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    The Greylands
    The Greylands
    The Greylands
    Ebook2,344 pages40 hours

    The Greylands

    By Susan Skylark

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    About this ebook

    A land of shadows, of mystery, of obfuscated Truth. Welcome to the Greylands, that strange world, within the bounds of Time, peopled by mortal men. We cannot see truly, only as through a glass, darkly. There are things that move and have their being completely beyond our ability to perceive them. There are things beyond our mortal ability to comprehend. There are hints and glimmers hidden within the body of revealed Truth, but there is much we do not know, cannot yet understand, and could never dare dream. These stories are mere fancy, with a seed of Truth at their core. They play with the ideas of mortality and Eternity, Time and things beyond it, and of course the epic battle of Good against Evil. Each stands alone, and though there are common themes, threads, names, and concepts, each story is an entity unto itself and should not be seen as occurring in the same world or mistaken for installments of a series. These are random musings, not Gospel Truth, and should not be taken as such. Joy, hope, and encouragement are hopefully a byproduct, but certainly not sound Theology. If you would know more of the true world beyond these Greylands, one must be a careful student of the Scriptures, not of silly stories such as these.

    This book contains the entire series through volume 8, future volumes will not be included but can be found in individual volumes (free!).

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherSusan Skylark
    Release dateOct 22, 2014
    ISBN9781311661319
    The Greylands
    Author

    Susan Skylark

    Once upon a time there was a sensible young lady who pursued a practical career, but finding it far less fulfilling than the proponents of the modern fairytale promulgate, she then married a clergyman, much to everyone’s astonishment, including her own, and in proper fairytale fashion keeps house for the mysterious gentleman in a far away land, spending most of her time in company with a very short, whimsical person who can almost speak English. She enjoys fantasy, fairy tales, and adventure stories and her writing reflects this quaint affectation. She considers Happy Endings (more or less) a requisite to good literature and sanity, though real stories never, truly end.

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      Book preview

      The Greylands - Susan Skylark

      The Greylands: Volume I

      Susan Skylark

      Copyright 2013 Susan Skylark

      Revised 2018

      Table of Contents:

      Beyond the Mountains

      The Road:

      Part I

      Part II

      Part III

      Beyond the Mountains:

      Are you sure about this? gasped Bayard, trying desperately to stay aback the trotting horse; he was not used to riding and the animal had a trot rough enough to unseat an experienced rider.

      Certainly not! laughed Tyne, having a much easier time astride his well-bred gelding and far more used to riding than his awkward friend.

      Then why are we going? asked Bayard, coming alongside his amused companion, who could not help but laugh at Bayard’s desperate attempt to stay horsed.

      Gaining some control over himself, Tyne replied, would you rather stay home and follow a plow around all your life with all the rewards of your labor going to another man or worse, fall victim to the Blackguard or anyone else who sees fit to plunder or kidnap those too weak to defend themselves?

      Bayard sighed, I see your point of course, but what are we to find upon the road but perhaps worse than your slavers and the Blackguard? Besides, your father seems to do quite well, at least when it comes to keeping more of the fruits of his labor than the rest of us.

      Tyne sighed, he has always been able to toady up to the Lord and is thus allowed a few privileges.

      Bayard laughed, which is why you are riding a real horse and I am stuck with this ox!

      Tyne could not help but join in his friend’s mirth. He did not know what waited upon their road but only that he felt as if he could no longer stay at home. They certainly might meet a tragic end but there was also a chance that they might find a brighter horizon where endless toil and fear were not an assumed part of life. The Lord that oversaw their particular part of the world was by no means the most tyrannical of his class, but he did not leave the peasants much to live on after he had claimed his share.

      In this unsettled part of the world no one dared resist the Blackguard, who rode in and took whatever and whomever they pleased. It was also rumored that there were darker and more dangerous creatures abroad in service to the Dark Prince, and none dared speak against him or his minions in the open air for fear that even the birds and the trees might carry the tale to the wrong ears; the results of which were inevitably fatal to the speaker and all his immediate kin. As peasant boys nearing manhood, Bayard and Tyne were expected to continue as their fathers had in tilling the soil and paying tribute to their local lord. Their other option was to become soldiers serving some lord, king, or other power in the wide world. Or they could pack their meager belongings, leave home, and hope to find adventure and riches upon the road while all their nearest relations could only shake their heads in wonder. They had chosen the latter though they knew little of the world, save that it was a dark and dangerous place.

      There were many Kingdoms scattered across the vast expanse of the known world but also much wilderness, unclaimed by any sovereign but haunted by those who wished not be found. Though each Kingdom had its own sitting monarch, there was a power that none dared challenge. Far to the south dwelt the Dark Prince in his wasted lands and throughout all the lands of men his servants rode far and wide, doing as they pleased with lesser men and ever on some errand for their dark master. Some said the Dark Prince was not even human, but those that did knew not what else he could be. The reigning kings allowed his servants to do as they pleased and none hindered them, for fear of their dread master’s wrath falling upon them.

      It was a broad and strange world, peopled by all manner of men and creatures. Some whispered of those that opposed the Dark Prince and his minions, but most thought it hearsay, for who would dare oppose his Dread Majesty, or rather who could oppose him and live to tell the tale? There were the usual wars and tyrannies that one man or country might inflict upon another throughout the world, as is only natural in the lands of men. Rumors abounded of strange and dangerous folk and creatures lurking in the wild places of the world, most of the stories held that they were unfriendly to men and not to be trusted. There were certainly human predators abroad: bandits who preyed upon any foolish enough to wander far from the confines of civilization. All in all, it was a dangerous world with little of hope or peace known to most of its inhabitants. What was the point of living many wondered, if it were only to suffer and then to die? But most feared death more than even the most wretched existence but could not say why. The boys hoped not only to find a brighter future upon the road but also a purpose for living.

      The Dark Prince and his minions were a reality known and feared by all, but there were also legends of another sort in the world. It was said that somewhere, beyond the Sea, dwelt the Great King who had once ruled over the Greylands, as the mortal world was called, but over which the Dark Prince now held dominion. Some actually believed the legend that the King would one day return and take back that which was rightfully His. Some even claimed that the King was something much greater than a man and was the only hope for floundering humanity. Of course the Dark Prince and his servants strongly denounced such a view and severely punished any who thought otherwise. According to their opinion, there was no hope for humanity, only the long, weary march into endless night.

      Bayard hoped to learn more of these legends upon their road; Tyne only hoped to avoid the notice of the Blackguard and the other dangers of the road. They rode on until the light gradually failed and then found a secluded place to camp not far from the road. The lights of a village twinkled in the distance and the intrepid pair left their well hidden camp to see what wonders it might hold, for neither had ever been farther from home than their own humble village. They quickly found the inn and sat at a table at the far back of the common room to take in the happenings of the evening. Back home, their mothers would never have let them sit in a common room at such an hour, thinking it quite improper; their fathers would expect them to be hard at work if there was any light left and sleeping if there were not.

      The dimly lit room was filled mostly with local craftsmen and farmers along with a fair collection of merchants and other travelers. The innkeeper eyed them suspiciously, especially because they had not even bought a drink. Their stomachs were empty but they had not coin enough to spare for such a luxury as a hot meal in such a place. They lingered for another half hour but no one seemed overly interested in talking with a pair of penniless peasant children and nothing at all interesting seemed to be happening this evening. So much for the excitement of the local tavern! They crept back to their little dell, ate from the small store of food their mothers had sent with them, and were soon asleep. Both were eager to talk of their coming adventures but neither had the energy after such an expedition, to which they were so new. Morning came early and wet as it usually does in the spring. They refreshed themselves in a nearby creek, ate a bit, and were soon on their way.

      Where is it we are going? asked Bayard as they rode along. His muscles ached terribly from yesterday’s ride and sleeping rough had not improved matters, but he tried to hide it as best he could. Tyne was nearly as sore but also as reluctant to show his discomfort.

      I am not sure exactly, said Tyne, though north is probably a good direction, as I have no wish to visit the southlands and get any nearer the Dark Prince. Bayard nodded in agreement. The further south one rode, the more notorious was the country until at last one arrived in the Withered Lands where the Dark Prince ruled and from which no living man had ever been known to return unchanged.

      What do you think about the Mountains of Shadow? asked Tyne, trying to hide his excitement.

      You are not serious? gasped Bayard, They are nearly as notorious as the Blighted Lands! What makes you want to go there?

      Tyne smiled sheepishly, and who said I had any interest in going thence? Bayard raised a suspicious eyebrow and Tyne laughed, all right I admit it, but can you think of a more mysterious place? Besides, it is as far away from the south of the world as one can get without falling into the Sea! I know they say all manner of horrible things lurk in the passes, but they are certainly less dangerous than the servants of the Dark Lord. Some even say there is some great treasure to be found beyond those sinister peaks. Do you have any better ideas?

      Bayard sighed, perhaps you are right? I supposed we can at least learn more about them as we travel and north is as good a direction as any, at least for now. We can always change our minds. They are certainly as notorious in story as the south of the world, but never are they portrayed as altogether evil as is the realm of the Dark Prince. Besides, if there is some chance at wealth or fame, I am certainly amenable to the risk.

      They rode on for several days before they finally found someone with time to talk to two strange boys. They found a grizzled old man making his way steadily along the road, just leaving the village they were about to enter; he seemed rather amused that the wayfarers would stoop to talk to such as he. Where are you bound lads? asked the man in a voice rich in warmth and humor.

      Bayard slid from his saddle and said, we are currently riding north and think perhaps to explore deeper the mystery of the Mountains of Shadow. Know you anything of them?

      The man looked them over carefully and said, I know an old tale or two about those peaks but whatever would make you wish to go thither?

      Tyne said defensively, they say there is a great treasure upon the far side and that is the reason we are upon this road: to get rich!

      The old man smiled thoughtfully, well then you will never gain your heart’s desire in those wretched mountains. There is a treasure indeed beyond their lofty heads but not for such as we. The further slopes are said ever to be bathed in the light that emanates from the Lands Beyond the Sea where dwells the Great King and all His servants. It is said no mortal eye has ever glimpsed those blessed shores nor can any man cross the peaks and hope to live.

      Bayard said in confusion, how then are we to make our fortune?

      The old man laughed gently, there are more important things in this world child than power and riches. Seek the King and you will be a far richer man than any king sitting in his halls of cold marble.

      Which King? asked Tyne, suspiciously.

      The old man laughed, why the Great King, young man. Who else? You do not believe a word I say do you?

      Tyne said skeptically, I at least had assumed this King of yours to be as much a legend as all the other tales that are common to men. What has this King to do with me even if he does exist? How can an old man ruling beyond a distant sea have anything to do with the Greylands?

      The old man smiled and said, a hard concept until you consider that the King is no more a man than the Dark Prince.

      Bayard said, what then are they?

      The man continued, it is said that the Great King was before anything: the world, people, time, everything. Twas He that brought Everything into being. The Dark Prince was once the Great King’s greatest servant, until he rebelled against his rightful lord and claimed dominion over these Greylands. It is also whispered that these lands did not always lie under the shadow of sorrow and death but were once perfect and full of joy and peace. But the forefathers of men, at the urging of the Dark Prince, rebelled against the King and cast all the world into shadow and death. We yet linger in the shadows as it were, until the King again returns to claim all that is His by right.

      But why is it his by right? demanded Tyne.

      The old man chuckled, He made it and all within and beyond that which we call reality.

      Bayard gasped, then why did he not just destroy his enemies and take back that which was his?

      An excellent question lad, said the old man, but one to which I can give but poor answer. They say that the Great King wishes that even the most rebellious of His former subjects would repent of their evil and return to their true Master. He could have easily destroyed everything and begun anew, but His patience and love is greater than any mere mortal can comprehend, but His patience is not infinite, for He has promised to return and cast all such rebels forever into the Blighted Lands.

      Bayard was quite pale, rebels? Are we not then all rebels against such a wondrous King?

      The old man smiled sadly, that we are boy, that we are.

      Tyne said stiffly, then we are all of us doomed if this tale of yours is true?

      Not quite, said the old man, there is yet hope. As I said, the King wishes all of His children to come to Him willingly. If we humble ourselves before Him, seek His forgiveness for all the evils we have wrought, and fervently seek His will and live as He would have us, we have nothing to fear.

      Tyne sneered, what if I want nothing to do with this King of yours or remain skeptical as to the verity of his existence?

      The old man said, then you and all with such hearts will one day find themselves forever lost in the Bleak Lands, either upon death or at the return of the True King.

      I do not understand, said Bayard quietly, what manner of King is this? How can He love such creatures as men? Are not all such lords tyrants and despots?

      Tyne snorted, he seems despot enough to me.

      The old man smiled, no mortal mind can fully wrap itself around such an idea even with long study and acquaintance, but you do come to understand more with time and learning. Now what of your endeavor to climb the peaks?

      Tyne laughed, your myths will not dissuade me old man. I will seek my fortune wherever it pleases me.

      Bayard said, you say the Bright Lands lie beyond the northern sea which is beyond the mountains? I have a great urge to see that bright shore for myself.

      The old man said to Bayard, perhaps with such a sentiment you may find what you seek if you attempt the mountains, but I fear your friend will only find his doom.

      Tyne laughed derisively, and what would you know of the matter old man? Have you ever even seen those mountains?

      The old man smiled, no, but I have heard enough about them to never take such a journey lightly. Some say a man of true heart may find what he seeks in those passes so riddled with death but that a man of selfish intent shall only find his doom.

      I have heard enough of this old fool’s prattling, are you coming Bayard? sneered Tyne as he turned his horse and rode towards the village.

      The old man said to Bayard as he mounted, I fear greatly for your friend even if you do not attempt the mountains but all is certainly lost if he does with such a heart.

      What am I to do? asked the concerned Bayard.

      The old man winked, seek the King and He will give you strength and direction. Bayard gave the old man a thankful grin as he rode off after Tyne.

      Complete nonsense! laughed Tyne as Bayard hurried to catch up, Do not tell me you believe anything that old coot said?

      Bayard shrugged, some of his words stirred restless thoughts in my heart and mind. I find the whole idea intriguing! To think that perhaps man is not simply alone and forsaken to the darkness. That there is hope to be found and a purpose to living.

      Tyne shook his head in exasperation, come back to reality Bayard! You sound as crazed as that old man. I still intend to face the mountains despite his warnings, perhaps more so because of them.

      Bayard said, I long for that forbidden shore. I will go with you but I would heed well the old man’s warnings were I you. He does not seem a fool or one to spout idle words.

      Tyne’s only reply was to laugh mockingly at his friend. They passed through the village and continued down the road, lost in the silence of their own wondering thoughts. They did not see the raven that ghosted silently behind them as they rode nor the arrow that felled the dark bird from the sky before it could pass along word of what it had observed to its fell masters.

      They found another place to camp and silently prepared for the night. As they sat about their fire, still lost in thought, though Tyne was partly silent out of his irritation with Bayard for believing the old man’s nonsense, two strangers entered the light of the fire. The boys each reached for the daggers they carried but soon realized a knife would not avail them against two men armed with swords. However, the weapons remained safely in their sheaths and the men politely asked if they could join the boys.

      Bayard nodded eagerly, seeing something he liked or trusted in the face or manner of the two men. Tyne shrugged and figured the men would do as they pleased regardless. Said the first, it is not often we see two boys wandering in the wide world alone and unarmed. From whence do you come and whither are you bound?

      Bayard said, we come from a tiny village nearly a week’s ride to the south and our current goal is the Northern Mountains. However, we know little of the wide world and would be most grateful for any advice.

      What is it you seek? asked the second.

      Tyne said, who is it that wants to know?

      The first smiled, it is wise to be wary in these dark days and drear lands. Fear not, we wish you no harm and hope only to aid you on your quest, whatever it be.

      Bayard said, I am not sure what it is I seek. I once thought it was renown or wealth or power but now all seems but dross in my eyes.

      Tyne said, my foolish friend has lost his vision but I still seek that which he has forsaken.

      The first said, those mountains are not to be traveled lightly. Few that cross into them ever come out alive, for all manner of strange and wild folk and even stranger beasts inhabit those peaks. But it is said that those who are willing to risk life and limb to find what lies beyond the mountains may truly find what they seek even if they succumb to the perils of the mountains. But it is also said that those who come looking for temporal gain shall find only death, even if they survive.

      Tyne laughed, you sound like that crazed old man. What treasure is hidden in those peaks that must be so well guarded even in myth and legend to keep men from coming to steal it away in droves? And what is it that lies beyond the mountains?

      The second said, you should listen more closely to your ‘crazed old man,’ for he speaks wisdom. A great and wondrous Sea lies beyond the mountains and beyond that are the Bright Lands, which no mortal eye has ever glimpsed. If you wish to serve the King with all your heart and venture into the heights, you may find your heart’s desire but those seeking only selfish gain find death.

      Tyne growled, I suggest that both of you go find your own place to sleep. You have wearied me as much as that old man with your mythic blathering.

      The pair exchanged an unreadable look and the first man said, as you wish it, though it would be wise to heed our words. Twice this day you have been warned.

      They vanished again into the night as suddenly as they had come, leaving Tyne to laugh himself to sleep and Bayard to wonder what it was he was actually seeking. The following morning, Tyne was in a delightful mood though it would sour slightly each time he thought about the strangers of the previous day and their inane warnings. He confronted Bayard, are you still convinced these fools speak truly? I think they only pass along hearsay and are nothing more than gossip mongers. I will still let you accompany me into the mountains but please spare me the tedium of such talk as we had to endure yesterday. If you want to believe that drivel, that is your choice, but I do not wish to share in your delight.

      Bayard smiled sadly and said, as you wish it. How long do you think until we reach the mountains?

      Tyne shrugged, I have no idea. I hope before our food runs out.

      They saddled their horses and were soon on their way. They spoke no more of the strange warnings of the previous day and again fell into the easy friendship they had enjoyed since childhood. As they traveled north, the horizon was soon dominated by what must be those distant peaks. First they were little more than a dark line in the distance but with each passing mile they grew steadily larger until finally they stood among the foothills and the peaks dominated the sky. The intrepid pair had had no further incidents or adventures along the way and was quite eager to begin the ascent, though their food was nearly spent and the dire warnings were not completely forgotten.

      A little path wound deeper into the hills and near a slanting signpost, stood a man with stooping shoulders and a voluminous beard. He greeted the travelers warmly and asked, do you dare the mountains, my lads? I must warn you that it is certain death to go much beyond this point. If you do not fall afoul of the elves and wild beasts, there are stranger and more deadly evils lurking in the heights. It is said that even if one survives the climb to the peak, none can hope to live to see the other side, for even the air itself turns against mortal men at such a height.

      Tyne laughed, you sound as farcical as every other man who has said as much. What is so important that men would be willing to die in the attempt to claim it and that such legends have grown up around it?

      The man said, why the very meaning and purpose of life itself! The answers to all the questions of the universe. All hope, all beauty, all peace, all joy! But such is not to be revealed to mortal men. Those that venture forth trusting in the King have nothing to fear though death take them. All others shall forever be lost.

      Why would that matter in the least? asked the mystified Tyne.

      The little man smirked, for when one courts death it is good to know where one shall reside thereafter.

      Tyne snorted derisively but said nothing in reply. He turned to Bayard, well?

      Bayard smiled, I am quite eager to try this path but you might wish to reconsider, as not just one but four have now warned us of what lies ahead.

      Tyne sighed, I am no coward. Let us away while the daylight lasts and may we swiftly forget the ramblings of this maniac and all his ilk! I will see what legends truly lurk in those heights and no midget prognosticating doom shall hinder me.

      Bayard exchanged a concerned look with the friendly man, who shook his head sadly. Without another word they took to their saddles and resumed their northward journey. The day soon failed as they found a place to camp not far from the road. They debated about a fire as it might draw unwanted attention to themselves from the fairyfolk that were rumored to live in these hills but it also might keep the lesser beasts at bay. Finally they built the fire, thinking it far better to face a sapient foe than to fall victim to a mindless beast alone in the dark.

      They sat quietly around the fire until Tyne mused, what do you think really lies beyond? What have they gone to so much trouble to conceal?

      Bayard smiled, can you not take these men at their word? I know to the very core of my being that they speak the truth. If they are right, you face not only mortal death but eternal darkness as well.

      Me? scoffed Tyne, why must I face such things alone? Are you going to abandon me at the end then or have you given in to the nonsense spouted by lesser men?

      Bayard said, I shall remain true no matter what befalls us but yes, I believe these men and make the ascent in hopes of serving the King.

      Tyne laughed coldly, certainly a strange way of finding servants I think. At least I shall die a free man.

      Bayard said quietly, none of us are free men. We live either to serve the King or the Dark Lord, only in service to the King is true freedom.

      Tyne snorted, you sound like that blighted old man! Where did this outburst come from?

      Bayard smiled sheepishly, I do not know but I know it true.

      Tyne could only shake his head in wonder and roll over to find what sleep he could. Bayard lay awake long into the night, pleading with the darkness that perhaps his friend’s heart might also be touched before it was too late. He knew in his heart that neither of them would remain unchanged from this journey.

      Morning came and they moved higher into the mountains; the forest grew close and thick about them and the path became narrower, steeper, and harder to find. Finally they were forced to leave the horses and continue the ascent afoot. The sun was hot upon their backs and the insects buzzed incessantly in their ears in their insatiable thirst for blood. They emerged from the woods and stood on a rocky outcropping on the edge of a cliff that dropped sharply two hundred feet to a narrow valley below. The trees marched on endlessly up the slope until they vanished into a low cloud that had engulfed the entire top of the mountain. They sat down on two great stones that jutted from the earth to rest, though the sun was fierce and the insects fiercer.

      Suddenly they stood, hearing movement among the trees and the slight crunch of rock beneath booted feet. The two boys exchanged a frightened look and reached for their knives, knowing there was little they could do against anyone or anything that might wish them harm. The noise grew louder among the trees they had just left as Bayard backed towards the edge of the cliff, hoping that with it at his back at least attack could not come from behind. He need not have worried about attack from behind, for there was danger enough before him. A bowstring snapped and the arrow took Bayard in the chest; his eyes widened in pain and surprise for a moment as he vanished over the precipice.

      Tyne ran to the edge to see what had come of his friend. He lay unmoving at the bottom of the gorge with his neck and body bent at angles no living man could endure. He stood quickly, knowing there was nothing to be done for Bayard and faced again their hidden foes, but suddenly a great shadow blocked out the sun as a great shriek filled his ears. There came terrified shouting in an unknown language and the sound of fleeing feet from the direction of the trees. Tyne wondered what this new horror could be that would frighten away the unseen archers.

      A great bat winged reptile alighted in the rocky clearing but it did not immediately lunge at Tyne with its horrible teeth as he thought it would. It eyed him hungrily but then lost interest and began to preen itself as if it were some monstrous bird. A creature, for creature was the best name Tyne could apply to such an apparition, slid from the monster’s back. It stood like a man but seemed half again as tall as the tallest of our race and equally as broad. It was clad all in black armor with a terrifying array of weapons arranged about itself. Its eyes gleamed like red coals deep within the shadowy depths of its helm. Where clothing or skin should have peeked through there was only darkness deeper than the starless night.

      Tyne was frozen in terror by the thing. Then the apparition spoke, what is it you seek, fool? Only death awaits you here, as your friend has demonstrated. Would you end as he? Carrion for the birds? Or would you know what it is to truly live, to have power beyond mortal dreaming?

      Tyne stuttered, anything is better than death! What is it you can offer?

      The thing laughed but there was nothing pleasant in the sound, I offer nothing fool! But perhaps my master shall find you worth salvaging, else I can leave you here for the vultures.

      Tyne looked again upon the shattered remains of Bayard and then looked back at the apparition and its winged mount. He sighed, very well, I shall see what this master of yours has for me. I am dead regardless, so what choice have I?

      The thing laughed again, you do not. Come.

      The thing literally tossed the boy into the saddle, then climbed up behind him with a strength and speed that defied mortality. The reptile screeched and was soon in the air, winging its way quickly south. Tyne was terrified by the apparitions beneath and behind him. He felt some sadness at the loss of his friend but far more relief in having escaped such a fate himself. The boy was a fool! This was the fate his faith had earned him. Tyne shivered, wondering what his own future held. The monstrosity laughed coldly behind him as if it knew his thoughts.

      Bayard felt the pain of the arrow in his chest, breathing became an agony, and then he felt himself fall. A sharp pain to his head had sent him reeling into darkness and then into a veiled half light, as if he lay in the sun with his eyes shut. The pain was gone and so was all the horror and fear of what had just come to pass. All he felt was a wonderful sort of peace and a warm wetness engulfing one foot. His eyes fluttered open and he found himself lying on a beach with one foot submerged in a seemingly endless sea that was clear as glass but whose hue was ten thousand different shades of blue and green and purple. Light played in the gentle ripples upon its surface but other lights like stars or fireflies lost in the deep flitted and danced in its depths. Bayard felt as if he might look at the water forever and be content to lose himself in such beauty but this was not the only marvel before him.

      The light about him was that of a morning in the spring when all is alive and aflutter with life and birdsong but there was no sun to cast such a radiance. It emanated from the north, across the vast sea, and he felt his heart yearning to go thence. He then glanced about himself and found an endless beach of soft white sand with nothing upon it but a small boat lying where the water lapped at the shore. He wondered at this for a moment then his gaze fell upon the mountains that bordered the beach, whose lofty heads were lost in the clouds or perhaps they had no top. The living rock was alive in every color of grey, blue, and black and streaked with veins of silver. Theirs was not the dull and drab hue of mortal stone but each pebble was more stunning than the most precious gem among living men. Upon their lower slopes Bayard could see vast forests and deep, green valleys, and here and there, the flash and play of light upon distant water. If one has seen a jungle on the slopes of a tropical mountain, this forest made its mortal counterpart look an unwatered desert wasteland.

      He looked again to the boat and then towards the source of all the light and peace and joy in this strange new world. His entire being called him to climb into the tiny vessel and cross that vibrant sea, but a yet deeper part turned his eyes again to those mountains and the mortal world that must certainly lie beyond. He looked upon those cliffs with longing, wishing there was some small part he could yet play in the affairs of mortal men; that he somehow might be allowed to tell others what he himself had heard and to become a shield between the helpless and the darkness that yearned above all things to destroy them.

      You want to go back? came a shrill voice behind him.

      Bayard’s eyes quickly sought out the source and found a gull perched on the bow of the boat. He was not surprised to find a talking bird in such a place but was quite astonished to find himself on his knees in awe and fear before such a lowly seeming thing. The gull seemed to find the whole thing quite amusing as it said, you certainly could go back and render aid to yet living men but you cannot again live among them. But would you want to go back? What has anyone ever done for you? Why would you want to linger on in such a place of grief and sorrow when once you have been beyond all of that?

      Bayard could not meet the eyes of the bird but stared at the sand, grinning sheepishly, I want the whole world to know what it is I have found! I want to do something worthwhile in service to the King, for my life was short and lived quite selfishly in ignorance of Himself. Why should I despise that which I have known all my life simply because I have glimpsed a brighter morning?

      Well spoken, squawked the gull, as long as you have fully thought it out you may do as you wish, but know that you are not immune to sorrow, grief, humiliation, or pain though true death cannot take you twice. Neither can you settle down among them or go where you wish. It shall be at My bidding and direction that you serve and Mine alone. Bayard did not need to ask Who this bird was, though he was a bit taken aback at His current appearance. The bird laughed in its own shrill way and said, you cannot imagine the Creator of the universe in the guise of a seagull? It is quite ironic I suppose, but for the moment it is sufficient for both of us. Now are you sure?

      The boy finally felt an irresistible urge to lift his eyes and meet those of the gull. Somehow those beady eyes, that were so cruel in mortal gulls, held immense wisdom and power, but also unfathomable love for the wretched boy upon the beach. There is one last thing, said the gull quite seriously.

      At that moment the boy lost all conscious knowledge of himself as every selfish act, small sin, and intentional evil that he had ever committed played through his mind. It seemed an eternity of pain and sorrow and grief and humiliation until the boy came to himself and found himself lying prone on the beach, weeping as one bereft of his soul. A small wave suddenly washed over the boy and when it had retreated safely into the sea, he found himself eye to eye with that strange bird.

      He cocked his head and said gently, it is gone, all of it! Somewhere, perhaps in the deepest depths of the sea it yet dwells, but never more to be remembered by either of us. You have committed it to Me and I have removed it far from you. The boy nodded and smiled a small, sad smile. The bird stared at him blankly until finally joy unthinkable stirred in his heart and blossomed upon his face. The bird smiled deeply and said, then I commit you to others that they might set you upon your quest. Then He was gone and the boy was alone on the beach.

      He sat up and made to brush the sand from his chest but froze in astonishment. Gone was his ragged and travel-stained peasant garb and in its place he was clad all in white garments and silver armor. He laughed, for a sword rested firmly at his side, though he had never held such a weapon in his life he felt he knew full well the use of it. He glanced again at the rocky heights but knew to climb them was impossible. He looked first west and then east but white sand and rocky height and sparkling water ran for endless miles in either direction; he knew if he walked forever he would never come to their ending. But now what? He felt an urge to look again to the west, and was not at all surprised to see a man mounted upon a great winged horse standing where only a moment before there had been nothing but empty, glorious beach. The man slid from the great horse’s back as Bayard rushed to meet him. They exchanged warm greetings, as if they were brothers or best friends long sundered through much sorrow and reunited with joy in the morning.

      It was one of the men who had sat beside their fire what seemed a thousand years ago or perhaps something that happened in a dream. He smiled as recognition dawned in the boy’s eyes and then said, I see you have made it.

      Bayard nodded, I am still not sure what I have volunteered for but it seems far more wonderful than anything I could ever have imagined.

      The man grinned, you have not seen anything yet! Come, we had best be on our way for there are things you must accomplish in the lands of mortal men.

      The man climbed back into his saddle and seemed to be waiting upon the boy to follow. The horse eyed the boy skeptically and said, this is highly unusual, never to my knowledge has any Pegassi ever borne two riders of your sort. Where is the boy’s mount?

      The man said quietly, he refused his calling and for now we must offer the boy our aid else he must walk.

      The horse made a disquiet sound deep in his throat and said, this is quite unexpected and worse than tragic! To think that even the Pegassi might rebel against the King, but I suppose we have as much choice in the matter as all other thinking creatures. Come boy, it is time to ride.

      The boy looked a tad nervous, not quite understanding the conversation that passed betwixt the two but easily found his way into the saddle behind the man. The Pegassi turned slightly and with a great sweep of his wings, all the world whirled around them and they found themselves standing in a little grove of trees not far off the road with an inn a little way down the road. Gone were the splendid clothes and the great horse and instead there stood two plainly clad men and as common a horse as one could find anywhere in the world.

      Now, said Ryan, "I will tell you a little about your new occupation before I set you upon your first quest, but much will come with experience or you will have the knowledge when you need it. We have passed beyond mortality but have not yet crossed over the Sea. If ever you grow weary, simply return to the beach and cross the Sea and enter the Brightlands, but you may never again return to the mortal world until the King Himself comes for the final battle against the Evil One.

      We cannot again taste of natural death but we can feel pain and certain foes, spells, and weapons have the ability to cast us back to the beach, from thence we must again set out. You must always try but you may not always succeed. Sometimes our success depends upon the choices of mortal men and they must make their own decisions, we cannot force them and thus we might fail because they choose poorly. Know that our Master has already conquered death and evil but yet a little while it lingers still in this mortal sphere until all again shall be put aright. We appear in various forms to the inhabitants of these Greylands: sometimes we are not visible, sometimes in our true form though unable to touch mortal things, and at other times we are mortal ourselves, at least enough that we can aid those we must without alerting them to our rather strange nature.

      You may deal no injury to mortal men though they may feel for a moment the pain as if you had struck them, but to the minions of our Enemy your blade can either destroy utterly or cause the villain to be banished back to his fell master for a time. In mortal guise, if given a mortal wound we may for a time appear dead, but in what form or shape we return depends upon our Master’s will and our current situation. We may simply vanish, take again our natural form, or perhaps even find ourselves whole in mortal guise once more. In mortal guise, mortal weapons can cause us injury and temporary harm. You will feel again sorrow and grief, especially for those who refuse our Master’s call, but you cannot despair or lose hope for ours is a Hope and a Joy which is boundless and ever new. Any questions?"

      The boy’s eyes were wide as he tried to remember all that had suddenly been revealed, saying, once he found voice enough to speak, what was it you were saying back on the beach about it being strange that I have no mount?

      The man nodded and said, each of us is paired with one of the Pegassi, they are a free and noble race that lives upon the seaward side of the mountains ever facing the Brightlands. It is their purpose and glory to aid us in our quest, but they have a choice whether to pursue that calling or not. Your intended companion refused, a thing rarely done in all the days since time began. As such, he is a rebel and has been banished to this side of the mountains in hopes that he might one day rue his pride and seek again the King’s mercy. The choice is yet his to make and what will come of the matter I know not. You will have help when you need it, fear not, for we are never alone. Suddenly Ryan and his mount were gone and Bayard was left alone in the little copse. He wondered what he was to do next and felt a very strong urging to enter the inn and there wait for whatever was to come.

      Bayard waited patiently at a table near the door. Various patrons came and went, but none heeded him save a stranger sitting far to the back, who watched him intently. The presence of the dark man sent a cold thrill down Bayard’s spine, for he knew there was something uncanny about the man. The door opened again and Bayard knew that his quarry had come. It was Ithril, Tyne’s younger brother. The boy looked a bit older than he had the day they left home; he seemed to recognize Bayard, for he started in surprise but soon smiled warmly in seeming relief.

      He seated himself across from the older boy and said, where have you been? Tyne returned home six months after you both left. He did not stay long nor would he say what had come of your adventures. He left soon after but promised to return, which made me very uneasy. I decided it would be best if I were not home when he came back again.

      Bayard eyed the stranger cautiously before speaking, your brother and I traveled into the far north of the world and attempted to climb the Mountains of Shadow. I was injured and fell down a cliff. I do not know what came of your brother but he left me for dead. What exactly do you plan to do with yourself now that you are loose in the wide world?

      The boy shrugged in embarrassment, his eyes still wide with amazement after Bayard’s story, he said, I do not rightly know but I am to meet with a man tonight who might have an interesting offer to make. Bayard eyed the stranger in alarm but Ithril’s attention was drawn to the door, where a middle-aged man had just come in out of the night. He nodded to the boy and stared curiously at Bayard before taking a seat next to Ithril.

      He said quietly, I had not expected you to bring a friend, lad.

      The boy smiled, I was not expecting him either. He and my brother were good friends once and I have not seem him in a year, but I found him here when I arrived.

      The man eyed the older boy curiously, can you use that blade lad?

      Bayard smiled sheepishly, it depends on who you ask. I am not much of a threat to mankind but neither am I completely useless.

      The man smiled in commiseration and said, the bigger question is can you be trusted? Your young friend here has agreed to secrecy in this matter and if you wish to be part of it I ask that you do the same.

      Bayard said, I shall certainly not betray you.

      The man nodded and said, good, then we had best ride, for there are certain folk about I would like to avoid.

      Ithril and the man stood and headed for the door, but Bayard stood slowly and followed at a leisurely pace. As the others vanished into the night, the stranger stood and made for the back door of the inn. Bayard drew forth a dagger and threw it with the unerring accuracy of a master marksman. The stranger made a strangled sort of screaming sound and clutched at the dagger in his back momentarily before vanishing in a puff of smoke. The other patrons of the inn were wide eyed and watched in astonishment as the strange youth left the inn and sighed in relief once he was gone. There was no trace of either the dagger or the dark man. The exchange had taken barely a moment, Bayard’s companions failed to notice anything untoward had even happened.

      Bayard thought perhaps he should feel a sense of remorse or disgust for dealing so with the Spy at the inn, but it was for this that he was abroad in the world: to protect mortal men from those servants of the Enemy against whom they stood no chance. They must deal with men of evil intent themselves but such a creature as this could not be dealt with by those that yet drew breath.

      They emerged from the inn and the man remarked, I did not like the look of that shifty stranger and hope we will not have reason to regret his presence this night.

      Bayard smiled, I do not think he will be bothering us, at least not tonight.

      The man eyed him curiously, and why is that?

      Bayard shrugged, just a hunch.

      Perhaps, said the older man, but more importantly, do you have a horse?

      Bayard said sheepishly, I am afraid my mount and I have been sundered and alas, I am afoot at the moment.

      The man turned to Ithril, and you?

      The boy said matter-of-factly, my brother took my father’s only spare horse and when I left home he would not lend me so much as a sway-backed mule.

      The man sighed, then I guess we had best start walking as fast and as far as we can while the moon lasts. He took the reins of his own beast and they set off quickly afoot. They walked silently until they were well away from the inn, then the man began to speak quietly but firmly saying, you are both well aware of the Dark Prince who lurks far to the south while his servants prey upon whom they will. Are you also aware that there are those who dare to stand against such vile men? Ithril looked hopeful and Bayard listened closely but remained silent.

      The man continued, most consider such men fools or myth, but they are very real, if quite secretive in their habits and movements. It is for this very reason we have come together this night, or at least why Ithril has sought me out. Our as yet nameless friend seems to be here by coincidence but I do not believe in coincidence. What brings us together lad? Is it providence that you have found us or are you one of the Enemy’s many spies, sent to find and destroy us?

      Bayard said, perhaps you could call it providence, but I can assure you that I am no servant of the dark.

      The man nodded firmly and said, you certainly sound as if you speak the truth, but time shall reveal what it will. You seem far too young to have fallen into evil, but this boy’s brother is of an age with you and I know he has come to dabble in things best left alone. You were once friends? Tell me how it is that he comes to be a servant of the darkness and you are not of the same ilk?

      Bayard said quietly, we traveled together for a time, as Ithril has said, but we were parted and afterwards I know not what came of him. But I do know he had an insatiable thirst for power and renown, which I fear led him into darkness. I did not share his longings.

      What then is it you seek lad? asked the man.

      Bayard smiled, that I was hoping you would tell me. For I am yet in search of my current purpose and quest.

      The man smiled, then perhaps you have found it. If you are interested, I can tell you more of the Whiteguard, the perennial enemy of the Dark Prince’s Blackguard. Both of the boys nodded eagerly and the man continued, very well then. We are free men who have chosen to dedicate our lives to opposing the human servants of the Dark Prince. We are servants of the Great King and therefore uphold His laws, defending the helpless from the minions of evil. We are not as numerous as the minions of the south, but we are well trained in the arts of war and have allies in all lands willing to aid and hide us as they can. We do not fight outright battles but fall upon small groupings of enemy soldiers, patrols, scouts, and raiding parties. It is a dangerous life but I know none so worthwhile or exciting. If you are looking for something to do with your lives it is an honorable life though you shall never gain riches or renown.

      Ithril was agape with wonder and a bit taken aback at mention of the Great King. Bayard smiled slightly in thoughtful amusement, thinking that he would have been wiser to take up with such men rather than to so foolishly attempt the mountains. These men risked death on behalf of others; he had walked willingly to his doom after ample warning and for no good reason.

      And who is to say you did not have a good reason? asked the magpie sitting on his shoulder. Bayard jumped in surprise but the others did not seem to notice the bird or his reaction to it. It continued, some are called to one thing and some to another path. I called and you answered. Do not regret what might have been, for things can only be as they are. I know the what ifs and the maybes but it is only for you to know what is and what has been and to see what yet shall be. He was gone as suddenly as He had appeared. Bayard shook his head in astonishment, wondering if he would ever get used to such things.

      Ithril continued as if the whole interlude with the bird had taken place in no time at all, must you serve this Great King in order to take up with the Whiteguard?

      The man nodded, many think Him myth at first, but all must serve Him willingly or you can have no part in us or we in you. It is a brotherhood devoted to His service and His alone. Otherwise we would just be serving ourselves and would soon fall to the evils of pride and selfishness and become nothing more than another bandit horde depredating whom we would. And what think you on the matter lad?

      Bayard smiled, I am at the service of the King and gladly do His will.

      Ithril gaped, are you serious?

      Bayard laughed, your brother thought me equally foolish, but I pray you do not follow his tragic example.

      Ithril sighed, I suppose I should withhold judgment until I have learned more, for I am yet ignorant of such things.

      The man laughed, now there is wisdom lad. Fear not, for many things thought to live only in story actually dwell in the real world, though it might be a safer world if some such things were only myth.

      The moon had vanished beyond the distant hills and the night grew very dark. They found a secluded place to camp and were soon asleep though Bayard was in no need of such rest. He needed neither sleep nor food nor water and only appeared to draw breath that others not wonder why he did not breathe. Bayard kept a careful watch but no fell thing disturbed their slumber. In the morning, the man passed around some rations from his saddlebags and then they continued on their way. We really need to get the pair of you mounted, said the man in good-natured irritation, else you will be my age before we reach the nearest company of the Guard.

      At this, they turned off down a side road and pressed hard all morning, arriving outside the gates of a well-to-do lord’s residence near midday. Ithril gave Bayard a nervous look and the guards at the gate eyed the strangers suspiciously before saying, and what would such a trio of wandering ragamuffins demand of our Lord?

      The man did not seem offended or intimidated in the least and said, we would wish an audience with Lord Colwin if he would deign to see us this day. We were friends long ago, very nearly brothers; our need is great else I would not dare intrude upon his Lordship’s invaluable time.

      The guard eyed him skeptically and said, and who should I say is daring to bother his lordship?

      The man said, one whose name is not worth remembering.

      The guard gave him a dangerous look and said, I shall carry your message but know I am within my rights to deal with you harshly if this is some trick or a waste of my time.

      The man nodded solemnly and said, I expected nothing else.

      The guard raised an eyebrow but hurried off with the message. Ithril was impatient with nervousness but Bayard and the man seemed unconcerned with the interminable wait. The guard finally returned and said quite formally but with no little amazement, his lordship will deign to see you but you must not trouble him long. Come.

      They followed the guard into the courtyard where the man left his horse with an attendant then they followed the guard deep into the heart of the great house wherein sat the lord. The lord sat before a great fire, stroking a grey cat upon his lap; he looked up with some surprise at his visitors but wasted no time in signaling for the guard to leave them in peace. Another look of surprise crossed the guard’s face but he quickly bowed and retreated. The three strangers bowed before his lordship, who spoke even before the door had shut behind the retreating guard, it has been a long time Jaden, in fact I thought never to see you again. Is it not dangerous to have such as yourself consorting with an upstanding lord such as myself? How is it you have survived all this time?

      The man smiled bemusedly and said, I thought never again to see you, for fear of bringing the wrath of my enemies upon you, but it is a desperate thing that drives me to beg at your door. I will be gone again as soon as I can. But it is good to see you once more.

      Colwin laughed, ever the idealist I see! You are ever welcome though your enemies certainly are not. I know why you have stayed away but I must say that I have missed you. Now what is this dire need that forces you to visit your brother once more?

      Jaden said, these boys actually. I fear we have enemies not far behind us and they are afoot. I would beg the use of a pair of horses if you can spare them.

      Colwin shook his head, "most of my horses are out in the

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