Brother Elf, Father Rock AN EARTHDAWN STORY

Seth J. Feierstein Brother Elf, Father Rock

An EarthDawn Story by Seth J. Feierstein

P ERSONIFIED P RESS EarthDawn® and Barsaive™ are registered trademarks of WizKids, LLC. Thanks to my parents, Roslyn and Copyright© 2004 WizKids, LLC. Used without permission. Steven, my sister Jenna, and Gayle

Map illustration courtesy of Living Room Games, www.lrgames.com.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product For Adam, Arend, & Andy, of the authorʼs imagination and the EarthDawn® creatorsʼ imagination, or are my companions in Barsaive. used ficticiously. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Cover art done by Seth Feierstein. Back cover copy done by Gayle Gillespie.

Personified Press 1805 St. Paul St. 3rd Floor Baltimore, MD 21202

E-mail: [email protected] Visit us on the World Wide Web at http://www.personified.net Blank

Reality is for those who lack imagination -fortune cookie Brother Elf, Father Rock

FOREWARD ix MAP xiii CHAPTER 1 Reunion 3 Blank CHAPTER 2 Brother’s Responsibility 17 CHAPTER 3 My Father, My Brother 23 CHAPTER 4 Rites of Heritage 39 CHAPTER 5 Chained Heart 45 CHAPTER 6 Home 51 GLOSSARY 85 COLOPHON 93 FOREWORD

I was first introduced to the game of EarthDawn in the late fall of 1998, my junior year of college at the Univerity of Iowa. It was late. I had finished my last final for the semester earlier that evening and was in bed trying to dream away the test, but the sounds of rolling dice, raucous belches, and the steady voice of Mark the game master floated down the hallway to my room. Adam, my roommate, and four other friends were playing EarthDawn in our living room. Unable to sleep, I got up and Blank wandered out to join them. The guys all said hi and I groggily waved my hand and sat on the couch where I watched and listened to their story unfold. The group was in a cavern searching for a book containing an ancient spell that would aid the party against a powerful Horror. Unfortunately, they had encountered a swarm of nasty cave hornets, bugs the size of a pony whose deadly stingers could impale a man, and the party had suffered a terrible loss. Dante, the elvish bard, had accidentally died at the hands of his friend Giddeon, a troll wizard and nethermancer. While trying to kill the hornet who was attacking the already injured Dante, Giddeon swung his sword with all of his might but missed, striking down his friend instead of the giant insect (we all had a good laugh after the mishap, except Ari since it was his character). After Dante’s death (who was resurrected much later) Ari started making a new character and it was then that Adam asked if I wanted to play. I said yes. Mark handed me a character sheet that contained the information about a character he had been controlling to help propel the story. And thus began my

ix journey into the world of EarthDawn. those unfamiliar with the game. This story was a joy, a torture, and then I am not new to pencil and paper role-playing games (games that more joy to write, and it is not yet finished. This is only the beginning. involve dice, pencil, paper, and your imagination–there are no computers) The story of Nahor, a giant born of the earth who seeks to heal the having played other games such as Dungeons & Dragons since I was world and protect his family and friends will continue. Woe to the person in high school. However, no other role-playing game compares to who would wish harm on those he loves. EarthDawn. The stories of this world, the places, the histories, and the legends that make up the game are amazing because, like Tolkien with –Seth Joseph Feierstein Middle Earth, the developers of EarthDawn created a world that has major conflicts, characters, and stories woven together to form an even bigger tale, and as a player of the game I get to take a part big or small. Not long after my introduction to EarthDawn I created Nahor, a character that I became very fond of and played almost every Friday or Saturday for four and a half years until the end of our campaign (when the overall story the game master has to tell is finished). I like to think that Nahor and his friends never really retired after their final adventure, but continued to travel and fight the evil Horrors lingering in and around the lands of Barsaive. The notion of an aftermath is what sparked the idea to write Brother Elf, Father Rock. I asked myself, “What would Nahor be doing thirty or forty years after that last climactic battle against some of the most powerful Horrors?” The answer is the story you are about to read. Brother Elf, Father Rock is the culmination of a year and a half of brainstorming, writing, revising, reading friends’ comments, more rewriting, and even more revising. My biggest challenge was writing a story accessible to those familiar with EarthDawn, its world, and terminology, while also writing a story that would interest and excite

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xiii Brother Elf, Father Rock Chapter 1

The Reunion

ahor trudged up the dark mountain pass shin-deep in snow. The packedN ice crunched under his heavy boots. Used to walking about barefoot, he disliked having to cover his feet, but even his tough skin could not resist the frigid weather. The snow had been falling for only a few hours, but had accumulated quickly. A bitter wind howled through the slopes and crags of the Throal Mountains. The temperature plunged as the sun dipped below the jagged peaks. Nahor wrapped his cloak tight around his body and pulled the hood over his head in a futile attempt to stop the snow from stinging his face. For two weeks he had traveled through the mountains using timeworn trails and passes. The weather, though cold, had been pleasant for most of the

3 REUNION BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK trip. The storm had come up suddenly the night before, and had picked nearby and its proximity to a well-used trade route. People from all over up momentum by morning. Now it brought its fury down upon the Barsaive stayed at The Dainhome when stopping for the night. The main mountains with the force of a dragon’s roar. Luckily, Nahor was nearing floor had a common fire that served as the main source of light and heat. the end of his journey. The fire hissed and crackled as wood turned to ash. Tables surrounded it Turning a bend, Nahor saw his destination, The Dainhome. A fire’s so diners could sit close and keep warm. Most of the smoke rose to the faint glow seeped through frost-covered windows. Violent winds batted roof where it escaped through a small hole, but a gray haze still floated the inn’s sign to and fro. Rusty hinges squeaked with each swing. Nahor about the inn. Those who wished to conduct business or talk with a bit imagined the roaring fire within and warm drinks with Valinar. The year more privacy sat on either side of the inn in wooden booths and tables. had passed quickly, but it seemed longer since Nahor had last seen his Dim candles illuminated the room, but not enough for Nahor to really friend. see who was there. Nahor carefully looked around, but did not see his When Nahor entered the inn, many patrons turned to look at the friend. He looked to the bar in the back. Valinar was not there. He must newcomer. As he unwrapped his cloak, clumps of snow fell onto the have gotten a room already, Nahor thought. floor. Under his cloak Nahor wore a blue tunic and brown breeches, When the kitchen closed for the night, the common room became both dirty and wet from his travels. His clothes were meant for warmer the sleeping quarters for those who either couldn’t afford or wouldn’t climates, but his woolen winter cloak and his naturally resilient skin pay for a private room, all nine of which were on the second floor. Two helped to keep him warm. Nahor pulled down his hood and shook his sets of stairs led to the second floor, one on either side of the inn. Nahor bald head. Ivory colored tassels, dangling from his headpiece swung looked up and wondered which room Valinar had gotten for them. back and forth as he turned his head and looked around the inn. The A young barmaid carried drinks and steaming food–mutton, roast fire’s orange light glinted off the polished manacles Nahor wore. Broken chicken, and potatoes–from the kitchen. Sweat beaded on her face. As chains dangled from them and engravings showed Lochost and Dis, she passed Nahor and the smells of warm stew with potatoes, carrots Passions of freedom and slavery, entangled in battle. and a rich, deep broth reminded him that his last home cooked meal was Some customers gasped when they recognized the green and when he left the Liferock. muscular obsidiman standing in the door. “It’s Nahor, purifier of the Nahor made his way slowly through the crowd to the bar. His Purifiers,” they whispered. wide frame allowed for little movement between the tables. He excused The Dainhome wasn’t a large establishment compared to other himself when he jostled sitting customers. Some cursed over their spilled mountain inns, but it was always busy because of the dwarven mines drinks and would have said more had they not looked at who bumped

4 5 REUNION BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK them. Nahor moved by as best he could, but no one was untouched. likely they’ll just find nothing more than an irritable cave crab and get Nahor was big, even for an obsidiman. He was over six and a half feet frost bite.” tall, nearly as tall as a short troll, and almost as wide as three humans. Nahor chuckled into his mug and stared at the bar, losing himself in At one point Nahor became frustrated when he could not pass between the past. He remembered his days of wandering with his friends. two tables. He shoved aside one table where a dwarf sat and was about “I know what you are thinking,” Jorngar said. to take a forkful of spiced mutton. Nahor put the table back, smiled, and Nahor looked up at the troll, whose lower tusks, yellow and worn told the irritated dwarf his food looked delicious. from age, protruded from his mouth and whose horns spiraled upward Finally, he reached the bar. “Jorngar, my friend,” Nahor said, raising from his head. “And what is it that I am thinking?” his voice over the din. A swarthy troll, taller than Nahor, wiped his hands “You’re thinking, ‘I used to be one of those stupid adventurers, on a dirty apron, reached over the bar, and embraced the obsidiman. risking life and limb for what? Glory and fame, and maybe a place in “Nahor! Has it been a year already?” the books at the Great Library of Throal?’ Well obsidiman, you still are “Aye, it has. Time passes quickly in the mountains. The Dainhome an adventurer. Just because you have lived over five troll lives does not seems quite lively considering the weather. Is business good?” mean you are an old man! You are still young compared to some of Jorngar nodded and turned to brew a mug of Nahor’s favorite drink, your kind, and an infant compared to the elders, if the legends be true. hot chocolate. When Nahor came to The Dainhome he asked neither for For Passions’ sake, I don’t know what I’d do with myself if I lived over a stein of dark dwarven ale, nor a glass of sweet elven wine. Instead he twelve-hundred years!” would request a frothing mug of melted chocolate, mixed with warmed Nahor smiled. “You would probably still be running The milk and rare spices. It was a delicacy among the northern parts of Dainhome.” Barsaive and only a few were able to get the ingredients imported from The troll’s cacophonous laughter filled the inn. “You are probably the Southlands. Not one for sweet things, Jorngar never tried it; he drank right. Let me refill your mug.” troll spirits–ale so strong it could be used to strip the paint off a Crystal With calloused hands Jorngar grabbed the empty glass. “I remember Raider’s airship (and sometimes was, as Jorngar would tell Nahor, before when you and your friends first came to this inn, thirty years ago. I wasn’t downing an entire mug of the stuff). more than a pup back then. I remember there was a terrible snow storm Jorngar handed the steaming mug to Nahor. “Business is good. The almost as bad as the one we’re having.” dwarves from the mine come here regularly. Groups of would-be heroes Jorngar’s story paralleled Nahor’s memories. He and his four friends coming up the mountains looking for some adventure also stay. Most had finished tracking and killing a pack of Gnashers, squat Horrors with

6 7 REUNION BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK giant maws full of dagger-like teeth that devour everything in their sight. Purifiers would be together as a whole group.” They had been attacking a village’s herd of mountain goats. When the “We had adventured together for many years, but personal matters goats had all been eaten, the creatures ate the villagers. Nahor and his conspired to split us apart, and while that night was our last as a whole, friends had been on their way back to the town, when a nasty snowstorm we vowed to meet here once a year to renew our bond of friendship.” struck. Fortunately, they had spotted The Dainhome. Nahor shivered as he felt a cold breeze that snuck through the wall Jorngar’s voice rammed into Nahor’s thoughts, “There were five of cracks assault him. He dipped his finger into his drink then sucked the you that came in that dreary day asking for one room, you, Giddeon, sweet chocolate residue from it. Celdorn, Dante, and Valinar, all weather beaten and a bit bloodied too, Jorngar eagerly added, “Yes, you met here on the anniversary of the if I recall correctly. I remember being amazed by all of you. You were night that the Purifiers broke.” dirty and tired but you looked regal, like heroes in children’s stories. Tales Nahor shook his head. “We did not break. We each went our own about the Purifiers were already spreading across the mountains. I was so way. Dante sought the long forgotten Paladins, Celdorn his mother, and eager to be near you that I snuck up to your room and put my ear to your Valinar left to better serve his queen. Only Giddeon and I remained door to listen. I don’t think any of you heard me either, otherwise I don’t together. But I know that our thoughts were always on each other. Our think I’d be alive to retell the tale. You all seemed so wary.” hearts never strayed.” Reminiscing about the night he and his friends “Oh, we knew you were there. Giddeon had summoned a spirit to parted saddened the oft-immovable Nahor. So many times did he long watch outside our room and it told him of your presence. That and the for the past–to adventure again with his friends. Every year when the five creaking floorboards didn’t aid you in your stealthy enterprise. But we friends met at The Dainhome it was as if the Purifiers had never parted. knew you were no threat.” Alas, time took its toll, and the group’s numbers dwindled. Now only Jorngar slapped his hand on the bar. “And here I thought I was being Nahor and Valinar remained. sneaky!” Jorngar saw the sadness carve its way into Nahor’s face. He slammed Nahor raised his brow and snickered, “A quiet troll is like a goodly his meaty hand onto the table and shouted, “Come, let us not think of horror–they just don’t exist.” such sad things! This night is for renewing old bonds. So drink and be “Hey now, we trolls can be quiet if need be, maybe not as quiet as a merry!” street rat from Kratis, but quiet none the less! May I continue?” Nahor Nahor smiled, raised his drink to Jorngar, and drained the mug. nodded, let out a chuckle as he took another sip of his drink, “I was “Speaking of old friends,” he said as he put the mug on the bar, “am I saddened that night by what I heard, for it was the last time the great the first to arrive?”

8 9 REUNION BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

Grabbing the mug to refill it, Jorngar answered, “No, your blood elf Nahor saw the many thorns protruding through her skin, the mark of a friend showed up a few days ago with a lady friend. She seemed quite the blood elf. The woman looked over the crowd, and when her eyes rested lady, if you take my meaning, and the two were very amorous, despite on Nahor’s scarred face, she walked up to him. As she approached, her condition.” Jorngar gave Nahor his drink and turned to the waiting Nahor was about to ask her what was the matter, but she gave him no barmaid, who gave him an order. time. With narrowed eyes she spoke, her words oozing hatred. Nahor was puzzled. “Her condition? What is wrong Valinar’s “Here. Take it. I don’t want that bastard’s child!” companion?” These were not the first elvish words Nahor expected to hear after Jorngar grabbed a stein and began wiping it. “Oh, the woman is fine, being away for so long. The woman thrust the infant into his arms. Nahor but very pregnant.” He finished drying the stein, then filled it to the brim was dumbstruck. He could only look on as the distraught blood elf wove with a brew so dark it looked black. “Here you go lass,” he said with a around the tables and inn’s customers towards the door. She brandished smile and wink, and gave it to the barmaid. a bloody dagger to any who tried to stop her. Once at the door, the blood Nahor contemplated the news. He knew Valinar to be quite the elf flung it open. The door slammed against the wall, its hinges cracking charmer, but none of his letters suggested he had settled down or was from the force. The woman glanced at Nahor, her icy eyes briefly making going to be a father. Nahor furrowed his brow and took another sip contact with his. Then she disappeared into the blizzard, wearing only of the sweet chocolate, relishing the feeling as it slid down his throat, her threadbare clothes and clutching her dagger. warming him from the inside out. Who, he wondered, was Valinar’s Howling winds and snow blew into the inn, stirring the coals of the friend? common fire. Customers hunkered down and put their hands around A scream flew from the second floor. People stopped what they warm mugs of hot ale or spiced wine. Many looked at Nahor. Their were doing and looked up. Jorngar looked up. The barmaid dropped an scraggly faces asked for an explanation, but Nahor, confused as they order of food. Nahor and the other customers warming themselves by were, gave them none. Jorngar rushed to close the rickety door–the old the fire looked at each other. Many stood up and brought their hands to inn was already drafty enough with all the little cracks and gaps in its their swords, an almost unconscious action. A second scream pierced the frame. air. Nahor stood up and scanned both sides of the second floor, fists Nahor unswaddled the blood soaked rags. Inside he found a sleeping clenched at his sides. elf baby. Almond-shaped and sloping, its eyes moved back and forth in Bursting from a room, a woman ran down the stairs carrying a a flurry of motion under delicate lids. wrapped bundle in her arms. Through the woman’s tattered clothes “My son . . .” A weak voice fluttered down the stairs into the

10 11 REUNION BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK common room. the racked and wounded body of his friend. None of his healing skills Looking up, Nahor saw Valinar, one of the most skilled swordsmen could save Valinar–the injuries were caused by magic and too severe for in all of Barsaive, drowning in his own blood. Valinar tried walking mundane treatment. down the steps, but was so weak that he stumbled and crashed down “And now I am about to lose my son, almost as soon as I have met the stairway. him. The Passions do have an ironic sense of humor don’t they? But who With the baby still in one arm, Nahor rushed to Valinar and leaned knows, perhaps they will aid me in my voyage as I become free of this him against the bottom stair with his free hand. Despite his gargantuan shell, and leave for the forest of my ancestors.” size, Nahor had the grace and tenderness of an elf maiden as he swept Nahor thought about days long past, times no less dangerous than aside blood-matted hair from Valinar’s face. now, when the group was whole, before it had unraveled. Giddeon, “My friend. What has happened?” Nahor’s troll friend, had passed from this world long ago; Celdorn, “Nahor,” Valinar said, coughing up blood. “I am dying. Ple . . .” the Shosaran elf had confronted a powerful Horror while searching “Nonsense!” Nahor’s golden eyes glistened as tears began to well. for his mother, and in doing so had sacrificed himself so the others He held Valinar closer to him. Many of the thorns that covered his skin could escape; Dante had disappeared not long after the group had gone were broken or had been ripped out. their separate ways, when he went chasing after the legend of a Paladin “You will be fine. I have my salves. Just rest. You will see,” Nahor sanctuary in the Dragon Mountains. said. “You always were a bit cynical, Valinar, but I will ask the Passion “No. I am dying. Lorenna saw to that. She has cursed me and in Lochost to help you. He comes to me sometimes you know, in my doing so has killed me. I should have never lain with that wench. Who dreams.” knew it would produce such rank fruit.” Valinar squeezed his eyes shut as pain shot through his body. Forcing Nahor looked from Valinar to the elf baby. Perhaps Valinar did open his blood-encrusted lids, he looked at Nahor. “My friend, before I not want his child. Nahor had never imagined Valinar as a father. The go, show me my son so I might look upon his face once more.” Nahor blood elf spent too much time on missions for the elf court, spent too brought the newborn to Valinar. His smooth face–rosy and filled with much time wooing the women he came to be involved with, and then life–lacked the thorns that marked his father’s face and entire body. not enough time maintaining his involvement. He was like a passing sun This baby was too new to have gone through the Ritual of Thorns, the storm, coming and going within a matter of seconds. And yet, Nahor magical process that elves endured when becoming blood elves. The and Valinar had remained friends for over forty years. Nahor looked over thorns protruding from their skin caused blood elves to be in constant

12 13 REUNION BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK pain and bleed incessantly. Many died during the process, and others smiled; his last breath eased out of him like a whisper. went insane from the overwhelming pain. But the elves of the Blood Pulling out a knife, Nahor slit his palm, and the words sobbed out Wood had made their choice long ago, and so any elf who called himself of him. “I will raise your son, Valinar. Be at rest, my friend, my brother.” loyal to the queen and her court went through the ritual. Nahor’s blue blood trickled down his green, rocky hand, and dripped Horrors thrived on pain they inflicted. If a creature were already onto Valinar’s blood soaked vest. “I will be his teacher and guardian. I in pain the Horror would find no sustenance, gain no pleasure. During swear it.” the height of the Scourge, the time when Horrors ran around the world destroying everything, the elves’ defenses began to falter. Queen Alachia ordered the Ritual of Thorns be done to save her people. It worked, and the Horrors left the elves to find more satisfying prey. However, the elves paid a great cost. Many died and the Wyrm Wood, the elves’ ancient home and a verdant place, changed forever. It soon became known as the Blood Wood because the land, the plants, animals, and elves constantly bled. Nahor recognized the logic of the Ritual of Thorns, but felt it was no longer needed, since the Horrors had receded. With his blood-covered hand, Valinar caressed his child, leaving a red trail on the baby’s forehead. The swordmaster smiled and leaned forward to kiss the newborn. He then lay back against the step. Valinar’s face turned pale; he bled out at the points where his thorns protruded through his skin. His light clothes were soaked; shallow breaths came in sputters and rasps; the elf wheezed his last words: “Raise my son, Nahor. Do not let the world change him into me. Teach him.” Valinar coughed and convulsed. Blood spurted from his mouth. He closed his eyes and squeezed Nahor’s hand so hard the obsidiman winced from the pressure. The spasms passed as quickly as they came. Valinar’s muscles relaxed, his eyes fluttered open, he looked up and half-

14 15 Chapter 2

Brother’s Responsibility

ou will be his shikshaka–his guardian and teacher–as you have promisedY your friend. Although I do not like the oath you have taken, I cannot alter what you have done. You have bound yourself to this child and to Valinar’s spirit by blood. Nahor, I know you would not have done this if you did not find the need to, but it is dangerous.” The two obsidimen sat in the darkness. The coals of a once roaring fire had all but stopped glowing. The air was chill, but they wore heavy winter cloaks made by the dwarves, and Nahor had wrapped the baby in heavy furs to keep the cold out. He looked at the elf, caressing his cheek, then looked to the older obsidiman before him.

17 BROTHER’S RESPONSIBILITY BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

“I know Grand-elder, but I could not refuse Valinar’s dying request. welcome, that child may well bring about our doom. We all know that I have traveled far to get home and am weary, for the road was long. I Valinar was Queen Alachia’s consort at one time, and he was her favored know not how to raise a child, and I cannot put him in an orphanage agent. If the thorn-elf who put this child into your arms is in any way or give him to some elf I might see on the road; I come seeking your connected to the elf court of the Blood Wood we may be in grave guidance in this matter.” danger.” Grand-elder leaned on his staff. He stared at the faint orange coals, Nahor spat to his left at the mentioning of the Blood Wood queen. sighed, and looked at Nahor. “No, you cannot abandon the infant. All “Bah, she would not dare try and find this child, not here anyway. I will of us will help raise the elfling, and we will see that Valinar’s child grows keep him safe.” strong and sturdy. May our Liferock give us the wisdom to do so. But you Mahmet laughed. “You have spent too much time with the orks will be his primary guardian; the elf is your responsibility.” my brother, you even spit like them. Ease yourself.” Mahmet grabbed From the shadows came another voice. “Is not the responsibility Nahor’s shoulder, gently squeezing it. “We will all care for this child. Be of one brother all our responsibility, Grand-elder?” The new voice was calm and know that we are with you, and that no harm will come to the nearly as deep as Nahor’s but carried a woman’s lilt. Sparks shot up as the little elf. You have done right by your friend, who was our friend as well.” newcomer dropped three massive logs onto the dying embers. She spoke Mahmet’s voice lightened. She smiled and asked to see the baby. Nahor mystic words that reverberated from rock to rock. The logs smoldered, put the elfling into Mahmet’s arms. Holding him, she raised the infant the dull coals flared bright orange, and then the logs burst into flame. into the night sky. The firelight painted the elfling’s pale skin orange. Squirming at the bright light, the baby yawned and sighed, then nuzzled The baby barely noticed and only stirred long enough to rub his tiny his head further into Nahor’s massive chest. In the renewed firelight the hand across his nose. “They do sleep a lot don’t they? It would take a obsidiman who had asked the question and who stoked the fire, came bellowing troll to stir this one.” All three began laughing. It was the first into view. She was clad in a blue robe that flowed down to the ground. time Nahor had laughed since the night Valinar died in his arms almost Ornately embroidered silver runes covered the length of the robe, and two weeks ago. though the runes made the garment quite beautiful, they were more than Jorngar had helped Nahor bury Valinar in the morning. The storm just decorations–the symbols were wards of protection and power. was still raging and the ground was so frozen that they had to bury “Ah, Mahmet, ever the wise one,” Grand-elder said. “Yes the Valinar in a shallow cave not far away, and sealed the entrance as best responsibility, the burden of one, is the burden of all the brotherhood. they could with large rocks so no predators would defile him. No service I am sorry if I have been harsh, Nahor, but while your homecoming is was given before mourning friends and family. There was no grand

18 19 BROTHER’S RESPONSIBILITY BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK speech about Valinar’s deeds. There was only the cry of the wind, and When the baby started to cry that first night at the inn, Nahor was the falling snow. Nahor prayed that Giddeon would meet Valinar in the lucky enough to find the assistance of a nice barmaid who told him that next world and take care of him. Nahor shed his tears and walked back babies indeed could feed without their mother’s breast. She showed him to The Dainhome with Jorngar. a small milk skin with a cap that a baby’s mouth could suckle. The journey back home from The Dainhome was long and solemn. Of course feeding wasn’t the only hurdle Nahor faced. He learned The snow had blocked the western Throal Mountain passes, and when that babies do not sleep like normal name-givers. They wake erratically, it finally started to melt the road had turned to sludge. Luckily Nahor usually in the middle of the night, and always when he was dreaming had procured enough milk and food to last him and the baby. The way about playing bones with Giddeon. One time when Nahor had been between The Dainhome and Nahor’s Liferock had little vegetation, woken from such a dream he remembered Giddeon laughing, and telling most of which was buried under the snow, but the stronger streams him that the baby needed him. During those two weeks of travel back continued flowing down the slopes of the Throal mountains, emptying to his Liferock, the place he and his brothers called Apauruseya, Nahor into the great Serpent River and the smaller streams that spread out might have slept for only three nights–he couldn’t understand how the across the plains like veins. Many plants grew near these streams where other races raised babies and retained their sanity. the ground was softer and roots could take hold. Nahor found bushes Changing the dirty rags was yet another fiasco, one that Nahor with tart berries and even some rabbit, which he ate but with little zeal. refused to relate, even to his brothers. It could be very hard for one the Obsidimen rarely ate meat, but sometimes the hardship of travel forced size of Nahor to clasp together a baby-rag with a tiny pin, especially one to put aside their preferences to survive. when his hands were twice the size of the baby. However, he eventually Despite all of his experiences, Nahor had no idea what he was doing. learned to change the infant and taught the skill to his brothers and even In his travels he had seen women breastfeed their babies, but Nahor, or Grand-elder, who insisted that the smell reminded him of a sick bison he any obsidiman, would never possess the ability to feed a baby in that once came across north of the Tylon Mountains. The entire brotherhood manner. Obsidimen did not procreate like the other namegivers. They quickly came to love the small elf, and they began calling him lamedi, or did not make love, although they did love as a brother loves a sibling. little one, in the obsidiman tongue. They did not need to couple and make new obsidimen, for their Liferock was their mother–when a spirit was ready she would give birth to a new obsidiman–a rare event. Obsidimen still chose gender roles, and sometimes over the course of their long lives even changed their role.

20 21 Chapter 3

My Father, My Brother

hikshaka, where are we going?” Lamedi held onto Nahor’s indexS finger as the two walked across a plateau not far from the Liferock. The plateau was covered in a field of bright yellow, white, blue, and violet flowers. The scents mingled together, and were almost overpowering. The heady smell of sweet violets mixed with the strong aphasia, which then mixed with the sour dung bloom. The sun warmed the travelers’ backs as it arced high in the sky on that spring day. “We are going to the village of Hurlrock.” Lamedi let go of Nahor’s hand and danced around him. “Another town! Is Hurlrock like our home with the brothers? Is there a Liferock?

23 MY FATHER, MY BROTHER BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

Do they . . .” A million questions a minute flew from the child’s mouth. you will see that city and all its wonders, like the giant bazaar where Hearing the long, slow rolling obsidiman language spoken so quickly was merchants sell all sorts of goods, animals and foods, such as luscious like hearing an avalanche of pebbles racing down a miner’s metal sheet. apples, so sweet and tangy your tongue will twist.” In addition to obsidiman Nahor had deemed it necessary to teach Lamedi was awestruck. His mouth hung open as he gazed towards Lamedi elvish. Mahmet also taught him dwarvish, for it was the most the far away city. Bartertown was many days travel away, but from their common language spoken in Barsaive, and Kagiso–a young obsidiman vantage point it seemed much closer. Nahor turned away, but Lamedi warrior–in his fervor to help, taught him the human tongue when there craned his neck so he could keep the city in view. “I want to go there was time. Lamedi had learned so much in the eight years since Nahor now!” he exclaimed. had brought him to the brotherhood. Like obsidimen, elves lived a long Nahor laughed. “Soon child, but not now. Today we are going to time, living over three hundred years. At eight, Lamedi was still young Hurlrock, and while it isn’t as big as Bartertown or Throal, it still holds compared to other namegivers such as trolls or orks who came of age at many things of interest. You will see.” five or six. Lamedi wouldn’t reach adulthood for another twelve years. Lamedi sighed. He wanted to see the city, but accepted Nahor’s “You will see, little one, you will see. Now come, before we reach decision. Still on his shoulders, Lamedi played with the headpiece that the town let me show you something.” Nahor lifted Lamedi onto his draped Nahor’s oblong head. He twisted his little fingers into the strands shoulders, and then strode towards the southern edge of the plateau. of embroidered fabric. “Shikshaka, who gave you your horkla?” he When they neared the edge, Nahor looked down and away, searching for asked, still playing with the soft, woven cloth. something, and when he found it he pointed down across the mountains. “Giddeon made this for me many years ago.” “Look Lamedi.” “The troll?” From his vantage point atop Nahor’s shoulders Lamedi saw far, for “Yes, that’s right, the troll. He gave it to me as a symbol of our the morning mists had dissipated leaving the air clear. His gaze followed friendship.” Nahor’s pointing finger: far away and below was a city, and behind it Lamedi caressed the soft rose embroidered into the horkla. “Why is were giant iron gates and two massive marble figures, carved to look like this flower here?” dwarven warriors, guarding passage into the mountain. The city sprawled “Ah, the white rose. It was our symbol. Giddeon, Celdorn, Dante, out before the gates. “What is that, Shikshaka?” Valinar, and I all had a white rose either sewn onto a piece of clothing or “That, Lamedi, is Bartertown. It is the large trader city built in front engraved into our armor.” of the gates of Throal, the capitol of the dwarven kingdom. Someday “White rose? Why that?”

24 25 MY FATHER, MY BROTHER BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

Nahor looked at Lamedi and smiled, his gold eyes looking into But heroes rose up in Barsaive. Brave men and women banded deep blue ones, like that of a mountain spring. “Why the white rose?” together in small groups. They sought out the Horrors, killing them Nahor sighed as memories flooded over him. “The white rose for us when they could. Nahor and his four friends were such a group. Time symbolized purity. It was something untainted and free from corruption. and again, they vanquished the Horrors they came across, or sought It represented our goal: to free Barsaive of the taint left by Horrors out. With each victory they helped heal the damage the monsters had during the long years of the Scourge when they ran rampant, destroying done. However, they could never hope to accomplish their task, for the and corrupting everything in sight.” Horrors were too many, and although not as numerous as they once Nahor remembered the times he had fought alongside his friends, were, it would have been impossible for five heroes to cleanse all of going into danger to defeat the evil Horrors–creatures not of this world the corruption the evil creatures caused. The desire to purify was their who came to Earth only to destroy it. The evil creatures’ very existence dream, but it became an obsession that almost claimed their lives. polluted the lands they crossed, mutating the animals, fouling the earth. “Ah,” Lamedi said, even though he didn’t really understand all Crops failed, trees one might climb became man-eating monsters, and his Shikshaka had told him. The mentioning of his father, however, docile beasts became savage predators. However, the land and animals prompted more questions. “What kind of elf was my father?” weren’t the only victims. Horrors reveled in corrupting namegivers–elf, Nahor stopped. “Your father . . . well, he was an excellent human, troll, ork, obsidiman, windling, t’skrang, or dwarf–it didn’t matter swordmaster, considered by many the best who ever lived. He was what race. Those marked by a Horror became the monster’s slave and honorable and never let his friends down, often going to great lengths to did its bidding. help us out. He was a brilliant tactician as well, able to maneuver around For half a millennia Horrors laid waste to the land and its people. an opponent and find a weak spot in his armor, delivering a fatal strike!” Many namegivers survived the nightmare by hiding in kaers–underground Nahor thrust his arm forward, as if he were Valinar holding a sword, fortresses whose magical defenses protected the inhabitants. When the attacking an enemy. level of magic in the world began decreasing the less powerful Horrors Lamedi had rarely heard the brothers tell stories about his father, receded from the earth leaving the more malevolent ones behind lurking and they were almost always about Valinar’s time with Nahor and the in the shadows. It was after this long night that people left the kaers they others. “Where did my father live before he traveled with you? Did he hid in and began taking back the land. But the Horrors that remained do other things? I remember some of the brothers saying he did things continued to corrupt those malleable to their evil intents, and fed off the for a queen.” fear and corruption they instilled. Nahor took Lamedi from his shoulders, and lowered him onto a flat

26 27 MY FATHER, MY BROTHER BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK rock. Yellow posies grew from its cracks; Lamedi plucked and smelled Lamedi finished his food and drank from the water skin. He stared one of them. Nahor unpacked some food. “This is a good spot for lunch at Nahor, but didn’t say a word. Climbing off the rock, he put the skin don’t you think, Lamedi?” back into the pack and started walking in the direction they had been “Nahor, what did my father do for the queen?” Nahor. Lamedi only going. Grabbing the sack, Nahor got up and walked after him. He easily said his name when he was very serious or mad at him. Nahor sat down, kept pace, but stayed behind Lamedi. After several minutes passed, and gave Lamedi some cave crab meat and a slice of bread. Lamedi stopped and turned around. His eyes were red, and tears lined “Your father worked for the queen before and during his time with his soft, puffy cheeks. us. I’m sure he also did many tasks for her after we had gone our separate Lamedi waited for Nahor to catch up, then took Nahor’s giant finger ways, in the time after Giddeon had passed on.” Nahor looked at Lamedi into his delicate hand and looked up. His eyes spoke the apology that sitting in front him. He resembled his father so much he could almost words did not. Lamedi knew that it was hard for Nahor to talk about picture him with Valinar’s two swords facing off against miniature foes, the past. He knew his guardian was just trying to protect him, even if it spinning gracefully through the air. meant protecting him from the knowledge of his father’s past. Nahor Lamedi munched his food and swung his legs over the rock. He leaned down and brushed Lamedi’s cropped hair away from his forehead. never took his eyes off Nahor. Nahor noticed the stare. Just like his He grabbed him with one arm and gave him a big troll hug, taking his father, he seemed to be scrutinizing and analyzing every aspect of the breath away. conversation. While in his arms Lamedi asked, “Shikshaka, can I have a horkla? Nahor continued. “Valinar was a spy for Queen Alachia of the Blood Wood. He served the queen to help expand her power in Barsaive. * * * He worked to further her goals and it didn’t matter if those goals went against ours. Valinar always obeyed his liege lady. For him the ends and The rest of the walk to Hurlrock was quiet. Lamedi pointed at giant means were always justified. He cut through anything in his way. Though lizards with metallic purple and green-blue scales, and birds with orange I did not agree with all his actions, I considered him my rock brother, and and black feathers sitting on a nearby tree watching the two travelers still do. Was he a good elf? Yes. But the path he had tread was filled with walk by. He chased after colorful butterflies that fluttered about, but his both good and ill choices; in the end the Passion Mynbruje will judge string of questions were not as numerous. him accordingly. Have I answered your question, Lamedi?” Nahor said, Hurlrock was not so much a town as it was a trollmoot, a place tired and distant. where many troll families gathered together. However, it had become a

28 29 MY FATHER, MY BROTHER BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK trading spot over the years because it was close to a dwarven iron mine, youth’s horns twisted straight up from his head, the second’s jutted out and a well traveled, mountain road leading to Throal. The troll homes sideways at an angle from either side of his head, and the third’s spiraled were largely wooden, holding up to two or more families. The chief of close to his head, like a ram’s horns. the clan and his family slept in a cave hollowed out of the mountain. It “Hah! I’m eight and I can already work,” one troll replied. was considered quite a luxury because a cave didn’t leak when it rained “So? My Shikshaka says elves and trolls age differently, but I’m still or collapse during snowstorms. Heavy leather blankets served as a door not a baby.” and blocked the cold winds. “What are you implying, elf? That you pointy-eared dandies They reached Hurlrock in the mid-afternoon. People milled about, are better than us trolls?” the spiral-horned troll growled. Lamedi, going from stand to stand buying fresh fruit, pottery, or a newly forged thoroughly frightened, shook his head. sword or piece of armor. Lamedi saw many dark bearded dwarves “Calm down,” said the first bully. “If this scrawny elf isn’t a baby, haggling with trolls three times their height over goods they wished to he’ll prove it like we do. What is your name, baby?” buy. It was like seeing an adult argue with a bearded child. “The brothers call me Lamedi.” A sparkle caught the Lamedi’s eye. He ran over to a stand that had “Haw, haw! That’s not a name, that’s something mothers call their several small objects on the shelves carved from crystal. There were little kids. Look, the baby doesn’t have a real name.” The trolls laughed airships, dragons, castles, spheres, and even crystal figures of elves, trolls, in unison. They began speaking in trollish, deriding the scared elf even dwarves and other namegivers. “Shikshaka, look!” he exclaimed. “Aren’t more. They didn’t know that Lamedi knew their language. “Time to show these wonderful?” Lamedi turned around. Instead of Nahor, three troll us you aren’t a baby, Lamedi.” The troll said, speaking the obsidimen youths stood next to him. He thought Nahor had followed him to the term of endearment with venom. stand, but Nahor was haggling with a troll over the price of seeds he was Lamedi hesitated. Sweat rolled down his red face. He tried peering selling. over the three trolls’ shoulders, hoping Nahor would notice he was in “Aren’t they wonderful,” a troll mocked in the common tongue. trouble, but his guardian was still talking and shopping. Lamedi stuttered. “Stupid elf. Only a baby would want one of those.” “Wh-what do you m-mean ‘p-prove it’?” “I’m no baby. I’m eight.” Lamedi stood before three troll youths. The troll with horns that stuck out from his head sideways stepped They were much taller than Lamedi and wore dirty clothes. Their horns forward and gave Lamedi a small rock. He crossed his arms and smiled, stuck out from the tangled mess of their hair. Similar in build and a tusk jutted out from his mouth over his upper lip. “Toss it” was all he appearance their horns were the only real distinguishing feature. One said.

30 31 MY FATHER, MY BROTHER BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

“I don’t know what you mean.” The four waited, staring at the spot the rock struck. When nothing “Gah! C’mon baby. We’ll show you.” The trolls grabbed Lamedi and moved, the trolls burst into laughter, calling Lamedi baby and mocking pulled him away from the buzzing market. There was little Lamedi could the way he threw the rock. They said his arm was so puny even a do, the trolls were very strong and he didn’t want to look like a baby by mountain tiger wouldn’t want to eat him, not enough meat. Lamedi tried running to Nahor. They took him to a ravine just on the outskirts of the to ignore the mocking trolls and continued his vigil, but eyes welled with village; its bottom had been leveled and smoothed, serving as a road. In tears. the distance a caravan of dwarven miners drove an ore-filled cart. Slowly, one of the smaller stones shifted. Lamedi’s eyes went wide. “Throw the rock across the ravine and make a rock slide. If you It shifted more, and rolled down the ravine. It took another rock with aren’t a baby then you’ll be able to cause a big avalanche. The smaller the it. More and more rocks followed as the initial ones bumped and jostled rock thrown and the bigger the slide you make, the better you are.” each other. “I don’t know; won’t the slide block the road?” The trolls stopped laughing when they heard a loud grinding noise. “So! Just do it, or are you a baby? I bet you can’t even cause a few The boulder began tilting, slowly at first. Finally, with a crash, it came rocks to slide let alone an avalanche.” free and rolled down the ravine’s side, causing more rocks and dirt to fall Lamedi furrowed his brow and narrowed his eyes. He dropped the in its path. Plumes of dust wafted up the ravine, hiding how much of the rock the troll had given him. It was too big. Spying a rock on the ground earth had fallen. that would better fit his hand, he picked it up and tossed it a few times People in the market stopped perusing the vendors’ goods when testing its weight. The rock was pointed at one end and squared at the they heard the roar caused by the rockslide. The three trolls just stared other end. He turned around and then looked across the ravine. Most of with their mouths hanging open as a landslide, bigger than any of them the side was covered in loose stones and dirt. There were large rocks and ever caused, crashed onto the road. They bolted leaving Lamedi alone. boulders as well. “What is going on?” a troll shouted. He looked down the ravine Lamedi saw a boulder held in place by smaller rocks underneath it. and saw the road covered with stones. The dwarven caravan reached the Cradling the rock in his hand, he cocked his arm back to the side, then newly formed roadblock. They shook their fists at those watching above whipped it forward. The rock shot from his hand, spinning like a disc and demanded to know who caused the slide. end over end. It flew across the ravine and smacked against the rocks Nahor found Lamedi standing at the side of the ravine, gazing out under the boulder. The clacking sound echoed down the ravine. Nothing at an impression of dark earth where the boulder had been. Nahor moved except for some stones, which rolled only a few feet. squeezed him to get his attention. Lamedi looked up at Nahor, his eyes

32 33 MY FATHER, MY BROTHER BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK pleading for help. “Affronted our honor? No, if anything this little one has inspired “Did you do this, Lamedi?” our children to try harder and make even bigger rock slides!” The chief Silent at first, the elf looked down and mumbled. “Yes, Shikshaka.” laughed and clapped Nahor on the back. He knelt down and looked at “Why?” Lamedi. “Now little one, do not be so hasty to prove you are an adult. “The others called me a baby. They said I had no name.” Lamedi Your time will come.” He pinched Lamedi’s cheek with meaty fingers. started to cry and told Nahor what happened. “Now go, both of you, buy something from our market!” Nahor showed no anger, for he was not mad. Lamedi acted on his They left the cave. Nahor still had some shopping to do before the emotions, and even Nahor had been overcome by flowing feelings in the market closed. Lamedi nodded. past. “Emotions are a strange thing Lamedi, they make us do things that “Do not be sad Lamedi. It was an accident.” sometimes we shouldn’t. You must learn to control your emotions so “No it wasn’t, Shikshaka. I caused the slide. I blocked the road.” that you act justly.” “It will be cleared soon enough, and the dwarves will be on their Nahor and his brotherhood had been coming to Hurlrock for many way. I know those boys teased you, but you shouldn’t take it to heart. years and knew the clan well. Nahor went back to the chief ’s cave and Try not to worry what others think of you. As for not having a name, explained what had happened. The chief was an old troll, about forty- well it is true. You have not yet gone through the naming ritual, because five. His hair was grey with streaks of sandy brown, and he hunched you have not come of age. Lamedi is a fine word and a good name for a little. He was still strong as a bear and could be just as ferocious. He now. Do not be so hasty, your true name will be revealed when the time actually laughed, not believing that Lamedi could cause such a big slide. comes. You are who you are, and you will grow to be a fine elf.” Not many of the troll youths ever accomplished such a slide. The chief “Thank you, Shikshaka,” Lamedi said, his voice somber. explained that while it was true there was such a test, it usually happened Nahor completed his business and bought a large quantity of seed during times of the year when fewer people used the road, so that there and some beautiful pots, hand painted by the trolls. They had depictions was enough time to clear the rocks from the road. of the infamous Crystal Raider clans, highland trolls who lived in the “I am surprised that one so small could cause a mess so big, but Twilight Peaks, and Therans, a nation of imperialists who sought to some say even the smallest person can accomplish the most amazing conquer Barsaive and claim it as a colony for the Theran Empire. They feat. Don’t worry, the three trolls who caused this will clean the mess.” fought each other on giant airships made from stone and crystal, and Nahor bowed and said, “Thank you for your kindness rock- hurled elemental fireballs at each other. Troll skyraiders leapt from their brother. I apologize if I or the child have affronted your honor.” ships onto the enemies’ vessels.

34 35 MY FATHER, MY BROTHER BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

“Let us make one stop before we leave,” Nahor said. and cried. They strode over to the stand that had the small crystal carvings. Nahor heard the faint sobs and checked on the child. He sat at the Nahor picked out a dragon. Its crystal claws dug into the side of a entrance and hummed a soft tune, one he used to sing when Lamedi was mountain, and its forked tongue stuck out of its open mouth, exposing an infant. His voice, deep but soft, lulled Lamedi into a peaceful sleep. jagged teeth. A loud crack of thunder woke him. Lamedi got up from his bed and “For you, Lamedi.” pushed aside the leather blanket that was his door. The morning sky was “But I don’t deserve it, Shikshaka,” Lamedi said, his voice barely a blanket of gray and rain was coming down hard. Lightning cracked audible. the sky followed by another boom. There was little activity around the “Ah then, I shall give it to you when you are ready if you feel you do Liferock. Many of the brothers stayed dry in their own shallow caves not deserve it now. Come, we must be going if we are to return home or buildings made from dried mud and straw, built into the canyon side. before nightfall.” Lamedi let the blanket fall back. He searched for a candle in a drawer They left the town, taking the mountain road. Lamedi looked back of the wooden dresser one of the brothers had made for him. He lit it. at the rockslide he had caused. He saw the three trolls that hurt him The soft light illuminated his small cave-room in a yellow glow. Opening shoveling dirt, and picking up rocks. Angry dwarves barked at the trolls, a drawer he reached for some clean clothes, but felt something cold and telling them to move faster. Lamedi sniffled. jagged. Lamedi pulled the object out to find the crystal dragon Nahor They did not talk much on the way home. Nahor had found it best had bought. Wrapped around the dragon was a white, netted cloth-piece not to push Lamedi when he was upset, letting him talk when he was with a small white rose embroidered on it. The corners of his mouth ready. Near sunset they crossed the plateau where they ate lunch. The pulled into a grin. Lamedi put the horkla on, and placed the crystal sun sank below the horizon, its afterglow colored the plateau in a wash dragon on top his dresser. of pink, light orange, and purple. They reached home as the first stars appeared in the early evening sky. Lamedi left Nahor and went to his cave. He did not want to be a “little one” anymore. He wanted to be grown up, like the trolls. Despite Nahor’s words of encouragement, Lamedi was still angry at himself for reacting as he did. He felt like the baby the trolls had called him. He crawled onto his straw bed, covered himself in rough woven blankets,

36 37 Chapter 4

Rites of Heritage

ahor and Kagiso left as the morning sun crested the frosted peaksN of the Throal Mountains. The younger obsidiman had seen a herd of mountain stags grazing in one of the valleys near the Liferock the previous day. Lamedi ran up to the hunters as they were leaving. He held a wooden spear, and his face was painted green and brown. He wanted to join the hunt, but Nahor refused. Although the Lamedi had been with the brotherhood eighteen years, Nahor did not want to risk his life. Mountain stags, larger than normal deer, had a wide rack of razor, sharp antlers that extended over four feet. They were dangerous beasts, and an animal the young elf could not face, even with Nahor and Kagiso nearby.

39 RITES OF HERITAGE BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

Nahor’s decision upset Lamedi. He felt his teacher was being too Nahor nodded to Kagiso, and they made their way to where the protective. He stood his ground and gave Nahor a piercing look. He herd grazed. They stayed downwind so the stags wouldn’t catch their clenched his fists, and sought to outwait Nahor. Lamedi should have scent. They worked their way behind the stags, and took care to make known that those few minutes of silent staring were as brief as a flash as little noise as possible, no small feat due to their large size. Finally, of lightning to Nahor. Nahor could wait as long as the tempestuous elf they reached the patch of trees the herd had come out of, and crept to wanted to play his game. Seeing his guardian would not waiver, Lamedi its edge. Nahor was about to signal the charge when the eager Kagiso stomped off to his cave yelling about the unfairness of it all. Nahor rushed into the midst of the herd, startling them. sighed and then signaled to Kagiso and they left. Clumps of dirt and mud shot up from the ground as the herd The valley was a couple hours hike from the Liferock. A small river scattered. Hooves pounding the ground sounded like the hands of a ran its length. Tall trees with prickly needles and smaller bushes littered thousand drummers. Kagiso did not see the lead stag flank him. the valley floor and the mountainside leading into it. The open fields at Nahor rushed from the trees and pushed Kagiso out of the way, its bottom contained a variety of colorful flowers. Flocks of birds flying taking the brunt of the stag’s antlers as they impaled his leg. Nahor in formation settled at the riverside to drink and hunt fish. screamed and gnashed his teeth. Nahor and Kagiso wound their way down the mountainside to the He fell on the beast. With one wrench, he broke its neck. The other valley. Nearing the bottom they stopped and knelt close to the ground, stags, scared and not sure what to make of the giant rocks that attacked trying to blend with the green surroundings. They scoured the verdant them, fled to calmer and greener fields. Their flight sounded likea land looking for their quarry. Kagiso tapped Nahor. He pointed to a booming thunderstorm and echoed throughout the valley. patch of trees that ended not far from the river. A tall stag, dark brown Kagiso ran to Nahor, who winced from his wound. Blood flowed with flaring nostrils, walked out of glade. Its antlers were a deep russet, from his leg. Ignoring the pain, Nahor patted the dead stag and uttered a and spread from its head like branches from a tree. The strong male prayer to the Passions, thanking them for a worthy opponent and wishing turned its head from side to side ascertaining the presence of predators. the stag a speedy journey to the next world. Turning to his throbbing leg, Seeing no sign of danger, it turned to the trees and bleated. Its voice, Nahor put pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding and dressed it deep and strong, echoed through the valley. Soon after, more mountain with heavy cloth strips, but not before getting some herbs from his bag stags–male, females and newborns–emerged from the trees. Slow and and applying it to the wound. He limped and his face twisted in pain cautious they walked to the river’s edge where they drank from the cold when he put too much weight on his leg, but the injury would heal after waters and rested, basking in the midday sun. a few days.

40 41 RITES OF HERITAGE BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

That evening, back at the Liferock, when the sun disappeared behind pulled. With a loud crack Nahor broke the stag’s sternum. “What is on the mountains, and its fading light bled blue, purple, and magenta across your mind Lamedi?” the sky, Nahor sat next to the stag’s carcass. His wounded leg was Shifting his weight, Lamedi swallowed hard, and brushed his long extended straight and wrapped in itchy bandages. Nahor held a large, hair out of his face. “I want to go to the Blood Wood. I want to see the serrated stone knife in his hand and began cutting the body. From the home of my father.” base of the stag’s neck down to its rear legs, he sliced the tough hide. Nahor paused. He plunged the knife into the carcass. His gaze was Many times he had to backtrack when the roughly carved blade did not hard. The muscles in his jaw clenched tight, and his answer was barely a fully cut through skin and sinew. His hands soon became covered in whisper. “No.” blood and fur. Lamedi exploded. He had been sheltered too long. He wanted to see Nahor skinned the carcass so another brother could prepare the hide things that not even the obsidimen, the only family he had known, could for curing; he put the organs aside for Mahmet to use in her spells; most show him. “No? What do you mean? I want to see the Blood Wood. I’m of the meat he cut into strips to be dried and made into trail-rations almost an adult! I can choose for myself. I’ve learned much from you and they’d trade away or keep and eat if necessary; the rest would be cooked the other brothers. How can you deny me my heritage?” that night. “Because your heritage is full of pollution. There is a reason the Lamedi stayed aloof and simply watched Nahor work the blade in wood is named the blood! They continue their ritual. They continue to his hands. He was working up the courage to confront his teacher, and spill more blood, to cause more pain when there is no more need. That was also thinking about what to say. His mouth was dry and his tongue wood is not a place to tread lightly. The elves there have killed its heart, swelled. His palms were moist, and he felt his face flush and warm. the wood is polluted!” Nahor’s voice boomed. His last word echoed, each Lamedi walked up to Nahor, each step taken with hesitation. syllable dissipating as it traveled across the canyon. Several obsidimen “Shikshaka.” Nahor continued cutting at the carcass, and he hummed stopped what they were doing and looked at their impassioned brother. a quiet tune. “Nahor, I want to talk.” Nahor had never yelled at Lamedi. But he had known this day would “So talk. I am not stopping you.” Nahor stopped humming, and come. Lamedi had become restless in the last few years. His moods were turned his head to look at Lamedi. His gold eyes were devoid of erratic; he would be happy one moment and irreverent the next. He even expression, but the elf knew better. Turning back to his task, Nahor shouted at Grand-elder who was only trying to teach him how to tie a paused, and changed how he held the knife, then used it to saw through shank-knot. Nahor knew the reason of course, but he had hoped that the chest bone. When he sawed a good way through, he grabbed it and because Lamedi had never been to his ancestral home, that he would not

42 43 RITES OF HERITAGE suffer the longing. For the longing to recede, Lamedi needed to see the wood, would need to touch it and smell it, would need to drown in its embrace. The longer Nahor prevented Lamedi from going to that unnatural forest, the more he would change until his need to see the wood became painful. Elves and the Blood Wood were connected, like obsidimen and their Liferock. Even elves that had not taken the ritual of thorns–the magical deed that caused the painful thorns to grow through their skin–needed to take a pilgrimage to the forest, the seat of the elven court and power in Barsaive. “I don’t care, Shikshaka, I want to go, either with or without you. It is my right to see the home of my people.” Having said his peace, Lamedi turned and went back into his cave. He blew out the solitary candle, lay on his bed, and muttered curses in the dark.

44 Chapter 5

Chained Heart

ahor watched the orange glow emanating from Lamedi’s caveN darken. He looked at his brothers sitting around blazing fires that surrounded the giant liferock in the center of the community. They ate and told stories of the great Earth Mother. One brother would begin and when finished another would continue the tale of how the Earth Mother gave birth to the world and gave the namegivers their ways. Their baritone voices filled the air and sounded like a muted avalanche. A flickering light caught Nahor’s eye. He saw Mahmet moving about her dugout, a shallow cave like Lamedi’s, one of the many that lined the canyon around the Liferock. He saw her fiddling with spell ingredients. She measured each component then put the blue

45 CHAINED HEART BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK powder, root, or raven’s claw into a pouch. Nahor saw all his brothers– Nahor paused. Cocking his brow, he looked at Lamedi, “Where did his family–and he sighed. He looked down, his lips moved as if he were you hear such a word?” saying something, but no sound left his mouth. He shook his head and “I heard Grand-elder talk about it to another brother. They were walked into the night. speaking of some rebellion that happened long ago.” Nahor walked beyond the light of the brotherhood’s fires until “Ah, the Liferock Rebellion. Yes, that was long ago, before you the moon, only a sliver in its newness, was high in the heavens. When were even born.” Nahor said smiling, and gently poked Lamedi’s he stopped, he noticed the familiar mixing scents of flowers that grew stomach, tickling him. The plateau, once full of color from the panoply on the plateau near Hurlrock. He had traveled for almost four hours of flowers, was now brown and overgrown with dying with thick without realizing it. Nahor walked to the plateau’s southern edge, his patches of grass and scrub brush. The day was cool, a precursor to the steps more like shuffles, as if he lacked the energy to move. He didn’t cold weather that loomed ahead. It had been six months since Nahor even notice his injury until he stopped walking, and the pain surged and Lamedi had visited Hurlrock. They had gone back to the troll town through his leg like wild fire spreading through a dry field. Looking many times since the rockslide incident to purchase food and supplies, across the mountains he saw the faint light coming from Bartertown. as well as trade pottery and blankets with intricately woven patterns He sat down; the soft grass tickled his bare legs. made by the brothershood. “What shall I do?” he said to himself. “What can I do, but let However, today they had gone to Oreton, a dwarf, mining town him go? If I keep him here I will be denying him his heritage.” Nahor that had grown in size since the discovery of elemental earth twenty sighed and lay down. He looked up into the clear night sky; the stars years ago. Every year, on the anniversary of the discovery, the town twinkled, their stark whiteness like dabs of paint on a black canvas. held a celebration. People from the surrounding mountain towns came Searching the heavens he saw Lochost’s constellation–a small girl and brought wares to trade or to put on shows. Multi-colored tents holding broken chains in delicate hands. He beseeched the Passion were erected for the merchants and entertainers, and people made all of freedom, the Passion whom he had served for over fifty years, and sorts of food like candied apples, roast goose, and smoked pig. hoped his words would be heard. Nahor and Lamedi saw many things that day; a troll weaponsmith worked his forge, the clang of his hammer on the anvil rang loud and * * * sparks showered the ground when the smithy pounded the red-hot metal; dwarven merchants traded precious elemental earth and air; an “Shikshaka, what is slavery?” illusionist put on a grand show, spewing blue flames from his mouth,

46 47 CHAINED HEART BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK and even frightening some of the audience with his glamour of a “Yes, Shikshaka, I do.” Lamedi looked down. His teacher had snowy white dragon. seemed different when he spoke, and it scared him. Nahor was always “Slavery . . .” Nahor continued. “Well, let me see. Slavery is when serious it seemed, but never like that. one person owns another without that second person’s consent.” Lamedi took the words Nahor spoke and repeated them in his Lamedi scrunched his face. “What?” mind. The repetition, like a mantra, helped unravel the meaning, but “Let me see if I can be more clear.” Nahor scratched his chin. it would take many years before he fully understood what Nahor meant. There were so many kinds of slavery. After a few moments of silent walking, Nahor looked up, eyes wide. “Slavery is when a name-giver is * * * prevented from walking their path. Do you understand, Lamedi?” “Kind of,” he said. “So is slavery when someone prevents another Nahor propped himself up, he fixed the part of his horkla that from doing what they want?” dangled in his face. He stood and found a boulder nearby. He sat next “In a way yes, but there are many forms of slavery.” The deep to it and cracked his knuckles. Shutting his eyes, he took several deep rumblings of Nahor’s voice rose from inside him like a volcano breaths then began punching the rock in a steady rhythm. Faster and erupting. His body puffed up and he loomed over Lamedi, his shadow faster, he punched the stone. Minutes passed, and the steady thumping engulfing him. Passion filled Nahor. “Not only can one enslave another of hard flesh into harder stone rang across the plateau. In a low but one can be a slave to himself. One is a slave when emotions sway rumble, Nahor hummed a song of longing and pain. His voice, deep them to hurt themselves or others; one is a slave when laziness or like the valleys in the mountains, rose until it filled the air. His singing cowardice keeps them from doing what they know to be right; when was set to the rhythm of his fists. Nahor thought of Lamedi lying in ignorance blinds them; when envy, bitterness and jealousy sours their his cave angry and hurt because his mentor, his friend, his father, had joy; when the fear of need drives them to dishonesty and violence; denied him. when one defends the guilty and accuses the innocent; when the work The air crackled with the resounding blows against the stone. one does enriches others but leaves them in need; and when one does Streams of white and yellow energy swam over the surface of his body. not acknowledge who they are, they are slaves.” The energy coalesced into brief flares of light as his fists pounded Nahor deflated as he exhaled his last word. The serious air the stone. Faster, faster, faster. Splinters of stone flew from the rock, surrounding him faded. He grinned, and leaning down, he looked cutting Nahor’s skin. His fists hit the stone so quickly they were a blur. Lamedi eye to eye. “Do you understand now, Lamedi?” With one resounding punch from each hand, the large stone

48 49 CHAINED HEART cracked down its center. The sparkling energy slowly dissipated like fog in the morning’s light. Nahor brought his raw and bleeding hands together. The chain links hanging from his manacles, symbols of his service to Lochost–Passion of freedom, change, and rebellion–locked together in a flash of light. His manacles were whole; Nahor was chained. Nahor’s lament changed into a prayer. “Forgive me for chaining my little one. I meant only to protect him, but in doing so I have bound him in unbreakable chains, although they are forged from my love for him. Thank you for making me see what I have done, for blowing the winds of change against my unseeing, unwavering eyes.” Nahor raised his hands into the night and stretched the chains that linked his manacles. When they were taut, he pulled as hard and as quick as he could. The chain links burst apart, freeing him from the bonds of his own creation. Nahor saw the links dangling free as before. He got up and walked back to the Liferock, back to Lamedi. Up in the heavens a young girl, with broken chains in her hands, shined brightly.

50 Chapter 6

Home

hirping birds, signaling that morning had come, woke Lamedi. HeC got up, put on his shirt, and grabbed the crystal goblet Nahor had carved for him for his tenth birthday. On his way to fill the cup with water from the Liferock’s spring, he walked into Nahor. The two looked at each other, but said nothing. Lamedi fidgeted with the goblet, rolling it from hand to hand. He saw Nahor’s split knuckles. Blue blood dried and caked around the gashes. Nahor’s voice was somber and calm. “I will take you to the Blood Wood. I will take you to your home.” Lamedi almost dropped the goblet. Certain that Nahor wouldn’t

51 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK allow him to go, he had thought he would have to sneak off without * * * his teacher. Lamedi hugged Nahor; his arms didn’t even come close to wrapping around the giant’s girth. “Thank you Shikshaka, thank you. Nahor packed his supplies: food, a sleeping roll, extra clothes, When can we leave?” rations, a lantern, a pack that clinked and tinkled when he moved, and a “We will leave in a week’s time. I must prepare for this journey, it is long bundle he slung over his shoulder, wrapped and bound in leather. very dangerous and I will not be caught in the lands north of the Throal After packing, he said his goodbyes and left for Bartertown and reached Mountains without my armor.” Nahor’s voice was stern. This journey the city late in the sixth day of travel. Nahor wandered streets filled would not be like one of their day trips to Hurlrock. The way was long, with oblong ork homes, precisely square dwarf houses, and ornate elf and unknown dangers lurked everywhere. homes with curved trim and pastoral carvings. Bartertown bustled with Confused, Lamedi asked, “Can’t you just put on your armor like life–people of all races milled about the streets, going home or to stores Kagiso?” or heading to their favorite inn for a drought of ale and a slab of meat; “It is not that easy Lamedi. My armor is special and must be installed peddlers sold their wares on the corners; children ran and laughed along by an expert weaponsmith. You will see, for you will need your own dusty sidewalks; guards patrolled the streets, their bright red and yellow armor and the best can only be bought in Bartertown.” clothes covering chain and scale armor. Lamedi lit up. A wide and toothy grin spread across his face. Nahor Nahor smelled the city air. He enjoyed the smoky, sweaty, raw scent, knew this would excite him. Lamedi had never been to the sprawling but it would have been a lie to say he preferred it to the sweet and free metropolis, but whenever he and Nahor walked the flowered plateau air of the mountains, forests, or fields. Nahor walked down a street filled and saw the city from atop the mountain, he would ask if they could go. with stores on either side. He saw the shop he was looking for, its sign in Nahor had always said, “Not yet, but soon.” Soon had finally come. the front window: a carving of a dwarf at a forge, and above the carving “I must go to Bartertown immediately to see the weaponsmith. I the shop’s name engraved and painted in gold letters, The Hammer and will leave you here for now, and on the seventh day Kagiso will bring you Anvil. Nahor bent his head as he entered the shop. A dwarf, human, to me. In that time, I want you to practice your swordsmanship like you and elf browsed the racks and shelves looking at swords, maces, bows, have been.” leather and metal armors, and other implements any smart traveler “I will train while you are gone, and I will see you soon,” Lamedi would consider purchasing before heading into Barsaive’s untamed lands said. or seedier cities. Nahor took his pack and hefted it onto the counter. As the contents

52 53 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK moved, it sounded like of pieces of glass clinking together. He pulled and rolled onto the floor. “I am sure this will be sufficient.” open the drawstring and emptied much of the contents onto the Thamthek quickly picked up the loose coins, snatched the countertop; blue crystals, varying in size and shape, poured from the bag, checked its weight, and peered into it. He flushed when he sack. Those who mined crystals like the blue ones Nahor had, called saw some very precious elemental earth and air coins amidst them living crystals because of the dull glow emanating within each the silver and gold. He looked up at Nahor, no longer scowling. shard, as if they contained a tiny life inside. A stout dwarf standing The dwarf smiled and waved his arm, beckoning Nahor to follow behind the counter, wearing wire-frame bifocals, and polishing a suit of him. “Good sir, come right this way, I’ll make sure this armor is installed plate mail with his long orange beard, turned around when he heard the correctly and fully, or my father wasn’t Gramchek Hammertongue! Don’t clinking and tinkling of crystal rolling and falling onto wood. The dwarf you worry, it’ll take a dragon’s claw to get through this crystal once I’m hopped off his stepstool, and came up to the counter. “Yah, what do you done with ya.” need?” He began fingering some crystal pieces and licked his lips. Nahor smiled. “Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that, good “I need this installed. Are you skilled?” Thamthek.” The dwarf glared at Nahor. “Am I skilled? I’m Thamthek Telling his apprentice to watch the storefront, Thamthek led Nahor Hammertongue, you bet your keester I’m skilled. Now this blue crystal, to a room in the back of the shop. The dwarf told Nahor to sit, then I’ve not seen that in a long time. You get this from those troll Sky Raiders trotted off to get the crystals. Nahor took all his clothes off and sat up in the Twilight Peaks?” down in the reclining chair in the middle of the room. When Thamthek Nahor leaned over the counter, his eyes narrowed, and he answered, returned, he sat next to Nahor. “No. The armor was a great gift from a very powerful person, someone Taking his first look at the rock man’s muscular body, Thamthek who’d I know would prefer to remain nameless.” gasped at the sight of Nahor’s battered flesh. Long rows of milky green “Ok, that’s your business, but putting those big crystals into your scars wound around Nahor’s body as if his skin had been ripped apart tough hide is my business. It won’t be cheap, or painless.” The dwarf into strips and then shifted around. Old puncture wounds, long since cackled. healed, were dark and splotchy. Scars from burn wounds ran the length “The protection I will receive from this armor will outweigh the of his left leg. Shaking his head the dwarf exclaimed, “My, you have been pain of installing it, and I am aware of the cost. Here is the money in in some battles, haven’t you. Who are you, mister, and why is it that I advance.” Nahor took a small pouch bursting with coins from his belt. don’t know of someone who has obviously survived much in his time As he plunked it on the counter, several silver and gold pieces fell out on earth?”

54 55 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

Nahor smiled at the awestruck dwarf, “I was an adventurer once. But for some time I have remained at home in the mountains.” * * * Thamthek scratched his beard entangling his fingers. He yanked them out and then his eyes opened wide. “You are Nahor of the Purifiers Kagiso and Lamedi sparred in a clearing near the Liferock. They aren’t you? I know of you! You helped our king in the Great War against wielded wooden swords, and wore heavy, leather armor for protection, Thera many years ago. Don’t be so modest my friend. You and your band and helmets in case any swings went wild. Swords in hand, the two faced did much more than help in that war. My father used to tell me tales of off. They brought their swords up to their chests, and then extended the Purifiers and their bravery. But he described you as being bigger,” their arms, crossing the blades to form an “X”. Each combatant bowed, Thamthek shrugged. “Oh well, legends always do exaggerate the truth a sign of respect and honor from one warrior to another, and then took eh? Fear not good Nahor, you are in capable hands. My father was a great battle stances. weaponsmith and he taught me all he knew. This crystal will be expertly Kagiso held his sword out, and pulled his other hand back, balling installed, you’ll see.” it into a fist. Kagiso was almost as big as Nahor. His skin was a dark Thamthek picked up a crystal and began speaking arcane words blue with flecks of brown, and eyes were reddish brown like the rocks Nahor could not understand. The dull glow within the crystal brightened, surrounding the Liferock. Heavy leather covered bulging muscles honed and a milky cloud seemed to fill the inside of it. Finished chanting, from hauling rock and wood to and from the dwarven rock quarries Thamthek plunged the shard into Nahor’s shoulder. where he often worked. Young, Kagiso had gone through the Awakening, The customers and the apprentice, jumped when they heard the and received his name only fifty years ago. baritone scream come from the back of the shop. Some dropped the The fighters danced, circling each other and never removing their wares they were inspecting and left, fearing the weaponsmith had gone eyes from one another. Kagiso attacked. insane or worse. Others looked to the apprentice for answers. Lamedi brought his sword down, parrying the strong strike. He “The master is installing living crystal armor into a customer, deflected the blade, and hopped back. Lamedi was surprised by Kagiso’s nothing to be worried about. The installation process is quite painful, speed. Despite their long years, long language, and seemingly relaxed but if you can withstand it, the armor is worth the pain.” attitude, obsidimen could strike as fast as the quickest viper if they so Several customers, turning pale, looked at each other then to the wanted. apprentice and almost simultaneously exclaimed, “I’ll have some chain “Ha!” Kagiso exclaimed. He continued to move side to side, his mail please.” blade at the ready as he spoke. “Very good Lamedi, you parried that

56 57 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK strike well. You are nimble and that is also good. Always keep moving, Kagiso brought his blade down on the somersaulting elf, but never let your opponent know your next move for they can tell what missed. He turned around and charged Lamedi. “I missed you that time you will do by the way you lean, the way you place your feet, even how Lamedi, but I’m coming for you! What are you going to do without your you hold your blade. For instance, I know you are preparing to sweep sword?” downward by the way you’re pulling your blade back and up.” Coming up from his tumble, Lamedi looked for his sword. He found Lamedi hesitated at Kagiso’s statement–the stony warrior was right. it, but it was still out of reach. Instinctively, he searched for anything He twisted as he lunged, an attempt to change his attack, but his sword available to him to use as a weapon. His fingers found a rock, quickly thrust was awkward and his momentum propelled him forward. Kagiso picked it up, cocked his arm back, and snapped it forward. The stone avoided the blow. He sidestepped and let Lamedi stumble past him. flew at the charging behemoth, striking Kagiso in the head. “Good. You changed your maneuver, but you put too much of A loud clang rang through the clearing. Kagiso stopped. The rock yourself into that thrust, I could have cut you down at your back when I had hit him so hard that his helmet had spun halfway around his head. stepped aside. Now try again.” Stunned, he staggered and dropped his sword. As Kagiso was fixing his “I shall get you Kagiso, you‘ll see.” Lamedi smirked and cocked an helmet, he felt a point jab into his stomach. eyebrow. He shuffled closer to Kagiso. In a flurry of motion he brought Lamedi, sweating and powdered in red sand and dust, pointed his wooden blade upward, spun around, and smacked Kagiso on the Kagiso’s blade at him. backside with a resounding “thwap” against the leather. “How was that Kagiso held up his hands and chuckled. “Good answer Lamedi. I teacher?” yield to you.” “Well done, Lamedi!” Kagiso turned around and adjusted his helmet. Lamedi lowered the sword. Kagiso grabbed him up and put him He ran up to Lamedi, kicking at him. Lamedi spun around to get away, on his left shoulder. “Come, we will go drink some cool water and eat a but Kagiso struck his blade disarming him. Kagiso held the tip of the good lunch. I think there is some stag meat still left. You did well little wooden blade within an inch Lamedi’s chest. “However, I believe I have one, but I think you might be better at handling a bow or sling instead of won. Now that you have no weapon, what can you do but surrender?” a blade. We shall see. Let us rest for now. We can continue tomorrow.” Lamedi saw his sword lying on the ground only a few feet away. The next day Kagiso and Lamedi practiced using a bow. Lamedi It seemed Kagiso was right, but he refused to accept defeat. As fast as instantly took to archery, much faster than he had the sword. He shot a windling picking a pocket, Lamedi spun around Kagiso and tumbled melons on stakes, painted targets on trees, and even a quick moving away. jackrabbit, which he ate for dinner.

58 59 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

After five days of intense training it was time to go. Kagiso and Lamedi compared the wooden buildings, and cobblestone roads to Lamedi started for Bartertown. They climbed down the mountains on his home in the mountains. The canyon surrounding the Liferock, the worn trails used by the many dwarven miners from Throal and by trolls place Lamedi had lived his life, was deep and wide. Lamedi had a cave, who came from their moot homes to trade. The weather was warm and not more than a shallow culvert where he slept. A few other brothers breezy and they made good time, reaching the city half a day earlier than kept such places, but many rested within the Liferock itself. Lamedi had expected. always marveled at the sight of a brother melding into the giant stone, Lamedi had never seen so many people in one place. The streets disappearing into its depths, becoming one with it. The Liferock was the were clogged with name-givers of all sorts. Small windlings flew above brotherhood’s shelter, mother, and protector. It gave them knowledge the heads of giant trolls, burly orks, quick-eyed humans, and boisterous of the world around them, it protected them in times of trouble, and t’Skrang–the flamboyant lizardmen. Lamedi, only used to small villages through the Liferock the brothers learned their name. Lamedi had and the open spaces of the tall peaks and vast plateaus of the Throal wondered when he would get his name, but Nahor, Grand-elder, and Mountains, felt confined and crowded. The city was awesome and scary Mahmet had always said the time would come when he was ready. He at the same time. Fearing separation, he stayed close to Kagiso’s side. wanted to be ready now. “Kagiso, the city is so big. Never could I have imagined Bartertown The Liferock was so natural, Lamedi thought. One could pass it to be filled with so many people. I can’t even see very far ahead because and the only evidence of namegivers living there were the few dugouts of all the people. And the buildings! They are magnificent. Why is it that and the fire pits. The brotherhood took care to not ruin the area around the brothers do not build homes and shops like these people do?” their home, but Bartertown was different. Few trees lined the avenues. “That is because you are short, Lamedi.” Kagiso patted him on the Everything was painted, carved, and built, and black smoke billowed out back, and chuckled loudly. “If you were tall like me, or maybe that troll of the many chimneys. over there, you could see better, but it would not matter as both the They made their way through the throng of people to The Hammer short and tall can only move so fast in this crowd. The brotherhood and Anvil. Lamedi continued to look at the awesome and terrible wonders does not build such structures because we do not need them like other the city held. Passing through the massive bazaar, he saw every manner name-givers. The Liferock is our shelter when the weather is too fierce of good and service for sale. So much of everything surrounded him– for our tough skin, or if danger is about. Luckily, the Earth Mother has food, weapons, clothes, animals, and performers–it was overwhelming. been kind to us since your arrival, and no dangers have come that we Lamedi was relieved when they entered the forge. could not handle.” The apprentice standing behind the counter immediately turned to

60 61 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK them when they entered. “May I help you?” Thamthek looked up at Kagiso. “Yes, he said to be expecting a “We have come to meet Nahor,” Kagiso answered. brother and an elf, oh there he is. Be careful with that sword youngster, The apprentice looked somewhat confused at first, then his mouth it’s sharp enough to slice you in two.” opened and he brought up his hand index finger pointing straight up like Lamedi looked at Thamthek and put the giant claymore on the an arrow. “Ah yes, the obsidiman. Just a moment, master Hammertongue table. He walked back to Kagiso and the dwarf and asked, “May we see is just finishing the installation of his armor.” The apprentice turned and Nahor?” went into the back to get his master. “Aye, you may. Follow me. He’ll look a bit battered, but nothing a While waiting, Lamedi looked at the racks and tables laden with good day’s rest won’t do. I imagine you’ll be staying here tonight?” instruments of war. He was amazed by the variety. He also noticed the Kagiso nodded, and Themthek led them back to his workshop. beautiful engravings etched or carved into each piece. Each engraving Having never seen living crystal armor installed, they did not expect what told a different story: mounted warriors assaulted monsters and they saw. Nahor was lying on the reclining chair face down. Blue crystals, impregnable castles, dragons breathed their deadly flames, and brave like little stalagmites, protruded all over his body with the exception of heroes vanquished Horrors. his neck and head. Rivulets of blood trickled onto the floor. Nahor Thamthek, smattered in blue stains, emerged from the back of groaned. Lamedi, mouth agape, ran to him. He knelt down and lifted the shop. Dark shadows circled his eyes, his orange beard and hair was Nahor’s head. “Shikshaka, are you okay?” tousled and stuck out in several directions. He knelt behind the counter Nahor’s voice was faint and tired. His eyes fluttered open and his searching for towels and bandages. mouth barely moved when he spoke, “I will be fine Lamedi. I only need He shouted, “Phew! I tell you, that must have been the hardest thing to rest for a while. The bleeding will stop and the wounds will heal soon. I’ve ever done, or my father’s name wasn’t Gramchek Hammertongue! We can leave in a day. Have Kagiso pick out armor for you and a suitable That obsidiman has a tough hide, and an even louder voice. Four days weapon. Master Hammertongue has been amply paid, so do not worry straight with him yelling every time I put in a crystal. It’s enough to make about the cost.” a man go daft!” The weaponsmith stuck his pinky into his ear, wiggling Kagiso and Lamedi went back to the shop and bought a set of it about, as if to get Nahor’s screams out of his head. “I’ll say one thing chainmail and a nice sword. Lamedi wanted to get a bow as well, so though, not many weapons will get by that crystal armor.” that he might practice his new skill. He liked shooting a bow. There was The apprentice cleared his throat to get his master’s attention. “Um something about having to line up the target, to slow the breathing, and sir, these two are here to see Nahor.” the sound of the creaking wood as he pulled back the bowstring. He

62 63 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK almost felt like he became the bow, then the arrow as it arced towards its of a green ocean rolling away from a stony shore. The rainy season target. The rush was undeniable. would not arrive for many months, so the air was warm and dry. After their purchases, they helped Nahor to an inn not too far away. Lamedi was not new to the wilderness. He had explored the Thamthek bid the three companions farewell and told his apprentice mountains near the Liferock, hunted small game, and learned to fish he would be sleeping the next few days to recover, and that if anyone using a branch, string, a thorn from a bush, and bugs as bait. However, wanted such armor installed, be it living crystal or blood pebble, they he still lacked many skills that would enable him to survive out in the would have to wait at least a week or more. more wild places–places not close to the Liferock, to the brotherhood, They stayed the night, caring for Nahor. Nahor did not sleep well to Nahor. And so Nahor taught Lamedi much about wilderness survival most of the night, but his skin had stopped bleeding, and started to heal as they wound their way north towards the Blood Wood. Nahor showed rapidly after Kagiso and Lamedi applied the cream Thamthek gave them. Lamedi how to spot poisonous berries by the splotchy white color near It was oily, and smelled like swamp water, but worked quickly. With the their tips, and how to recognize different kinds of animal tracks and how living crystals grafted to Nahor’s flesh, his skin was harder, and smooth fresh they were by the moisture within the paw print. in places where the shards barely pierced the surface. Early one morning, a herd of dyre, grazing nearby, woke the Nahor woke early the following day. He still moved slow, but felt slumbering travelers. The giant cow-like beasts used their curving horns better. He went out to nearby vendors and bought supplies for the to turn the earth and dig up edible roots. Their shaggy brown hair grew journey to the Blood Wood. Rope, another lantern, stakes and pitons, oil, long and knotted. The high peaked hump atop the middle of their body parchment, ink, healing herbs, and rations, were just a few of the things jiggled as they waddled to new patches of plants. Lamedi started to get he purchased. Nahor never traveled far unprepared. up, but Nahor pulled him back down and told him to just watch. When Nahor returned from the stores, Kagiso bid him and Lamedi “Do not be afraid, Lamedi. These creatures are quite peaceful, unless farewell. Kagiso wished to remain in Bartertown, to explore the hustling provoked, of course. You will see many of Barsaive’s creatures are like and bustling city filled with energy-wasters, as obisidmen tended to call that. They only attack if we invade their territory, their nesting grounds, the fast paced, and shorter-lived races. This was not Kagiso’s journey, or if we scare them. But there are other creatures whose only mode of and so he wished them good tidings and safe travels. living is to kill, and they are dealt with accordingly.” Anger seeped into Rather than going back through the mountains, Nahor and Lamedi Nahor’s voice. He loved nature and its wonders, but the latter creatures skirted the southwestern peaks of the Throal Mountains and remained he spoke of were the monsters born of the Scourge, mutated by the in the lowlands. They walked up and down hills that were like the waves Horrors’ presence.

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A dyre shuffled up next to Lamedi, and snuffled his clothes. He He knocked an arrow and took aim. When Nahor rolled away, he got his began to laugh from the tickling wet nose that blew hot air on his skin. first clear look at the animal. It looked like a giant chicken with very large The dyre, finding nothing edible, moved on. After a few minutes passed, beady eyes. Red and orange feathers covered the upper half of its body, the herd roamed to another field, allowing the travelers to gather their and shimmering green scales covered its lower torso. things. The creature dug its claws into the ground and coiled for another On eleventh day of travel the foothills flattened, replaced by tall seas jump. It leapt into the air, almost twenty feet. Lamedi took aim at the of prairie grass waving in the wind. Nahor said they would head west and wildly flapping bird, whose small wings did little to aid it in flight but in a day reach the trading port of Eidolon where they’d purchase passage helped control its descent. He let loose an arrow. It zipped by the bird’s across the Serpent River. Barsaive’s longest river, its coils wound their head. Lamedi, quickly cocked another arrow, but he didn’t have enough way from the western most point of Barsaive, near Iopos, and across the time to let it fly. North where tributaries, like veins, emptied out into the Aras Sea in the Just as the bird creature was about to land on Lamedi, Nahor rushed east and Death’s Sea in the south. in between the creature and its target. He pulled his fist back, and before After eating, they packed up their supplies and dowsed the campfire; Lamedi’s eyes, Nahor’s fist darkened as if turning into hard granite. it hissed and steamed in protest as the flames died, and the red coals Nahor punched the creature as it fell into him, sending it hurling back. dulled to black and gray. They waded through the prairie. Lamedi tripped Stunned, it shook its head and shrieked. Its hot fetid breath washed over over a tangle of grass. When Nahor bent down to help him up a loud Nahor in waves. Lamedi recomposed himself and shot the creature again shriek broke the quiet, pastoral air. and again, never giving it the opportunity to make another attack. Just as Nahor looked to see what caused the noise, a creature with They walked up to the fallen beast. Nahor knelt down and poked it, stubby wings dropped out of the sky. Landing on his back, its momentum then turned it over. Its eyes rolled up, and its forked tongue hung out of almost bore Nahor to the ground. The beast tried digging its large talons its mouth. “What is that Shikshaka?” into Nahor’s flesh, but his armor protected him from the deadly attack. Nahor wrenched some arrows from the beast’s body, wiped them on It bit Nahor on the shoulder with its beak-like mouth. Clamping its the grass and gave them back to Lamedi. “So you do not run out,” he jaws around crystal shards instead of flesh, it shrieked as several serrated said. “I do not know what this beast is. In all my years of travel, I have teeth cracked and broke. never seen such a thing, and I have seen much of Barsaive. Its claws are Nahor fell backwards, putting all of his weight onto the creature. vicious, I will you that much. Do not worry though, I will be fine. It only Lamedi had already gotten up when the creature pounced on Nahor. scratched me a little. You did well, young one. That beast caught us off

66 67 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK guard, but you remained calm–you will need that composure for future blood elves across the Ssserpent River, ssso they might return to their battles.” home, but never an elf with an obsidiman. How very peculiar.” The Nahor stood up and searched to make sure no other beasts lay in t’skrang’s voice was almost a whisper. The elongated “s” sounds slithered wait. Satisfied they were safe, he fetched their supplies. “Shikshaka look from his mouth like a snake slowly making its way across a savannah. at its tail, there are tiny barbs all over it.” Nahor didn’t pay much attention to the conversation. He was more Nahor inspected the thick tail more closely. Several hundred barbs worried about the boat sinking or capsizing. He wasn’t the best swimmer. lined the length of it. Some had fallen out and stuck to the ground. Nahor remembered one time when he had accidentally punched a hole “Hmm, they may be poisonous. Lamedi, look and see if there are any in into a boat thinking that he was punching a door to a room he and his my back, please.” friends needed to get into. An illusionist had placed the glamour there to Scanning Nahor’s backside, Lamedi plucked a few barbs that had trick unwanted visitors such as Nahor and his friends. The boat started lodged in between crystals. Luckily none had pierced Nahor’s flesh. flooding, but luckily Nahor was able to persuade a water spirit swimming Lamedi threw the barbs to the ground. The two moved on, and were nearby to stop the incoming water while he and the others made a hasty more wary during the rest of their journey. retreat. They soon reached the small city of Eidolon, where they purchased “Well, here we are friendsss.” The t’skrang landed the boat with a passage across the Serpent River. Eidolon was a fair sized town. Many jolt. Nahor dropped ten silver pieces into the lizardman’s extended hand, made their living off the river trade and fishing. The city was populated a fair amount for the service. They walked from the dock, turned north, mainly with t’skrang, but a mixture of elves, blood elves, orks, and and continued the journey until the sun set. When the light of day faded humans lived there as well. they made camp. A talkative t’skrang piloted the small boat that carried them across “We shall reach the forest’s borders sometime tomorrow Lamedi. the river. Nothing more than a large rowboat, Nahor’s immense weight Get some rest tonight. I will take watch.” Nahor stared into the night. lowered the vessel in the water considerably, and the captain wondered The full moon and stars cast a silvery glow on the land. Screecher owls if his craft would make the crossing. The lizardman’s tail lazily waved called out into the night, and twittering bats flew about gobbling up back and forth as he inquired about the two travelers. “Ssso where are small insects. Nahor hummed a song Lamedi recognized. It was a song you going?” Nahor sang when he was a child to help him sleep and calm him when Lamedi answered, “We are heading to the Blood Wood.” he was scared. Lamedi lay on the ground, his light blanket tucked under “Ah, that isss nice, may you have a sssafe trip. I have ferried many his chin. He wondered if Nahor now hummed the song to calm himself.

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They had walked a long ways, traveled through mountains, high hills, and yellows. A wind rustled the foliage, the sound like a loud hush. However, low plains. Lamedi was tired and his feet were almost always sore, but no bird sang and the verdant wood had a red tint about it. The eerie Nahor seemed unaffected. He simply kept going. The resonating hum of feeling of the forest did little to alter Lamedi’s joy. Nahor’s voice seeped into Lamedi’s head, and he soon fell asleep. As they got closer to the forest’s border, Lamedi got a better look at They barely spoke during the next day’s travel. Hardly a word or the trees. They did not grow straight; they curled and wove their way up glance was exchanged as they stomped through thick grass that changed into the sky. The leaves were green, but upon closer inspection, he saw into marshy fields. The ground sucked at their boots as they plodded veins of red running through them. When he touched one tree, the soft on. Lamedi looked down and saw that the mud was a deep red, and the bark came off easily in his hand. Underneath the bark, a red sheen of water was also cloudy and red. He was about to ask Nahor why the earth mucus ran down the length. Thorns studded every branch. Lamedi even was this color, but decided against it. Nahor was brooding. His silence thought he saw some branches bend towards him, as if they sought him was overbearing, Lamedi thought. He was like a child forced to go on out. He shivered and stepped back. The tangled trees and undergrowth a trip he didn’t want to make. Lamedi wanted to scream at his teacher, was a wall. There was no clear entrance into the wood. wanted to shout at him to open up and talk, but he refrained from doing Nahor called to Lamedi. He pulled himself from the forest, and so because he knew how much it had taken out of Nahor to even agree came to his teacher who removed a long bundle from around his to go to the Blood Wood. shoulder. Lamedi had seen Nahor walk off with it when he went to Lamedi bent down and dipped his finger into the liquid and sniffed Bartertown, but never bothered to ask what it was. it. He recoiled. It smelled like blood, as if the land had soaked up the Nahor unraveled the leather wrapping, revealing part of a sword in blood of many elves and could hold no more. Wiping his finger on his a green and brown wooden sheath. Small vines with thorns sprouted all pants, Lamedi caught up with his teacher. Nahor sniffed. He crinkled over the sword’s basket, hilt, and length of the sheath. Nahor presented his nose. He could taste the heavy, sanguine air–it was like sucking on a the weapon to Lamedi. silver piece. His displeasure over making this trip continued to rise, but “This was your father’s sword, given to him by the Queen Alachia he remained silent for Lamedi. of the Blood Wood. When he died this is the only item I did not bury They trudged through the marshlands and soon the edge of the with him, for I thought he might want you to have it one day when you forest became visible. Lamedi smiled at the thought of finally coming were ready.” Lamedi’s eyes bulged. He smiled and breathed in sharply. home. The forest looked green and healthy from the distance, not at The sword was another link to his father whom he knew only through all as Nahor had described it. Leaves shrouded the trees in greens and the few stories he had heard. But happiness gave way to doubt. Lamedi

70 71 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK questioned his ability, his worthiness to accept such a gift. squeezing it. Pain shot up him, like a million briar bush needles pricking “He was a great swordsman,” Nahor continued, “and though you his skin. It traveled through his fingers, and up his arm. The spikes of do not yet walk a path, you have become skilled with a blade. Kagiso has pain raced through his body, and when it hit his head Lamedi shuddered taught you well. This mighty sword will aid you in battle when you have and screamed. learned more.” Nahor rushed to Lamedi’s side and tried pulling him free, but Lamedi took the bundle. He fully unwrapped the sword and Lamedi only screamed more. He bashed at the tree with his fists. Chunks unsheathed it. The blade was also made of wood, and engraved into of bark flew everywhere, but Nahor could not free him. the blade’s base was a rose. Lamedi also noticed small rosebuds growing Lamedi thought his heart would explode. The massive muscle from the vines. He looked up inquisitively at Nahor. “Is this sword alive? pumped blood so fast he heard the rhythmic pounding through his It is warm to the touch, and the vines and buds feel real, rather than chest. Each beat shot fiery blood through his body. It felt like razor- carved from wood.” sharp thorns traveled his veins. Lamedi continued to scream. And then, “Yes, this sword is alive. It is imbued with true earth, air, water, and a choir of screams drowned his. wood. Elementalists of the Blood Wood make these swords for the “Dying, dying, we are dying!” elves who guard the forest’s borders, and some are given to those found “Your blood!” worthy by the queen. Your father was found as such. The magic in this “We need your blood.” sword is strong. Its blade is made of wood but it is as sharp as any steel “Who are you?” Lamedi yelled. He dropped his father’s sword and sword.” tried pulling his hand out of the wooden maw. It was stuck, as if encased “Thank you Shikshaka. Thank you so much. I will treasure this in the mortar dwarves used to make bricks. “What do you want with always. Thank you for taking me to my father’s home, my home. Come, me?” let us go. We still must reach the city of my father and night will soon “We want you, need you.” be upon us.” “Satiate us.” Blade in hand, Lamedi crossed the border into the forest. He leaned “Help us.” against a tree as he walked over a tangle of thorn bushes. His hand sunk Millions of voices pulsed through Lamedi, and with each plea and into the trunk as if it were dough. scream the pain intensified. The screams begged him to give his body Bark grew around his wrist. Lamedi struggled to pull his hand free, over, to what, Lamedi did not know. but the tree held him. He felt pressure on his hand as if the tree were “Come home.”

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“Come home.” continuation of the blood ritual an abomination to nature. The queen “Come home to us!” spared him–only because of Valinar. The pig of a rock man should have It was more than Lamedi could take. He howled louder and louder been fed to the blood monkeys.” until his voice became hoarse and faded in a gargle of blood as the red The two elves continued their vigil. They saw Nahor unwrap the liquid shot out his mouth, spraying the tree in front of him. Lamedi rose sword and give it to Lamedi. Mala’s eyes went wide. Even from this crumpled down, his hand still trapped. The bark voraciously sopped the distance he recognized the blade his queen had given to Valinar. blood, and the tree’s branches bent down and started impaling him. One “Valinar’s child,” he gasped. “Fawér, quickly, go to the court. Tell branch snaked its way into Lamedi’s mouth, smaller branches, like little Lorenna her child has survived. Tell her Valinar’s whelp is here!” tendrils, burrowed their way into his body, into every muscle and organ Fawér rose without making a sound. He turned to leave, then and began devouring him from the inside out. hesitated. “What will you do Mala? Surely you will not confront the As the tree sucked the last drop of his life away, Lamedi heard one obsidiman. His strength and talents are legendary.” voice, a female voice–seductive and alluring whisper,“More.” Mala snickered. “Do not worry Fawér, I am no fool. I will simply watch the two and wait for your return. Besides, I have our bitches, Dallia * * * and Failla, should anything happen.” At the mention of their names the two hounds looked up, their large Underneath the tangled brush beside the invisible forest trail, two tongues lolling out the sides of their mouths. Fawér smiled and sped off men clothed in loose, green tunics, short pants, and camouflaged in to find Lorenna. leaves watched Lamedi and Nahor. Thorns spotted their skin. Large Mala petted the two fierce beasts and lowered his head between dogs with deep chocolate fur covered in a slick of red lay next to the theirs. His devilish face twisted into a grin, and a trail of blood flowed thorn elves. Massive fangs protruded from their upper lips, and their eyes from a thorn on his forehead. “That’s right Dallia, Failla, you will bring mirrored the blood of the wood. me the elf, and you will taste obsidiman meat. It is quite tough I’ve heard, “Mala, who are those strangers? The elf looks familiar, but he is but your sharp teeth will have no problem rending the rock man’s flesh.” young, and I have never seen him in the wood.” Failla licked the blood from Mala’s face. “I know him not, but the obsidiman is Nahor, Valinar’s ‘friend’. Long ago Valinar and his uncultured companions visited the court. The * * * obsidiman showed no respect to our lady of the wood. He called the

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Nahor shook at the unconscious Lamedi. “Wake up! Wake up!” forest is as alive as you or I. It wanted to consume me, Shikshaka! I he shouted. He splashed Lamedi with water, and continued to shake remember the tree drinking the life from my body.” He shuddered and him. Tears streamed down Nahor’s face. “I cannot lose you Lamedi. buried his face into Nahor’s chest as if trying to smother the horrifying I promised. I promised.” Nahor held Lamedi’s limp body close and experience from his memory. Nahor held Lamedi and stroked his head. stroked his hair. He told him all would be well and that he should rest. Lamedi heaved and coughed. He breathed sharply, his chest rising “Shikshaka, take me from this place. I wanted to come here for so as he filled his lungs with the metallic tasting air. Tears trickled from his long, wanted to see the home of my people. But I find that his place not bloodshot eyes. His skin was pale and deep circles shadowed his eyes, as at all like I imagined. The wood is not evil, but it is not at all good either.” if he had not slept for days. Lamedi clutched his head again. The pain came and went. He looked at “Oh, Lamedi, are you okay?” Nahor fiercely hugged the elf, driving Nahor. His eyes pleaded, begged for Nahor to make it ok. “This was my the air from him. father’s home, not mine. My home is with you and the brotherhood. I His voice weak, he whispered, “What happened? I, I can’t remember know that now. But something inside me burned. I had to see the wood, . . .” Lamedi clutched his throbbing head. He heard the echoes of a voice, more than wanted to. I don’t know why. While this place is not home, but could not make out what it said. the Blood Wood will always be a part of my heritage, and I cannot ignore Nahor tended to Lamedi as best he could, making sure nothing that. But I belong with you and the brotherhood. Oh Shikshaka! Let us was broken. “You went to the forest’s edge and began crossing into it. leave this place.” Lamedi hugged Nahor and began crying. I heard you talking then you stopped. The next thing I know your hand Nahor, tense at first, relaxed. He held Lamedi close. “We will go back was stuck in a tree and you were on your knees clutching your head and Lamedi. Everything will be all right. You make your own home, it is not screaming in agony. You screamed for a long time, until you blacked out, determined by your blood, or your race. You have learned that now, and and when you did, the tree released you. I carried you from the forest. I I am glad that I could be with you on this journey.” Nahor’s voice was thought you had died!” Nahor shook as he sobbed. Regret filled him. He somber. He was sorry for being so stubborn, for not being supportive. should have never have let Lamedi come here. The two got up and started back to Eidolon. Although night had Lamedi looked back into the dark forest. The sun had set and the come, neither had wanted to camp near the forest’s edge. wood seemed to change. It looked even more menacing than before. He Half a mile away from the Blood Wood’s border, Lamedi had thought he saw glowing eyes blinking in the forest’s depths. regained much of the color in his skin. His legs were no longer like Lamedi looked at Nahor. “I heard things, felt terrible things. The jelly and he had stopped shivering. He breathed easier when the forest’s

76 77 HOME BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK presence wasn’t at his back. invulnerable. His neck and head were unprotected and while the shards Nahor’s lantern did little to illuminate their surroundings. The only covered much of his body, a blade could still pierce him and teeth could sounds were their steps in the soaked marshlands, and the squeak of the rend, if the blow or bite were solid enough. lantern as it swung back and forth. Dense clouds covered the moon’s Nahor pressed his left forearm against the dog’s chest, keeping light and a mist rose from the ground. The air was thick and humid, yet its snapping jaws out of reach of his flesh. With his free hand Nahor cold. Nahor felt suffocated and wished to be gone from this place, but grabbed the beast’s neck. It yelped in pain, as Nahor squeezed. He rose night travel made going fast difficult. to one knee and then heaved the dog with a mighty throw. The dog sailed Barking broke the silent night. The sound increased in intensity. twenty feet through the air end over end towards Lamedi and the other Sudden and sharp, it was faint at first, but increased in volume. Nahor hound. stopped Lamedi when he first heard the sounds. He turned in the After leaping over Lamedi the hound quickly recovered. It made direction of the forest and strained to make out what he heard, but all another swipe with its claws and snapped its jaws, barking all the while. was quiet again. The two continued, but quickened their pace as best Lamedi’s sword never found the mark as the hound dodged or batted they could. away his thrusts. Howls shattered the newfound quiet. Guttural snarls followed the Digging into the ground, the hound tensed and readied itself for howls and the padding of heavy feet filled the night. Nahor turned another attack, but it never got the chance. The beast Nahor had thrown around, but could not see beyond his lantern’s light. He thought he saw careened into it. A tangle of claws and teeth, the dogs rolled into Lamedi, something, and as he stepped forward, a giant hound bowled into him. causing him to drop his sword. Another hound stopped in front of Lamedi. It snarled, revealing Elf and hounds, stunned for a moment, got up and faced each other. rows of ivory teeth glistening with saliva. Lamedi pulled his father’s blade Lamedi’s sword lay by the animals. Nahor charged towards the beasts, from its sheath. The dog lashed out with gnashing teeth and swiped at but was not close enough to make an attack. The hounds looked at the him with enormous claws. giant coming at them, then Lamedi. Hackles raised, they circled Lamedi, Lamedi ducked and rolled to the side. The dog narrowly missed herding him into striking position. him. Lamedi pulled a field knife from his pocket. The blade was no more Snapping jaws threatened Nahor’s exposed neck. The immense than an inch and a half in length. It was used mainly for cutting rope or weight of the dog made it hard for him to get up. His crystal armor small plants, not fending off giant thorn dogs. Slavering smiles of death protected him from sharp teeth and claws. However, Nahor was not snarled and snapped at him.

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Lamedi waited for an opening. When the dogs rushed him he dashed Lamedi took the sword and knife from Nahor and agreed that they forward. Somersaulting to the side, he came up on one knee. Nahor was should keep walking. They walked until morning and found a copse of still many feet away. trees and made camp in its shade. The dogs charged again. With only one knife and two foes, the They encountered no more violent creatures during the rest of their situation seemed hopeless. journey. They purchased passage from the same t’skrang who had taken Lamedi threw the knife. The blade spun through the air, and sunk them across the Serpent River. They answered his questions and idly into the chest of one of the dogs. It dropped to the ground mid-charge chatted with him. skidding on the moist earth. Lamedi was less tense since seeing the Blood Wood. He laughed The other dog continued its charge. Lamedi raised his arms to more and grinned as he used to when he was a child. The longing had protect himself. left him. Although Lamedi had not entered the Blood Wood’s depths The attack never came. A shrill whistle echoed in the night. The dog nor seen the elven court he had entered its presence. For a brief time, he stopped. Its ears perked and it looked back to the woods. When another merged with the wood. However, the immersion was one of pain rather whistle floated over the marsh, it ran past Nahor and Lamedi towards the than joy. The experience was so different than when the obsidimen forest and disappeared into the rising mists. merged with their Liferock. Lamedi did not know if he ever wanted to “Are you alright Lamedi?” Nahor helped him to his feet and looked go back to the Blood Wood, but he still had so many questions. him over for any injuries. “I’m sorry, I did not mean to throw that dog Nahor noticed the change in Lamedi and thanked Lochost for it. into you.” The incessant mood swings had made living with him very hard. Nahor Lamedi looked at Nahor and smiled. “I’m fine. That beast came was patient, but he could endure only so much. He was glad Lamedi saw from the wood didn’t it? Someone has seen us.” Concern rose in him. his home, and felt sorry he did not get a chance to venture further into Lamedi wondered who sent the hounds and why? Strangers to the wood, the forest, but Nahor was also relieved they did not go further into that there was no reason to kill them. Or was that the point? place once so beautiful, now so deadly. Nahor nodded. He walked toward the dead dog and took the knife from its chest. The blood seeping from the wound mingled with the red * * * mire of the soggy ground. Nahor also retrieved Lamedi’s sword and gave it back to him. “Here you are young one. We can camp in the morning, Grand-elder, Mahmet, Kagiso, and many other brothers greeted when the forest and its threats are further behind us.” Nahor and Lamedi upon their return. That night the brotherhood

80 81 HOME celebrated the homecoming with a large campfire and roast cave crab, Lamedi’s favorite. They told stories and sung songs celebrating life. Lamedi told the brothers of his journey with Nahor to the Blood Wood. Nahor sat and listened while eating a delectably sweet piece of cave crab. When the fires had died and many had gone to sleep, Nahor met with Mahmet and Grand-elder. Thus Ends Part One “It is time. He is old enough,” Nahor said. “I agree,” Mahmet said. “But will the Liferock take him?” Grand-elder held up his hand to his chin. “All namegivers are in a way, one. We all come from the great pattern. By rights Lamedi is more like us than his own kind.” Grand-elder scratched his head and gestured to Nahor. “From what you told me of the painful encounter in the wood, it’s as if the trees rejected him, but Lamedi said they wanted to consume him?” “Yes, Grand-elder,” Nahor said. The three sat in silence. To have a non-obsidimen merge with the life rock was unheard of, but Nahor had seen and done stranger things. He once merged with a pillar of orichalcum–the rare metal composed of all five elements: earth, air, fire, water, and wood–and upon doing so was transported into another time. It was then that he first encountered Lochost, and it was then that he learned that the world was full of many mysterious and wondrous things. Grand-elder spoke first, “In a fortnight Lamedi will go through the ritual. He will receive his name in our own way.”

82 Glossary BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

ELVES & Lithe beings, the pale skinned elves live for 300- BLOOD ELVES 400 years and reach maturity around the age of twenty. They prefer to live in the wilderness in small communities. Elves are quite beautiful, as if Blank sculpted from marble. Pale skin and long pointed ears mark them. Blood elves are just like elves except that they have gone through the Ritual of Thorns and thus their entire body is covered in thorns. They are in constant pain and blood often trickles from the open sores caused by the protruding thorns.

CAVE CRABS According to Vasdenjas, great dragon and keeper of knowledge, a cave crab’s meat is very sweet and delicious. However, killing one is no small feat. These giant four-legged creatures dwell high in the mountains. Large as a warhorse and as wide as two, a cave crab’s thick shell is studded with bony spikes and is as tough as any forged plate mail. It has two giant pincers that could cut a man in half. Beware the click clack noise of a cave crab’s legs when you walk into any caves.

DWARVES The most numerous of all the races, dwarves comprise roughly 70% of Barsaive’s population.

87 GLOSSARY BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

Dwarves reach the height of about 4 feet, are Despite the creators’ best efforts, not all kaers stocky and have broad chests. They grow thick were able to keep the ravaging Horrors out. Many hair especially on the head and thick beards, even people died, and much knowledge about the world the women. Preferring the mountains, dwarves live before the Scourge was lost. Many adventurers seek most of their 150 years underground. They are out kaers for lost treasure and lingering Horrors to always mining away the earth in search of precious kill. metals and jewels. LIFEROCK Large rock formations, a liferock contains a HORRORS Mysterious creatures, Horrors come from another living elemental earth spirit that becomes part of plane of existence. They are only able to travel to every obsidimen born from it. Without a liferock, earth when the magic in the world is high enough obsidimen could not be. It contains all the vast that a bridge between their plane and ours can knowledge of the brotherhood that has been born be made. There are both sentient and mindless from it, if not all brotherhoods. horrors, the former of the two being the most diabolical. Smart or dumb, Horrors revel in NAMING The time in all namegivers lives when they receive inflicting pain. The more they cause the fatter they their name. The ritual, and age of the person going get. Some Horrors simply kill their prey, others set through it, varies, but all the races go through a up elaborate traps in abandoned caves or kaers coming of age ritual. Obsidimen receive their name that will cause any incautious traveler much harm. through their liferock, where as other namegivers Horrors vary in appearance, but all are grotesque receive theirs form their parents. be it a bloated corpse, or a multi-eyed beast. NAMEGIVERS One who has the ability to name. The namegiver KAER These magical fortresses were built before the races of Barsaive include, dwarves, elves, humans, onset of The Scourge. Magical wards of protection obsidimen, orks, t’skrang, and windlings. Dragons kept Horrors out. Mostly built underground, some are also considered namegivers, as they are brilliant were built underwater or even as floating fortresses. beings endowed with magic.

88 89 GLOSSARY BROTHER ELF, FATHER ROCK

SCOURGE, THE The 500 year long time when magic in the world OBSIDIMEN Rocklike beings born of the earth, obsidimen grow was at its highest and Horrors ran rampant in the to be over six feet tall, and are very wide. Their world ravaging the lands, destroying the people heads are oblong and their skin is bumpy and that remained. Often called The Long Night ranges in color from green to brown. Obsidimen because this is also the time when many lived in the are the second longest living namegivers, second underground fortresses known as Kaers. only to dragons. They live over 800 years. Preferring nature, obsidimen rarely take up permanent TROLLS These 8 and 9 feet tall mountains of muscle live residence in cities. roughly 50 years. One must tread lightly when around trolls lest you besmirch their honor and you ORKS A fiery race, it is important not to offend an ork end up a bloody mess. Spiraling horns grow from if you wish to live long. Their sense of personal their heads, their skin is like tough leather, almost honor is fierce and to offend it is to meet death. stone like, and long tusks grow from their mouths Orks live around 45 to 50 years and due to their short lives have a fervor for life most races lack. T’SKRANG Lizard men, the t’skrang are masters of the water. Their skin is usually dark tan, pocked and bumpy. They run the most powerful water trade routes in They have rather large incisor teeth that they Barsaive. They live 80 or more years and are over 5 sometimes protrude from their mouths. and a-half feet tall. T’skrang prefer the rainy season as their skin is quite sensitive and can dry out easily. Skin color can vary from a shiny green to a pale PASSIONS They are the embodiment of emotions and ideas blue and even red and purple. Large crests crown such as love, hate, slavery, greed, or revenge. The their heads. T’skrang society is a matriarchic one passions are like gods in that they grant devout and the males take care of the newborns. followers powers and help mold the events that transpire in the world.

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WINDLINGS Sprightly little things, windlings grow to be about 1.5 to 3 feet tall. They are always putting their noses in places they don’t belong and through their overpowering curiosity often come away with items they don’t own. They prize freedom above anything else, and to kill a windling’s spirit is to clip his luminescent wings, grounding him permanently.

92 Colophon

The title typeface is Papyrus, the body typeface is Garamond. The layout was done using Adobe InDesign. The front and back cover was made using Adobe Photoshop. The cover is printed on white cover card stock, the inside cover is willow, and the body paper is laser paper 28 lb. white. This book was printed at Kinko’s.

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93 Call of the Wood

Nahor, one of the rock-like obsidimen, once travelled the lands of Barsaive with his fellow heroes seeking to purify the world from the taint caused by the evil creatures known as Horrors. When the group separates, they promise to meet once a year, but one by one they die or disappear, until only Nahor and Valinar the blood elf remain. Drawn from his tranquil life among his brothers for his reunion with Valinar, Nahor arrives to fi nd his friend dying, his newborn son in his arms. Nahor to his dying friend swears to be the elfi ng’s guardian and teacher.

As the child grows, both he and Nahor must learn to understand each other and trust in their relationship, for the youth begins to hear the call of the Blood Wood, the ancestral home of the elves. Nahor protects the elfl ing from this dark part of his heritage as long as possible, but as the hold of the Blood Wood grows, he must decide for himself what to heed: the call of his ancestry, or the teachings of his true father Nahor.

SETH FEIERSTEIN is a graduate student at the Univervisity of Balti- more, where he is seeking his Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing & the Publishing Arts. Seth believes in the written word’s its abil- ity to propel readers into worlds where anything can happen. All that is under the sun has not been done. There are always new tales to be told.