After his meeting with Layla Victoire and the others Madrin left and headed for the infirmary. He hoped to find a private moment with Wish so that he could discuss what he needed with her. It seems he was in luck because he got her attention thanks to Victor Sage interrupting on his behalf. The three of them found an unoccupied room that had been emptied thanks to the many tireless castle healers' efforts, Wish included.

"Thank you Wish and Victor for taking the time to see me I know your busy." He cleared his throat and fought down the emotional pain he felt when he remembered Chaliceton. "You two may not be aware but, I was in Arthuran only a few days ago when the walking Val'Nothe demolished Chaliceton." "Aurora and Elysia brought me to Grand city while I was suffering some severe damage from the monster." His rage at the beast showed in his eyes while he kept his face neutral.

"While I was participating in the recovery efforts after the Val'Nothe was lead away by Elysia I saved a little girl who was only ten years old." Tears began to flow as he no longer bothered to keep them in. "Damn dust is everywhere! Her legs were in ruins I doubt she will ever walk again without magical help. The tears wouldn't stop no matter how many times he wiped them away. He cursed his weakness in front of others. "I took her to the healers' cellar so that the only mystically gifted one could tend her. Unfortunately, he was out at the time so I left to find him. On my way out I succumbed to my near fatal injuries and, he decided to save me which led to him losing consciousness." The tears finally stopped as Madrin's anger at Sedric burned them away. "Sedric is a good man but his abilities in the healing arts are very limited compared to someone like you Wish. Frankly I think she is beyond his help now that so many days have passed." He knelt to one knee as he bowed to her and continued. "I beg you Wish Star to come with me to save the child like she deserved days ago. You have my word that I will do anything you want if you grant my request." Madrin would not have given that promise to anyone that hadn't proven they possesed a good heart. He could tell thanks to her actions for Grand city that she did. He waited still kneeling as he met her eyes to hear Wish's answer. Once she consented he stood and asked her to find a airship if possible to transport them to Chaliceton. He let her know that a boat would be fine as well. Finally, he told her that he would be gone for three days starting tomorrow. He humbly requested that she be ready to leave when he returned and Victor was welcome as well.
------

Madrin woke up three full hours before dawn after sleeping on a spare bed. He was in the room where he had met with Wish and Victor the night before. It was available so he saw no reason not to take advantage. He used the washbasin down the hall and gathered his supplies and headed out of the castle. He started running southeast as he headed for the town of Angeasor in the Hyborean mountains his home. Madrin put all the years of endurance training to the test as he raced at full speed. He knew he would reach the village at sunset thanks to his early start. It had been five years since he had been back but, he remembered Angeasor fondly they were his family. His tribe had adopted the clan name of Blackwolf in honor of the Kir family crest which they wore on their tabards(Black wolf head on a brown background) and, used it as the clans' banner. The original two hundred refugees from Nirdor their realm, had swelled to over three hundred when he left. In the beginning scouts were sent to the land below the mountain to gauge their surroundings. When they returned the scouts reported the lands inhabitants were unresponsive and had a dazed look in their eyes. Madrin's clan was reminded too much of the slave commanders of the dark wizard Gerthluo. The tribal council decided to adopt a isolationist attitude towards the Alerians because, they had no desire for a repeat of that terrible time. The clan was self sufficient anyway so they needed no outside influence. Twenty years passed and Madrin had grown into manhood his mother was the chieftain of the Blackwolves. She had earned her position and kept her post on merit not bloodlines. That was the way of Madrin's people it didn't matter that he was the chief's son you earned your place. Many Alerians would label him a noble but, he was just a soldier. He had become Captain of the Blackwolf warriors during battle due to his ability. His clan didn't work the same way as many cultures everyone of them was trained from the age of seven in the ways of war none were defenseless.

Madrin had grown tired of the councils decree he wanted to see the world and find beings that had their own will. Thankfully he found that much had changed in the many years since the scouts had surveyed Aleris. The council was shocked when he faced them, as was any member of the tribes right from the age of twelve. He declared that he would no longer be the Captain for a clan of closed minded old fools afraid of change. He left in a rush within the hour packed for a journey of undetermined length. The council was still in debate while he left his home to see a larger world, and save his family's name from its sinister reputation. Madrin was unsure of how he would be received but, he had to tell them to get over their pompous attitudes and let the world know Angeasor exist.

He stopped at his new land gifted to him by Layla Victoire to rest for an hour. He didn't want to be exhausted when he got home to face the council. He had chosen this land because he remembered passing it when he left his village. He bathed in the river nearby so that he would be cleansed of the majority of the travel grime from his clothes and himself. He enjoyed the clear water as he reflected on his time away, thinking of the arguments he would use to convince the clan to join Aleris as a whole. Madrin decided to hire carpenters from Angeasor to build his new home. He wanted it to act as a way station for his people so that they could have a place to relax before starting their journey. Madrin clothed himself and continued onward.

He spotted the new wooden palisade first as oil lamps shed light on the barred gate. That was a surprise but, tactically sound. "You there Blackwolf open the gate Madrin Kir has returned and seeks audience with the council immediately!" His practiced tone of command entered his voice as he shouted.

"Captain Kir well met I'll be just a moment, these old bones have sorely missed that voice." All Madrin could think was by the gods that friendly sound was unexpected. The first thing John Blackwolf did after opening the gate was give Madrin a strong hug and usher him inside.

"Well met John, I have to say this reception is not what I thought it would be but, I'm glad to see you again my friend." he couldn't help the smile that showed on his face.

"No worries lad a lot has changed since you left, I'll let the chief explain. Ranisa has missed you greatly not to mention the rest of the clan." the kindly old soldier led him to the council's great meeting hall that stood twenty feet tall. It was made of worked stone and seated five hundred. Madrin was surprised to find them in session. He noted over fifty new tents in a clearing near the council building and entered as his mother addressed the filled structure.

"From now on all you worthy folk are members of the Blackwolf clan, Welcome." Ranisa smiled at him when she noticed Madrin enter as the new tribes people cheered with joy. She waited several minutes as the crowd calmed down. "Blackwolves please welcome my son Madrin Kir home after five years abroad. The crowd all excitedly greeted their new brother.

Madrin politely returned his tribes' joyful greetings. As he met them he found out that they were all refugees from Eiler who sought higher ground when the floods came. They were surprised to find this town. None of them had ever heard of Angeasor until they reached the walls. The Blackwolves welcomed them and gave them shelter from the devastation of the lowlands. Eventually they decided to stay and join the clan.

Later Ranisa Kir kissed her son on the forehead and gave him a bone cracking hug. "I must thank you son for making us old fools think about our isolationist policies." Madrin and his mother shared a musical laugh that echoed in the now empty great hall.

"I came here expecting evil looks and sneers behind my back, I'm glad I was wrong. He gave her his best smile and continued. "I missed you terribly mother, there were many moments I wasn't sure I would live to see you and my tribe again." The next few hours Madrin told his mother of his journey.
------

He woke up in his family's home the next morning well rested with a light heart. Madrin spent his day talking to his old friends and new ones. Captain Mira Blackwolf his oldest friend found him around noon and let him know that her and their fifty best warriors would be leaving an hour before sunrise for Grand City to render aid. Her raven black hair tightly bound in a braid that fell halfway down her back brought back fond memories. They had shared many first together her sapphire blue eyes knew his heart better than anyone. She had given him first love, his first kiss and Madrin's first sexual experience. As time passed though their bond grew into siblings instead of lovers. He knew that his old position was in good hands with Mira. They spent the rest of the day together doing the daily training routines. He made sure to contract clan carpenters to build his home, before his evening meal. Madrin had dinner in the mess hall with the soldiers who would be heading out in the morning.

He slept in the barracks and went with them running at Mira's side as she led the Blackwolf warriors. They rested on his land before continuing towards Grand City. Around noon he parted ways with his fellows and stepped up his pace. Madrin arrived two hours after sunset in the city and sought out Wish. He hoped she had found transportation to Chaliceton so that he could be gone before the Blackwolves arrived tomorrow.

Prior to meeting Madrin Kir and returning to the infirmary to tend to Grand City's wounded, Wish was able to steal some much needed rest. Alongside Victor she slept on a patch of grass outside in one of the castle's courtyards. Hanging above her was a canopy of stars which not only made her feel at home, but gave her the energy she lacked after a marathon of healing people. For Wish, it wasn't simply about resting and sustaining nourishment to stay strong; she always needed to be in touch with the stars, with the brilliant and hauntingly beautiful night sky.

After waking, Wish was able to put some time aside for Victor to get some recuperation of his own. He had been trying to slip her subtle pulses of magical energy to keep her strong, to keep her going. This worked effectively, but Wish was aware of what he was doing it and knew in the end, he was only wearing himself out. Time seemed to pass by so fast though, so they took what rest and food both of them could get before setting out to help the people of Grand City again. Although they were both tired, there were others who were in far worse shape than the two of them.

When they had returned to the infirmary, she was surprised to see Madrin Kir there. She had forgotten about their short meeting in the castle and how he asked to rendezvous with her later. As she had just stepped back into the infirmary, she wasn't called upon right away and had some time to spare. She waved Madrin and Victor into one of those empty rooms to the side and shut the room behind the three of them.

"You're welcome," Wish said after Madrin made his introductions. "What is it that I can help you with?"

As the warrior spoke, telling Wish and Victor of his time in Chaliceton when the Val`nothe attacked, Wish watched and noticed Madrin's face changing from angry to distressed. So much in fact that tears glistened on his eyes. Wish pursed her lips tightly together, wondering if she should advert her eyes and not look at him. It was not often that grown men liked to shed tears. To further prove her point, Madrin tried to blame the water that welled in his eyes from dust in the air.

Madrin's pain was due to a little girl who had been hurt in the Chaliceton attack, her legs nearly destroyed. Most likely, she would never walk again. Still, Madrin had hope and his purpose for seeking out Wish or any other able bodied healer was to cure the little girl of her infliction. Although his tears had ceased, the exterior of the Chaliceton warrior was even further shaken when he got down on his knees and literally begged Wish to come along to the snowy town in Arthuran.

Wish didn't know what to say. Her lips were parted slightly and she was at a loss of words. Of course she would help, but she couldn't remember the last time she had seen someone so desperate and yet so... anxious and persistent to see this little girl healed and whole once more. Absently Wish wondered if Madrin was related to the child at all and that maybe he had not revealed that detail, or maybe his heart was just inherently good.

Nodding to Madrin, Wish took his hands and then helped him to stand. "I will come to Chaliceton to help heal this girl for you, Madrin," Wish said with her hands still in his. After confirming, she lowered her hands away, placing them back at her sides. "I promise to do what I can."

So it was that in three day's time the trio of her, Victor and Wish would meet at Hinewai Harbor and set sail for Chaliceton. Wish did not want to shatter Madrin's faith, but if the girl had suffered for so long with broken and ruined legs, there was perhaps not much she could do. But like Chaliceton's warrior, she found it difficult not to turn her back on those in need of aide, no matter how far gone they might be already.



Wish had gambled on it being a trio traveling to Chaliceton, but before she could meet Madrin again, her expected three person party had turned into a duo. On the second day, Wish awoke in one of the spare rooms on the side the infirmary like usual; however, something was definitely odd about the morning. Immediately, she could feel it. She was very much alone and the spot next to her where Victor usually slept (if he so chose to sleep at all) had grown cold. Wish let out a shiver for a moment, despite the warm air, and rubbed her arms.

As she swung her legs over the edge of the bed, not pushing away from it, Wish let her olive colored eyes scan the room. Wish searched for Victor's hat, coat, his staff - anything - and she found a whole lot of nothing. There was absolutely no sign of him, as if he had vanished into thin air. Hell, she even checked under the bed. Increasingly, she found herself biting her lower lip and rubbing her temples. Convincing herself there was no need to panic or organize a search party just yet, Wish took a steady breath and finally left the room.

A young girl named Lora was tending to a sick soldier, his wounds infected from not being healed soon enough. It was a typical example of some of the patients that had been brought into the infirmary. Most of these soldiers were a stubborn bunch, pushing themselves without thinking of their own well-being and health. It was, unfortunately, a natural thing to do in a disaster for some people. When Lora was not as busy and Wish saw she had a second, Wish moved behind Lora and placed a hand on the girl's shoulder.

Lora turned around, breathing in sharply as she did, surprised that someone had tapped on her shoulder. "Oh, Miss Wish, ye startled me. Is everything alright?"

"Ah, sorry, Lora," Wish said. "Have you seen Victor?"

"I can't say that I have. Apologies," Lora said with a nod. "I thought he was with ye?"

"No... thanks anyway though."

Lora went back to her healing duties and Wish left the infirmary. Once outside, she glanced out into the courtyards seeing no sign of Victor. How she wanted to go find him, but there were other things she needed to do. Namely to book a passage on a ship that was going to Chaliceton. She supposed that the walk to Hinewai Harbor would do her good anyway and maybe give her time to occupy her mind with thoughts other than wondering where Victor went off to. After getting there, she found a ship called The Bright Dove that would be leaving in the morning. It was earliest ship she could book for Chaliceton as there was no airship passage to Arthuran. She reserved a spot for three people just in case Victor did return.

However, after a few hours of wandering about the city, making preparations for the journey ahead and booking a ship, when Wish returned to the infirmary, there was no sign of the shapeshifter. Several times, her fingers clenched together in angered fists and she tried to curb whatever emotions she was feeling right now. Absently, she wondered if maybe she was just being too clingy, but Victor had been by her side every waking second since the met and to just disappear like he did...

She slept again, though not quite wanting to, Wish needed to rest before the journey tomorrow. In the morning before the sun had even risen, she was still alone. Wish refrained from cursing up a storm that would make a sailor pale and waking the whole infirmary with her. Instead, she changed out of her Grand City soldier uniform, switching into something more suitable for travel, and then grabbed her rapier, placing it at her side. She grabbed two pieces of parchment and began two write two letters. One of them was to Layla Victoire announcing Wish's resignation from the Grand City army. After all, Layla did say that it was fine. The second letter was to Victor.



As Lora was awake, Wish asked her deliver one letter to the castle and hold onto the other for Victor in case he came back to the infirmary. Grabbing her pack of supplies, Wish headed out towards Hinewai Harbor to set sail on The Bright Dove. When she got to the harbor, Madrin was not there yet, so Wish looked out at the ocean as the sun slowly climbed over the horizon trying to inch its way into the morning sky. All around her, people were cleaning up debris and bodies wherever they could, so Wish kept her eyes glued on the ocean. At least the ocean had returned to normal, the weight of the extra water from the tidal waves gone at last.

She reached for Victor's hand, but remembered he wasn't there and shook her head looking down at her booted feet. Was it so wrong that she hoped someone or something had taken him away from her? More than anything, she didn't want to believe Victor had just abandoned her. Wish wasn't sure if she was so awful to be around, but it wouldn't have been the first time she was left in the dust. Not to mention, there was a few prior instances already where Victor had suggested that she should leave him and never look back. Running her fingers through a few strands of her hair, Wish breathed in the salty air and exhaled a bit more forcefully than needed. Perhaps her subconscious was blowing out idiotic thoughts. Wish knew that she was stronger than this and for now, she wasn't going to let Victor's disappearance upset her. After all, she had a quest; Wish had to save a little girl.

Truthfully, part of her was looking forward to a few days out on sea. She only hoped the ship would make it to Chaliceton before the little girl would become infected by her wounded legs. Gossamer-like wings, dark blue in color, fluttered out behind her as Wish watched the waves gently lapping in and out, hitting the side of the port. Shadowed by the sound of the waves, she heard footsteps behind her and turned to see Madrin Kir. Wish noticed Madrin appeared to be in better shape than he was the three days ago when she saw him. She wasn't sure if she could say the same for herself yet. Hopefully, Madrin would not question Wish about her lack of companion.

"Good morning, Madrin. This is the ship we'll be departing on for Chaliceton," Wish said nodding over her shoulder to it. "I could not secure an airship because they do not fly to Chaliceton. We'll make it there in time to save her." She sounded so confident in her words.

Madrin had seemed to get there at just the right moment. A bell run loudly from somewhere on the deck of the ship signaling it was time for passengers and sailors to start boarding. With Madrin in tow, Wish headed up the ramp to the ship and took one last lingering look at Grand City. Crossing her fingers briefly, she prayed that Aleris' capital city would be in better sorts once she and decided to return to it.

Madrin found out the ship Wish had gotten passage on would be leaving just after sunrise if everything went as planned. He felt lucky because, he wouldn't have to deal with the Blackwolves' negotiations. They were important and he wished them well but, Madrin wasn't too fond of politics. Also, some overeager Blackwolf might mention him so he was happy Wish had been efficient. Next he located the volunteers Layla Victoire had arranged for the journey to Chaliceton. He let them know that the ship was called The Bright Dove. He instructed them to meet him there at sunrise and get plenty of rest. They were of varying ages and beliefs but, they seemed a sturdy group. Then Madrin found Wish resting in a corner of the infirmary after exhaustion had overcome her. He decided to leave her be and found a place on the stone floor to rest after doing carrying for the active medics for several more hours.
------

The sun looked brilliant as he watched it rise on a new and hopefully, better day. The volunteers were behind him clearly not use to rising so early but, they were ready for a journey. The Bright Dove was the first vessel of many promised for Chaliceton's aid. The passenger manifest ended up being over fifty. Some just wanted a new start, others were employed construction workers. The Dove had mercenary guardsman numbering around thirty-five to keep order. The vessel itself had a crew of one hundred and twenty-five and a well stocked hold of supplies.

"Well met Wish I must thank you for finding a ship so quickly." His smile was genuine and even showed in his eyes. Madrin was bothered by Wish's deep sadness he could only guess it had something to do with Victor's absence. They set out minutes after the light kissed the clouds and began a week long voyage. Madrin saw his tribes banner enter the city after their war horn announced them, as the Dove pulled from the dock. Well that was one less problem he had to worry about. "Well met my tribe." he whispered after a respectful nod to his clan's banner.

Compared to the ships he had seen, few were as well made as The Bright Dove. The crew of the vessel was skilled and the passengers were content. Madrin told Wish of his travels starting with his more comical exploits in the hope of cheering her just a little. After that he asked her about herself giving her a kind ear to talk as much as she liked. She shared some interesting stories and proved to him once more of her kindness. Four days passed without incident.

Madrin noticed there were fewer guards as time passed. Their shift changes got fewer and the guards were very quiet. He asked his companion if she noticed anything strange as well. After they conversed for awhile in the ship's galley the door to the hallway burst open. Two mercenaries started firing crossbows into the crowd as they alternated with the two bastards on the door. Madrin had flipped the duo's table to shield them with his rage, and shouted for the mages onboard to raise their own mystical ones. He asked Wish for an assist as he charged the bastards' on the right. Madrin threw his boot knife and buried it in the front mercenary's heart killing him instantly. The next one ended up with a broken neck and some time as a shield. He really wished he hadn't been caught without his two handed sword. It was peace bonded in his cabin, Madrin was grateful that he always kept his concealed knives on his person. These mercenary idiots would regret stirring his wrath and killing innocents on his watch.

The journey from Chaliceton to Hinewai Harbor would take approximately a week. For the most part, Wish tried to keep to herself, though she did enjoy hearing Madrin's stories. His adventures, as he chose the more comical ones, made her smile and laugh a little though there was still a certain sort of sadness in her heart that could not be denied. In return, she managed to tell Madrin some about herself, although her tales were much shorter and not as interesting in comparison. It was true that she so far lived a more exciting life than what she was letting on, but she didn't have the inspiration in her heart.

At nights, she would wander off onto the deck of the ship and lean against the edge of its railing. The salty air felt strangely good against her skin and fae wings. It had been so long since she was out at sea and occasionally Wish would hold out her arms and palms letting the ocean wind pass over her flesh as the ship parted through the waters. She also noticed the shift in temperature. As they neared Chaliceton, the air began to grown cold and she welcomed the change. Having come from Heruin to a just as hot Eiler, the drop in temperature was much needed. She hoped that as they got closer to Chaliceton they would see snow. How she missed the sight of white flurries falling from the sky.

Four days passed on and there was not much to take note of - no storms for the ship or sickness within the crew. This unlikely streak in good luck was disrupted one evening when she and Madrin were sitting along a small round table casually chatting while eating dinner. Wish noticed suddenly that Madrin was watching the other occupants in the room. She followed his questioning eyes to the quiet guards and noticed how they appeared to look at ease as well. Just as Madrin had asked her if she noticed anything suspicious, the door to the ship's cabin burst open and crossbows fired into the crowd.

Madrin flipped their table using it as a shield as arrows sunk into the wooden top of it. The two guards were taking turns firing with the two mercenaries that had barged into the room. Wish ducked towards the ground, barely able to hear the sound of Madrin asking her for an assist over the shouting voices. Before he ran out, Wish's hand reached out and cast an invisible barrier over Madrin, one that was strong enough to protect him from a few shots of arrows.

As Madrin took out two of the men, Wish unarmed without her rapier at the time, waited for the right moment. When she had a free shot, she aimed a blast of light magic at one of the guys with the crossbows. It hit the man dead on, injuring him and stunning him for the time being. Typically, her magic was more effective for healing or against things like the undead, but it would put a temporary stop to the stunned man.

While the one man fell down across the wall clearly dazed and unresponsive, Wish shifted into her smaller form of about two inches. She flickered in and out of view; when she transformed back into her normal form, she was behind the other unaware man. Wish reached for an unlit lantern that hung against the wall and smacked it across the back of the man's head. The man went down with a thud and struggled to get up and keep consciousness. Before he could even think about it, Wish dived over and yanked Madrin's boot knife out the other mercenary's heart.

Pinning the man down with the knife to his throat, Wish glared as threateningly as a fae could. "That's no way to act in front of a lady," Wish said. "Now tell us, if you'd be so kind, why in the hell were you trying to kill us?"

Madrin was glad for the shield Wish gave him because the first two crossbow bolts simply bounced off as he charged. As he held the second mercenary as a human shield another bolt buried itself in his still form. Wish shot some kind of light from her hand at one and, quicker than expected had Madrin's knife at the other bastards throat. Prisoners would have been difficult for him to take alone so her reflexes were appreciated.

Wish's prisoner cleared his throat and answered her question. "The portals are open once again and, The black flame will cleanse all." the mercenary laughed and continued. "Wrong place wrong time light dwellers." Suddenly an audible popping was heard and, black smoke expelled from his mouth and nose as life went out of his eyes.

"By the gods, I hate fanatics such weak minds need a healthier outlet." Madrin lifted the one still breathing and tossed him to the other passengers. "Tie him up and make sure to shove something in his mouth! He hoped they listened but, wouldn't care if they killed him. Questioning will be near impossible with that idiot but, he deserved a chance.

Madrin slowly looked into the hall as the stench of death hit him hard. "I found some of the guards that disagreed with these bastards." He saw four dead guards clearly cut down from behind by blades. What a mess, he would make sure they got proper burials when the ship was saved. "I'm going to retrieve our weapons, keep watch and see who's willing to come with us Wish." He met her eyes as he spoke and the concern in his tone was obvious. Their shared cabin had three beds each with a personal chest for storage. They were all held in place by metal brackets just like all the furniture onboard. He would have to turn a corner to reach it but, his stealth training would keep his steps silent.

Madrin heard shallow breathing as he crept down the hall. The lanterns set in the walls had been blown out so it was very dark. Fine by him it only made stalking easier. He approached the sound of life and clamped his hand over the unsuspecting person's mouth. He dragged the body into the duo's room were a light still burned. "Tell me why you get to live quickly, or die." Madrin watched his eyes as he described the sudden attack by the insane guards. The man also mentioned that some of the crew participated led by the second mate. "Here, use this." He gave him one of his spare shirts to keep his guts in as he told him to stay put.

Madrin slung his sword in its usual position behind his shoulder and grabbed Wish's rapier. He rushed back to her position and informed Wish of the wounded man as he handed over her weapon. He asked her to come back to their room while some of the volunteers took up guarding the hall. He told her what he had learned from the poor man as he awaited her answer. If she refused he would ask one of the other healers. Given the state of the ship that might be best.

"The portals are open once again and the black flame will cleanse all. Wrong place, wrong time, light dwellers."

The man Wish was holding with a knife to his throat let out one last maniacal laugh before black smoke poured from his mouth and nose. The man went limp in Wish's arms and she handed Madrin back his boot knife, scooting away from the mercenary at the same time. He was dead alright. Wish rubbed at her temple wondering what on earth the man meant speaking of portals and black flames. Instantly, she felt a shudder run up and down her spine; something told her this would not just be a simple trip to Chaliceton to heal a little girl. Did Madrin know about these people?

"Aye," Wish said with a nod agreeing to Madrin's sentiments about the fanatics. As she started to stand, Madrin tossed his still breathing captive in the direction of some of the ship's crew, commanding them to tie the man up possibly for questioning later.

Madrin looked towards the hall where death lingered. A few bodies were slumped against the walls - four guards that must have opposed the mercenary attack. Wish noted that their wounds were too deep and far beyond saving at this point. Madrin turned back towards her, a frown on his face, and let her know he was going to fetch their weapons and that she should keep watch in case any other bandits or crazed lunatics tried to attack the ship's crew again. She nodded as Madrin started to creep down the hallway and around the corner to their room, still suspecting foes onboard.

By the time he got back, Wish was helping some of the others move the dead onto the ship's deck, preparing for a burial at sea. When she looked up, Madrin had a sort of rushed look in his eyes and thrust her rapier towards her. Wish took the rapier from him, attaching it to the loop on her belt, and listened as Madrin told her of the wounded man in their cabin. Being as how there was plenty of crew cleaning up the mess, she followed Madrin where the slowly dying man was. Madrin told her of how the man explained that some of his crew joined the second mate of the ship in leading the attack.

When Wish got to the cabin, she bit her lower lip at the sight of the man resting on Madrin's bed. He was holding a shirt to his stomach, trying to keep his guts in. Thankfully for being a healer for so long, she was not so squeamish at the sight of blood. There was certainly a lot of it on Madrin's bed now. Wish moved towards the man and knelt down next to his bedside, her hands reaching towards the shirt. He looked at her as if truly afraid and hesitated despite the large amount of pain he must have been in.

"Come now," Wish said pushing his hands and the bloodied shirt away. "I'm here to help you. Let me see the wound."

She hated this part. Wish detested when pieces of a person was falling out and she had to try to heal those messes. After the man reluctantly dropped his hands away letting Wish do her work, he fainted at the sight of his wound again and the pain. Truthfully, it was better for her this way. Wish looked back to Madrin and nodded, letting him know that the man wasn't dead, that he had just passed out.

Wish closed her eyes and as she did, warm, soothing light flowed from her fingertips. As flesh mended back together, Wish pushed his guts back into place. Human parts went back to their rightful places and where the deep gash across the man's stomach once was, there was now a patchwork of scarred skin. Considering the size of the wound, the man was lucky enough that he had scars. After about a half hour, the wound was fully closed and Wish scooted back a little bit, letting out a weary sigh, her gossamer-like wings drooping behind her.

"He'll be okay," Wish said looking to Madrin and then for something to wipe her bloody hands on. She reached for a towel that was slung over one of the chests and rubbed whatever crimson liquid she could off of her fingers and palms. As she was doing this, Wish heard a groaning sound from the bed as the man already started to stir, his eyelids flickering open. Wish held up a hand fast for him to stop. "Don't move so much. You are far too sore and could aggravate your healing wound."

Madrin was relieved to see the soldier would survive thanks to Wish. The man passed out in the beginning but, that would help him deal with the pain of healing. Madrin wasn't sure what Wish's power felt like when used for healing. However, he had been in the hands of a few mystic healers in his lifetime so he knew each one had a different feel. When the mercenary woke up he told Wish and Madrin he was eternally grateful for their aid.

He told them his name was Fimor he was the appointed head mercenary for The Bright Dove. Ten of his men were slain over the past two days. He started investigating the mysterious deaths early this morning. He decided to check the passenger cabins for signs of an unbound weapon. That is where second mate Cresin found him with two of his mercenaries. He asked him if he served the black flame or was he a soft light dweller. The mate was wearing a red robe with black flames all over it. Fimor just looked at him confused. After that Cresin told the men with him to kill the weakling. Fimor was a capable swordsman but the two men had unnatural strength and speed. Thankfully his skills served to keep a quick death out of their reach. Fimor was unconscious until about ten minutes before Madrin grabbed him.

"If you want to help, come with us and protect our back." Madrin's tone was that of command despite his words. He couldn't shake the feeling that he recognized that symbol use. Fimor agreed and offered his consent with a respectful bow. "Excellent Fimor I'm glad to be working with you." Madrin gave him a nod of acknowledgement and a neutral expression though inwardly he smiled.

Madrin led the way onto the deck with ten volunteers at his back in addition to Wish and Fimor. The halls were only wide enough for two, so he and a female warrior from Elved named Kara who wore scale mail and wielded a wicked pair of boarding axes was with him. Kara is a brunette with chin length hair she had a single braid in front of her ear that was longer than the rest of it. Her olive skin was marked with many well earned battle scars. He would guess she may have been a sailor or possible a pirate. Fimor stood behind Wish in the lineup in chainmail with a scimitar and buckler. His coal black hair was cut close to his scalp and he had a bronze skin tone unmarred by visible scars. He must have great skill to have so few scars. However, he saw his chest and abdomen so he knew that this was a man that only lost when he was dealt a near fatal blow. Madrin guessed based on the beautiful Sahar that this man was from Heruin since he had never been there himself.

When they stepped on deck He noticed that it looked like sunset but, the time was just before noon. The people who had been sent by Wish to give their dead allies a sea burial were staring at the front of the ship in shock. Madrin saw why immediately, there was a gaping portal bigger than the Dove. The other side looked like it had a sunny sky filtered thru some kind of foul black mist. "By the gods!" Madrin felt something stir in his memory. He didn't know what it was but, he was sure they needed to stop it.

Wish listened as Fimor managed to push himself into a sitting position and told her and Madrin about his second mate's crew attacking him. Wish shook her head softly as Fimor continued talking, not wanting to believe there was going to trouble on board of The Bright Dove. She was hoping for some peace at sea until they got to Chaliceton, but as unfortunate luck would have it, they were now dealing evil forces. With at least three days left until they docked in Chaliceton, she gambled that this would not be the last mercenary ambush they saw.

Her main question was who was this "Black Flame" that they spoke of? Was it a man/woman or some unnatural force?

As Wish was mulling over her thoughts, Madrin was helping Fimor up and the two started to leave the cabin. Fimor was agreeing to help them keep watch and protect the ship from any further attacks. Wish's hand rose slightly in protest, but as their backs were to her and already heading up the stairs, they did not see her. Wish pursed her lips together tightly for a moment wondering if Fimor ever listened to her about taking it easy and not moving too much. Did anyone believe in "doctor's orders" anymore?

With a sigh, Wish put her hands on the floor and then pushed herself up so she was standing. She followed in tow behind Madrin and Fimor as they climbed the stairs back up towards the ship's deck. Ten other people had also joined them on deck after scouting the ship. One of them was a female warrior from Elved who did not look entirely happy about the recent attacks and in response, was armed with a trusty pair of axes.

Suddenly Wish noticed that the sky grew dark as if night was falling. She rose a hand above her eyes and looked towards the sky seeing neither sun nor a storm approaching. Wish turned towards the front of the ship were people were frozen in their places. Previously they were prepping the bodies for a burial at sea, but now they were cemented in place by the terrible sight of a black portal bigger than The Bright Dove. If something wasn't done and soon, they would be sailing right into the mouth of it.

Wish ran towards the edge of the ship and looked over. As they were nearing Arthuran, cubes of ice were floating on the sea already so jumping into the ocean was not an option. Sure, she could just fly to safety, but what about the others? Honestly, she didn't feel like heading into any unknown portals and had no intention of doing so.

Pushing away from the side railing, Wish ran across the ship to find the captain. She spotted him on the helm, a raised platform near the steering wheel of the ship. Wish ran up it, two steps at a time and halted in front of him. The man was clearly dazed so Wish reached over and slapped him hard across the face. His shock factor seemed to wear off and was replaced by stun.

"Hey! Steer the ship away from the damn portal!" Wish shouted at him.

"Wh-what?" the man said with a stutter.

"Go in the other direction! Gods!"

"Ohhh - right!" the captain replied.

It was almost as if he had forgotten he could steer the ship in another direction. After Wish had commanded him to do so, the captain put his hands on the steering wheel and started pointing the ship in another direction like a man with a mission. Wish stood on the helm and brought her hands to her mouth, cupping them over her lips in anticipation. Hopefully it was not too late to turn around.

Gods, help us get past this vile thing...

There were two entrances to the deck of The Bright Dove. Madrin and his allies were on the cargo side which contained the passenger cabins and the materials being transported. The other side was crew quarters. When Wish snapped the captain out of his mindless piloting and got him to avoid the portal mostly, the rest of the fanatics decided to show up. Madrin drew his two handed sword in one smooth motion and took up an offensive stance. Cresin led twenty mercenaries up from the crew quarters. Madrin liked the two to one odds but, that red robed bastard needed to go first. He instructed Fimor to take command and told all of the volunteers to not die.

Almost immediately after he addressed his allies he saw Cresin doing something with his hands that looked like spell casting. The mage was clearly going to do something to Wish because, he glared at her like an annoying bug interrupting his plans. Madrin put all he had into his sprint as he tackled Wish to the ship's deck. A beam of darkness that felt like fire ignited his midnight black cloak as the two hit the planks. He felt the flames burning the flesh of his back. They felt like Madrin had just been thrown into a bonfire. He had no choice but, to let his rage consume his pain. His contact with the healer worried him because if she was empathic she would feel his molten anger.

"Wish protect the captain and yourself I will stop Cresin!" His rage twisted his tone so that Wish may think he was angry with her but he could apologize if they survived. Madrin sprang up at full speed and charged the second mate with his two pawns. More beams grazed his flesh as he progressed, half of his body was in flames. The first guard was sliced in two at his navel and the second was missing his sword arm. Cresin's head rolled at Madrin's feet as he brought his sprint to an end. The head stopped face up and began to speak in a distant tone. "Our God knows you Madrin Kir and he remembers what you owe him. Blood always tells in the end." As the head began to laugh Madrin brought his boot down on the foul thing. After the satisfying gush of blood and brain matter the portal disappeared and Cresin's human puppets dropped unconsciously to the deck.

Fimor and Kara did a good job in the battle they and the volunteers only lost three allies and managed together to keep the now helpless mercenaries from being executed by the others. There were only ten of them still breathing. The rest of the crew was found downstairs with thirty dead and the rest in chains. The armless guard had the key around his neck, he had bleed to death in seconds.

Madrin remembered where he had heard of those symbols before. His mother had described the black flame on a red background as Gerthluo's banner. Once the portal closed, the flames on his skin disappeared like mist. However, the damage remained, he passed out after his rage ended.