

<<Is it loud enough to be termed plangent?>>

<<Piss off!>>

They rose and dressed to track towards the choir. As they drew near, they realised to their surprise that the singers were not gathered in one place but were each making their way to a central hall. To their further astonishment, the words became clearer and the twins recognised Latin phrases.

They tried to sneak in unobtrusively at the back of the increasingly crowded Audience Chamber but the psychics moved around them, opening up space before them such that they were swept forward towards the dais on which Mon's body was seated in state on a throne-like bier. Standing on one side was Peng dressed in golden silk and on the other was Athanor.

As the people brushed against them, Ran and Dan got sharp and powerful but fleeting mental patterns of the music and words. A young woman briefly smiled at them and, grasping one of theirs in each of her hands, stood between them. The music structure was now fully apparent to them and, almost without deciding, the twins broke into song to join with the congregation.

The lament modulated into a triumphant coda in a major key and, as the final chord ended, Peng took a step forward.

"I, Peng Lian Zhe, have summoned you as my first duty as Exalted of Chyo Ku. Beloved sisters and brothers in the Light, we gather to say goodbye to the shell that once was the Exalted Mon-san. Her painful and onerous incarnation is over and she has earned her merciful release."

The archmages could not directly follow what he was saying but were delighted to pick up telepathically from the woman linked between them.

"We will miss seeing her as she was but, when she is rested, many of us will see her again. The burden and honour falls to me to become her replacement, inferior though I feel. I have Seen that I will improve with experience and confidence. I hope that you will find me a worthy successor in time.

Mon Jin Chi-san - "Gate of Human Energy" - was a crabby old woman. I know; I was her nurse and companion in the last few months. But she was also very wise and skilled, compassionate and dedicated. Born with discomforting deformities in order to work out some karma, she was expected never to survive childhood. Treasured as a child seer, she grew to adolescence and was taught by The Ancient One." Peng turned, arm outstretched, to indicate Athanor, who stood serenely and made a slight bow. The Seer looked less than himself, as if Mon's passing had diminished him in some way. Peng, on the other hand, appeared older, mature and much more self contained.

"It was he who indicated to her predecessor that Mon-san would be the next Exalted. She, indeed, lived up to her name and invested much energy in living long and fully. I hope to bring similar qualities and strengths to my role as Exalted of this community. On the human level, we grieve her death whilst at the same time recognising that there is no such thing as death. She is ever present with us in spirit and we will meet her again in the flesh some lifetime in the future.

And now I want us to turn our attention to the future. Here in our midst we have two young men who are Prince Wizards of Taliset, Their Highnesses Raniel-san and Daniel-san." He said the names of the city and archmages with some deliberate care but quite accurately pronounced. The brothers exchanged glances.

"Please step forward. They are the first of visitors who come to us for help in facing Evil. In truth, in the grand plan of the timeless universe there is no evil yet in the short term we must offer what help we can. We all face the challenge of our possible defeat and the destruction of all that we hold dear and honourable. Those who have the Sight or Hearing know that in this regard we are as blind and deaf, with unclear impressions of what will happen. I ask everyone to tell me anything that is revealed to you in this matter, no matter how trivial or vague.

Finally, we pray for the spirit of Mon Jin Chi-san. That she might have peace and rest after her journey. That she may relearn all that she forgot whilst in the flesh and be prepared to act as guide and guardian to us in due course. May the Unity of Light, the Universal Spirit, and all our friends and loved ones in the Spirit love, heal, guide, teach and bless her. We ask for help in opening up ourselves to Love, Light and Blessings, Healing, Guidance and Protection; in becoming channels for the Light and fulfilling our roles and responsibilities as workers for the Divine Spirit; and we ask for assistance in satisfactorily resolving whatever resistances and blocks we may have which impair our progress and efficiency in responding to our calling."

There was a lengthy silence. The gathered mystics and psychics gradually moved in an orderly way to mount the dais and pay their respects to the body that had housed their former leader. There were no tears or sad faces but they were solemnly respectful. Dan and Ran were uncertain whether to join the queue, which trooped past the bier. The young psychic slipped away from them, leaving them with the impression that they should wait until everyone else had done what was required.

Most having bowed or touched Mon's body left the chamber. A small number drew to the back of the dais and patiently waited. At last the twins looked at the seated Mon. She looked at peace, somewhat younger than they expected. This was a peaceful death, not the violence of their recent experiences. They looked up to note that Peng was watching them. Dan smiled tentatively and was rewarded with a broad grin.

In their own language, Peng addressed them. "My dear friends, would you care to join us in interring her remains?"

"You are able to speak with us." Ran was astounded.

Peng shrugged self-deprecatingly. "I have learnt many new things in the past few days. It is quite disorientating, I scarcely know myself. You were also surprised at our choice of lament, weren't you? That is not so difficult to explain. We have all been different races, nationalities and whatever in previous lives. There is no necessity to rigidly adhere to the trappings of our present lifetimes. Mon recalled a very early incarnation of hers and asked that we sing a chant from that time."

"But how did we all know it?" Dan was fascinated. He knew how magic worked but this was something new to him.

Peng smiled. "Those with Hearing Heard it. Those with clear guidance were told it. The rest received it much as you must have done. We are not unlike a beehive. One bee starts the dance and the others then join in. For us, the music began with those who first channelled it and the others tuned their awareness to the group process. Enough talk for now. I'm sorry but we have our duties to fulfil. Follow the bier, please."

Peng stepped forward from the dais and paused whilst some of the waiting group lifted the bier. He led the cortège and Athanor followed flanked by the brothers. Behind them the remaining individuals softly sung a melody which was more easily identified as oriental.

The procession wended outside to a freshly dug grave - one side of which formed steps. Peng and the others watched as the bearers took the enthroned body down into the grave. When they had come back out again, they joined the others in filling in the grave. Peng bent to lift a handful of earth and cast it into the hole. Athanor and the princes did likewise.

"Come. The others will complete the task." The three of them followed The Exalted Peng to his new apartments.

The early morning sun flashed from the weaponry of the Algothans gathered before the gates of Taliset.

Hollian bit his lower lip thoughtfully as he watched Oleg preening himself in the regard of the troops. Bergyth might be their general but they looked to an Aethel Rede to lead them.

Elissa had requested that they abandon the fight and return to Algothenberg with their late emperor. Oleg and Osmund had rejected the proposed retreat and suggested that the women accompany the small cortège. It was argued that they had failed in using their magic against the mages and that there was no utility in their remaining in the field. Hollian had said that he would go back with the dead emperor. He had been accused of cowardice but did not rise to the bait. The imperial family had been greatly disturbed by the implication in Oleg's manner and phraseology that he was now the supreme commander and tantamount to being the new emperor. He had very cannily avoided an open confrontation of the exact meaning behind his words. Oleg knew that there was little advantage in broaching the subject with them. Time was coming when, like it or no, they would be unable to do much about it. Why upset them now? He had enough decency to respect their grief without rubbing the salt of deposing Gorian in their wounds. He was not so decent, on the other hand, to avoid pointing out to them that Gorian was conspicuous by his absence and Algotha would be wise to look to the line of succession.

Hollian, like his son, was more a man of 'Kel than Algotha. He was uneasy about the blood-lustiness of his compatriots. Perhaps, he thought, this way I can heal some of the rift between my parents and I. But at what a price! An empty throne, a wounded widow and a bereaved daughter who had still not fully recovered from the blast she had received. He could not even take any solace from knowing that he was the father of the new emperor. Gorian was lost to all practical purposes. Jenian may have found him by now and be bringing him back. Though without his magic, he would be ill prepared for government and, with it, the people would have difficulty accepting him. Everything seemed to have gone wrong. And what had Oleg been implying? Technically, it was his nephew who would be next in line after Gorian. That boy was even less prepared for leadership than Gorian. Maybe that was it ‑ Oleg would be regent, in fact if not in name. Somehow, though, Oleg had seemed to be meaning more than what he had been saying.

The troops re‑ordered to form a guard of honour on either side of the bier. The cart rolled forward and Hollian took his place with his wife and mother‑in‑law and urged his horse into a walk.

High above on the ramparts of Taliset, Lyrian and the other mages watched as the cortège lurched forward. They sent flower petals with gold and black confetti showering down onto the open coffin and chief mourners. The troops slowly clashed their swords against their shields.

Elissa wearily looked up at Lyrian. In her head, she heard his gentle voice. <<We are truly sorry. It was an unforeseen accident. It was bad enough that you and Elgora got blasted but this was dreadful. Kelorian is in a coma and sending out blasts of wild magic. Myrissa, younger daughter to Lyrankiel, was in charge of Kelorian when he erupted and caught her as she came into her connection with the Source. The inevitable happened. They both discharged together in an uncontrolled blast. If there is anything we can do>>

<<It might not be possible but go easy as you can on this lot. Their leadership is misguided, ambitious and in some cases wicked but the men themselves are blameless. However, if there is anything you can do to find and aid Algorian ‑ may the Lord and Lady guide and bless you ‑ please, please do it. He is now the emperor but a lost and unmaged heir is no use to anyone>>

<<We will do as we can, Elissa. May the Light protect you. Farewell>>

"What does he say, mother?"

"He is apologising again, explaining how it came about, promising to help Gorian and wishing us well."

"It's the very least he can do!" Elgora was still smarting from her hurts, physical and emotional.

"Easy, darling. It was we who attacked them. It was your fatigue and lapse of attention that resulted in the hurts for you and your mother. I can allow that the death of Algarn was accidental but how did he say it happened?"

They passed out from between the men and slowly headed north. The clamour of sword on shield stopped abruptly and Oleg called out something to which they paid small attention.

"It seems that Kelorian is in a coma. Lyrian did not say how this came to be but that suggests that he feels responsible. It is clearly not a physical insult but a psychic one as the poor young man is subject to discharges of uncontrolled power. It would seem that a young pre‑mage came to power whilst trying to contain the wild outburst from Kelorian. The rest we know."

"They will help Gorian?" Elgora clung to the hope that the mages would support her son. "He will be alright, won't he?"

"Yes, yes, my dear. He is a mage as they are, as you and Elissa are. They look to their own." Hollian tried to comfort his wife and in doing so sought to console himself.

Elissa, considerably less anodyne in her bereavement, contradicted. "He is no longer a mage. Things are amiss in Taliset. Algorath may or may not be rehabilitated ‑ though I believe him so. But what of Lyrian? He appears to have been reasonable and honourable in dealing with us but he is infected as is the city herself. We cannot afford to trust him more than we have to. Then there is the fact that they don’t know any more than we do where the hell Gorian is. We trust that he is safely reunited with Jenian but who knows. If, and it may be a big if, ...if they turn to Taliset, they may get help but there is no guarantee that aught can be done to restore Gorian. Our best hope was in the healing powers of Kelorian and he is out of action. Even so, assuming that Gorian is re-maged, his return to Algotha is far from plain. He ran away; he may not want to come back. If and when he does, what support will he have now? Algarn is not here to protect him, train him, until he is ready for the throne. Our hopes rest on thin ice which melts in the springtime sun as each day passes."

Elgora protested but her mother continued. "I know I'm being blunt but we have to face it. Beyond all our hopes and fears about Gorian ‑ and I'm not making light of them, there is the matter of the final conflict between the Panoplia of Darkness and ourselves. By that I mean all mages from all nations. Thanks to Algorath and a decline in both power and numbers being born, we are few and weak. Whether Gorian becomes a mage again or not is hardly going to tip the balance."

A cool breeze from the north scattered the dark confetti from the bier.

Lyri surveyed the army below him. "What are we going to do about this lot?"

Algy shrugged and looked at Ella and her father. The librarian scratched his head.

"I don't know. So much has gone wrong, I'm loathe to make any suggestion."

"Spectacle and pyrotechnics did not work. Neither did killing their emperor. I looks as though the time has come to face the necessity of oath‑breaking." Lyri glanced round the assembled mages.

"It hasn't quite come to that yet, Lyri." Algy dared to contradict, knowing full well that this was a possible trigger for a darker mood change. "We have only just paid respects to one we killed with magic. It ill behoves us to rush into more killing."

Lyri's eyes flashed dangerously though his voice was calm. "That was an accident. No one was really to blame."

"Like losing Myrissa was an accident." Ella flinched and held her cheek as Lyri's fingers left reddening marks on her face. Lyrankiel stepped forward but Algy laid a restraining hand on his arm.

Lyri shivered as a cold wave travelled down his spine. "I'm sorry. Nerves are raw. It was unpreventable that Myrissa got lost."

"Couldn't you persuade Taliset to release her?"

"Tried unsuccessfully. She wants someone to replace her. She's had enough of the millennia of looking after us all."

"Why Myrissa?" Ella was recovering from the slap.

"She was there at the time. Taliset took opportunistic advantage of the situation. Actually, I think she's angry with me for lumbering her with the fateful task in the first place."

"But, you didn't know about that. You didn't even know that you had a daughter."

"Were it that simple, Lanky. Since when are feelings rational? The fact is that Taliset wants a successor, preferably an untrained mage or archmage. Any applicants form a line, please." Lyri grinned wryly. "I'll carry on arguing with her and maybe soon she will give Myrissa up. I don't think that she'll keep her for long. Taliset is getting moody and spiteful like I am. When she is more amenable, I can try again."

Algy watched as Oleg marshalled the troops into a battle formation.

"I rather think that we should return to the matter in hand. I vote that we remain defensive for as long as possible. We must avoid doing any lasting harm if at all."

Lyri smiled at him. "You're a romantic idealist, darling. I guess that you always were. Even your aberrations stemmed from broken and threatened ideals. Very well, let's do as Algy says."

All day, whatever the Algothans did was thwarted. Arrows burst into flame and were consumed before hitting their mark. Battering rams crumbled on impact. By the evening, the mages were tired but not as tired and discouraged as the Algothans, who muttered and complained.

His Serenity The Exalted Peng Lian Zhe had had the former Exalted's apartments altered and the twins had a strangely disturbing sense of familiarity on entering them. All the higher level furniture had been removed and the floor was scattered with sumptuous soft silk cushions. He sank down onto one and indicated that they should, too. Athanor sat to one side and leant, moving a cushion out of the way.

For a moment or two he was silent as he studied their faces and they politely waited until he spoke.

"Wizard Princes-san. Friends. I will speak your language, as it is the one that is now common to the four of us. Mon-san taught me some of it, bits of it I picked up from our previous contacts and my spirit guides will help me with the rest. I have already Seen and Heard this conversation but you must experience it for the first time." He smiled and his face was transformed as it lit up. Raniel realised that he had never seen Peng smile before. The good looking man was quite unexceptional when serious but his smile turned him into a strikingly beautiful person. "First though, we shall break our fast. Someone should be bringing lemon blossom tea and rice cakes soon."

"We sense them coming now." Dan grinned at the newly elevated seer. "If it's not too impertinent - your name, what does it mean?"

"Friend Who Studies or Trains in Philosophy or Knowledge. Rather pretentious, isn't it? My father was, still is, a teacher and his father before him. I was expected to follow the ancestral tradition. Do your names have meaning? No. No need to answer, I know that you are God Has Judged and your brother is God Is Prince." The door slid open and the young woman who had been their telepathic translator knelt with a tray of food and drink. "Here it is! Come in; place the tray down here, please. Thank you, that will be all."

"She is one of my ..... no, not servant, ... ah, yes, a helper. I'll pour the tea but, all of you, please help yourself to cakes. Mon says that she is sad to see you so grieved, A..than..or. See, I'm improving my ability to pronounce these barbarous consonants. Don't grieve for her loss, Ancient, she is happy and you will soon meet again." He passed a bowl of tea to the old Seer.

"Thank you, Peng-san. I know that you are right. I grieve for my past not my future. Though I also grieve for your future, too."

"Is something going to happen to His Serenity?"

"No, Raniel-san. He speaks of all our futures not mine. There is no need for titles and honours, here, in private. Otherwise, I would have to call you - let me get this correct." He tipped his head to one side as if being prompted by a whisper in his ear. "Your Most Gracious and Elevated Highness Prince Raniel of Lyriankel and Algor, Master of the Arcane Rites, Archmage Puissant Adeptus. Is that right? Too much. There is respect and honour between us. No amount of embellished words will increase our virtue. I have shared minds with you all. We are as brothers."

Daniel inhaled a crumb and coughed, showering all around him in a spray of fine crumbs. "Sorry. What I wanted to ask was - is there a particular reason why you grieve our future as you put it, Athanor."

"No. I've tried explaining before. I can't See a clear future anymore. There is no additional reason to fear the worst."

"Let me see if I can help." Peng put his rice cake down beside his teabowl and steepled his fingers, bringing them to his lips. "It can be hypothesised that in reality there are very many countless universes. Each created as a branch when any significant decision is made. One where the choice was in one direction and its parallel in which the alternative occurred. This means that somewhere there is a Peng who isn't The Exalted. A universe in which Athanor-san is already passed over and you twins did not come to Chyo Ku. Seers and other proleptics experience the flow of time and awareness beyond the discursive or divergent points to the more probable future. Now, in fact, all possibilities will occur. Our predictions are irrelevant and meaningless except that the stream of consciousness that you call Dan or Ran believes there is a continuity of experience and existence and I, - we, can foretell the future continuity. The truth is that we are both right and wrong at one and the same time, whatever we say. I know that this is difficult to comprehend but it is the way it is. The key is that time doesn't exist. It is a construction of the living mind to give order and sequence to an otherwise ineffable eternal Now. Our minds will not tolerate chaos and try to give meaning to our consciousness. For non-proleptics, the future is generally unknowable - all have some slight proleptic sense. For Seers and psychics, there is a glimpse of the most likely extrapolated continuity for the consciousness with which we identify. What Athanor, Mon, all the others and I are experiencing now are glimpses of the semperternal chaos. We cannot partial out the likely from the possible. Thinking of the future, say, the outcome of our struggles against the Panoplia of Darkness, - as you call them, then all I see is that both we win and we lose. It doesn't matter which because, ultimately, the final outcome - if there can be said to be anything that is final when time has no meaning, - the final outcome is complete balance, yin and yang."

He took up the cake and crammed it into his mouth and moistened it with a sip of hot tea. He spoke around the soggy cake until he had chance to swallow it.

"Before you ask me, for what it's worth, I believe that the mages will win this battle for us all. I believe that Gorian-san and Kelorian-san will both be healed. My belief, my hope - no promises, no predictions. However, my hopes and faiths are perhaps more reliable than those that others hold."

The mention of Kel made Ran blush as he had been fantasising about Peng.

Oleg laid siege.

"How long can they last out?" Osmund still had a headache and it gave him some slight pleasure to note Oleg's discomfiture.

"Who can say? It depends on how large their stores are. We can live off the land for months. I doubt if they have food for that long."

"Months! We aren't staying here for months. I intend going home within a week or two."

"You will do as you will, Your Reverence. I and the men will see this through."

Under the cover of darkness, a snake slithered into the tent and coiled in a dimly lit corner.

In the university refectory, the mages held a council of war. All the mages and students plus most of the nobility were present, enjoying a hearty meal. The meal ended, Lyri rose to address them.

"It is our best guess that they have decided to lay siege. They intend to starve us out. As far as I can ascertain, we have six weeks of food at least. They, of course, have access to our fields and farms. They can outwait us. On the other hand, we can spoil their food, make it putrid and foul. Better still, those of us with levitation and psychokinetic skills can move food that they have gathered and gleaned and replenish our stores. Eventually, they will have to give in and go home."

Myriel looked uncertain. "It's as simple as that? I wonder. We have around a thousand mouths to feed. None of us, excepting maybe yourself, can levitate and transport more than a handful of material at a time. Look how we have exhausted ourselves today."

Lyrian was irritated at the implied criticism but managed to remain controlled. He could grant that the magister had a point. "Yes. I must concede that you're right. But, if we begin now rather than wait until we are running out of food, we will be capable of keeping abreast of our consumption."

"I don't wish to be negative, Lyrian." Lyri tightened his jaw as Ella joined in what he saw as unreasonable carping. She remained undaunted by his dirty look. "But say there are five of us who can do as you suggest then we each have to transport two hundred meals-worth per day ‑ more like six hundred if we are to feed people three times a day. That's ten hours hard work per day doing nothing else. Not impossible but rather taxing."

Lyri opened his mouth to speak but Algy beat him to it. Lyri was amazed, resentful and then grateful at what Algy said.

"You are, of course, quite correct. But, if Lyri will allow me to explain what was in his mind. We do not each snatch food from them independently of one another. We work as a team. Say, one guiding and the other four lifting. We would take turns for the role of guidance. The lifters then have only to concentrate on one thing."

"Almost but not quite, Algy." Lyri had taken his partner's idea and extrapolated it. "The trajectory guide need not be a teleporter or levitator. We can form teams with complementary talents and experience."

There were many nods and murmurs of approval.

Jenian frowned. "We were discussing what it must feel like for you. Helping each other to understand. We are well aware of your concerns about what may or may not be said when we reach Chyo Ku tomorrow."

"I didn't think......"

"No, you didn't. Jenian's known you from being a small boy. I am a psychic who has loved you in this life and others before. Don't you realise that there are parts of you like an open book to us without you speaking of it? We just want to help and support you. You shut us out."

Gorian was chagrined at Shyo's rebuke and replied in a surly tone. "Sorry. I saw no point in discussing it."

Jenian held up his hand. "Boys, boys! We are friends. We care about each other. No need for reproach and defence. Gorian we understand, imperfectly, incompletely but we do understand. And we forgive you for not letting us get close on this. Just see if you can allow yourself to open up a little more, eh?"

<<You seem pleased with yourself>>

Taliset was amused at Lyri's tone of thought.

<<And why not? The Algothans haven't a hope of starving us to our knees. We can wait it out>>

<<I wouldn't calculate your yield before the reaction has commenced>>

<<Eh??>>

<<Sorry. You're not a chemist. It's funny how talking to you takes me back to my youth. No doubt it is your relationship to me. It also makes me discontented as I recall being fully human. Anyway, let me put it this way ‑ don't boast of your harvest before you've reaped it>>

<<Oh, I see. But are you saying that I've overlooked something? Do you know of a way in which they might win?>>

Spitefully, Taliset appeared to giggle. <<Oh, father, wouldn't you like to know? Have I overlooked something, he asks. Lyrian, you are always overlooking things. Shall we just say that there are ways in which you can be defeated? Perhaps you should consider that I might not be entirely on your side>>

<<But ... but you've got to be. That's your ...>>

<<Oops, careful what you say. Don't annoy me. I didn't say that I wouldn’t protect you>>

Lyri sighed with relief. Panic had begun to rise within him. He heard her laughter in his head.

<<Had you worried, hadn't I? Well, daddy dearest, don't let go of your uncertainty yet. It's my turn to have fickle and cruel changes of mood>>

<<What mood are you in now?>>

<<Can't you tell? Playful, teasing, ‑ quite good on the whole. Why? Don't tell me. Let me guess. Could it be something to do with my guest?>>

<<Why don't you release Myrissa? She isn't really suitable for your plans>>

<<True enough>> Taliset mused, lazily. <<But then, who is? Maybe I will, maybe I won't. You'll have to wait and see. Do you know the tale of Rumpelstiltskin?>>

Lyri was nonplussed by the sudden change in the conversation. <<Yes. Isn't it the one where the little man helps the woman with her impossible task in exchange for her first born? And if she can guess his name then he won't take the baby from her>>

<<That's the one>>

<<Well?>>

<<Well, what?>>

<<Why are you asking?>>

<<I told you. You remind me of my childhood>>

<<I gave you life but then you feel that I took it away from you again>>

Lyri received no further answers that day.

When The Serpent changed into human form, all shrank back in fear, except Oleg and Thorkild, who were very surprised but unshocked.

Oleg recovered first. "Let me introduce you all to ...... what do you call yourself, this time? Well, anyway, Thor and I have met Mr Herpes, Mr Serpent, before. He's helped us in the past."

Osmund and Oswin were repeatedly crossing themselves and muttering prayers under their breath. The others in the tent shook and backed away from the changer.

"You ssseem to be in ssssome need of asssissstance again, I ssssee." The long narrow dark tongue flickered around his thin lips.

"No, I can't say that I agree. We have successfully besieged them."

"Perhapsss. We sssshall sssee."

Thorkild felt frustrated. "Out with it. You're telling us that the mages can foil us."

"It'ssss not my plassssse to tell you anything. I sssuggessst that you may need my help again."

"You didn't complete the job." Oleg was irritated with the way in which The Serpent was toying with them.

Osmund querulously interrupted before the ophidian changer could reply in defence.

"What dealings have you had with this..... this .... person? What help is he referring to?"

The Serpent smiled widely and thinly. "I wasssss meant to kill Duke Algorian. I almosssst sssucceeded. Firssst I had to unmage him and I got interrupted in the processs."

Osmund rose unsteadily to his feet. "It was you! Oleg, I demand an explanation."

"Oh, sit down and shut up!" Oleg waved a dismissive hand at the archbishop, who slumped down again. "What help do you propose offering this time? And I hope that it is not as incomplete as before."

"The magesss are capable of foiling the sssseige. I won't go into all the many magic waysss. Sssso, if I could help you find a way into the csssssity ...... do I make myssself clear?"

The archbishop was thinking. He recalled how Satan himself appeared as a serpent. On the other hand, anyone who opposed the evil that the mages did could not be himself evil. Or could he? Perhaps this creature was evil and the mages were, ‑ well, not innocent exactly but perhaps not evil either. The more that he thought about it the more convinced he felt that his first impressions were correct. This was an emissary from Hell and they should not yield to temptation. "Shun him!" The unexpectedness of the ejacul*tion surprised even Osmund himself.

He rallied. "We must have no truck with this creature. I thought that the Lord had delivered the young Crown Duke but now I see that he was wronged. This is an instrument of evil and therefore it might be that we are unwise to side with him against the mages."

"He is siding with us not we with him. All is fair in war. I for one will take whatever aid I require or am offered." Oleg was not about to let an advantage slip through his fingers.

Oswin looked from one to the other, undecided. He knew that this was a convenient let out for the fat old wimp of a pontiff. However, there was no mistaking Osmund's sincere belief that this was the Devil incarnate. Oswin was inclined to a similar view. What he couldn't easily relinquish was the belief that magic was evil.

Thorkild was feeling much clearer. He had never been happy with associating with this Serpent creature. He hated Gorian for what had happened to his brother and strongly disapproved of magic. Thorkild was a pious and fanatical man who let his religiosity distort his thinking but he was fair, on the whole. He had long ago, admitted to himself that Elric was partly to blame for what had happened. Now, to use sin to fight sin was not in keeping with his sense of holy decency and right. The archbishop was correct. We should never have had any dealing with this monster in the first place.

Thorkild moved to stand behind Osmund.

"His Holiness is right. I cannot condone any further dealings with this abomination. I ask God's mercy and forgiveness that I ever saw fit to deal with this evil."

Oswin's mind was made up. He stood to join the rather small army of God.

"Fools! Idiots! Blind religious maniacs!" Oleg was beside himself with contempt and rage. "Go! Go back to Algotha. If you hurry you will catch up with Algarn's cortège. I will do what I must. I will defeat these mages and return triumphant for my coronation."

He didn't wait for any reply. Oleg swept out of the tent with The Serpent in his wake. More than half of the others followed. Those remaining in Osmund's tent exchanged tight little nervous smiles.

"Get packed! I'm going home and I won't wait until morning." The archbishop considered how he felt. Overall, he decided, he was relieved and rather pleased with himself.

CHAPTER TWENTY THREE

Insight, invasion, retraction and returning

The arrival of Jenian, Gorian and Shyo at Chyo Ku was hardly as spectacular and unexpected as that of the twins and Athanor. Nevertheless, it was extraordinary in its way.

Shyo had tumbled from his horse in his eagerness to reach the main building. He had sobered instantly on ringing the bell beside the door and was found kneeling on the steps. His quiet humility was a striking contrast to the exuberantly noisy running and skipping of a few moments earlier.

Gorian had worked himself up into a dreadful state of nerves. He had convinced himself that all his future hung in the balance and was both overexcited with anticipation and wretched in his hopelessness in rapid alternation. He stammered, stumbled, trembled and wept with a rather inane grin on his face.

Jenian was the only one of the three who approached the seers with anything like a normal and dignified attitude. Inside, he felt for the young men. So many of their hopes and fears could be realised or dashed here.

He took charge of the conversations as Shyo was silent and Gorian was incoherent to the point of incomprehensibility. The mage laid his hand on Gorian's shoulder and sent calming impulses to him.

"Perhaps, under the circ*mstances, you are expecting us. This is Crown Duke Algorian of Algotha; this is Shyoku Mei, an aspirant seer and psychic; and I am Prince Jenian of Kelinor, a mage of Taliset."

The young woman, who had answered the door in response to Shyo’s summoning bell, merely smiled politely and nodded. She walked a few steps and then paused, as they had not begun to follow. She turned and beckoned and led them down a corridor. She stopped outside an unornamented door and spoke for the first time.

"The Exalted will see you. Please enter." She bowed and left them.

It was clear to Jenian that neither of the other two could move. He, himself, had heard of Mon and was somewhat excited by the prospect. By all accounts, she was very ancient and badly crippled. She had the reputation of being irritable and, even when not, she was likely to be cool and distant.

He knocked gently and opened the door. A handsome young man, about as old as Shyo, sat cross‑legged on a large cushion facing the door. He raised his eyes, smiled and fluidly rose to his feet. Jen entered and bowed, sensing that the lads were bowing just a step or two behind him.

"Welcome." The young man's voice was warm and pleasant. "Prince Jenian. Emperor Algorian. Shyoku Mei."

This was the first time that Jen had heard any Eastman pronounce their names without mangling the phonemes and without the honorific "San".

"We would like to have audience with The Exalted, if we may."

"You may, of course. Unfortunately, I am sorry to disappoint you. You were expecting Her Serenity, Mon‑san, perhaps. She has passed. You must make do with me. I am Peng, the new Exalted."

"Your Serenity, please forgive our rudeness."

"You were not rude. Come. Draw up cushions. Sit."

No sooner had they settled than the young woman brought in a teapot and cups, on a tray laden with crisp biscuits. When she had withdrawn, Peng poured their drinks and handed round the plate of biscuits. Shyo and Gorian were scarcely capable of holding their cups let alone taking something to eat.

"Oh dear. I keep expecting Shyo to do full obeisance at my feet and kiss my toes. There is no need to be so frightened and humble, my friend. We are almost alike in age and I am told that you are an excellent channel to the spirits."

"I can vouch for that, even though I have not known Shyo long." Jen nodded in Shyo's direction then took sip of tea. "This is so welcome. You have no idea how dry and tiring it is to travel here."

"Oh, but yes, I think that I do. I remember coming here not long ago."

"Poor Gorian, my friend. Please relax. I shall neither disappoint you nor give you exactly what you hope for. But I think that you will be relieved."

Gorian looked at the young man who was not much older than he was. Here is the most important seer in the world and he is calling me friend. Suddenly, as he let go of his conflicting feelings, Gorian recalled how he'd been greeted. He sat bolt upright, eyes wide and feeling distinctly sick in his stomach.

"You called me Emperor."

Peng gave a sympathetic look. "Yes. I was tactless. The word just slipped out before I could think to stop myself. It is probably a shock but your grandfather passed. You are now the Emperor. Quick, Shyo, your friend is about to pass out. Let him lie flat until he feels better."

Shyo and Peng gently lowered Gorian to the floor. He reclined there, light‑headed and woozy, as he tried to follow the conversation.

"I did not mean to be insensitive but for me a death is nothing. It is only the meat and bones, the soul lives ever on." He patted Gorian’s leg. "We shall talk more when you feel better. First, to the easy bit. Shyo, in case you haven't grasped the import of my previous words, you are welcome to train here as seer and psychic. I'm afraid, though, that you will have a long wait before you will take my place. Yes, my friend, you will be The Exalted when I pass. My guides have told me so and I see that your guides are nodding in agreement. Jenian, I may call you thus? ‑ good. Jenian, I'm sorry to monopolise the conversation but ... well, the fact is that you only need my side of the dialogue. I have a fairly clear impression what you, that is you all, want from me."

Shyo was stunned. He felt bereft of the excitement he had been feeling. It had all been so matter of fact. Gorian raised himself up and took a sip, gingerly, from the cup.

"Feeling better? Good lad. Sorry, that was Mon's influence. I didn’t mean to sound patronising. OK, then, about this lost magedom. I don't think that you really expected me to restore it, though we do have some excellent psychic healers here. I do know that you will regain your contact with the Source. There are friends waiting for you here who will take you to someone who will help. That's better. Your aura is clearing nicely. Now, in case you don't already know. Your grandfather was accidentally killed in the siege of Taliset. How doesn’t really matter. Your parents and grandmother are taking his body home. Let me See, yes, a man called ... Oleg, yes, Oleg has assumed command. He is after your throne. He is in league with the creature that stole your magic away. Together they plot for the downthrow of Taliset. The archbishop and his followers have seen the evil in the creature and are returning to the north, too. Um, .... Ah, yes, ... Jenian you know that both the city and the young Prince Lyrian are contaminated with evil? Sorry state of affairs! The Dean of the University is in a coma; he somehow threatened Lyrian who psychically blasted him. I might as well tell you that it was the comatose man who let fly with some uncontrolled magic and killed Algarn. Jenian, Oh Jenian. I do wish that I could answer your question. We have discussed this at great length. Mon, Athanor and I but we cannot come to any conclusion. We cannot See how the conflict with the Evil Ones will resolve."

"You mean you speak with them from the spirit world?"

"No. We spoke before Mon‑san passed. Oh, I see from your face that you thought Athanor to be passed, too. Oh, no. You will meet him very soon."

"Then he is not a myth."

"I was amazed, also. It was incredible to meet him. Anyway, the three of us agree that things are drawing too close to the end for any seer to have clear Sight on it. Our guides are no better. I, personally, believe that they don't know either. Mon was more inclined to wonder if they were keeping quiet about it."

"Sorry to interrupt but you said there were people here to take me to someone who would restore me."

Peng frowned and shrugged as if a little uncomfortable about what Gorian was saying. "Well, it's not exactly what I said. This way of living makes me very pedantic. People hear what they want to hear and I have to be firm about what I am precisely saying. In this case, I think it only fair to let you interpret it as meaning that. I didn’t mean to imply that it was simply a question of being taken somewhere and being given your powers back. I'm told that it is near enough not to require a quibble. You'll be interested in this, Jenian. The archmage twins have travelled here to consult with Mon, ‑ they just caught her before she left. They had successfully sought Athanor who insisted that they came here to meet you. In their travels they have met a remarkable young cousin of yours ‑ theirs too, of course. He is an archmage who has been taught telepathically and has had accelerated development. I don't know why it wasn't done before. It is how we train one another. If you mages had asked us we would have advised it. This child may, can I emphasise that, may be able to help you. I don't mean to rush you and I've given you lots to take in but I’m rather busy. I'll get someone to show you to your rooms. You can have rest and a bath and you will be collected again to dine with me. Athanor and the twin princes are in rooms close by to yours in the guest wing."

It wasn't until much later that Elissa, Elgora and Hollian began to take note of the sequence of events and suspect that the universe was reiterating a message.

No more than five or six hours from Taliset a wheel came off the funerary carriage. There didn't appear to any reason why this should have occurred. The linchpin had snapped but looked neither worn nor deliberately damaged. Some suggested it was magic but Elissa declared this to be arrant rubbish. It was easily mended, Elissa having no compunction now about using her Powers.

By nightfall, both Elgora's and Hollian's horses were lame. Nothing was discovered to be wrong but each horse limped all the same. The cortège party camped early that night. In the morning, the mounts were as right as rain, again.

These delays added to the generally slower progress of the party so that, by late morning, the archbishop and the others, who felt uneasy about the siege or the alliance with the ophidian man, had caught them up.

"To what do we owe this dubious pleasure? Respect for the dead or are we to be escorted back to Taliset? If the latter, where are all your troops? I see only a score with you, Osmund." Hollian held the archbishop in contempt and wouldn't spare him the knowledge of it.

Oswin appeared ready to rebuke the duke for disrespect but the archbishop silenced him with a stern look and the priest subsided in the saddle.

"Peace, Duke Hollian. We are not enemies."

"Really? You surprise me. I thought that we were. Satanic. Apostates. Anathemata. Witches. Don't tell me that I'd misunderstood or misheard you."

Osmund struggled down from his horse and one by one his companions all began to dismount.

"Perhaps it is unreasonable of me to expect otherwise but you're not making this easy for me. Your Graces, could we pause to discuss things. It's not possible to conduct a sensible and satisfactory conversation at a trot."

"We have no wish to make things less difficult for you. It also begs the question whether one can have a sensible conversation with a bigot astride a horse or on foot."

Elissa held up her hand to silence her son-in-law and slid down from her horse.

"Come, we'll take a break. These people need to explain themselves. And I am too tired, too emotionally numbed, to do with continuing animosities."

They all tethered their horses and sat around on the grass.

"I think that I owe you an apology, Your Majesty." Osmund's hand swept to include the duke and duch*ess. Both Oswin and von Trelheim opened their lips to object but he silenced them. "You two can say what you will later. I have decided to express my regrets for making a mistake. I need neither your support nor permission. As I was saying, I am accepting that I was wrong to condemn you, out of hand, as I did and to urge Algarn to declare war on Taliset. I hope that you will forgive me. If we may, we'd like to travel back to Algothenberg with you."

Bitterness would have led Hollian and Elgora to refuse his apology but, once more, Elissa took charge. "We recognise how difficult it must have been to retract like that. We would be churlish if we didn't receive it graciously without prejudice." The duke and duch*ess had the grace to look slightly chastened. "It intrigues me, though, to wonder what brought you to reconsider your opinion of us."

Thorkild got in before the archbishop could answer. "For me, it was the fact that it would appear that the very same serpent-like creature who attacked Crown Duke Algorian is now offering help to Oleg in entering the city. I consider him far more evil than you or the mages of Taliset. It is logical, therefore, to judge that if evil is on your side then your opponents are, if not blameless, then not entirely evil. I could not, in conscience, stay. Whatever my feelings about what happened between my brother and the Crown Duke, I have had to admit that I have been blinded by personal sentiments and may even have misunderstood The Lord's teaching on the use of wit -ur, magic powers. They can be used for both good or ill and are, in themselves, better regarded as morally neutral."

Elgora leaned forward and poked the air in front of Thorkild. "Von Trelheim, you raise so many points that I wish to speak to. I am gratified by this volte-face but must point out that your brother must accept his responsibilities in the matter that you refer to. My main concern is this assassin who first tries to kill my son and now attacks Taliset. We must stop him."

"My dear, there is little we can do. My duty, yours too, is to take your father back. There are ways into the city and by now Oleg will know them. It remains to Taliset herself to deal with it." Elissa's voice broke. "If she doesn't then it falls to our cousins to defend themselves even if it means breaking oath."

The archbishop was puzzled. "Break oath? What oath is this?"

Patiently, with just an edge of resentment, Hollian explained that mages vow not to use magic to do harm.

"But they did!" Oswin tried to score the point. "The Emperor, His Holiness, The Empress and your wife."

Hollian brushed away the objection like a fly. "It was all accident and miscalculation. The whole of that battle was a sham, an improvised firework show. The ladies got tired and let their attention slip. You must remember they have had no practice in using their magical skills. The bolt that killed Algarn and singed the archbishop was another matter. They are just as saddened as we, ...... well, except that we have the personal grief, of course. A mage has been attacked by evil and wasn't aware that he sent out a bolt of uncontrolled Power."

"Another victim of this snake villain, I wean." Osmund interjected.

"Not in this case, Archbishop, but perhaps not entirely unrelated in root cause." Elissa decided that to give a full explanation would merely fuel the fires of imagined magical evil. “Anyway,” she excused herself, “I don't know the full details.”

Thorkild picked up the earlier disclosure. "The war of spells was fake. That is what Duke Hollian said, wasn't it?"

"Indeed. We are bound on oath not to use magic offensively; never to use it to harm non-mages and effectively this means that no harm is done by mages. That is what concerned us, apart from the moral outrage that we felt, when you forced a condition of war. We knew that Taliset had no militia and that only defensive magic was permitted. Elgora and I hoped that our display would be sufficiently impressive to discourage further offensives."

The margrave still felt his doubts. "But what of the massacres of two or three years ago? That was hardly harmless defence. And isn't the man still at large in Taliset?"

He sat back with a smug sense of self-satisfaction. Whilst able to grant that most mages were not as sinful as he had formerly believed, Thorkild had justified his earlier support of the war - at least to his conscience.

Hollian groaned and Elgora sighed, shaking her head as she acknowledged the lost ground.

Lyri unwrapped Loveblade, unsheathed him and kissed his blade, as he reclined against the living throne of Taliset.

<<Put that damned thing away! It's dangerous>>

<<No! I love him. How can he be dangerous? Ran made him so that he can't harm me. >>

<<Can you be so arrogant to assume that I'm merely concerned with harm to you? Get rid of it! Or at the very least keep the thing away from me>> Her tone became soft yet edged with menace. <<Do not forget that you're no longer just you. You cannot rely on spells, which may no longer recognise you>> The threat in her voice grew. <<Do as I say, Lyrian! Or I shall let the enemy in>>

<<You wouldn't. You mustn't>>

Her tone was suddenly childlike. <<If Daddy doesn't be nice, I will be naughty. I might hurt my little friend, Myrissa. She's not my friend anymore. Get me a new dolly to play with, Daddy>>

<<What do you mean? I'll do whatever you say>>

His placatory tone cut no ice and Taliset continued resentfully. <<You abandoned me as a child. Where were you, when I needed you? Where are you, when I need you now?>>

<<What do you need of me?>>

<<I need you to be enthroned. We must be joined. You owe it to me. I couldn't be close to you all those millennia ago but I can now>>

<<When the twins return>>

<<No. Now. This minute. Sit on the throne! Unite with me!>>

<<Soon. Soon, my love. You will not need to wait long>>

<<Get me a replacement for Myrissa and I'll let her go. Perhaps even unharmed. Djinn will be an ideal gift. Get me the little Arab archmage>>

<<I can't>>

<<You mean that you won't. I'm letting them in. The Algothans are in the lower levels>>

<<That's why I have Loveblade with me>>

<<You mustn't use it. Please, Lyri, you must believe me. It frightens me, Daddy>>

<<It's your job to defend us. Keep them out. It's your duty>>

<<Oh dear! Oops! False move. Not a good idea to say that, was it? Sore point, father - my dear youthful, callow, inexperienced boy-Daddy. You're not being very nice to your little girl. Rumpelstiltskin is my name. Rumpelstiltskin. Did you guess?>>

Lyri was horrified. It seemed that Lisette had become psychotic. He wandered if she had let the Algothans in or if she was toying with him.

<<Why do you refer to Rumpelstiltskin? It's the second time. Oh, my god!>>

<<Yes. Yes. Yes! He's not as stupid as he seems, this Daddy-boy. The little man wanted the princess's firstborn. Just as you gave your firstborn to Fate. I've more than fulfilled my destiny, father. Let me resign! I've had more than enough. You will give me your firstborn as my successor>>

Lyri was confused. She was his firstborn, as she said. Did she intend that he must father another child and give it to her? <<How can I? I'm consorted to another man. We can't have children. Or, ........ Can you mean that somehow I impregnate you?? >>

<<No, no! What a stupid child! Promise to give me the first child that you next conceive. Promise as the most sacred and binding oath that you can>>

<<You'll release Myrissa?>>

<<Yes, soon, very soon>>

<<You'll defend us against the Algothans?>>

<<Too late for that! They're already in>>

<<What do you mean “Too late">>

<<I mean that I've already decided that I'll let them in. I shan't change my mind. Now, do I have your promise on oath or not?>>

Lyrian shrugged. What harm could it do, if Myrissa would be released? It wasn't a promise that could mean anything. He wasn't going to have any children. <<Yes. You have my promise on solemn oath>>

<<Goody, goody! And don't forget the sword. Give it away. Get rid of it. It'll destroy you, if you don't. It'll only protect the Lyrian you were not the Lyrian you've become. If you won't destroy it then give it to Algorath. The way he feels now about harming people, you can depend on him not to use it>>

Lyri left her. Wrapped in his thoughts, he considered what she'd said about Loveblade. No, he couldn't destroy it. Loveblade was part of him. By the time that he reached their apartments, he'd made his decision.

Two young women came to lead the arrivals away from Peng - one taking Shyo in the opposite direction. As she linked her hand in the crook of his arm, she confided that after a few days The Exalted himself would train Shyo and have him as his personal servant. She laughed lightly and gave him a quizzical look when he asked if that implied anything particularly personal. Shyo was concerned that having left the geishi that he was landing himself back in the same role. The woman assured him that The Exalted was not known to take male lovers. He felt her fingers squeeze a little on his forearm.

"This will be your room, for now." She opened the door into a small clean room with a futon, cushion and small clothing chest. "The bathhouse is just around the corner. Once you've tuned yourself telepathically to His Serenity, he will move you to a room closer to his. You're most fortunate." The envy in her voice was evident but balanced by awe in the way that she regarded him.

"I know. Xiéxié." He smiled at her and was rewarded by a grin, which lit up her oval face, turning it from merely pleasant to very pretty.

"I'll come back in a couple of hours to ensure you find your way."

The same woman who'd answered the door to them, showed Jen and Gorian to the guest wing. Their room had two partitioned sleeping areas and a small living area. The walls were painted with pink and gold cranes, the centre panel of one wall sliding open into a cramped bathroom with small hot tub.

"The two wizard princes are in the next room. I'll call back at dinner time, if you require me, but they know the way."

"Then you needn't trouble yourself, xiéxié. And Athanor? Is he here in the wing?"

She frowned briefly and shrugged. "The Ancient One cares not for indoor comforts. He insists on sleeping in the garden."

When she'd gone, Jen put an arm around Gorian. "Feeling happier, Gorian?"

Gorian snuggled against his tutor's shoulder. "A bit mixed. I was never comfortable with grandpa but I'm sorry he's dead, particularly for Nanna Elissa. This is not the time for me to be emperor, Jen. Even with my powers restored - can it really be true? Will I get them back?"

"That's what The Exalted Peng implied. He wouldn't give you false hope. Do you want to bath first or shall I? The tub's too small for two."

Gorian pulled away and grinned. "I remember the last time that I shared a small bath. It's just as well that we don't bathe together, thanks all the same. You go first."

Elissa felt her eyes prickle with unshed tears at Thorkild's reminder of the slaughter of mages by Algorath.

"That was undoubtedly evil. I, -we, lost almost all our relatives in that wholesale slaughter." Her eyes narrowed at the apparent shift in many of the men before her back towards their bigotry. She allowed the smile to grow on her face at the way Thorkild had led to her ace. "That was the work of your snake friend, von Trelheim. He caught Algorath in his warp and corrupted his thinking. Fortunately, the lad has since been rehabilitated. It would seem that at the heart of attacks against mages, - Taliset, my grandson and now Taliset again, is one person. That embodiment of ancient evil and seduction from the truth is Mr Serpent. I'm glad that you all see him for the satanic emissary that he undoubtedly is."

She was pleased to note the interplay of emotions on their faces, including the admiration of her daughter and son-in-law.

"Majesty, you have dispelled and confounded whatever lingering doubts we may have entertained about the wisdom and rightness of our decision to travel home with you." Osmund was unctuous, shooting glances reproachfully at Oswin and Thorkild in particular.

The atmosphere between the groups was not exactly cordial - in fact, Hollian remained resentful, but the rest of the journey passed without major breach of politesse. They reached Algor with Elgora and Elissa, more or less, recovered from their physical hurts.

Algorath looked up as Lyri entered the room. His smile was grim.

"What did she say? Will she let Myrissa go?"

Lyri nodded. "Yes. Maybe not immediately but she will."

"Great! Well done, darling. Er. What's the matter? You don't seem pleased. Are you worried by something?"

Lyri kissed Algy's brow. "Oh, yes, I'm pleased about that but Taliset is going to let the Algothans in. She refuses to defend us. Lord and Lady know why. I think that she's finally gone mad. She's even more moody and unpredictable than I am. Much of what she says no longer makes much sense. Having said that, I feel that in some twisted way, she might have been telling me something very important."

Algy looked expectantly at his lover. "Such as?"

"Well, for one thing, she made me promise on binding oath to give her our first-born child. She knows that two men can't conceive. Anyway, I gave my oath in exchange for Myrissa.""

Algy frowned and directly faced Lyri. "Let us be perfectly clear. Take it step by step. Did she say your first child or ours? It's not the same thing, you know. She may intend you to father a child on some woman and sacrifice it to take over her role as the city."

Lyri sat down suddenly, Loveblade across his lap. Absentmindedly, he caressed the scabbard and wrapping cloth. "Mine not ours. sh*t! I thought I was safe in making the promise. Not very bright of me, eh? How can I force some girl to carry my child and give it over to Taliset? I'll have to give it more thought later. There must be a way out of it. Anyway, she also told me to give Loveblade to you."

He patted the seat beside him and, when Algy had sat, placed Loveblade in Algy's lap, closing Algy's hands over it. "Why? I don't want it. What would I want with a sword?" He thrust it back at Lyri, who just as insistently pushed it away again.

"Ah, well, she was not clear on that but I think I've worked it out. Apparently, she thinks Loveblade doesn't recognise the contaminated me. He will defend me against attack - the real me. If, or perhaps that should be when, I am consumed by the Panoplia, his task is to destroy my enemies." He gripped Algy's hands tightly in his, causing his partner to wince. "I want to exact a promise from you. Just as binding and irrevocable as you can. Will you? Promise me"

Algy looked deeply into Lyri's eyes. There was no madness, no distortion, - only earnest hope. "I'll promise anything, .... - within reason. You know that, my love. What is it you want me to do? Just say it and I'll do it."

"When I say the time has come, I want you to take Loveblade and run me through with him. The words to wait for are - The time has come. Do you understand? When you hear me say those words, run me through with him."

Algy pushed the sword towards Lyri, who didn't take it and it fell to the floor. He shrank back, shaking his head. "No! You can't ask me to do this. It's crazy. I can't. I won't."

Lyri had anticipated this refusal and was prepared with the counter argument. It meant a lie but this was an important task that had to be done. He was the sacrifice that had to be made if they had any chance of defeating the Evil Ones. He steadied himself and persuaded Algy.

"If you don't all will be lost. Really, darling. There's nothing to fear. Remember Ran impaled me when he cast the spell. The sword is dedicated to me. He can't harm me. He's my protector." Lyri grasped Algy's hand and squeezed firmly, as if the pressure in his fingers lent weight to his persuasion. "Recall, too, the words of the angel in the ritual. Your role and destiny are not over. You will be called upon to destroy the thing you love." Algy turned away and tensed. Lyri's fingertips brought his chin back to face him again. "But it won't be like that. You know that the spirit world often speaks in half-truths to confuse us. It will seem that you have to kill me but with this sword you can't. It is designed to avoid hurting me. You can promise me this without qualm. I'll be fine. You will be striking a blow to release me from the Panoplia. You will be saving me. You may strike with impunity."

Algy didn't know whether to believe Lyri or not but what he said made some sort of sense. He had to trust him. After all they'd been through, he had to trust in something to resolve it all. Slowly, he bent to pick up Loveblade. At first his touch was tentative and squeamish but then he decided, more firmly clutching it to him.

"Very well, darling. I'll do as you say. I promise that when you say I'll run you through with him."

Not long later, whilst Gorian was in the tub, the twins called and introduced themselves.

"We were told that you'd arrived. Are we at an inopportune time?" Ran was polite and a little restrained. He couldn't recall ever meeting Jenian before.

"No, not really. Emperor Algorian is bathing. Do come in."

A voice called from behind the screen wall. "Is that the Taliset twins? Tell them I won't be long."

"Take your time, cousin." Dan loudly replied, more friendly than his brother. "Sorry to hear about your granddad. We heard it was an unfortunate accident."

"They shouldn't have been there in the first place." Jenian sounded extremely annoyed. "Pity that it hasn't put them off. They still intend besieging the city with the help of a changer."

"Yes, a snaky villain who tried to kill me and succeeded in unmaging me." Gorian yelled through the wall.

The twins looked at each other and groaned audibly.

"What is it? Do you know of him?" Jenian picked up on their concern.

"Assuredly, Uncle Jenian. He was Algorath's chancellor. He knows the city better than most, including the secret passages through the cliff." Dan was almost in tears.

"Don't upset yourself, Dan. Taliset can defend herself." Ran was not entirely convinced by his own reassurances.

Gorian slid back the panel and entered, a towel knotted at his waist. "Hello. Hardly a dignified entrance, is it?" He noted Dan's friendly grin and the extra interest in Raniel's eyes. Ran coloured slightly and looked away. So, he has a boyfriend, in all probability. Suddenly, the truth was planted in his head. He rounded on Ran, the accusation melting into a more compassionate tone.

"It was your Kelorian who killed my grandfather, wasn't it? At least, we can all take some comfort in believing it to be a sign that your lover is in the process of recovering."

Jenian was startled, - more so than the twins.

"Oh, do shut your mouth, Jenian. You look like a fish out of water." The shock caused Raniel to be less than diplomatic. He apologised for his rudeness and turned back to Gorian. "Thank you. It is most interesting that you have partially compensated by developing your clairvoyance. I might add that you have our heartfelt sympathy for your loss - your magedom, I meant. The very thought terrifies me. Kel was one of the few who might have been able to help you. Sadly, I suspect that your encouraging remark was over-optimistic. Yes, I'm sure that he is slowly improving but it will be some significant time before he could attempt to heal you." Ran brightened, his face transformed by his awed respect for Djinn. "Fortunately, our young cousin Djinn and his uncle can probably help both you and Kel. A truly exceptional child. You'll meet him soon enough."

Dan giggled and chipped in. "I don't mean to insult you but I think that he'll challenge your cultural expectations."

"Now, just wait a minute. Don't jump to conclusions, Daniel." Jenian leapt to defend Gorian. "Gorian has never really been typically Algothan. With me as tutor, he couldn't hold out for long. However, more importantly, his enslavement and experiences in this country have removed much of what still remained of the boorishly arrogant Norseman." He looked towards his ex-student, who was hesitating about dropping his towel in front of at least two who had a sexual interest in him. "My dear Gorian, for goodness sake, stop dithering and get dressed. You're more alluring for Raniel and I in all your semi-naked vulnerability than if you were to simply drop that damned towel and got on with it."

Jen's words broke the embarrassment and those who cared to look were treated to the sight of a very attractive naked youth. Though not for long as Gorian was soon fully dressed. Jenian excused himself to their guests and began to prepare for his bath.

Hollian's parents had mixed feelings, as one might expect. Pleased that this group had left the fray; sorry that the war continued; sharing in the grief of Algarn's death; pleased to see them so soon; and satisfied to hear the archbishop take much of the blame away from Hollian in respect to the war. Indeed, Osmund was instrumental in facilitating the reconciliation of Hollian with his parents.

In the recounting of the events of the journey, Elgora made the throwaway comment that it was almost as if they were being dissuaded from returning north. Everyone took the remark lightly and no more was said or consciously thought about it. That night came the dreams.

"I had an interesting dream last night." Hollian helped himself to an extra portion of grilled ham. "Gorian was made Warden of Taliset. The coronation banquet was eaten with those sticks things the Eastmen use."

Elissa lowered the loaded fork from her mouth. "Curiously, I, too, dreamt of Gorian. He was riding a camel and everyone kept bowing to him. I curtsied and he asked me why the two of you had not come to meet him. I didn't know where you were and said that I had to leave as his grandfather would be looking for me."

Elgora paled and gripped her husband's arm. "We must go back to Taliset. I'm sorry, mother, we can't escort Daddy home. The wheel, the lame horses, the shooting stars that headed back to Taliset and now the dreams. We are being told to return there."

"I don't recall anyone mentioning shooting stars." Elissa was querulous.

Elgora shrugged. "It didn't seem important at the time. Hollian and I saw a whole shower of meteorites travelling back to Taliset. Mummy, you two were not the only ones to dream. In mine, a small Arab boy kept tugging at my clothing. I was trying to shake free of him and he repeatedly asked me to come with him as the Emperor was coming. I told him that my father was the Emperor and he said that he didn't mean that one but the new one. I ran away from him and found Gorian lying in a coffin. He sat up and said that he was going to Taliset and asked if I was coming. Can't you see? Gorian is travelling to Taliset and we must meet him there."

Elissa nodded. "How many times does the universe have to repeat its message before we listen. But what of Algarn? I can't leave him."

"Well, actually, I was thinking of Hollian and me. But we have the same dilemma. Oh Hollian, what a choice. Escort Daddy home or go to meet Gorian."

Hollian frowned. "Let's be rational about this. We don't know anything about Gorian or his plans. Algarn, on the other hand, is waiting to be escorted home."

Lygor looked pained and exasperated. "Hollian, don't be so stupid. You've lived away from spiritual influences for too long. It's clearly a message. Look, no one in Algotha knows yet that Algarn is dead. Those at Taliset are busy with their battles and machinations. Why not leave Algarn here until this is all sorted out? Elissa, do you think you and Elgora could work a stasis spell? That way there's no harm in going back to find Gorian. Oleg can't make any bid for the crown until the war is over. No need for Algotha to be without an emperor until Gorian comes back. They won't know unless somebody tells them." Lygor looked pointedly at Osmund and his company.

The archbishop shifted uncomfortably and took his time chewing and swallowing. "Well, this is rather awkward. I mean that it's my duty to tell the people. Though I must admit that I wasn't happy with Oleg being crowned. Nor do I feel safe with his nephew on the throne. Begging your pardon, Ma'am, but your niece's son is not imperial material. I suppose that I can keep a circ*mspect silence for a time."

Thorkild von Trelheim was torn. He wasn't keen on Oleg, or his puppet nephew, as emperor but the prospect of Gorian didn't thrill him, either. The lad was a pervert who had enticed and bewitched his younger brother into a compromising situation and then left him to be discovered and gang raped. Of course, Elric was spiritually weak or he wouldn't have succumbed. "I need to think on this. I've made no pretence of the fact that I have strong, - very strong reservations about Algorian. You've almost convinced me that being a mage might not be, in itself, a bad thing. However, Gorian ensorcelled Elric. He may not have meant harm or, if he did then, he broke your so-called oath. Be that as it may, he is no longer a mage. He is still reputed to have been schooled in the perversities of nature by his tutor. It is said that he and Prince Jenian were ..... I cannot say it for it shouldn't be spoken. It is an abomination in the eyes of The Lord. To have him as emperor is a poor reflection on Algotha. Nevertheless, Oleg is not a good man and his liaison with this serpentine creature further damns him. However, he may have been distorted like this Algorath of yours. Gorian is at best, to my mind, the lesser of evils. Still, what difference will a week or two make? I'll hold my tongue."

Oswin opened his mouth to speak, changed his mind and shut it again. No one seemed to notice.

Elissa thought it politic not to voice her anger towards what Thorkild had said. She flashed a warning glance at Hollian and slightly shook her head at him. "I've never had to do it but I'm sure Elgora and I can form some sort of incorruptibility spell for Algarn. It's a pity one can't protect the living from corruption, too. To be on the safe side, though, I suggest we place him in the coolest place you can find, - a cellar perhaps." She looked at Elgora and Hollian. "So, it looks as though we're returning to Taliset, then."

Long into the night the Archbishop, Thorkild and their companions discussed and argued. Most of the debate centred on the relative merits and demerits of Oleg and Gorian as emperor. Eventually, largely due to the insistence of Osmund, they agreed that on balance, it would be better to support Gorian and that could be best effected by returning to meet Gorian at Taliset.

Hollian was feeling so relieved at the renewed goodwill between him and his parents that he was welcoming towards the decision that the Fried Redes announced the next morning.

They found Shyo seated next to The Exalted. "He will practise linking with me. He is the only one who is unfamiliar with Western tongue. I know how that feels. Until I shared with Mon, I was unable to follow a conversation with my new friends." Peng grinned at the twins.

Athanor did not join them until after dinner and The Exalted Peng then turned the conversation to more serious matters. "Here is what I have Seen. Shyo is to become my companion. He is soon to share my duties. There can only be one Exalted but, in a couple of year's time, Shyo will be given a title to indicate his status as my equal. The five of you will go to Tirna and thereafter to Taliset via a visit to the Ked of Sabani. There will be a caravan of mages arriving at Taliset. Shortly after Lyrian's installation as Warden, the Next Conflict will be waged between the Panoplia and those to whom Fate has decreed a central part. No one can predict the outcome. If it's any reassurance, it will be a time for further balancing to take place. I See a magic sword and it will wound a mage. He will be no more. I don't See this outcome. I See the sword strike, pierce, and a spirit voice says that he is no more. Athanor-san, my venerable guest, have you anything further to add?"

The old seer drew a deep breath and slowly shook his head. "It is as you See, my child. All I know is that there is an end to Taliset. She also is no more. I will travel with you and keep Peng and Shyo in contact. I will not be there at the resolution of the conflict. At least, not in this body."

Dan shuddered and paled. "None of this sounds hopeful. Your words fill me with painful fear."

Peng held up his hand to halt the young archmage. "Do you know the Tarot? I see that you all do. Good! In the cards there is Death but his meaning can be rebirth, considerable change or the clearing away of the old for a fresh beginning. Take heart, Dan. What we See is often symbolic or metaphorical. Our skill is in the interpretation of the inner Tarot. With despair, there is certain defeat. Fear is good if it keeps you alert and aware of possible dangers. Don't let it either manacle you or lead you astray. Not all I See is negative, my friend. I See love for Gorian, an Empress to share his throne."

"Then I will be emperor?" Gorian butted in, excitedly.

"You are already so. But your crowning will come in the right time. Let me continue. We youngsters are concerned about finding love and you others are wondering whether it is only Gorian who finds it." Peng laughed to see them feel so transparent. It was a light, effervescent sound. "The twins have already found it. Your future partnerships are not without challenge but some measure of joy is yours, too. Shyo." He turned to look for a moment at his companion. Shyo shifted uncomfortably beneath the penetrating gaze. "Oh, my dear new friend! I am touched by your heartache. She is lost to you, though you will meet again. Be patient. Ummh. Yes. I am permitted to tell you this. You have already met your lover."

Shyo looked first to Peng and then to Gorian, and smiled wanly. Gorian took his hand and squeezed it. Peng giggled and shook his head.

"No, don't look at us. It is neither Gorian nor I. Your love relationship with us is karmic and belongs in the past. I See children so you can deduce from that. I can say no more. Pointing it out to either of you would advantage neither her nor you. Well, Jenian, do you consider yourself past the age of romance? Not so. Your lover also thinks that he will be celibate. Not so. The spirit world has a surprise for both of you. The Ancient One, what can I offer one such as you? You know your time is close. What can I say?"

Athanor stirred, the dark sodalite eye flashed and he smiled to himself. "Do not be in awe of me, Peng. You are The Exalted. You See what I cannot. I don't know why I must go with them. Why can't I return to the erg and die? Why must I die in Taliset? Not to see the outcome of the battle, so for what purpose?"

Peng rose to his knees and crawled to kneel before the one whom he regarded as a mythic hero from story land. Closing his eyes, Peng rested his fingers on the black bald head. "You do me great honour, Athanor-san." He whispered, though all could hear him. For a moment, they kept this silent unmoving vigil. Simultaneously, tears began to fall down both faces and the seers laughed, releasing all tension. "Thank you, Peng." The old seer kissed the upturned face of The Exalted.

Most of the others were curious but Shyo wiped the moisture from his eyes. He asked Peng and Athanor for permission to explain and having received assent, he took Gorian's hand and placed it in Jenian's.

"Pass Gorian's hand to Athanor." All except the seers were puzzled and intrigued. "Jenian-san, you are no longer Gorian's tutor. You pass on that role to Athanor-san. Gorian, you are to train as a seer. Athanor will teach you." Peng translated Shyo's words.

Athanor raised Gorian's fingers to his lips. "Your Imperial Majesty, it will be my last honour to fulfil my destiny in this way." He turned to Shyo and regarded him with the stone eye. "Not quite accurately picked up, my child. There will be no time to train the emperor. Do you know how someone becomes The Exalted? The princely twins have seen Peng's exaltation. Perhaps you can See it. The dying Exalted passes on his or her accumulated wisdom to the next. These are days of change, times for breaking with tradition. You, my dear, will be Exalted long before Peng is ready to die. He will share himself with you in a few years’ time. Emperor Algorian will be Exalted, too."

He gripped Gorian's hand in his dry, bony fingers so hard that the youth winced. The dark indigo stone flickered rapidly with its inner light. "My final task is to give myself to you, Gorian. I will train you as best we can in the time but Peng has guided me to realise that all that I am must not be lost in these troubled times. Naturally, I will be in the Spirit, anyway, but you, my beloved new friend, - you will be my continuing link with the material world. Together, you and I will be a seer after my death."

Gorian was shocked and felt the close attention of those around him. Jenian felt jealous and envious. Who is this man who so freely calls Gorian "beloved"? Athanor reached across Gorian to touch Jenian's face. Jenian flinched a little then relaxed as he allowed the blind seer to caress his cheek.

"I'm sorry, Prince Jenian. I can appreciate your sense of loss. Ask Peng for his view on this but, as I understand it, the act of merging is the most intimate experience imaginable. I, like you, have never taken a lover. This will be the consummation that I have never before experienced. - and totally nonsexual. I have the right to consider him my beloved as he, too, will never be so intimate again. However, recall Peng's words to you. You, Prince Jenian, will have a lover before the year has passed. Incidentally, but very importantly, your teaching days have not ended."

Jenian held the black hand against his cheek and then brought it to his lips. "Thank you." He murmured against it.

"Is this..... Is this instead of regaining my magedom? A sort of consolation?" Gorian's eyes were bright with hope; his hands sweaty with fear of disappointment.

"We will have both, Gorian. I See us in the Northlands - goodness, how cold your land is - we are mage, seer and emperor. We have a mage Empress at our side."

Joy and relief swept over him, a balm to his pain, and Gorian wept.

Daniel giggled and everyone looked at him censoriously. "Here I am, an archmage, feeling envious of what Gorian will receive and now I get the distinct impression that it will be unenviable. It sounds like possession to me. I'm sorry, Athanor, if that sounds offensive. I like you a lot but I wouldn't want to share my mind with you."

"No. I can see how you might think that. Do not fear, Gorian, my presence will be quite unobtrusive. You will not feel possessed. Tell him, Peng. Reassure him."

Peng thought for a moment, gently gnawing the inside of his lower lip. "Have you ever heard yourself say something or noticed yourself doing something and realised that it is a phrase, a tone of voice or gesture that you have picked up from someone else - a parent, a teacher, maybe a close friend? Mon is a bit like that for me. My mind and feelings are entirely my own but I have a tendency to think or do things her way sometimes. Or occasionally a thought, memory or piece of knowledge is there which I know is not mine. Gorian, my life is too similar to Mon's for her to vicariously experience anything new. She has no wish to intrude. You will bring new experiences to The Ancient One. You may find him savouring and making comment on them from time to time. I promise you; it is a small price to pay for what you will gain."

Gorian blew his nose loudly and wiped his tears. "I'm so happy to know that I will be a mage again, nothing else matters much, anyway."

All three mages knew exactly how that must feel. All three seers could empathetically pick up on it, too. Gorian looked around at them. I'm going to be both.

They sat in companionable silence for a few minutes. Shyo stole a glance at Gorian and received a grin. He mimed playing the samisen and was answered with an even bigger grin and an eager nod.

"If I may leave for a moment, Exalted. I'll fetch my samisen and Go and I will entertain you."

Whilst Shyo was away, Gorian hurriedly composed a brief song and after opening with an instrumental piece, Shyo was pleased to let Gorian sing a capella for a few bars before softly filling in an accompaniment.

"Like a rudderless ship is tossed

By the storm and driven off course,

A mage without magic is lost

He's blind, deaf and numb to The Source.

The joy that I feel is immense

To know there's an end to my pain

My life once again will make sense

When contact with Power, I regain.

Beyond that I'm promised the Sight

Such honour I cannot express

To augment Imperial might

With wisdom ensures my success."

They laughed delightedly and clapped. Shyo asked what he had been singing about and was given a brief rough translation. They finished on a couple of traditional songs, which Gorian paraphrased beforehand for the benefit of the twins. When the applause had stopped, Peng rose to gather them in each arm.

"You will not see each other again for some significant time, though Shyo will be allowed to say his farewells as you leave. It is a good time to be alone together to say what needs to be said. Take him to your room, Shyo."

Oleg and his men burst through into the university refectory from the labyrinthine larder caves behind the kitchens. Their way had been unobstructed but now the mages sat at the refectory tables awaiting them. The students and slaves had been sent away.

Oleg looked around him in surprise. No one seemed startled by their arrival but sat calmly watching the disgorgement of soldiers through the kitchen door. The troops were nonplussed. No defence, no struggles, not even the satisfaction of an ambush.

"Come on in. Join us. We're expecting you." Lyri's tone was almost smugly insulting in its tranquillity. It was not how he was feeling inside. Within he was scared, resentful and on guard.

The soldiers stumbled to a halt, some piling into the backs of those in front who'd ground to a sudden stop. Uncertainly, their weapons wavered and began to drop. These were no more than children in the main. A man in his late thirties, the rest in their twenties and teens sitting patiently and serenely before them.

Lyri rose to his feet and held out his hand to Oleg. He tried to make his voice sound welcoming and friendly to confuse them further. "Earl Oleg of Trelheim, I understand. I am the Prince Merlyrian, Heir to the Wardenship. May I introduce the Prince Algorath, the abdicated Warden; the Prince Lyrankiel, former Warden and his daughter, the Princess Lyrella?" With his other hand, he indicated those to whom he was referring. They nodded to Oleg with faint smiles. "These are magisters of the university, Lords Belmyr, Meriel and Lady Elinor. Unfortunately, the Prince Kelorian, the Dean of the university, is indisposed so he is not present. This is the Countess Helena and the Baron Damian."

Oleg stared suspiciously at the still outstretched hand. To take it would mean re-sheathing his sword. The stream of introductions that the archmage was trying to effect exacerbated his uncertainty. He nodded at each as they were mentioned and looked around for the support of the Serpent. Lyrian was blithely continuing. "I can't expect you to introduce all these men who are with you. We'd never remember all your names." He smiled at the confused soldiers.

"Is this all there is?" Oleg was incredulous. "I mean that surely there are more of you than this?"

Lyri glanced around at his companions and shrugged. "No, not really. There are students with some developing talent but I thought it best not to interrupt their studies, unnecessarily.

There are a number of noble families but, again, I felt it was better if I met you with the mages."

"There are no other mages?" Oleg was beginning to feel more and more embarrassed. Was this the sum total of individuals who had blocked their attack and defied the siege?

"Well, as I said, Kelorian is hors de combat. An unfortunate incident rendered him unconscious though not without Power, I'm afraid, as the Emperor was killed by an involuntary burst of raw magic from the comatose Dean. Ella's sister, the Princess Myrissa, was with him and is greatly distressed by the accident. My half-brothers, the Princes Raniel and Daniel, are abroad at present." He sounded slightly apologetic.

Oleg was wondering where the Serpent was, glancing behind him anxiously. Lyri pretended innocence. "Is something troubling you, my lord? You seem to be looking for someone or something. Perhaps you wonder if we have sent troops behind you to trap you." The soldiers raised their weapons and looked behind them. "We have no armed forces, neither soldiers nor warriors. What you see is all there are of the mages currently in Taliset. Recent years have exacted their toll on the numbers of mages." Lyri swiftly glanced down at Algy and was pleased to note that he looked untroubled by the last reference.

"Er ..... someone else was with us. He led us here and stood aside to let us overtake him. I was just......" Oleg's stumbling explanation was interrupted by a timely scream. The sound was muffled and was accompanied by the crunch of multiple fractures.

Lyri smiled grimly with neither humour nor satisfaction. "I'm sorry to say that the Serpent is dead. The city is very choosy about who she lets in. She hates him of old. He was the instrumental cause of the mage massacre, the torture and death of many infants and I understand that he unmaged our cousin, your Crown Duke, Algorian."

The Algothans shuffled nervously and looked to Oleg to tell them what to do next. Oleg was at a loss. He gazed at his sword and hefted it before looking back at Lyrian.

"Do you surrender, then?"

"No." Lyri allowed another smile to lighten his face. "We simply do not fight. We haven't yet and now is not the time to begin."

Oleg was confounded. "You fought us off. The battle..... Of course, you've fought us."

Lyri shook his head. "Ah, well ..... not really. I've got a small confession. The fireworks were just a ploy to discourage you. We did, however, use purely defensive magic when you attacked but you will note that we didn't harm anyone." Lyrian was enjoying the earl's discomfort and the puzzled disbelief of the warriors. "So, you see, I think you must accept that we have not really fought at all. You've done all the fighting. There is no reason for us to surrender. I mean, to what purpose?"

Oleg knew he was losing it. He had made the strategic error of not knowing the precise objective of the war. Osmund wanted the mages to cease using magic. Fat chance! He'd come along to discomfort Algarn and give the warriors some long overdue opportunity to fight. It had been many years since they'd enjoyed a good battle. Now here he was with a handful of young mages who wouldn't fight back and wouldn't surrender. As the lad said, what would their surrender mean? Nothing. He couldn't kill them. No point holding them hostage. For what?

The assembled mages sat silently, apparently tranquilly watching. In fact, they were working. This was only one contingent of warriors. Others had invaded other levels to find the citizens simply going about their business as if nothing were happening. The mages were keeping the citizenry calm and, also, radiating to the invaders that there was no point to their attack.

"Sit down. Have a drink. It's been a difficult time." Lyri indicated that they all sat at tables. "For all of us."

Oleg rubbed his open hand against his mouth in uncertainty and then sat. The soldiers followed suit. At last, the mages of Taliset were able to relax a little.

For what seemed an eternity, they sat silently. Uncomfortable, each locked in personal grief, holding hands yet unable to look at one another. Finally, Gorian pushed Shyo flat on the futon and roughly crushed his lips on his mouth. Shyo struggled for a moment, then sobbed and clung, coughing and choking against Gorian's trembling body. Gorian felt for Shyo's crotch.

"No!" His hand was brusquely brushed away. "The time for that has passed. Not even one last time."

Gorian nodded miserably and the two of them wept in each other's embrace, - each whispered comment and compliment bringing a fresh torrent of tears. Never had a day brought such a mixture of emotions for them both. The discharge of feelings brought peace, tiredness and resolution. Exchanging brave smiles, gentle kisses, they said goodnight and Gorian left.

The twins, Jenian, Gorian and Athanor gathered with Peng and Shyo in The Exalted's reception room.

"So, my friends." Peng looked serene and poised but Shyo had dark circles around his eyes as if he hadn't slept. His hand rested lightly on Peng's shoulder to improve the telepathic link. "You will make your magical leap to Tirna and young Djinn."

The brothers exchanged bemused glances. Ran shook his head.

"I don't really think we can, Your Serenity. Athanor is light and we are archmages so arriving here was not too taxing. But with Gorian to carry, too." He turned to Jenian, apologetically shrugging. "I'm sorry, sir. I don't mean to impugn your talents. We mean no offence but I doubt that the three of us could take five all that distance. I see that you have seven rings, even so you wouldn't manage."

Jenian sadly agreed. Peng smiled, clearly unruffled by the contradiction, and waved a hand. "No. Sorry to confuse you. I wasn't asking you. I was telling you. You will make your magical jump. It is Seen."

"But we can't, Your Serenity." Dan insisted. He didn't wish to argue with the strangely smug young seer. Ran, Gorian and Jenian all murmured their agreement.

Shyo cleared his throat loudly. "When it has been Seen, it must be possible. I will explain how it will be done. Three of you can tap into the Source but Go-san can't. However, if he were to be fed the Power, he could use it."

"What!" Jenian was astounded.

Gorian considered his friend's analysis and agreed. He translated for the twins.

"I'm reasonably certain that what Shyo says is true. I'm cut off from the Source but if the barrier can be bypassed or bridged then I think that I can still use the Power."

They grinned at one another.

"So, if I understand this clearly, it can be done by channelling more Power than we can actually normally handle and passing the excess over to Gorian in a mindlink." Ran excitedly gestured with his hands, almost miming the process. "You realise, don't you, Gorian, that this means that if Djinn can't help you, you can still regain your magedom when acting in concert with another mage?"

Gorian's eyes sparkled. "Not ideally what I would want but, nevertheless, reassuring, isn't it? Come on. Let's try it. I don't want to say goodbye but I'm eager to see if it works."

"No, Gorian. That is not the crux of the matter for you." Jenian clapped him on the back. "What you want to feel, need to feel again, is the flow of magic through your body. I wish I'd thought of it before. After all, it is simply the reverse of a training injunction."

Again, the mages regarded Gorian with deep sympathy.

"Don't blame yourself, Jenian." Dan tilted his head to one side as he comforted the older mage. "Any one of us could have thought of it, if we'd thought more laterally."

"Let's not prolong our goodbyes." Peng advised. "We are not really parting. We are all one in spirit."

"Not so hasty, Your Serenity. We must test the hypothesis before we attempt the more difficult task. I know that you've Seen it but I would prefer to confirm it first." Ran grabbed Gorian's wrist. "Right, Gorian, the Minor Rite of Fire." Flames shot from Gorian's fingertips. Gorian gasped, his breath caught in the surge of Power through him. The flames had blazed several feet into the air. He pulled back and the flames flickered out.

"Thank the Lord and Lady that my fingers were pointing upwards. Wow! That was a mighty blast."

His body tingled with the residual surge of Power. Gorian was exhilarated to have the synaesthetic spillover from one sense to another, again. The smell of colour, the taste of sound, the feel of flavours.

"You're accustomed to a lower flow than an archmage. We must be careful about that. Are we ready, then?"

They embraced the seers and then formed a circle. Ran took leadership and they shared the image - the psychic coordinates of Tirna. A moment later, they winked out of time-space.

Shyo choked on a sob and Peng drew him into his arms.

"The past belongs there, Shyoku-san. Your karma releases you to move forward. We have known each other through many lifetimes but now we are living this one. I remind you, my soul brother, you will see him again and you will soon find love here in Chyoku. The Exalted has Seen."