Why were you traveling in the first place? Kelder asked.

None of youroh, damn it, it doesnt matter. She slumped forward, chin on her hands, elbows on her knees.

At first, Kelder took this to mean that she was going to answer his question, but after a moment it became clear that she wasnt going to say anything without further urging.

Maybe it doesnt matter, he said, but I'm curious.

She turned her head to glare at him around an errant ringlet of hair. Why? she demanded.

Oh, I just like to know things, Kelder said rather feebly.

She turned back to staring at the cobbles.

When I was eight, she said, my parents died of a fever.

Kelder, realizing he was about to get the whole story, nodded encouragingly.

We couldnt afford a theurgist to pray over them, Azraya continued, or a witch to hex them, or a wizard to cast spells on them, so they died. Two of my brothers died, too, and my older sisterthe neighbors were all so afraid of catching it that they wouldnt come near us, they shut up our house with us inside. That left me, and my younger sister Amari, and our baby brother Regran. I was the oldest, so I tried to take care of them, and I would sneak out of the house and steal food and things for them. And when the fever was gone, I took the boards off the doors, and then the tax collectors came and took the house away because we couldnt pay, we didnt know where our parents had hidden their moneyif they had any.

Kelder made a sympathetic noise.

So we all went to the Hundred-Foot Field and lived there, with the beggars and thieves, Azraya went on, in the block between Panderer Street and Superstition Street, in the Camptown district. Our house was in Eastwark, but our old neighbors... well, we thought wed do better in Camptown, and the Hundred-Foot Field goes all the way around the city.

Kelder had no idea what this meanthe had never heard of the Hundred-Foot Field or anything else she mentioned. Interrupting to ask for an explanation did not seem like a very good idea, however, so he let her go on.

I didnt steal, she said, not after we lost the house. I think Amari did, but I didnt. I begged when I had to, and ran errands for people when I couldone good thing about Camptown, the soldiers usually had errands we could run, taking messages to their women, or fetching things from the Wizards Quarter for them, or even just standing lookout when they were supposed to be on duty and wanted a nap, or a little time in bed with someone, or a game of dice. She took a deep breath. Regran died when he was two, just before my tenth birthday, she said. I'm not sure what he died of, he just got sick and died. Somebody had kicked him, maybe that did something, I dont know. Wed done everything we could for him, even found a wetnurse and paid her half what we earned for a few months, but sometimes babies just die. After that, Amari and I didnt stay together much any more, and I lost track of her after awhile. I havent seen her in a couple of years now. She might be dead, too. She paused, remembering.

Kelder wanted to say something comforting, but before he could think of anything and phrase it in Ethsharitic, Azraya resumed her story.

I told you we lived near Panderer Street, she said. Well, the panderers noticed me, after awhile, and I started avoiding them. And by the time I was thirteen I didnt run any more errands on Pimp Street or Whore Street, either.

Kelder did not recognize the Ethsharitic words for panderer, pimp, or whore, but he could make a guess what she was saying.

And after awhile, I decided that I was tired of it. I was tired of the Hundred-Foot Field, the mud and the flies and the lunatics talking to themselves and the thieves going through your bedding every time you were out of sight, and I was tired of being harassed by the pimps, and I was tired of the soldiers and their errandsthey were propositioning me, too, by this time.

So I went to the markets to find work, but I didnt find anything at first, just more pimps, and slavers, and farmers who wouldnt take me as a field-hand because I'm not big enough. I was too old to apprenticeI should have found something when I was twelve, but I didnt, I missed my chance.

Kelder nodded in sympathy. Maybe he should have found an apprenticeship on his own, regardless of what he parents wantedbut he hadnt.

Anyway, eventually I got to Shiphaven Market, and I thought I would sign up to be a sailor, but there was someone there looking for volunteers to join a dragon hunt in the Small Kingdoms, and I thought that would be wonderful. It was a way out of the city, and I may be small, but I'm not stupid, and I'm stronger than I lookI thought I might help in a dragon hunt. So I signed up.

A dragon? Kelder looked at her with renewed respect. She was brave, anywayeither that, or crazy.

She nodded. The reward was a thousand pieces of gold, he said. I knew I couldnt kill a dragon myself, but I thought maybe I could help out and get a share.

Where was this dragon? Kelder asked. How big was it?

Its in a place called Dwomor, Azraya said, south of here. I dont really know how big the dragon isas far as I know, its still there.

Kelder had heard of Dwomor; it was one of the larger Small Kingdoms, up in the high mountains in the central region. If one was looking for a dragon, that was a likely place to start, he had to admit. You didnt kill it? he asked.

I didnt try, Azraya said.

Why not?

She sighed.

They signed up a whole boatload of us, she said, and we all sailed off across the Gulf of the East, and up a river to Ekeroa, and then they loaded us in wagons and took us to Dwomor, and we all got introduced to the king, and it all looked good, nobody bothered me, nobody tried to touch me, all they cared about was the dragon, I thought. Dwomor wasnt exactly beautiful, but it was different, anyway. The whole castle was full of dragon-hunters, and they were forming into teams, and I thought Id be able to join a team and get a shareand then the Lord Chamberlain took me aside and explained a few things.

Like what?

Like what the reward was, Azraya said bitterly. The recruiter lied. Oh, there were a thousand pieces of gold, and a position in the kings service, but those werent the reward; those were his daughters dowry. Thereward was that whoever killed the dragon got to marry one of his daughters. He had five of them, not counting the married one, so he was sending the hunters out in five-man teams.

Fivemen.

Oh, Kelder said, understanding the situation immediately. Surplus princesses were a well-known phenomenon in the Small Kingdoms, a common subject of lewd jokesthere were never enough princes to go around, and custom decreed that princesses could only marry commoners under exceptional circumstances. Slaying a dragon qualified a commoner as exceptional.

I dont know if theyd have sent me back to Ethshar, Azraya said. I didnt wait to find out. I just set out, to see where I went. Ive been wandering for months, through Ekeroa and Pethmor and Ressamor, doing what odd jobs I could, stealing when I couldnt eat any other way, and last night I arrived here in Krithim, and now I need to decide whether to give up and go back to Ethshar, or to keep looking.

Looking for what? Kelder asked.

I dont know, she said. Just someplace to live, I guess, where I wont have to beg or whore or sleep in the mud.

She paused. Kelder thought she had finished, and was about to say something, when she added, Or sell my blood to some slimy old wizard.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Were staying at the Leaping Fish, Kelder told Azraya as they parted. If youd like to meet us there for supper...

Dont count on it, Azraya said.

Kelder watched her go, then turned and headed back for the castle. The guards might have misdirected him before, but it still seemed like the best place to look for work. Azraya disagreed, and was going her own way.

He rather regretted that; he liked her.

Maybe, he told himself wryly, he was just a sucker for sad stories and losers.

Maybe Zindré had guessed that, and had suggested he would champion the lost and forlorn not from magical foreknowledge, but just from his character. Asha, with her abusive drunkard of a father; Ezdral, with his love spell and alcoholism; even Irith, with her unbreakable enchantmentsthey were all among the unfortunates of the World.

And poor orphaned Azraya was another.

Azraya wasnt looking for a champion, though; she could obviously take care of herself.

The four of them made a boring life on a farm in Shulara look pretty good by comparison.

This time, when Kelder asked, the soldiers at the castle gate made no jokes and grinned no grins; the one who had directed him to Senesson was apologetic, the other sullen.

Sorry, the first said. If Senesson cant use you, I dont have any suggestions.

There must be merchants who could use some help loading their wagons, I suppose.

Kelder was about to say something more when a cat meowed by his feet. He turned, and Irith was standing beside him.

Gods and demons! one of the soldiers exclaimed.

Whats the matter? Kelder asked him.

She justappeared, out of nowhere! the guard said. It startled meI thought my heart would burst!

Thats Irith the Flyer, the other one said. She can do that.

I know who sheis, the first guard said, but I never saw herdo that before, and it startled me, all right?

Hello, Irith said. I'm here to see the kings wizardhe does still have one, doesnt he?

The guards looked at one another.

He had one last time I was here, she said. Her name was Perina something.

Perina the Wise, one guard said. Shes still here. There are also two witches and a sorcerer.

I'm only looking for wizards, thanks, Irith said. May we go in?

We?

Hes with me, Irith said, taking Kelders hand.

The guards exchanged glances again, and then one of them shrugged.

What the hell, he said, let them in.

I think we better send an escort, the other replied.

The first considered, and agreed.

Wait here, he said. Then he turned and hurried inside.

While they were waiting, Kelder remarked, Theres a wizard a few blocks over that way by the name of Senesson of Yolderdo you think he might have a counterspell?

Who knows? Irith said. I know who you mean; hes a nasty old man, but we can ask him when were done here.

Kelder nodded. He was about to say something about meeting Azraya there when the soldier returned, accompanied by yet another soldier. Ill escort you to the wizards workshop, the new arrival said, without preamble.

Thank you, Kelder said. Lead on.

The wizards workshop proved to be at the top of a distressingly long staircase; as they finally neared the top, Kelder panting and Irith making a great effort not to, the Flyer turned to her companion and muttered, You can do what you like, Kelder, but Imflying down. She touched the bloodstone at her throat and then stood up straight, her fatigue seemingly vanished, as she took the last few steps.

I dont blame you, he wheezed back. I would, too, if I could.

The guardsman seemed untroubled by the climb. He paused for a few seconds at the top of the stair to allow them to catch their breathnot enough seconds, in Kelders opinion, but a fewand then rapped on the blackened wood door.

A complex and unfamiliar rune glowed white against the black, and a hollow voice asked, Who goes there? It spoke in Traders Tongue, Kelder noticed.

Two visitors to see Perina the Wise, the soldier said in what Kelder took at first for awkward Ethsharitic, then recognized as Krithimionese. I know one to be Irith the Flyer; the other I do not recognize.

Kelder of Shulara, Kelder volunteered, wondering why the man was answering one language with another.

For a moment, nothing happened; then the door swung open and a womans voice called out, in the Krithimionese dialect, Come in, Irith, and bring your friend! Thank you, Kelder, you may go.

As Kelder hesitated, the soldier bowed quickly, turned, and headed back down the staircase.

Wait, Kelder called after him, she said Kelder...

Thats me, the soldier called back. Kelder the Tall. No jokes, please. Then he was gone, around a bend in the stair.

Kelder muttered, Id hardly be the one to joke about the name, would I? Then he followed Irith through the door.

The workshop was a large room, with windows on three sides, tables and bookcases here and there, fur rugs on the floor, and a spiral stair in the center. Standing on the stair was a handsome middle-aged woman, a streak of white in her black hair.

Irith, she said, descending to the floor, how good to see you! She spoke Krithimionese, but Kelder could follow it well enough.

Hello, Perina, Irith said in the same tongue as she stepped into the room far enough to close the door. This is Kelder of Shulara; hes been very helpful lately.

That was not exactly Kelders idea of a great introduction, but he smiled and said, Hello.

I havent seen you for more than a year, Perina said to Irith, ignoring Kelder as she crossed the room. What brings you here now?

Well, I need a spell, Irith said. Or a counterspell, really.

Perina came and took the girl by the hand. Come and sit down and tell me all about it, she said, as she led the way to a small settee, upholstered in gold-embroidered burgundy velvet.

Kelder, feeling out of place, followed.

Well, it seems I enchanted someone, Irith said, as she sank onto the cushions.

I didnt reallymean to, exactly.

Perina nodded encouragingly and sat down as well; Kelder, seeing no space remaining, stayed standing, and began to wander toward a nearby shelf as if that was what he had intended all along.

I put this spell on him, and I sort of thought it would wear off, but itdidnt, and now hes an old man and he still has this spell on him, and its pretty awful, so Id really like to know how to break it, Irith said. Kelder looked over the tidy row of skulls atop the bookcase, trying to identify them all; the human was easy, of course, and he was pretty sure of the cat and the horse, but some of the others puzzled him.

It sounds terrible, Perina said, patting Irith on the knee. Which spell was it, my dear?

Fendels Infatuous Love Spell, Irith said. Then she added, I think.

Kelder glanced at her, forgetting about the odd skull with the horns. This was the first time he had heard her say that she wasnt entirely certain about which spell it was.

Oh, thats a bad one, Perina said, clicking her tongue in rebuke. Its tricky, you know; it can go wrong in ever so many ways.

Kelder looked at her hopefully, then quickly turned back to the shelves.

Directly below the skulls was an impressive array of strangely-shaped bottles, none of them labeled, and he wondered not just what might be in them, but how Perina could tell.

Do you know it? Irith asked.

No, not really, Perina admitted. Iveheard about it, but the Infallible Love Philtre is so much more convenient that I never bothered with itall those stories about people falling in love with the wrong person, or even with animals! She shook her head in dismay. Fendel was a brilliant man, but even the best of us isnt perfect, and that spell is just nothing but trouble.

Whyever did you use it?

Its the only love spell I have, Irith said. I didnt see any others in Kalirins book when I was an apprentice.

Well, I dont suppose oldKalirin, was it? Your master? Perina asked.

Irith nodded.

Well, I dont suppose he had much call for love spells, after all, Perina said.

Its too bad.

Kelder wondered why anyone would make a bottle with two necks, both of them twisted into complete loops. And was there a reason to use blue glass for it?

So you dont know the counter? Irith asked.

I'm afraid not, my dear, Perina admitted, patting Iriths knee again. Imso sorry.

The third shelf held even more bottles, but these were more ordinarythat is, if Kelder ignored the fact that something was moving in that big one second from the left, and that the one fourth from the right was watching him with green glass eyes.

I do believe it has blood in it somewhere, Perina said thoughtfully. Iveheard that.

Virgins blood? Irith asked.

Perina shook her head. No, I dontthink so, she said, but I'm really not sure.

Oh, dear.

Something thin and black from the bottom shelf was reaching out for his leg, Kelder realized; he stepped back suddenly, and almost trod on Iriths foot. The tendril, or whatever it was, retreated.

Listen, Perina said, if youdo find a counterspell, you tell me about it, wont you? Please? It could be useful, you know.

Sure, Irith said. And if you hear anything, youll tell me?

Oh, assuredly!

The bottom shelf held jars; most of them had no lids, and they all appeared to contain plants, none of which Kelder recognized. The tendril came from something resembling a malevolent cabbage.

Did that qualify as a strange beast, in the terms of Zindrés predictions? Did those peculiar bottled things? Certainly there was much magic here, though he didnt know how mighty it was.

Is there anyone you think might know the countercharm? Irith asked. Were heading westwe thought someone in Ethshar might know.

Perina considered that carefully, as Kelder moved on to another bookcase. This one actually held books on most of its shelves, which seemed less dangerous.

Imsure there are people in Ethshar who would know, Perina said. That nice Thorum the Mage, on Wizard Streetif he doesnt know himself, Imsure he can find you someone who does, hes just the sweetest man.

Irith nodded. Kelder tried to read the titles on a few bindings, and found most were in unfamiliar languages.

Iridith of Ethshar, if you can find her, Perina went on. She seems to know just abouteverything, I think. But I dont have any idea atall where she livesshe wont say. She smiled oddly, and said, And of course theres always Fendel the Great himselfthe rumor is that hes still alive, living like a hermit somewhere in Tintallion or some such place.

Kelder looked up at that, then back, and blinked. Hadnt that title been different before?

For that matter, Perina mused, is your old master... What was the name?

Kalirin the Clever, Irith supplied.

Yes, Kalirinis he dead?

Oh, I think so, Irith said. I heard that he was, and I havent seen him since, oh, 5025, I think it was.

Thats almost two hundred years ago, Perina said, so I suppose hemust be dead.

She sighed.

Kelder decided that maybe he would do better to just look out a window, and strolled over to one.

So you dont have any more ideas? Irith asked.

No, I'm afraid I dont, Perina admitted.

Kelder looked out the window and decided maybe that was a mistake after all, because it wasnt Krithimion on the other side of the glass at all, it was someplace where waves were smashing against black rocks at the foot of a high, curving cliff and ancient, crooked buildings of rough stone stood atop it; the window seemed to be somewhere on the clifftop, looking along the rim, with the sea to the left and the buildings to the right.

Thatwas mighty magic, he was fairly certain.

As long as were here, Irith said, rising, Kelder and I are a little short of money just now. Were there any little errands that youd like done?

Kelder stepped to the next window and was relieved to find a perfectly normal view of Krithim, laid out below them like a collection of toys; the only unsettling thing about it was how very high up they were. The wizards workshop was clearly atop the tallest tower in the castle.

Oh, I cant think of any just now, Perina said, as she, too, got to her feet, but I can loan you a few pieces of silver if you like, and when you find that countercharm that will cover it. It would be worth, oh, Id say ten pieces to me, and I could give you half of that now.

What if we dont find it? Kelder asked, breaking his silence.

Oh, Kelder, dont be such a bore, Irith said.

Then youll find some other way to pay me back, Perina said, dismissing the problem with a wave.

Kelder hesitated, but he was tired of doing stupid little jobs and constantly worrying about where the next meal was coming from. Five pieces of silverthat was fifty in copper, four hundred bits. Added to the handful they had, that would make life a good bit easier all around.

Irith threw him a questioning look, and he nodded.

Thank you, Perina, the shapeshifter said, that would be wonderful.

Wait right here, then, she said. Ill get my purse. She hurried to the spiral stair.

That left Irith and Kelder standing a few feet apart, with no one else in the room. Kelder said quietly, She seems to know a lot.

Hmm? Irith looked at him questioningly.

Well, I mean, all this magical stuff here, and all those powerful wizards she was talking aboutifshe doesnt know the countercharm it must be pretty obscure.

Irith shook her head. Silly, she said, dont let Peri fool you; shes not part of any inner circle or anything. Sheinherited all this stuff from her mothershewas a great wizard. And she collected stuff, weird stuffa lot of it is accidental one-of-a-kind things that nobody knows what they do, things that happened when a spell went wrong. Its not Peris magic. Peris just a name-dropper; she met all those people when she was little and they visited her mother, or her mother took her along visiting them, or maybe she just heard her mother talking about them. She probably hasnt seen Thorum in fifteen years, and she probably never met Fendel at all. She probably hasnt read half these books. In fact, she probably hasnt readany of them.

Oh, Kelder said.

The countercharm could be in one of them, Irith said, but wed never find it.

Wed probably get killed by some silly warding spell if we tried to look for it.

Oh, Kelder said again.

Then Perina reappeared, descending the stair, a velvet purse in her hand.

Here we go, she said, pulling out a handful of coins.

When the money was safely tucked awaythree pieces in silver in Kelders purse, two in Iriths, and the rest back where it came fromIrith kissed Perina goodbye and stepped to the window.

Must you go? Perina asked, as Irith opened the casement.

I'm afraid so, Irith said, as wings sprouted from her shoulderblades.

Well, take care. She and Kelder watched as Irith stepped up on the sill, and then flew away.

Feeling suddenly awkward, Kelder said, Well, I guess Ill be going, too.

Perina smiled at him. Oh, I'm sure, she said. Tell me, though, lad, how did you meet Irith?

Kelder shrugged. Just bumped into her on the highway, he said.

Youve taken a fancy to her, havent you? I can always tell these things. She smiled a smile that Kelder supposed was meant to be conspiratorial; it came off as condescending, instead.

I suppose, Kelder mumbled.

It shows, Perina said. At least, to someone as experienced as I am, it does.

I'm sure it does, he muttered, embarrassed.

I might be able to do something for you, you know, she said.

Kelder blinked.

I really dont know Fendels Infatuous Love Spell, she said, but I do... Oh, it isntyou she used it on, is it?

No, of course not! Kelder said uneasily.

He didntthink Irith had used any spells on him, but how could he be sure she didnt have others, less powerful than the one she had used on Ezdral?That was an unpleasant notion.

Oh, good, I didnt think so, Perina continued, smilingsmirking, almost. Well, then. I dont know that one, but Ido know some others. Theres the Infallible Love Philtre, and, well... She paused and cleared her throat. Theres the Spell of Aroused Lust, which isntexactly a love spelland others, too. And I was wondering whether you might be interested.

To use on Irith? Kelder asked.

Perina nodded, her smile coy.

For a moment, Kelder seriously considered the idea. He wanted Irith, wanted to marry her, and if she were enchanted, the way Ezdral was, he could have her, for as long as he wanted. She wouldnt argue with him any more. She wouldnt get bored and fly away. She would be very much in his power.

It was tempting, no doubt about it.

But it would also be cruel, and unfair, and disgusting. And it might well cause just as much trouble in the long run as the spell on Ezdral. It would be far better to let Irith make up herown mind. She liked him, he knew she did.

She would marry him, eventually, without any spells. She would come back to Shulara. Zindrés prophecy said as much.

Of course, this might have been part of the prophecy, this offer of a love spell; by turning it down he might be voiding Zindrés promises. All the same, he was resolved to do so. Magically-induced love was not what he wanted.

And then, after he had decided that he wanted Irith to love him naturally if she was going to love him at all, he remembered something.

Spells didnt work on Irith any more. Wizardry could not affect her. She had challenged wizards to magical duels, and then laughed at them as their spells left her untouched. Any love philtre, potion, or aphrodisiac would be utterly useless on her.

Did Perina know that? Was she trying to trick him?

Or did she have some other purpose in mind?

I dont have much money... he began.

She waved that away. No, no, she said, for you, its free.

Um... Why?

Because I just want to see you youngstershappy, thats all!

Well, said Kelder, thank you, I appreciate it, and Ill think it over.

You do that, she said, as he made his escape, out the door to the stairway.

The question of just why she had made the offer gave him something to think about all the way to the bottom.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

The question of Perinas motives stayed at the back of Kelders mind for the rest of the afternoon, nibbling away at his attention as he met Irith at the gate and led her to Senessons shop. This time he knocked, and the two of them were admitted to the wizards presence.

Senesson was a bent, grey old man; Kelder wondered if he might have found some way to live past his time, but without ever learning any youth spells, because he could easily have been a century oldEzdral would have seemed to be in the very flower of youthful vigor by comparison. The wizard had no teeth, making his speech hard to understand, and a strand of spittle hung swaying from one corner of his mouth. He cackled when anything amused him, which was often. He leered at Irith in a truly offensive manner, and Kelder could understand why Azraya had stamped out in a rage.

Senesson, who was only recently arrived in Krithimion, claimed to have met Irith before, long ago in another kingdom, but she didnt recall any such encounter. The wizard invited Kelder to take a seat in the shop while Senesson and Irith talked business in the workroom.

Kelder sat and mulled over Perinas offer, while in the next room Irith fended off the drooling old fools lecherous advances and determined, at least to her own satisfaction, that he knew no countercharm for Fendels Infatuous Love Spell. Kelder did pay attention to the conversation, however, and intervened when Senessons lust threatened to get out of hand.

Irith was not as angry upon departing as Azraya had been, but she came close.

By the time Kelder and Irith sat down for supper at the Leaping Fish he had come to the conclusion that Perina had either hoped to dupe him into giving Irith some other potion completely, not a love spell at all, or that she had some idea that if he used a love spell to control Irith, she could then control him, and thereby have the services of a remarkable and talented creature at her beck and call.

Kelder was not sure just what Perina would want with a tame shapeshifter, but he supposed there would be uses for one. With that out of the way, he began wondering whether Azraya would show up.

Asha and Ezdral arrived more or less on schedule; Asha was smiling and happy, Ezdral drunk and morose. The old man all but flung himself at Irith when he spotted her, and Kelder saw Irith flicker, as she started to turn herself invisible and then changed her mind.

Kelder pried Ezdral away from her, got the entire party seated around the table, and saw to the distribution of the meal the inn had supplied.

Azraya did not come, and even as he admired the way the lanterns lit Iriths hair Kelder found himself a little disappointed.

Beautiful women, plural, Zindré had saidKelder had not immediately thought of Azraya as beautiful, but now he realized that she qualified. Another phrase had been fulfilled, then. If the contents of Perinas tower counted for strange beasts and mighty magic, then the whole prophecy was coming along nicely.

Another great city, another vast plain, then a triumphant return home with Irith as his bride, and he would have made the entire prediction come true.

That was just as well; he was beginning to tire of traveling, of eating and sleeping in inns like the Leaping Fish.

The food was good, if unexciting, and the meal uneventful, save that Ezdrals hands were so unsteady that he kept dropping things; every so often the clatter of a fork or mutton bone dropped on his plate would interrupt conversation.

After supper, the drunkard passed out on the floor of their L-shaped room before anyone could suggest he sleep elsewhere; Asha took the little featherbed that had been crammed onto the windowseat in the dormer at the narrow end.

That left Irith and Kelder to share the big bed at the other end, out of sight of Asha even should she wake. Ezdral was obviously not going to awaken. The two made good use of this unexpected privacy, their first in days.

Its only seven miles to Bugoa Castle, Irith said as they gathered up their belongings the next morning, and maybe another eleven or twelve to Syndisha, so we should get at least that far today, shouldnt we?

Ezdral groaned, but when Irith looked at him he immediately muttered, Whatever you want, Irith.

Asha grimaced, but agreed, We can do that.

Tuyoa is next beyond Syndisha, Irith went on. About ten miles, I think. That might be too much.

Probably, Kelder said, glancing at Ezdral.

From Tuyoa, its about eight miles to Shesta, and then about that far again to Lamum, Irith said, and Lamum Keep stands on the border between the Small Kingdoms and the Hegemony of Ethshar.

Kelder nodded, interested.

Now, traditionally, Irith said, they say its two days from Lamum to Ethsharone day to the Inn At The Bridge, and one day from there to the gate.

Were getting close, then, Kelder said.

Irith shook her head. Notthat close, though, because those days were figured by what an army could march, back during the Great War. It must be ten leagues from Valders inn to Westgate.

Asha groaned at that, and even Kelder hesitated.

Its not so bad, from Lamum to the inn, Irith said. Maybe eight leagues.

Well, Kelder said, hoisting his pack onto his shoulder, well see how it goes.

Maybe well find a wizard along the way who knows the charm, Asha said.

Irith replied thoughtfully, You know, we just might.

Oh? Kelder asked.

You remember Perina mentioned that Iridith of Ethshar might know? Well, we might see her along the way.

That was a little vague for Kelders liking. Oh, he said again.

They made their way out of the town and onto the highway, and had gone no more than half a mile when a familiar voice called,Hai, Kelder!

He turned, and found Azraya of Ethshar striding up behind them.

Azraya! he called.

Irith gave Kelder a startled look, then eyed Azraya suspiciously. Asha looked mildly interested; Ezdral trudged on, a few feet behind Irith, paying no attention at all.

When the entire party stopped for introductions, Ezdral stopped, but he simply stood, hands at his sides, staring at Irith. One of his hands was twitching, Kelder noticed.

This is Azraya of Ethshar, Kelder said in Traders Tongue. We met yesterday.

Azraya, recognizing her name, bowed politely.

These are my traveling companions, he went on in Ethsharitic, uncomfortably aware that Asha didnt know the language. This is Irith the Flyer, and Asha of Amramion, and Ezdral... He paused, then looked at Ezdrals current condition and said, Ezdral the Sot.

Irith made a polite acknowledgment, and Asha followed her lead; Ezdral managed only a ghastly imitation of a smile.

Were bound for Ethshar, Kelder added. Would you care to travel with us?

I suppose, Azraya said, it would be safer.

Irith opened her mouth to say something, then thought better of it.

They reached Bugoa well before noon, to Kelders pleased surprise. Asha was putting out a better effort in order to keep up with Azraya, who had a tendency to drift ahead of the others; Irith stayed even with Azraya, and Ezdral hurried to stay close to Irith. As a result, the whole party made better time than usual.

Bugoa Castle was large and rambling, with a village straggling off from its walls in all directionsbut mostly, of course, between the castle and the highway, as the road came no closer than five hundred yards.

Kelders little group, with a minimum of debate, decided to not even stop.

From Bugoa the road veered southward, rather than continuing west. Kelder suggested that the highway could have taken a straighter path, and Irith told him, It used to, or at least there used to be an alternate route between Krithimion and Syndisha, by way of Mezgalon instead of Bugoa. She glanced back at Ezdral, who paid no attention to the conversation, but whose haggard features brightened when he noticed Irith looking at him. I'm not sure why they abandoned it, she said.

She had spoken in Traders Tongue; Azraya asked Kelder what they were talking about, and he translated Iriths remarks, to the shapeshifters obvious annoyance.

Whether roundabout or not, this stretch of the Great Highway was smooth and level, and again, they made excellent progress. At times, it seemed to Kelder that they were almost racingAzraya and Irith seemed to be hurrying more than necessary. As a result, there was little or no conversation.

They were about a league from Bugoa when Asha tripped and fell, and Ezdral stumbled over her and toppled headlong. The girl burst out crying; the drunkard simply lay face-down in the dirt.

Kelder and the two young women turned back to help. Irith lifted Asha back to her feet, but the child simply sat down again, sobbing.

Ezdral was heavier and even less cooperative, and when Azraya and Kelder between them were unable to get him upright, they settled for rolling him over on his back.

Whats wrong, Asha? Irith asked, stroking the childs hair. Whats wrong?

Asha shook her head.

Irith persisted, and at last Asha said, I'm justtired.

Maybe weve been hurrying too much, Kelder suggested. Asha, would it help if you could ride?

Irith glared at him for a second, then turned back to Asha and asked, Do you want me to be a horse for awhile?

No!Asha exclaimed, so loudly that she startled everybody, including herself; even Ezdral twitched at the sound. No, she repeated, more quietly, thats all right, Irith. Dont be a horse.

What are they saying? Azraya asked Kelder.

Irith was asking Asha if she wanted to ride, Kelder replied.

Azraya looked at Kelder, puzzled. Ride what? she asked.

Kelder realized that the Ethsharite was unaware of Iriths magical abilities.

Ill explain later, he said.

Can you walk again? Irith asked Asha.

Not yet, Asha said. Lets just rest a little while.

Kelder relayed the suggestion to Azraya, who made a noise of displeasure. I was hoping we could cross three kingdoms today, she said.

I dont think so, Kelder told her.

Thats stupid, Azraya said. Why do you travel with these people, anyway, Kelder?

Irith glared at her.

Asha doesnt have any family, he explained. We happened to be there when her older brother got killed, so were sort of taking care of her for now. And Irith accidentally enchanted Ezdral, so were trying to find someone to break the spell.

Hes enchanted?

A love spell, Kelder said. Thats why he follows Irith.

Oh, Azraya said. So why is that your problem?

Its not, Kelder said, I'm just trying to help out. Saying openly that he wanted to be a champion of the lost and forlorn seemed somehow ridiculous.

Fortunately, Azraya did not press for further explanation.

Upon further investigation the question of whether to press on turned out to be academic; Ezdral was unconscious.

Now what? Azraya asked.

Kelder sighed. Now we wait here, eat some lunchI have cheese in my packand when we can bring him around we go on.

This did not sit well with either Azraya or Irith, but they both gave in, with ill-concealed annoyance. No one was about to try carrying Ezdral. Kelder suggested that even unconscious, he could be draped over Iriths back while she was in equine form, but she rejected the idea.

Hell slip off, she said in Ethsharitic, and besides, I dont want him on top of me. I dont care what form I'm in, or whether hes conscious, I dont want him on top of me.

This reference to changing forms led to Azraya asking questions about Iriths magic, which Kelder tried to answer as he shared out the cheese and wafers he had bought in Krithimion. Irith was clearly annoyed by this discussion of her past, but did nothing to stop it; she was settled cross-legged on the grass by the roadside, with Asha curled up on her lap, and any attempt to shout back or stomp off would have disturbed the child.

While they ate, they chatted idlyor tried to. Ashas ignorance of Ethsharitic, and Azrayas ignorance of Traders Tongue, made conversation difficult. Irith grew steadily more aggravated by the constant demands either that she translate for someone, or that she wait while Kelder did so.

Later on, after the last crumb was gone, the three teenagers made a concerted effort to rouse Ezdral, but without success.

May demons eat his guts out! Irith said, following this up with comments in several languages Kelder did not understand.

Azraya just laughed.

That was the last straw for Irith.

Ill meet you in Syndisha, she said, spreading wings, if you ever get there!

She flapped, and took off.

Azraya stared in open-mouthed astonishment as Irith flew away to the south.

She reallydoes fly! she said.

Yes, of course, Kelder said. I told you she did.

Azraya looked at him with an unreadable expression, then back at Irith.

When the Flyer was out of sight, Azraya said, Let me try the Sot again. She began not merely shaking Ezdral, but slapping him, hard, first on one cheek, then the other.

I wish Irith wouldnt fly off like that, Asha said, looking away uncomfortably.

Me, too, Kelder agreed, putting an arm around the girls shoulders.

Azraya gave up her attempt and stamped away, annoyednot down the highway, but across the cornfield on one side. Kelder watched her go, wondering when she would be backif ever. She was just as temperamental as Irith, though in a different way, and there was no prophecy assuring him that he would see her again.

Which was too bad; he did like Azraya, despite her temper.

Asha snuggled against him, and he looked down at her. Her blue tunic, the only garment she had, was wearing very thinhe wondered if Irith or Ezdral or Azraya could sew, an art he had never entirely mastered himself. They could buy fabric in Syndisha, though it would take a distressingly large portion of their money.

Why didnt you want to ride? he asked her.

She looked up at him. Because I cant stand the way Ezdral looks at Irith when shes a horse, she said. It makes me feel awful.

Kelder nodded.

I can understand that, he said.

Together, they sat and waited.

Chapter Thirty

Azraya came back within a few minutes, and her next attempt to rouse Ezdral, a few minutes later, was successful. The four of them were on their way again shortly thereafter, and the sun was still only slightly past its zenith.

There were blue-uniformed guards at the Syndishan border, and without Irith along the party had no one they recognized; Kelder and Azraya had to make something called a customs declaration, informing a scribe of all the magical articles they carried (none), how much gold they had (none), what livestock they were bringing into the kingdom (none), and whether they intended to settle down or were just passing through.

Ezdral was only semi-conscious, so the officials informed Kelder that he was speaking for the Sot as well as himself. Asha being under age twelve, Azraya was arbitrarily chosen as her guardian and declared responsible for her actions as long as they were in Syndisha.

Azraya was not at all pleased about this, but tolerated it until one of the soldiers approached too closely. Then, suddenly, her belt knife was in her hand and she barked, Dont touch me!

The soldier in question spoke no Ethsharitic, but he got the message. After that, the officials quickly finished up, and sent the party on its way.

They reached Syndisha Castle a little over an hour later, and as promised, Irith was waiting for them.

The castle was immense, incorporating the entire town; it was built in four concentric rings. Kelder could see that much, and Irith confirmed it, while admitting that she might have missed additional inner layers.

The outermost ring was a broad field between two stone walls that served as the public market, where farmers wheeled wagons of produce about, crying their wares, and various groups stood about, discussing various business.

The next ring was the town itself, a single circular street lined with inns and shops, with alleys branching off here and there and a single broad cross-street that led from the market gate across to the inner gate.

Irith said that the next layer in was where the wealthier townsfolk lived, and the kings keep stood within that, but Kelder never saw those for himself except for glimpses through the gate.

Why did they build it like this? Kelder wondered aloud.

Seems like good sense to me, Azraya said.

Seems excessive to me, Kelder returned. It must have been expensive.

Irith shrugged. This part of the Small Kingdoms has the smallest and nastiest kingdoms of them all, she said. I mean, theres just one stupid little war after another, and it seems like half the princes go out and build castles and declare themselves kings. Maybe the Syndishans got thinking about that and got a little carried away.

Attempts to locate a wizard turned up three warlocks, four witches, and a theurgist, but no wizards. Since Iriths magic was purely wizardry, that meant no chance of finding a countercharm in Syndisha.

On Iriths recommendation, they took lodgings at an inn called the Broken Bladeand took two rooms. If this Azraya person is going to stay with us, Irith said, wehave to. I mean, five people in one room is just too many!

It didnt seem all that excessive to Kelder, who had seen farmhands at harvest sleeping fifteen or twenty to a room, but he didnt argue. Asha and Ezdral were in no shape to go any farther, so the entire party was definitely staying the night in Syndisha, and he wanted to keep things peaceful. Besides, dividing up three and two could mean that he would share a room with Irith.

It could, but it didnt.

Kelder was never quite sure just how the decision was made, but somehow the question never even came up; Irith, Asha, and Azraya took one room, and he and Ezdral got the other.

This did not suit him muchparticularly since the dividing wall was thin enough that he could hear Irith and Azraya arguing, and later, when they had quieted and Ezdral was out cold, he found himself fantasizing that Irith might slip into the room in the middle of the night...

Or Azraya, for that matter, though he didnt really think she would.

Ezdral had gotten hold ofoushka at dinnerhe had had money, somehow, and had bought a bottle from the innkeeper. Kelder had tried to talk him out of it, but Ezdral was a free man and would do as he pleased, the lad had no authority over him.

Kelder had looked to Irith for support, knowing Ezdral would do whatever she told him, but she said, Oh, let him drink it.

It was not a good night at all.

The next days journey to Tuyoa wasnt any better; Asha and Ezdral seemed to be taking turns collapsing. Ashas falls were minor, and she recovered quickly, but Ezdral seemed to be deteriorating as Kelder watched. He stumbled all the time, now, and his hands shook constantly. He spoke little, and mumbled when he did. It took the entire day to get the five of them the twelve miles from Syndisha to Tuyoa.

This time it was Azraya who got fed up and marched on ahead, and Kelder feared he had seen the last of the short-tempered little Ethsharite, but when they reached Tuyoa she was leaning against the wall of a smithy, watching the village children chase a ball down the street.

Again, they took two rooms at an inn of Iriths choosing, and again divided the accommodations by sex. Kelder mentioned the sorry state of Ashas garb to Irith, who suggested they wait until they reached Ethshar.

You can find some really good bargains there, she said. Youd be surprised.

They had found no wizards in Syndisha, and they found none in Tuyoa. When they inquired, they were directed to two personable young men who turned out to be witches, rather than wizards.

I mean no offense, Irith said, turning away, but its not the same.

The following day was better; they reached Shesta Keep by noon, and Castle Lamum well before dark. The road was veering westward again, toward the boundary between the Small Kingdoms and the Hegemony of Ethshar, and the landscape was changing from gently rolling hills to flat plain.

Lamum was blessed with two wizards (and a sorcerer and a warlock), but one knew no counter for Fendels Infatuous Love Spell, and the other was in the middle of a three-day ritual and could not be disturbed.

Should we wait? Irith asked.

Kelder looked at Ezdral, asleep on a bench in the town square, and said, I dont think we should.

Its two days to Ethshar yet, Irith said, andlong days, very long. Maybe we should rest here and see before we walk that far. Maybe its the walking thats wearing Ezdral out.

Kelder considered that.

I think we should wait, Asha said. Walking is wearingme out.

Kelder looked for Azraya, but she was off window-shopping at a nearby bakery, out of earshot. All right, he said, well wait here, Ezdral and Asha and Iand Irith, you fly ahead, why dont you, and see what you can find, and then come back here.

Fly to Ethshar, you mean? she asked, startled.

Well, yes, why not?

I dont know, she said. Let me think about it.

She thought about it, and decided she didnt like the idea. Its a long way, she said, and well get there soon enough. What if I fly to some of the other kingdoms around here, instead? Theres Thurion, to the north, and Porona to the east, and Thrullimion to the south.

Kelder had to admit that that was a perfectly sound idea, and so it was agreed. Irith would stay the night in Lamum, and in the morning would start visiting the neighboring kingdoms, while the others waited.

At least, it was agreed among four of them. Asha wanted to rest; Ezdral did whatever Irith wanted; Irith and Kelder had arrived at this arrangement.

Azraya, however, had other ideas.

What, just sit here and fester? she demanded.

Or find work, if you like, Kelder answered mildly. We dont have very much money left.

Ha! Azraya stamped off.

She made no mention of her plans that night, but in the morning she came down to the inns breakfast with her shoulder-bag packed, glaring belligerently at the others.

Youre going on without us? Kelder asked, as they finished eating.

Youre damned right I am, she snarled.

I wish you wouldnt, Kelder said, but if youre going, good luck.

She stared at him for a moment, as if challenging him to say more, then said, Goodbye, Kelder.

Is there somewhere we can find you, when we get to Ethshar? he called to her, as she turned toward the door.

She hesitated, then paused in the doorway and turned back. If you really do ever get there, she said, and if you really do want to find me, and its not too late, come to the northeast corner of Shiphaven Market each morning. Ive decided to take another try at finding a berth as a sailor, and thats the best place to look.

Thank you, Kelder said, Ill do that.

She almost smiled, then thought better of it. She turned and marched out.

Well, Irith said when the door had closed, were well rid ofher!

Oh, I dont know, Asha replied. I sort of liked her.

Irith glared at the child, while Kelder said nothing, and Ezdral, as usual, simply stared blankly at Irith.

Chapter Thirty-One

There were no wizards in Thurion, simply by happenstance, and Klathoa, being ruled by witches, had outlawed all other forms of magic. In Ikala the three wizards had all learned their arts from the same master, who had disapproved of love spells on principlean attitude that Kelder could appreciate, when Irith reported it.

That was the first day.

The king of Porona did not like his two wizards talking to foreigners, and Irith had to slip in through a window in bird shape in order to discover that neither of them knew a counter for Fendels Infatuous Love Spell. The only wizard in Thrullimion was not home, and did not return home, although Irith waited most of the afternoon and well into the evening before giving up and making a moonlight flight back to Lamum.

That was the second day, and that evening Thellesh the Wondrous completed his ritual and began reading through the messages his apprentice had collected while he was occupied. When Irith awoke the next morningwhich was rather late, since she had not gotten in until almost midnightshe found a message waiting for her in the innkeepers care.

It was delivered by a walking table, the innkeeper said, speaking in an awestruck whisper. Irith and Kelder looked at each other, not sure whether to believe this; then Irith unfolded the note and read it aloud.

Thellesh did not know the particular countercharm she was looking for, but would be delighted by a chance to discuss the matter with her.

Irith sent a reply, paying a girl from the village two bits to deliver it, thanking the wizard politely. Then she and Kelder and Asha sat down to consider.

They stayed one more day, resting; Irith paid a visit to Perelia, two kingdoms to the south, on the coast of the Gulf of the East, and found half a dozen wizards, all of them busy with something. One said he might have the counterspell, but would need to research it, which would cost three pieces in goldhe was not interested in trade of any sort, nor did he care who or what Irith was, that was his price.

Irith indignantly rejected it.

Two more were too busy to speak with her at all; two admitted theyd never heard of that particular spell; and the last one was incoherent, so that Irith was unable to figure out if she even spoke a recognizable language.

She was back in Lamum in time for supper, and they all went to bed early.

As Kelder had requested, the innkeeper roused them all an hour before dawn; they dressed, breakfasted, and packed, and by the time the sun had cleared the eastern horizon they were walking down the slight slope from Castle Lamum, toward the border post where soldiers in red kilts passed them into the Hegemony of Ethshar.

From there, they set out across the plain, into Ethshar.

The landscape was remarkably dull, Kelder thoughtfor mile after mile they walked between endless fields of wheat and corn, all of it still fresh and green. Tidy little farmhouses broke the monotony here and there, all of them whitewashed stone roofed with thatch. No place else along the Great Highway was so intensely cultivated; in fact, no place Kelder had ever seen in his life was so thoroughly farmed. There were no side-roads, no rocky patches, no trees or bushes, just fields, and small yards around the houses.

And it went on seemingly forever. The Highway marched them onward to the southwest, sometimes straight enough to make a line to the horizon, sometimes curving gently and vanishing into the endless greenery ahead of them.

This was, beyond question, a vast plain; the prophecy was satisfied on that point.

The three-day rest in Lamum had them all in fairly high spirits, but Ezdral and Asha still moved more slowly than Kelder liked; the day wore on, and although they walked steadily, the landscape did not change. The only visible indication that they were making any progress was that Castle Lamum gradually shrank behind them, and eventually vanished below the horizon. Other, faster travelers occasionally passed them going westward; none camefrom the west.

After they had been walking for hours, and the sun was high overhead, Kelder burst out, This isboring!

Irith nodded. Thats why I dont come here often, she said. The Small Kingdoms aremuch more interesting.

These fields go on forever! Kelder said.

It only seems like it, Irith said.

A moment later she added, But it does seem like it.

They stopped for lunch at a spot that was just like all the others, and while they ate more westbound traffic passed them.

There was still nothing the other way. Kelder remarked on it.

Of course not, silly, Irith said. We arent halfway yet, and nobody would stop for the night anywhere between Lamum and the Bridgethe local farmers would probably kill you if you tried.

It was almost two hours past noon when they encountered their first eastbound traveler.

Oh, may the gods help me, Kelder said, you mean were just now halfway?

Probably not, Irith said. After all, theyre probably faster than we are.

Asha whimpered at that, and tried to walk faster.

The sun was setting, its parting magic turning the clouds to incredible shades of pink and lavender, and Kelder was becoming concerned that they would have no shelter for the night. He looked at the orange ball, and suddenly came to two realizations.

First, the sun was off to the right, rather than straight ahead; the road had turned until it was headed far more south than west. And second, the ground was no longer level, but sloping slightly downward. He looked down at the dirt beneath his feet, trying to convince himself that this was not merely an illusion.

Irith noticed what Kelder was doing, and her wings sprang forth; she rose straight up, flapping lazily, and peered ahead.

I can see the river, she reported, shining gold in the sunset. Theres a bright line across it that must be Azrads Bridge catching the sun, and a black line beside that that must be the bridges shadow, and the Inn is atop the ridge on the far side. Look closely, maybe you can see the smoke from the chimney.

Kelder stared, and saw a line of smoke rising gently into the vast polychrome skybut that by itself would have meant nothing, as many of the farmhouses had cookfires and chimneys.

Thats the inn? he asked, pointing.

Thats it, Irith confirmed.

By the time they came within sight of the bridge full night was upon them; the gods had washed the World in darkness and lit the stars anew. The lesser moon gleamed pink in the west, while the greater was nowhere to be seen. The fields to either side were black in the gloom, as was the road they walked upon.

And in truth, they could see almost nothing of the bridge itself, but the torches set along its rails blazed warm and inviting, beacons in the night.

The sight gave Kelder and Asha renewed strength, and they hurried ahead.

Irith held back slightly, and Kelder turned, wondering.

Before he could speak, she said, Theres a toll.

What?

They charge a fee to let you cross the bridge, just the way Caren wanted to charge tolls on the highway through Angarossa.

Kelder stopped. How much? he asked.

A copper piece, it used to bethat was for each adult, no charge for children or livestock.

That meant three piecesIrith, Ezdral, and himself. Asha would be free.

Ill fly across, Irith said, or maybe swimI havent been a fish in ages. And Ill meet you on the far side.

Two pieces, then; Kelder considered the contents of his purse and decided that was manageable, but he was not happy about it. Maybe I should swim, too, he suggested.

Are you a good swimmer? Irith asked. Its a long way to swim for a human, especially in the dark.

Ive never tried swimming at all, Kelder admitted. There wasnt anywhereto swim, in the hills of Shulara.

Then you cant swim, silly! Irith told him. Its something you need tolearn!

Youd just sink and probably drown!

Oh, Kelder replied, embarrassed.

Come on! Asha called; she had ignored the discussion and was waiting halfway down the slope.

Kelder came.

There were no guards on the bridge, so far as he could see, and he wondered if Iriths information might be out of date. He said as much as they stepped onto the first stones.

I dont think so, Irith said. I think theyre at the other end. And even if they arent, I'm going to swim, anywayI havent been a fish inyears! She leaned over, kissed Kelder on the cheek, then slipped away into the darkness beyond the bridges torchlit rail.

He tried to watch her go, but outside the glow of the torches he could see nothing but the night. He sighed, and led Asha and Ezdral onward.

Iriths information proved correct in every particular; by the time they were halfway across, Kelder could see and hear that four soldiers lounged at the far end of the bridge, chatting in Ethsharitic spoken in accents just like Azrayas, telling each other obscene anecdotes. When they spotted the travelers they broke off the conversation long enough to collect two coppers, and then ignored the threesome thereafter.

Once aground again, Kelder hesitated; Irith was nowhere in sight, and although she had told him the inn was just the other side of the low ridge ahead he could see nothing of it. It might be farther than he had hoped, and Ezdral was in a stupor and on the verge of total collapse. You two go on ahead, he said, despite misgivings about sending a sick old drunkard and a child alone in the dark. Ill wait here for Irith.

I could wait, Asha offered.

Kelder considered; leaving a child alone in the dark wasnt any better, and might be worse.

Before he could answer, though, Irith called, Here I am!

Kelder turned to see her walking up a narrow path that descended from the bridges entrance to the river. Even in the dim glow of the torches he could see that she was soaked, her long hair hanging in ropes down her back, her white tunic drenched and clinging heavily to her body.

That was very interesting to look at, from Kelders point of view, as the garment was almost transparent when wet, but he saw that it was also obviously cold and uncomfortable, and he helped her up the stone step that linked the path to the highway.

What happened? he asked. I thought your clothes changed with you.

They do, she said. I feel dumb.

Why? Asha asked.

Irith snorted in annoyance, and Kelder felt her shivering.

We can talk about it later, he said. Lets get to the inn. Irith can dry off there, and we can all warm up.

Nobody argued, and the four of them trudged up the hill, drops of water pattering from Iriths clothes and hair. Kelders sleeve was saturated as well, where he had put his arm around her.

The hill was longer than it had initially appearedKelder had assumed that it was covered with sprouting grain, as the other bank of the river was, though he could not see any in the dark; he had figured that into his estimates. In fact, the ridge was covered with meadows, which meant it was higher than Kelder had estimated. Furthermore, the inn was not at the top but at the foot of the other side.

They did reach it eventually, and found their way around to the entrance, which was on the opposite side. Ezdral was more alert on the way than he had been in hours, obviously seriously concerned about Irith. It was clearly all he could do to keep from wrapping protective arms about her.

Dont you have a blanket, Kelder? he asked, about halfway up the first slope.

Kelder cursed himself for his own stupidity and, without stopping, dug a blanket from his pack and wrapped it around the Flyers shoulders.

When they reached the door it was closed; a torch blazed in a bracket above it, but there was no signboard or other indication that the place was open for business. Light spilled out through cracks in the shutters, so it was obviously not deserted, but Kelder hesitated.

Are you sure its an inn? he asked.

I'm sure, Irith said. Without bothering to knock, she opened the door and stepped in.

Chapter Thirty-Two

Sound and light and warmth washed over Kelder as he followed Irith into the inn. He found himself in a large, comfortable room, standing on well-worn planking and facing several tables of assorted shapes and sizes. Half a dozen patrons were clustered about one of the larger tables, shouting encouragement to two burly men who sat facing each other, hands locked in an arm-wrestling match. The faces of the two competitors were red and strained with effort.

Nobody seemed to be eating, but some of the spectators had mugs in their hands.

The walls were stone, but pierced with numerous doors and shuttered windows.

At one end of the room a cheery blaze failed to come anywhere near filling a huge fireplace; a row of mugs stood on the mantle, and above them a scabbarded sword hung from wires set into the stonework.

Most of those present ignored the new arrivals, but a tall brown-haired man in an apron, apparently in his thirties or so, looked up and exclaimed, Irith!

Valder! Irith called back in Traders Tongue, How are you?

I'm fine, the man said in the same language, hurrying over. What about you?

I'm freezing cold and dripping wet, Irith replied irritably, but other than that I'm the same as ever.

Well, come on over by the fire, Valder said, beckoning. Ill get you something warm to drink. Thetta!

A serving wench appeared through one of the doors and looked at the innkeeper questioningly. Build up the fire a little, would you? Valder told her. And tell someone to bring some teathe kettles hot, isnt it? Nor was he idle himself; as he spoke, he was shoving a table out of the way and setting a half-circle of chairs around the hearth.

Just then the arm-wrestling match ended, amid shouts and cheering.

He got you good, Kelder! someone called, and Kelder of Shulara growled to himself.

Best two out of three? another voice asked.

Thatwas two out of three!

Three out of five, then!

Done, for another copper.

Youre on. The huddle, which had shown signs of dispersing, coalesced anew.

Thetta disappeared back into the kitchen, or whatever lay beyond that door; Valder turned, exasperated, then shrugged and gestured to the chairs.

Gratefully, the four travelers settled into the proffered seats, Irith in the center, Ezdral on her left and Kelder on her right, with Asha on Kelders right. They sat silently for a moment, warming hands and feet, while Valder poked at the fire and shouted for more wood.

Thetta reappeared with an armful of logs, and close behind her came a boy bearing a metal tray that held a teapot and half a dozen cups.

You didnt say how many, sir, the boy said as he approached. Is it enough?

It looks to be, Valder said, taking the tray from him. Thetta dumped the logs on the hearth, and began placing them, one by one, onto the flames. Valder put the tray on the table he had moved aside, then poured tea, and distributed cups to the four new arrivals.

Ezdral didnt see his at first, and when it finally registered on his consciousness he glanced away from Irith long enough to look at it with mild distaste.

You wouldnt happen to have anything stronger, would you, sir? he asked. A littleoushka would warm me better than that, I'm sure.

Valder glanced at the others, and Kelder caught his eye. The lad shook his head. I'm terribly sorry, the innkeeper said, butthese drunken louts over here have cleaned me out. He waved at the party around the arm-wrestlers. Not a drop of strong drink do I have until the next cartload comes.

Irith smiled over her tea at him.

Ezdral reluctantly accepted a teacup, just as Thetta dropped the last log into place and headed back toward the kitchens. Valder took a cup himself, and pulled up a chair beside Asha, turned so that he was almost facing Irith and Ezdral.

Now, Irith, he said, tell me how it is that you came in here soaking wet, when it hasnt rained for a sixnight.

Yes, Irith, Asha said, howd you get all wet?

I turned into a fish, she said.

But when you turned back, Kelder began, isnt this an awful lot of water...

I did something silly, Irith said, giggling slightly at herself; the hot tea and warm fire had done a great deal toward improving her mood. I turned into a fish to swim the river, so I wouldnt have to pay the toll, right?

Valder and Kelder nodded.

Well, I got into the water just fine; dove in and changed in mid-air, so I was a fish when I landed. And I swam right across, following the bridge piersitsdark down there in the river, and fish eyes arent any better than human in the dark!

I hadnt thought of that, Kelder said.

Thats all right, Irith told him. Neither had I, and Id been a fish before, andyou never were.

Go on, Valder said. It was dark...

Right, it was dark, Irith agreed, but I found my way across by following the bridge, and just by sense of directionfish can feel the currents, and even when there arent any currents you can sort of tell directions. Its hard to explain, its just something fish do.

Kelder could believe that. Everyone said that different animals had different senses.

And I got to the other side, Irith continued, and suddenly remembered why I hadnt been a fish for a hundred years.

She paused, relishing the suspense she had created.

Oh, come on, Irith, tell us! Asha begged.

Fish cant get out of the water, Irith said.

For a moment the others all sat, thunderstruck; then Valder burst out laughing uproariously. Kelder and Asha joined in; Ezdral simply stared at Irith.

The shapeshifter smiled at the amusement to her right, then turned left and noticed Ezdral. She stared back at him, annoyed.

So you were sitting there in the river? Valder asked, distracting her. You had to turn back under water?

Notsitting, Irith said, regaining her good humor. When I turn from fish to human I come out lying face-down. So there I was, lying in a foot of cold water, fully dressed.

Kelder stopping laughing to listen.

So I got up, half-drowned, and I waded ashore, and there these three were wondering what had happened to me, she said. And wouldyou have said, Oh, I forgot fish cant climb out of the water, so I spent ten minutes trying to figure out how to do it?

Asha giggled hysterically, and Kelder chuckled.

Listen, Valder said when the laughter had subsided, you arent much bigger than Thetta; why dont you see if she has some dry clothes you can wear, and well hang yours by the fire?

Oh, please, Irith said, that would be wonderful.

Fine, Valder said.Thetta!

While they waited for the servant to appear, Valder asked, Have you folks eaten?

No, the younger three chorused.

Well take care of that as soon as Iriths back, then, he said. Thetta emerged, and he called to her, Tell someone to bring dinner for four, and while thats fixing, take Irith here upstairs and find her some dry clothes, all right?

Thetta turned and leaned through the door, calling something to someone else, then came and waited.

Irith rose, put her tea on the table, and said, Lead the way.

A shout rose from the arm-wrestlers once again as the other Kelder was defeated for the third and final time, and this time the group began to disperse. A couple of the men eyed Irith with interest as she passed, but no one did more than look.

Once the two girls were gone, Ezdral announced, I think I... I think Ill go see if I can help with supper. He rose, and shambled toward the kitchen.

Valder looked questioningly at Kelder, who sighed and shrugged. Hes looking for liquor, Kelder said, but I dont know how to stop him, short of locking him in somewhere.

Valder sighed. Let him go, then.

That left three of them, Asha, Kelder, and Valder, sitting in front of the fire.

Tell me, Valder asked, who are you people, and how do you come to be traveling with Irith?

Kelder had been made so comfortable so quickly that he had forgotten that Valder had no idea who he was. I'm Kelder of Shulara, he said. Thats Asha of Amramion, and the man cadgingoushka from your kitchen help is Ezdral the Sot.

I met Irith on the Great Highway, and we just decided to travel together. We bumped into Asha in Angarossa, after she ran away from her father and her brother got killed, and we found Ezdral in Shan on the Desert.

Valder considered that. You seem pleasant enough, and I can see why Iriths traveling with you, he said, and I suppose she felt sorry for the girl. He nodded politely at Asha, who smiled. But why in the World would Irith put up with the old man, or he with her?

She enchanted him, Kelder explained, a long time ago, when he wasnt much older than I am now. She put a love spell on him, and then didnt know how to take it off.

And she didnt just fly off and forget about him? Valder asked, startled.

Kelder was equally startled by accuracy of the innkeepers guess. Well, actually, he said, she did, but then we ran into him in Shan, and he followed us, and when I found out why I said we should try and find a cure for him, not just leave him there.

That speaks well of you, lad, Valder said. Most people would have just left him to rot.

Oh, I dont think so, Kelder said, embarrassed.

Iwould have, Asha said. Why didnt he find hisown countercharmyears ago?

I dont think he even knew it was a spell, Kelder told her.

Ididnt know Irith had any love spells, Valder remarked.

Well, she doesnt use it much, Kelder said. It causes trouble. Like turning into a fish.

Valder smiled. I can see how it might, he said. So youre looking for a countercharm?

Kelder nodded. I thought we could probably find one in Ethshar, he said.

You may not need to go that far, Valder said. Do you know the spells name?

Are you a wizard? Asha asked, suspiciously.

No, Valder replied, but my wife is.

Its called Fendels Infatuous Love Spell, Kelder said, wondering why a wizard would ever have married an innkeeper.

Oh, said Valder, grinning cheerfully, that should be no problem, thenIridith knows just about all Fendels spells. Fendel was in here just about five years ago, and the two of them traded recipes.

This was too much for Kelder; his jaw dropped, then snapped shut.

Youre teasing, he accused.

No, I'm not, Valder said.

Fendel the Great is dead, isnt he?

Well, he wasnt the last time I saw him, Valder said, but I dont know for certain whether he is now. It seems unlikely; hes been around for a very long time.

Over his initial shock, Kelder remembered that Perina had said Fendelwas rumored to still be alive. He moved on.

Iridith, he said. Do you mean the famous wizard, Iridith of Ethshar?

I mean my wife, Iridith, Valder said. And shes a wizard, and a good one, but I didnt think she was particularly famous, and shes from Ethshar, but I didnt think shehad a cognomen. Shes just Iridith.

But there are other people named Iridith...

And I suppose youre the only Kelder from Shulara?

Kelder decided that argument wasnt going anywhere. Youre trying to tell me, he said, that youre married to a powerful wizard, and that Fendel the Great is a friend of yours? Why in the World would a wizard marry an ordinary innkeeper, and why would Fendel associate with one?

I like to think, Valder said, with both amusement and sarcasm in his tone, that Iridith married me because she likes me. And Fendel isnt so much a friend as a business acquaintance; we met during the War.

What war? Kelder asked, afraid he already knew.

TheGreat War, of course, Valder said. How do you think Irith and I came to be friends? Those of us who live longer than normalI wouldnt go so far as to call us immortals, you understand, but on the other hand I dont have any intention of dying any time soonanyway, those of us who live more than a century or two tend to run into each other eventually.

Asha was staring wide-eyed at the innkeeper.

Youre telling me, Kelder said, eyes narrowed, thatyoure hundreds of years old?

About two hundred and fifty, Valder replied. I'm under a curse, you seeFendel made a mistake in a spell he put on my sword when I was in the army. He pointed at the sword that hung above the fireplace. I cant die until it kills me, and it cant kill me until its killed a few other men first, and the wars over, which means I could get in trouble if I went around lopping off heads.

Besides, I'm in no hurry to die.

Oh, Kelder said, not sure he believed this.

I dont usually tell people this, Valder added, but if you dragged Ezdral here all the way from Shan on the Desert, at least yourintentions are good.

So you... you met Fendel the Great during the war, because he was enchanting swords? Kelder asked. And he still comes to visit? And was it during the war that you met Iridith? And Irith?

No, Valder said, I met Fendel accidentally, when I stumbled across his hiding place, and he enchanted my sword to get rid of me. Ive only seen him once since then, when he stopped at the inn on his way somewhere and talked shop with Iridith. As for my wife, I met Iridith after the war, when I was looking for a wizard who could fix the spell on the sword. And I met Irith about fifty years afterthat, when she turned up here at the inn, and since you dont meet very many girls with wings, I got interested and found out her story. He paused, then asked, You do know who she is, dont you, and how she got that way?

Shes told me, Kelder said warily.

Valder smiled wryly. I dont know what she told you or didnt, he said, but it probably wasnt the entire truth. Did she say why she used Javans Second Augmentation?

Yes, Kelder said. She was bored...

She was scared green, Valder interrupted.

She said there was a scare that the Northerners were going to invade...

There might have been, Valder conceded, but mostly she wanted to get out of serving her term.

Serving...?

Sure, Valder said. There was a war on, and every journeyman wizard was required to serve a five-year term in the militarysometimes more. And Irith wasnt about to do that.

Oh, Kelder said.

And did she tell you about the glamour?

The what?

The beauty spell, Valder explained. She was pretty to begin with, but come on, do you think a face like that could be natural? She used a glamour, a spell that enhances appearance, makes you more attractiveit was one of the set she put in there, but somehow she never happens to mention itdoes she?

No, Kelder admitted, she didnt.

And she probably told you about the eternal youth, Valder continued, since she wouldnt have put a love spell on an old man, so she must have done it while he was young, and youd have figured that out.

She told me about that, Kelder said, a little defensively.

Did she tell youall about it? Valder insisted.

What do you mean?

I mean, did she tell you that not only cant she grow old, she cant growup?

Shell be fifteen forever, not just physically, but mentally.

She said she was fifteen, Kelder agreed warily.

She meant it, Valder said. Shes fifteen in every way, except chronologically.

She cant ever change, cant mature. Shellalways be flighty and spoiled and selfish.

Well... Kelder began.

That didnt sound possible, somehow. He turned to see what Asha thought, only to discover that the child had fallen asleep in her chair.

Then Irith called from the stairs, and the kitchen door opened for the delivery of their dinner, and Kelder decided to worry about it later.

Chapter Thirty-Three

Valder, in a generous gesture that Kelder found himself not really appreciating, gave Ezdral, Irith, and Kelder separate rooms, at no charge; Asha he put in Thettas room.

The dinner, too, was on the houseexcept for the wine. That he charged for.

Ezdral didnt seem to mind, however, having obtainedoushka somewhere. Valder had to carry the old man to his room.

Asha had woken up long enough to stuff bread and cheese in her mouth, and had then dozed off again, and been turned over to Thetta for the night.

When Valder returned from hauling the unconscious Ezdral upstairs, he took a place at the table and said seriously, We need to get that spell off him.

I know, Kelder said. Irith looked down at her plate.

Iridith should be back in a couple of days, Valder went on, and I'm sure she knows what to doits probably something very simple, really.

Shes not here? Irith looked up.

No, shes up at the other inn, Valder replied.

What other inn? the Flyer asked.

Oh, didnt I tell you?

Irith shook her head.

We bought another inn, up in Sardiron, in The Passes, Valder explained. The man who built it was getting old and wanted to retire to his grandsons farm.

Its called the Crimson Wolf, and its in a really good location, on the road from the Tazmor mines to Sardiron of the Waters. I figure that every so often Ill move up there, and then my son can come back and run this place a few years later.

Your son? Kelder asked.

He doesnt have a son, silly, Irith explained. Thats how he keeps people from realizing hes two hundred years old.

This confirmation that Valder really was ancient, and that he and Irith apparently did share a good many secrets with one another, was reassuring. It meant the innkeeper was neither lying nor mad. I see, Kelder said.

I guess well just have to put up with him until she gets back, Irith said.

Kelder nodded agreement.

Well, youre welcome to stay until then, Valder said. You may have to double up if it gets busy, thoughI dontusually have three empty rooms.

That would be fine, Kelder said, but we dont have much money...

Dont worry about that, Valder said. I never charge Irith or her friends.

Oh, Kelder said. If youre sure...

I'm sure.

Well, thank you.

And Ill do what I can to keep liquor away from the old man, Valder continued, but it probably wont do any good.

I know, Kelder said. Thank you anyway.

Valder waved his gratitude aside. That takes care ofhim, then, he said. But I dont think he was theonly problem you brought with you. What about the little girl?

Kelder and Irith looked at each other, then back at Valder. Her father beat her, Irith said, so she ran away from home. She was going to stay with her brother, who had joined a party of bandits in Angarossa, but they tried to rob a caravan that had hired a demonologist as a guard. She shuddered delicately.

The merchants are gettingmean about Angarossa, now.

The brothers dead? Valder asked.

Oh, yes, Kelder said. We built his pyre ourselves.

Any other sibs? Or her mother?

Her mothers dead, Kelder replied, and there werent any other sibs.

Shes very stubborn, Irith remarked.

Tough, too, Kelder said. I think that if she just had a roof over her head and steady meals, she could take care of herself just fine.

Do you want to keep her with you? Valder asked him.

Kelder hesitated, then said, The problem is,I dont have a roof over my head, or steady meals.

Do you have a home somewhere?

Well, my parents are back in Shulara, Kelder explained, but I dont think theyd take Asha in. Or maybe they wouldI dont really know. He hadnt really considered it. He had planned on taking Irith back to Shulara as his wife, but the idea of takingAsha there had simply never occurred to him.

Can she work? Valder asked.

Kelder and Irith looked at each other again.

I dont know, Kelder answered.

If she can, Valder said, and if she wants to, she can stay here. I'm not short-handed right now, but Thetta keeps talking about leaving, and Semder wants to leave and find an apprenticeship now that hes old enough, so I probablywill be short-handed soon enough. The works not hard, really.

Youll have to ask her, Kelder said, but it sounds good to me.

Me, too, Irith agreed.

Well, then, Valder said, rising, I guess thats everything.

I suppose so, Irith said, also rising, and I'm going to bedImtired, and Ive been using the bloodstone spell too much lately.

Ill be up in a few minutes, Kelder said. He sat where he was, and watched Irith walk gracefully up the stairs. She was wearing a plain woolen tunic of Thettas, simple and unadorned dark blue, with a black wool skirt, and neither garment was particularly attractive; even so, she was astonishingly beautiful.

Valder watched, too, and then looked at Kelder. He sat down again.

Youre in love with her, too, arent you? he asked.

Reluctantly, Kelder admitted, I think so. He started to say more, to tell Valder about Zindrés prophecies, then stopped. The innkeeper seemed like a trustworthy sort, the kind of person one wants to confide in, but really, Kelder thought, it wasnt any of his business.

Do you think she might have used the spell on you, too?

Kelder considered that, but shook his head. I dontthink so, he said. I'm certainly not as obsessed with her as Ezdral is. And Irith says that if shehad used it on me, I wouldnt argue with her so much.

Doyou argue with her?

Sometimes.

Then youre right, youre probably not enchanted.

It was a relief to hear that from a knowledgeable third party. Thank you, Kelder said.She is, though, he added a moment later.

Is what?

Enchanted, Kelder explained. Id like to break that, too.

Valders eyes widened. There isnt any love spell onher, he said, is there? I didnt think that was possibleshes supposed to be immune to magic.

Kelder shook his head. I didnt mean a love spell, he said. I meant Javans whatever-it-is.

Oh,that, Valder said. She doesntwant to break that, though.

Are you sure?

Well, Valder said slowly, Iridith offered to try to break the spell, years ago, and Irith wasnt interested.

She might be now, though, Kelder said.

Valder shrugged.

She might, he said.

That night, lying in bed alone, Kelder thought long and hard about his future.

He had had his fill of traveling. The towns along the Great Highway were all very well, but he had no place in them, and he had no great urge to spend his life wandering from one to the next, working odd jobs and living in inns. He was ready to settle down again, at least for awhile.

But did he really want to go home to Shulara?

Zindré had said he would go back, so he had taken it for granted, but did hewant to go back? Back to the rolling green hills, the hard, boring work on the farm, his oh-so-superior older sisters? Returning covered in glory might be fun, but living there againsomehow, after all his traveling, Shulara seemed smaller and duller than ever in retrospect. The Great Highway hadnt been lined with magicians and minstrels, he hadnt seen a single dice game or bedded any serving wenches; the World was not the bright roaring carnival he had hoped for. It was, instead, larger and more complicated than he had imagined.

Going back to Shularahe didnt think it would work.

But if he didnt want to go on wandering, and didnt want to go back, what was left?

He could settle somewhere else, of coursefind a home, a steady income.

Friends, maybe.

He remembered Azraya, who intended to become a sailor, and thought that might be the best of both paths, in a wayyour ship was your home, your crewmates your friends, yet you traveled the World, seeing its wonders.

That might be worth trying.

He couldnt sign onto a ship here on the river, thoughat least, not so far as he knew. From here, he had two routes he could take.

Ethshar lay one long days march to the southEthshar of the Spices, the largest city in the World, which the bolder storytellers claimed was home to a million people; Ethshar, the greatest port in the World, whence ships sailed to the farthest lands of north, south, and west; Ethshar, home to the invincible army of the citys overlord, to all the greatest magicians, the wisest scholars; Ethshar, where it was said that absolutely anything could be had for a price.

He could be there in a day, once Iriths spells were all broken. And he could find work there, even if it was just soldiering in the city guard.

Or he could go back home to Shulara, to the farm and family.

There wasnt really anywhere else he wanted to go in the Small Kingdoms; none of the towns he had passed through stood out as a good place to settle. If not back to Shulara, then on to Ethshar.

But should he go home? That was what the prophecy had said.

But it had not saidwhen, and it had implied he would see Ethshar first. If Iridith could break the spells on Ezdral and Irith right here, there was no more need to go to Ethsharbut there was no reason he couldnt. He could always change his mind and go back later.

And if he went home, he could leave again, couldnt he?

Well, perhaps not, not if he had crops and children to worry about. Better, then, to see Ethshar first, then go home.

And then there was Irith to consider. He did not think she would accept a marriage proposal just yet;maybe she would, but he wasnt ready to try it.

But would she be more likely to accept if he were going on to Ethshar, or if he were going home to Shulara?

He tried to imagine Irith living with him in the hills of Shulara, tending the house and crops, trading at the market. The image wouldnt come; every time he thought of her he saw her spreading her wings and soaring upward, away from anything so mundane as farm and family.

If her spells were broken, though, she would have no wings.

He remembered once, as a boy, he had watched the princess ants emerging from their nest, swarming upward into the sky on their transparent, shining wings.

His father had explained how each one would find a new place, a new nest, where she would settle in. Her wings would fall off, and she would become a queen, staying safe underground and laying her eggs while her offspring tended to her.

Irith was like that; she had fled her old home, where there was no safe place for her, and had flittered about the World.

Sooner or later, though, came a time to shed the wings and settle in.

Kelder had been away from home less than a month, and he felthe was ready to settleif it was with Irith.

But somehow, he knew she would never settle while she had her magic. She might try, but he would age, and she would not; he would mature, and she would not; and one day she would get bored and fly away.

But he was sure she would agree to give up her magic. After all, after two hundred years, she must be tired of it all, must be ready to grow up and settle down.

It might take her awhile to realize it, but surely, she would.

He rolled over and went to sleep.

Chapter Thirty-Four

Iridith returned to the Inn At The Bridge some three days after Irith and her companions had arrived; she flew up to the door around midafternoon of the third day, startling Kelder considerably. He had never seen anyone fly without wings before.

That three days had been pleasant enough; Asha had been delighted at the suggestion that she might stay at the inn permanently, and had immediately set out to learn her way around the kitchen, yard, and stable. Ezdral had remained much the same, drinking surreptitiously, staring at Irith, following her and muttering incoherently when awake, and spending most of his time asleep, or at any rate unconscious.

Kelder and Irith had wandered about the area, admiring the broad river, the vast open sky of the plain, the impressive engineering of Azrads Bridgeand each other.

Kelder was surprised, the morning of the first day, to see that the inn was built at a fork; the Great Highway split here, running in three directions, rather than two.

The northern route led back across the bridge to the Small Kingdoms; the southern to Ethshar of the Spices; and the third road went westward, to Ethshar of the Sands and all the northern lands.

When Iridith arrived Asha was washing plates, Ezdral was snoring by the hearth, and Irith was off somewhere fluttering about in the shape of a rainbow-hued bird, while Kelder sat out front and contemplated the three roads, thinking about nothing in particular. Thus only Kelder saw the wizard descend gracefully out of the sky and land gently on her feet.

You must be Iridith, he said in Traders Tongue, as she stepped up to the door.

I suppose I must, she said in Ethsharitic.

Kelder switched languages, apologized for his rudeness, and introduced himself as he opened the door for her and then followed her inside.

He stood quietly not watching as she and Valder greeted each other enthusiastically. When the two were no longer touching, he broached the subject of countercharms.

The love spell is easy, the wizard said, once the situation had been explained. A drop of the spell-casters blood in each of the victims eyes will clear that right up.

The spell-caster? Kelder asked.

In this case, Iridith said, that would be Irith.

We need her blood?

Certainly. Just two drops; a pin-prick will do fine.

Kelder was unsure just how willing Irith would bebut after all, it was just two drops, and it would cure Ezdral.

On the more serious question of how Javans Second Augmentation could be ended, Iridith hesitated. You know, she said, Ive had ideas of how to do it before, and Irith has always refused.

I dont think she will this time, Kelder said. I think shes finally growing up.

Valder and Iridith looked at one another silently, then back at Kelder.

Kelder, Iridith said gently, shecant grow up. Ever. At all. Not until the spell is broken.

I think she has, he insisted. Just a little.

Well, Iridith said reluctantly, we can ask her.

They did ask her, an hour later, in the main room of the inn.

Kelder, she said, staring at him, are youcrazy? Give up my magic? Let myself grow old and ugly, and die someday? Spend all my time in one shape, so I cant get away if someone bothers me? Give upflying?

But, Irith... he began.

Are youcrazy? she repeated. Ofcourse I wont give it up!

I was thinking you could come back to Shulara with me... Kelder began.

ToShulara? What, and be a farmer? Just sit in one place until Irot? She stared at him in disbelief. Youare crazy! Kelder, why would I want to live likethat?

I'm famous, and free! Imspecial the way I am!

And then, as if to emphasize her point, she vanished. A moment later Kelder heard the beating of wings outside; he stepped to the door and saw her appear again, rising into the air on gleaming white pinions.

He watched her go with his gut hard and tight with disappointment.

I should have known, he muttered to himself.

Valder and Iridith said nothing.

Irith returned during supper, and the subject was never mentioned again; instead, Iridith explained how to remove the spell on Ezdral.

Thats all? Irith asked. Two drops of blood? I could have done thatyears ago!

Yes, Iridith agreed. If youd known, you could have.

Irith frowned. Well,next time, she said, Ill know what to do.

Next... Kelder stopped himself before another word could escape, but the knot of dismay in his belly grew larger and heavier.

Shall we take the blood now? Iridith asked, drawing the silver dagger from her belt.

Irith eyed the blade unhappily, then glanced at Ezdral, still asleep on a bench by the hearth. There isnt any hurry, is there? she said. I mean, Ezdral wont care if we wait a few days.

That was the pebble that sank the barge. Kelder grabbed Irith by the arm and shoved his face close to hers.

Listen, he said, you are going over to Ezdral right now, and I'm going to prick your finger, and were going to put a drop of your blood under each eyelid, just the way Iridith said, whether hes asleep or not. Hes been under your damnable spell for forty years too long already!

Allright, she said, pulling away. You dont need toshout!

She turned and looked at the drunkard with distaste, but when Kelder reached for her again she rose quickly and crossed to him. She knelt beside him and held out her left hand.

Here, she said.

While Iridith watched silently, Kelder used the point of his own knife to draw blood from Iriths left little finger. He dabbed up a drop on his own little finger, then peeled back one of Ezdrals eyelids with his other hand and carefully pressed the drop onto the eye beneath.

Ezdral snorted, but did not stir.

Kelder repeated the operation with the other eye, then sat back on his haunches and waited.

Nothing happened, except that Irith said,Hai, that hurts! Has someone got a bandage, or some water? Iridith, do you know healing spells?

The two of them ate their supper that night in resentful silence. At the next table, where Valder and Iridith were bringing each other up to date, Asha made a point of bringing Iridith her meal, to impress her new mistress with her enthusiasm and ability. Whenever the girl looked away Iridith grinned with delight. When Asha was watching, of course, the wizard kept her face serious, accepting the over-attentive service in the spirit in which it was meant.

Afterward, Kelder decided that something had to be done. He suspected that Irith, in terror of being coerced out of her magic, was on the verge of fleeing. That would not do. If she fled this time, somehow, he was less certain than ever before that he would ever see her again. Zindrés predictions seemed a tenuous thread to bind her with; he could no longer trust only in the prophecy. He wanted to speak to Irith in private, to explain, to tell her he loved her and ask her to marry him.

After all, why should he keep the prophecy secret any longer? If she was to be his wife they had to trust each other.

And even with her magic, even with her refusal to consider a life in Shulara, he still wanted her. They could live in Ethshar, if she wanted, or somewhere else; there was no hurry about going back to Shulara, and he didnt really care if heever went backexcept that Zindré had said he would, and it was her promise that made him dare to ask Irith for her hand.

After all, how could an ordinary farmboy have the audacity to try to wed a legendary creature like Irith, without some magical support of his own?

He needed to tell her all that. He needed to talk to her alone, but with the inn full of customers, with servants hurrying hither and yon, finding a suitable place was a challenge.

Finally, in a moment of inspiration, he borrowed a lantern from Valder and suggested to Irith, Come out to the hilltop with me, and lets look at the river in the moonslight. Both moons are up; it should be especially pretty.

She considered him for a long moment before saying, All right.

Together they walked up to the top of the ridge behind the inn, not speaking yet, and together they settled onto the grass of the meadow. The night air was cool, but not coldcertainly warmer than it had been on previous evenings. The river was a constantly-changing band of rose and gold sparkles in the light of the two moons, and for a long moment they watched it in silence.

Thank you, Kelder said at last, for curing Ezdral.

Well, it wasnt his fault, Irith said.

Kelder was still trying to puzzle out exactly what she meant by that when a blood-curdling shriek split the night. Both of them started; the crickets fell silent for a moment before resuming their interrupted chirping.

What wasthat? Irith asked.

I dont know, Kelder said. I think it came from the inn. He turned to look.

Where is she?screamed the voice.Where is that bitch?

Thats Ezdral, Irith whispered. Kelder turned in surprise, and she added, Hes really mad at me.

Kelder had not thought about how Ezdral might react, once the spell was removed. Now that it was thrust under his nose, though, he realized that naturally, the man would be furious. The love spell had protecteditself, in a way, by making it impossible for Ezdral to think ill of Irith; now that the spell was gone, forty-four years of frustration and anger could pour out all at once.

And Irith was its obvious target.

Kelder stood and looked back toward the inn.

He could see a shadowy figure, barely visible in the distant light of the torch over the doora man, standing unsteadily in the road. The figure shook a fist in the air.Irith! Ezdral bellowed, Ill hunt you down and kill you, you stupid little monster!

What should we do? Irith asked, holding Kelders leg.

I dont know, Kelder said, frozen with indecision.

The figure by the inn was turning, turning and scanning the dark landscape, and now his gaze climbed the ridge, and Kelder suddenly realized that he must be silhouetted in the moonlight, and that Ezdral might well blamehim, as well as Irith, for all his misfortuneshowever unfair that might be.

Ezdral spotted him.

Irith!the old man bellowed again.

Kelder had not even considered the possibility of mistaken identity.

Come on, he said, lets get out of here. He pulled Irith up and began running down the slope toward the rivernot with any particular goal in mind, but simply because it was away from the raging Ezdral.

Ezdral, his mind still fogged with drink and fury, saw the figure atop the ridge fleeing, and knew unthinkingly and beyond question that it was Irith, that his vengeance was at hand if he could catch up with her. He charged up the slope, yelling.

I wasted myentire life hunting for you, you stinking little idiot, he shouted, and by all the gods, I'm going tocatch you, finally!

Kelder and Irith stumbled down the northern slope, toward the bridge and the river, in a panic; Kelder kept a firm grip on Iriths arm. The four soldiers, the toll collectors, turned to see what the commotion was, and in response Kelder instinctively steered away from the bridge, not realizing that that left nothing but the steep bank of the river.

Kelder, Irith gasped, Kelder, let go of me!

Kelder stumbled on dew-moistened grass, and Irith pulled free. She turned, and saw Ezdral, with incredible speed for a man in his battered condition, charging down at her.

She squealed in terror, and froze for a few seconds. Then, as Ezdral neared, she vanished, and a frightened bird fluttered upward into the night.

An instant later the enraged Ezdral, unable to stop on the steep, slippery slope, lunged through the spot where Irith had stood and went tumbling over the verge and into the river.

He struck with a tremendous splash; a few drops spattered Kelders breeches.

And then, to Kelders horror, the waters closed over the old man and began to calm.

Ezdral did not reappear.

Irith! Kelder screamed. Save him!

Irith transformed herself in mid-air, from bird to winged girl, and called back, Are you joking? He tried to kill me! Besides, Id get soaked.

But hell drown!

Hes an icky old drunkard, Irith replied.Let him drown!

Words failed him, and Kelder, desperate, dove over the bank and into the river.

He struck the water unevenly, arms and legs flailing, and was astonished at how much the impacthurt he hadnt thought water was that solid. Then he was in the waterand under it, as he quickly discovered that Irith was right, swimmingis something one needs to learn, it does not happen by instinct.

He thrashed wildly, trying to get his head above water, but to no avail; the air rushed from his lungs, and the water closed over his head. He floundered, reaching for the bottom with his feet and not finding it. He tried to call for help, and the water flooded his mouth and nose, choking him. His chest felt as though it were about to burst.

Everything went black, and he waited to diebut death did not come.

Instead, strong arms took hold of him, twisted him around until his face was out of the water. He couldnt see his rescuer as he felt himself dragged through the current, as firm hands clasped his arms and hauled him up onto the bank.

The pressure on Kelders chest became unbearable; his mouth opened, and he vomited what felt like the entire river out onto the grass.

And with that out of the way, he fainted.

Chapter Thirty-Five

When he awoke Kelder needed a long moment to figure out where he was. The ceiling was whitewashed and featureless, with morning sun streaked across it, and at first that was all he could see. He was in a bed, he knew that by the feel of the mattress and bedclothes, but which bed he could not tell.

It gradually sank in that he was in his bed at Valders inn.

He turned his head and found Valders serving maid, Thetta, sitting beside him, reading something from a small stack of papers. He tried to speak, to ask her what was happening, but all that came out was a croak.

That was enough; she looked up from the papers and said, surprised, Youre awake!

Kelder was unsure just how to respond to so obvious a statement, but since his voice didnt seem to be working yet, that didnt matter much. He croaked again in confirmation of her observation.

Just a minute, Thetta said, giving him a comforting pat on the shoulder. Ill go get Valder. She rose, and hurried out the door.

Kelder used the time until her return to see if he could get his voice working, and when Valder and Thetta entered he was able to ask, still in a croak but intelligibly, What happened?

The soldiers pulled you out, Valder said. Ezdral, too. They heard the splashing, and Irith yelling, and they came and got you.

That made sense, Kelder saw. Is Ezdral all right? he asked.

Valder grimaced. More or less, he said. He didnt drown, if thats what you mean, and he didnt swallow as much water as you did, or breathe any inKelder, dont you knowanything about being in the water?

Kelder shook his head.

Well, Valder told him, you did just about everything wrong its possible to do.

Kelder shrugged and smiled wryly. That much he could do; it was only things involving breathing or his throat that were painful.

Anyway, Valder went on, Ezdral didnt drown, but he came out of the river still screaming at Irith, and mad at you, and me, and Asha, and just about everybody else. Not that I blame him. He sighed. I had the soldiers keep him, and they took him back to Ethshar when their relief arrivedtheyre well on the way by now; that was hours ago.

Kelder blinked. What... he began, and found he didnt have the breath to continue. He tried again. What will happen to... Again, his wind gave out.

What will happen to him there? Valder guessed, and Kelder nodded. I dont know, Valder admitted. I asked them to try to find him a job, maybe clerking for one of the guard captains, but I dont know if thatll work. If not, I suppose hell wind up in the Hundred-Foot Fieldbut thats better than the back market in Shan, I'm sure.

Kelder swallowed carefully, readying his throat, and asked, Whatis the Hundred-Foot Field? He had wondered that ever since Azraya had first mentioned it.

Oh, dont you know? Valder smiled. Well, Ethshar is a walled city, he explained, and it was built during the Great War, when the walls and defenses were serious business, so it has what is probably the biggest, fanciest city wall ever built. It goes around three sides of the city, and the fourth side is the waterfront. Theres an entire army camp built into it on the east sidethey call the area near there Camptown, as a result. Even so, though, if there was a real war, and the city was under assault, or siege, the wall isnt big enough to move all the troops and equipment you might need from one spot to another, and itstoo big to man and equip the whole thing constantly. So theres a strip of land just inside the wall that Azrad the Great declared had to always be kept clear to allow troop movements, a strip extending one hundred feet in from the inner side of the wall. The inner edge is a street, naturallyWall Streetbut nobody needs a hundred-foot-wide street, especially when you can only build on one side of it, so the rest is an open field. Thats the Hundred-Foot Field. The penalty for building anything permanent there, even just a few bricks stacked up, is death.

Kelder still looked puzzled, and Valder added, And since its the only place inside the wall where nothing can be built, including fences, and since it goes all the way around the city, its where all the beggars and thieves live.

Its a sort of labor pool, tooanyone who hasnt got a place will wind up there, and some of them arent thieves, just down on their luck, so when someone needs workers and isnt too particular, he can just go to the Field and give a shout, and usually get half a dozen. I used men from the Hundred-Foot Field when I built this inn, two hundred years ago. He smiled reassuringly. Ezdral could do worse than winding up in the Field, believe me.

Azraya had not been so sanguine about it, and she had actually lived there, while Valder presumably had not. It doesnt sound any better than Shan, Kelder said bitterly.

Valder shrugged. Well, you cant save someone who doesnt want to be saved, he said, and at least you got the spell off him, so he has a chance now, once he calms down. Besides, Shan on the Desert is dying, its been declining for a centurynobody wants to go all the way out to the end of the World, and now there are other places to get most of what Shan sells. The Great Highway isnt all that great any more; it used to carry three times the traffic it does now.

Most of my customers here are bound to Sardiron or one of the Ethshars; those are all healthy and growing.

Kelder was mollified, but not entirely convinced. He had wanted to do better in his role as champion of the downtrodden. He had found Asha a place, here at the inn; he had wanted to do the same for everyone he had traveled with.

Of course, Azraya had gone on ahead, and he had no way of knowing what had become of her. And now Ezdral was gone, as well.

That left Irithand himself, of course.

Wheres Irith? he asked.

Downstairs, Valder said. Would you like to see her?

Kelder nodded, and Valder left.

A moment later Irith peeked around the door, a worried expression on her face.

Kelder? she asked. Are you all right?

I'm fine, he said. His voice cracked.

The shapeshifter slipped into the room and took the chair Thetta had used.

Youre really all right? she asked.

Kelder nodded.

Oh,good! Irith said, smiling. You were sosilly, jumping in after Ezdral, when youknow you cant swim! I mean, I didnt realize it was thatimportant, that you were going to try to save himyourself if I didnt. I mean,really, Kelder, that wasdumb! She giggled nervously, a laugh like a birds song.

Kelder stared at her.

Not that important? A mans life, not that important?

Well, hes all taken care ofnow, of course, Irith went on, The soldiers took him to Ethshar, and good riddance, I say. And Ashas happy here with Valder, so that just leaves the two of us, and of course we dont want to go to Ethsharnow, because its a big city and all that, but we might run into Ezdral there, and besides, there isnt anyreason to go, now that we arent looking for a good wizard. She giggled again. And Itold you we might meet Iridith! She travels a lot, and once she and Valder had a spat that lasted almost two years and she stayed away the entire time, so I wasntsure she would be here, and besides, she doesnt usually like people to know that Iridith the wizard and Iridith the innkeepers wife are the sameperson, I mean, you can see how that would be inconvenient, cant you?

Kelder looked at her blankly.

Oh, of course you can, I'm being foolish, Irith said, waving a hand airily. I dont know how she stands it sometimes, a great wizard living with an ordinary person, I really dont know why she does it, but then, Valders an old dear, and she keeps him young with her magic anyway, I wishI could do that!

She looked anxiously at Kelder for a second, then resumed her good humor and her babbling.

Anyway,she said, I thought that we could head east again, along the highway, because after all, you didnt really get to see much of Shan on the Desert, I mean, did you ever even see it by daylight at all, really? And if you want, we could make a side-trip to Shulara, and I could meet your family, but of course I wouldnt stay, I mean, what wouldI do on a farm? Turn into a cat and catch the mice in your barn? Ihate miceI mean, they taste good, but I think you have to grow up a cat to really like catching the little things and eating them, especially raw.

Kelder stared at her. She was beautiful, very beautiful indeed; her hair caught the light spilling in through the window and blazed golden, and every curve of her face was soft and perfect, but somehow that didnt matter as much as Kelder had thought.

Youwouldnt stay there either, would you? she asked worriedly. I mean, just go back to your farm to live?

He shook his head. No, he said. Zindré had never said he wouldstay, merely that he would return safely, and he supposed that someday he might.

Just now, though, he did not particularly care whether he ever saw Shulara againand whats more, he didnt care whether Zindré had been absolutely omniscient, or a lying old thief.

Good! she said. Well, then, well go on to Shan, and you can see it properly, without worrying about nasty old drunks or stealing severed heads or troublesome little children, and well have awonderful time, wont we?

No, he said again.

She stared at him. But Kelder, whynot? she asked, baffled.

I'm going to Ethshar, he said. To stay, I think.

Youre still confused, she said, patting his arm. Ill talk to you again when youre feeling better, and well decide what to do. She stood. Goodbye, Kelder, she said.

Then she turned and left the room.

He watched her go, her white and gold tunic draping splendidly over her curves, and he realized that she hadnt changed at all; she was just as she had been the day they met.

And after all, why shouldnt she be? That was less than a month ago, a month out of more than two centuries, for her. Brief as the time was, though, he knewhe had changed. So had Asha. So had Ezdral.

And Irith hadnt.

And she never would.

And really, destined or not, how could he marry a child like that?

Chapter Thirty-Six

Kelder hefted the pack onto his shoulder and looked up.

Irith waved a final farewell, then swooped eastward, her wings gleaming brightly in the morning sun. She dwindled in the distance.

He wondered if he would ever see her again. If he did, he suspected she wouldnt recognize him, or would pretend not to. And he would not presume on old friendship, he promised himself.

Valder and Asha were busy inside, he knew, but he waved a farewell to them, as well, just in case they happened to be looking out the window. Then he set his foot firmly on the highway and set out toward Ethshar.

He was looking forward to seeing it, to finding himself a place in the cityand perhaps even finding Azraya there.

He had never heard Azraya laugh; perhaps she, too, had a laugh like birdsong.

Any number of women might have such a laugh.

And Zindré might have been just a charlatan; it really didnt matter any more whether the prophecy was absolute truth or nothing but lies. He would live out his life as he saw fit, taking it one step at a time, and not worrying about whether it fit any predictions.

He rather hoped he would meet Azraya again, when he got to Ethshar. Maybe, he thought, they could find a place together.

He smiled at his own eagerness, and shook his head. Maybe they could.

Or maybe not.

Authors Note: Linguistics

Some scholars may wonder how the people of the Small Kingdoms are able to learn foreign languages as quickly as they do.

It must be remembered that all of the two hundred languages spoken in the World in the fifty-third century of human speech diverged from a single mother tongue within the last five hundred yearsand that that mother tongue, Ethsharitic, is still alive and flourishing.

For a Dwomorite to learn Quorulian is not equivalent to an American learning Japanese, but to an Italian learning Spanish. Many of the so-called languages are in fact merely different dialects. The difference between, say, Krithimionese and Ethsharitic is no greater than the difference between English as spoken in York and New Yorkperhaps less.

Traders Tongue is a simplified version of Ethsharitic with various borrowings, an altered accent, and a certain bantering tone suited to haggling added in.

The greatest linguistic disparity in all the World, between Semmat and the Island dialect of Tintallionese, is roughly the same as the difference between English and German.

About the Author

Lawrence Watt-Evans is the author of more than two dozen novels, and more than a hundred short stories. Further information can be found on his webpage at

http://www.watt-evans.com/.

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