One day after the battle on The Bright Dove Madrin woke from his unconscious state with healed burns. He made sure to thank Wish and the six other magical healers for their efforts. His first action was to grasp Wish's hand as she came to check on him. "I'm sorry for yelling at you Wish, believe me it wasn't directed towards you." His ice blue eyes met hers as he spoke in low tones meant for her ears only. "I want you to know that when I unleash my anger in battle reason quickly disappears and, speaking is difficult. Imagine trying to talk while a great storm attempts to swallow your very essence whole." his eyes were distant as he thought of his battle rage while explaining. Madrin released her hand as he finished his explanation. He spoke in a normal voice as he continued. "Please forgive me if I scared you when I grabbed your hand. Thank you very much for protecting the captain I knew you could be trusted to do so."

Madrin was starting to think he was either lucky or Aurora's blessing aided him in being healed. She is the goddess of life after all and he was thankful for it. He would make sure to visit her temple when he returned to Eiler. He rose from his bed in the infirmary room to thank his wounded allies as well. Many of the volunteers were glad to be acknowledged for their efforts, it was a wonder how much a few kind words could do for a persons' morale. Next there was the matter of the eleven prisoners held in one cabin in the crew quarters. When the mercenaries dropped like puppets with their strings cut Madrin had hope that they were unwilling slaves. The evil mage Gerthluo used dark power to enslave his leaders often but, some were willing fanatics.

He was deeply worried about Cresin's last words. Madrin never would have guessed his evil father had somehow survived as some kind of wicked god in his birth realm of Nirdor. The question was if it was real or imagined. He couldn't be certain but, Madrin would have to warn the Blackwolves in Grand city as well as the ones at home. Despite that issue he had more immediate business he needed to deal with. Most of the injured were in good enough shape to leave but, the healers were asking them to rest some more. Madrin was one of them however, he was never one to stay still for long.

He asked two of the volunteer healers and Wish to accompany him if she was willing to the prisoners' holding area. Several people in the infirmary asked him why he would bother to help those villains. He spoke with authority as he answered. "If you leave their wounds to fester do you think they would bother to answer our questions? Cruelty never leads to anything good so don't treat them like nothing, or your no better." The room went silent as they pondered his words. Madrin led the healers to the makeshift cell where he greeted Fimor and Kara.

From what he could tell they had done what they could by bandaging the prisoners wounds. However, Madrin knew untrained healers could only do so much. One of them still had the look of madness while the rest seemed confused. He recognized the bastard that had slaughtered people in the galley. The blasted fanatic had a piece of someone's wool pants shoved in his mouth. The skilled healers began tending the wounded and tried to determine if they were sane or not. The servant of the black flame glared at Madrin with murder in his eyes. He could feel the rage of a slave commander in the bastard. Now he understood what one of them felt like to others when still suffering under the control of another.

Frankly it was a terrible thing to witness, Madrin saw what he might have been if his mother hadn't broken free. Gerthluo's desire however, was to use him as spell components. Madrin decided to help him break free of his sad existence and opened his mind to him as they met each others' gaze. The pain was horrible it was like bashing his head against a stone wall. He could feel the poor man's will seeking freedom like a small light in a pit of darkness. Suddenly, Madrin's mind filled with a beautiful green light and the wall shattered. "Thank you Aurora for aiding me in my desire to break his chains." His prayer was silent but, all his heart was in it.

Madrin was unsure how long he had been in the man's mind but, his entire disposition had changed. His eyes were calm and he had stopped straining against his ropes. "Good day Richard, we have some questions for you." Madrin pulled his gag out as he spoke. The man's first words were thanking everyone for freeing him from the abyss and letting him live. He apologized for his evil deeds on the Dove. He knew he had much to answer for but, he sought redemption for his crimes. Madrin told him that would be up to the Arthuran authorities.

Richard told them that he was sent from the dimension of Nirdor to find followers for the god Gerthluo so that they could create a outpost for his invasion. It was first attempted twenty-five years ago after his physical form was destroyed. The evil mage had a last invasion keyed to the loss of his own life force. However, the portals only opened for a short time so few of his warriors made it thru. After many years members of Gerthluo's cult attempted to open another one to Aleris but, something blocked them from succeeding. Then approximately a week and four days ago they managed to make a connection. However, it was small and could only let a small unit pass without someone to hold the other side. The portal in front of the ship was Cresin's first successful attempt. "Beware the black flame on a red field because, it is the banner of Nirdor's god of darkness." Richard finished his explanation with a look of fear in his eyes.

The next three days of the Dove's trip to Arthuran were peaceful thank the gods. Everyone on board was in much higher spirits than a few days ago as they pulled in to the small dock. They all had a lot of work to do unloading the supplies and getting sled teams ready for the journey to Chaliceton. Madrin helped as a hauler loading the sleds. They started out around noon with the first wave of materials many more trips would be needed. Madrin hoped they would have some more peace for a few days as they started the next leg of their journey.

The hours past and those hours turned into a day. Another day full of healing. Wish mended wounds where she could - some of them minor inflictions and others more serious. Thankfully, there were a few other healers aboard the ship, so she was not entirely alone in the task. Wish set to getting rid of Madrin's burns and any other wounds that he might have had. Quite a few times, she had snuck away from the cabin to go breathe in the salty, cold air that travelled across the ocean, a much needed escape.

When the sun rose into the sky, Wish left the deck of the ship and headed back down to the cabin infirmary to check on all the patients. As she passed Madrin, he reached out and grabbed her hand, stopping her in her tracks and nearly making her jump. Wish sucked in a breath and then calmed herself, looking down to Madrin who lay in bed.

"It's okay, Madrin. I know that wasn't you earlier," Wish said softly, her heartbeat returning to normal. "It was indeed a little startling, grabbing my hand like that, but I'm fine now." She managed a hint of a smile for him. "You're welcome. That is what I am here for... to help protect others as hopefully they would do the same for me."

Madrin began to get up, feeling that he was fit enough to do so. Wish bit her bottom lip, resisting the urge to protest and shove him back into bed. Why was it then none of the crew ever listened to the doctor's orders? She gave in with a little sigh and when Madrin invited her to come along to the prisoner's holding area, she obliged him with a small bow and a nod, following close behind. After all, if he wouldn't rest, Wish supposed the next best thing to do was to follow and make sure Madrin did not further injure himself.

Fimor and Kara were outside the prisoner's quarters keeping guard. As they were let inside, Wish surveyed the wounded and saw that Kara and Fimor had done what they could as far as simple herbs and bandages were concerned. As Madrin went to one man, who was possibly a leader of the group, Wish assisted the other healers with making sure the prisoners were cured of their wounds. Out of the corner of her eye, Wish watched Madrin's face twist into an expression of pure concentration. He stared at the man before him, his eyes closed, as if trying to draw some evil out of the man's soul.

After a few minutes of silence passed, Madrin uttered a long sigh and Wish could see his eyes were flickering open. Satisfied, Madrin pulled out the man's gag and began talking to the one prisoner. The man named Richard immediately apologized for his wrong-doings and then told them everything that he knew - about a place called Nidor, an evil mage Gerthulo and the black portals that connected Nidor and Aleris. He also warned them of the black flame when seen on a red background, as it was the banner of Nirdor's god of darkness, Gerthulo. Honestly, it was all a little overwhelming for Wish. She felt Madrin was connected to this and while she wanted no part of it, as she was travelling with him to Chaliceton, she suspected she had little say in the matter.

Three uneventful days passed and Wish was grateful for the calm that lay over the ship. In fact, it seemed to put everyone on board in a better mood with hopes that perhaps things would be fine. Wish, though she put on her brave girl face, was having doubts. She kept dwelling over thoughts of Victor, of the Black Flame and of the little girl that lay in wait at Chaliceton. These ideas swam through her head until someone jarred her out of her trance, telling her they were starting out for the much shorter journey to Chaliceton.

Dressed in attire fit for winter weather, Wish grabbed the rest of her things and headed off of the ship and onto the small deck. It had already started snowing in Arthuran and white was layering steadily onto the ground. Once the sleds were packed with cargo and supplies, everyone boarded their latest transportation. At long last, they were off to Chaliceton and similar to many of the others, Wish silently prayed for peace to remain with the crew.

Snow was falling as they headed for Chaliceton its beauty and danger never got old to Madrin. It was a wonderful example of life's two sides it had the power to kill the unaware with its icy embrace. Yet the landscape always looks more beautiful and mysterious where snow falls. Elysia embodies these qualities very well life is never simply good and evil. He was raised in the Hyborean mountains of Eiler and his tribe came from a much colder climate so he could handle the chill of Arthuran. Madrin only needed one additional layer that he brought with him in his backpack. The trip to Chaliceton took about an hour. They pulled up to the new kennel master's building and showed him their papers awaiting his approval. They didn't take more than a few minutes to get the formalities out of the way. The sleds were given their destinations and took off.

The repairs were going slow but, faster than he had anticipated. Thanks to the construction workers that had come on the Bright Dove and, all the supplies that it brought the town would recover much quicker. He noticed George was fully healed and showing the new arrivals where to begin. He couldn't resist going over and talking to him. George informed him that he had been appointed head of the restoration project. Madrin shook his hand and congratulated him on finally getting over himself and taking on some responsibility.

Madrin joined up with the healers' including Wish after he left George. The hospital was one of the first places that had been rebuilt fully. Finding it was simple since it was one of the few two story buildings in Chaliceton. The time had come to save Nedira from being unable to walk ever again. He found her tended by a young women he remembered freaking out when he went out to find missing citizens. Elizabeth is the most talented healer in Chaliceton without magic. She explained that they had managed to stave off the infection but, her legs were beyond their abilities to restore.

Tears formed in her eyes as she looked at Nedira resting on the bed. "I know you fine healers did everything in your power to aid her, so no tears Elizabeth." Madrin wiped her tears away and gave her a reassuring squeeze as he held her hand. The woman told him that Nedira hadn't spoken a word since he brought her in. She barely ate and always seemed to have a deep sadness about her. Madrin was surprised because the child had been a chatterbox when he brought her in. Madrin approached the bed as Nedira began to stir. He quietly got close enough to wake her when Nedira's brown eyes opened and met his.

She immediately gave him a joyous hug as her brown hair that was halfway down her back went everywhere with her motion. "Madrin I'm so glad you're alive!" Madrin was really not a hugger, so her sudden attack caused him to go rigid. He let Nedira have her way for a few seconds and, then politely extracted himself from her grip. Elizabeth's hazel eyes shone as she smiled a brilliant smile at the two of them.

Madrin straightened his clothes as he gave Wish room to work. Nedira told him that she had felt something wrong with him when he rescued her so she had been worried. She had been praying to Elysia for his safety everyday since he left Chaliceton. Madrin hoped that Wish would be successful in her efforts. He had a feeling that Nedira would be more capable of helping Wish than he had expected.

The trip to Chaliceton was one through an otherwise quiet winter wonderland. Snow fell steadily and gently across the barren white landscape. Thankfully, there was no winter storm on the horizon and the remainder or their journey was made with very little to no other inconveniences. The sled dogs, powerful huskies, trampled through the snow, enjoying the weather as they approached the small town surrounded by ruined stone walls. Wish often lifted her head to the gray sky, letting the snow fall on her eyelids and the cold breeze flush her cheeks. For some reason, this frigid weather made her feel alive. She was awoken from her quiet trance when the sleds jarred to a stop, the dogs barking excitedly as they docked outside the Kennel Master's building.

The people that had come along on The Bright Dove started to climb off the sleds, Wish included. She stood, her booted feet sinking in nearly a foot of snow. Wish shook her wings off and watched as people unloaded the cargo and supplies that were brought to help restore Chaliceton after the Val`nothe attack. The Arthuran town was small, and while it was inflicted with lots of damage from the Val`nothe, it was not beyond fixing. The militia and townsfolk in Chaliceton had been working quickly over the last few weeks or so and a number of houses and buildings had been reconstructed. The stone wall that once surrounded Chaliceton was still broken on one half of the town, but in its place were about thirty or so soldiers keeping watching and switching shifts when need be.

Wish took her eyes away from the town and looked to where Madrin was. Currently he was talking to George who was much better spirits and even laughing. After Madrin shook George's hand, he left and went back to Wish and the other healers. Madrin led the way to the two-story hospital. The hospital had been fully rebuilt and was currently home to a number of Chaliceton residents looking to recover as quickly as they could. The rest of the healers filtered off into different directions to help, but Wish followed Madrin to a corner room where a hopeful, little girl waited to be restored with the use of her legs.

When they entered the room, there was a woman named Elizabeth by the girl's bed side. Quietly as to not wake the girl, Elizabeth explained that she had done everything she could with the use of herbs and remedies - non-magical cures - to help the child they called Nedira. Wish listened to every detail that Elizabeth unveiled revolving around Nedira's current health. In the end, tears were threatening to spill over Elizabeth's eyelids. Madrin consoled the woman, wiping her tears away and giving her shoulder a gentle squeeze.

Madrin then moved to the other side of the bed as Nedira began to stir. As he got closer, Nedira's eyelids opened fully, revealing jovial brown orbs despite her situation. With amazing strength, the little girl flung herself into Madrin's arms hugging him as tightly as she could. Wish noticed Madrin went stiff and had this uncomfortable look on his face. Wish chuckled softly at his reaction, hiding her grin under the palm of her mouth. After Madrin pried himself away, he straightened his clothes and stood giving Wish room to sit by Nedira.

Wish sat alongside of Nedira's bed as the girl explained how she was worried for Madrin when he did not return right away. She had prayed for Elysia's protection for him everyday. Wish smiled at that and placed a hand softly on the Nedira's shoulder. The girl was thin, having not eaten for days as she waited to see Madrin. This malnutrition might have put a strain on Wish's magical abilities, but she would give Nedira her best healing efforts.

"Nedira, my name is Wish. I'm a friend of Madrin's. I'm a healer and I would like to try making your legs better. Is that okay with you?"

"Oh, uh, sure!" Nedira said. "Since you are a friend of Madrin's, but he needs to stay here too. Don't let him get away."

"Of course not," Wish said with a smile. She looked back over her shoulder for a moment to wink at Madrin then turned her attention back to Nedira. "This may take a few hours, but I'll need you to be as still as you can, okay? You might also feel some tingling in your legs, and that's a good thing, I promise."

"It won't hurt?"

"I will be honest, Nedira, it may a few times, but remember that in getting better, there is often some amount of pain. Just know that I would never hurt you intentionally," Wish said and she reached over to squeeze Nedira's hand gently.

Nedira sucked in a deep breath and then nodded to Wish, straightening herself up and puffing out her chest, giving her a brave and determined looking appearance. "Okay, I'm ready."

Wish peeled off the covers that were hiding Nedira's damaged legs. Only then did Wish get a decent view of the damage that had been done to the little girl. True to Elizabeth's word, she had stopped any infection from spreading, but the Nedira's legs were mangled and broken. Part of them were flattened and bruised, appearing as if they had been trampled on repeatedly. Wish swallowed thickly, doubt lingering in her mind now, but she tried not to show this feeling on her face. In times like this, Wish tried to convince she had healed worse cases in the past, whether she actually had or not. Sometimes it helped.

Placing delicate fingers on Nedira's legs, Wish closed her olive colored eyes and began to pour soothing, warm magic on the wounded areas. Wish worked slowly, always trying to graze over every spot, her magic flowing to every infliction like moths drawn to a flame. Every once in a while, Nedira would wince and bite her lower lip, as if holding back a cry. She was as brave as she put herself out to be though and never attempted to stop Wish from healing.

After about an hour, it didn't appear as if there was any substantial change going on, but then gradually the bruising started to fade from purple and black to flesh colored. Her legs began to regain their proper shape as if they had never been trampled over. There were a few instances were Wish felt as if something was blocking her and holding her back from healing Nedira, but she pushed past these invisible walls, these warnings that gnawed in Wish's gut. Eventually Nedira fell asleep, though not out of pain, but out of comfort.

Four hours had passed before Wish was confident in her work. Nedira's legs were lightly bruised in very few spots, but it was clear to anyone looking that the bones had been mended. As Wish opened her eyelids, she wiped a hand across her brow that was beaded with sweat. Covering Nedira with the blanket once more, Wish glanced to Madrin and then to Elizabeth who was staring as if in a state of shock.

"Nedira will be fine," Wish said with a nod to the two of them. Wish then turned her attention solely on Elizabeth. "When she awakens and feels up to it, help her walk. Never by herself for a few days. You may even want her to consider some sort of walking staff until she is up and about by herself. I believe there's some hot springs near Chaliceton. It might be a good idea for her to visit there some day soon."

Elizabeth nodded quickly to all of Wish's instructions. Wish then stood away from the bed, moving slowly. At first, it was like she had traded the use of her legs for Nedira's. She felt wobbly and incredibly exhausted. Wish paused and looked over at Madrin, placing a hand on his shoulder briefly.

"Please excuse me. I must go rest for a bit," Wish said.

Withdrawing her hand from Madrin's shoulder, Wish grabbed her pack that she had come in with and started for the door. She smiled back at a sleeping Nedira for a flicker of a second and then headed out of the room. Across the hall, there was a room in the hospital where a warm fire waited inside the hearth. Three beds, all of them empty, lined either side of the walls and Wish picked the closest to the fire place. Upon reaching the bed, she collapsed onto the blankets, not bothering to cover herself with them, and immediately fell asleep.

Madrin kept his happiness to himself as Nedira resumed her chatty nature after she vented her worries. Her insistence that he stay was entertaining, as if he would go anywhere after all the trouble he went thru to bring someone gifted enough to help her. After four hours of waiting he was glad to see Wish stirring and proclaiming she had succeeded. He had passed the time working on his mental control exercises to keep his temper in check. She seemed wobbly after she gave Elizabeth further instruction. Wish had to catch his shoulder to regain her footing as she excused herself to go rest.

Elizabeth led him into the hall after she was sure that the girl was resting peacefully. She told him of a hot spring about a two hour walk to the southeast nestled between two large hills. There are several evergreens surrounding the spring the only ones for miles around. There is an old tale that states the area is blessed by the four gods. Elysia supplied the water for all, Aurora placed the trees to watch her children, Tempesturo heats the water to comfort the bathers, and Galenous is responsible for the gentle breeze that soothes the seekers hearts. The story says it was named The Spring of the Four in their honor. That settles it he would have to take Nedira there when she is able.

Madrin passed his time for the next few days as Nedira's constant companion. She insisted he would be the one to assist her in walking as Elizabeth supervised. The girl shared with Madrin that her father was a archer in the militia when he wasn't out ice fishing. Also, her mother was one of the best healers at the old hospital. She missed them a lot but mommy always told her to only cry in the safety of her loved ones. This struck a chord in his mind as he realized why Nedira had never shed a tear despite her obvious pain and feelings of loss. Madrin shared the happier points of his childhood with her and, told Nedira all about the Blackwolf clan and their tribal ways. She absorbed his stories with awe and a little sadness.

On the third day of his time with her he had a cot brought in so that he could stay by her side. That night he told Nedira of the night he asked his mother why he had no father. Ranisa Kir was a believer in telling the truth but, she decided that the real story would be told when he was grown into adulthood. Madrin also followed this policy for the girls sake.

"My mother said, blood doesn't make a family, love does. You have over two hundred mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers that love you as their own, never forget this truth." She went on to explain that she was the one that loved him the most but, he would never be alone even if she was gone. When he was finished Nedira hugged Madrin like a lifeboat on a dark sea and began to cry in his arms. She was quiet and Madrin was glad they were in a corner room so that few would hear the girl pour her sadness out. Nedira cried for many hours until she finally passed out from exhaustion still gripping him with all her strength. He was glad he knew how to escape from tight spaces because, the girl had a grip of iron. After he tucked her in, Madrin went to his cot and slept dreamlessly. He woke up by way of an eighty pound girl shaking him lightly.

"Thank you Madrin for your help last night please keep this between us." she had her puppy dog eyes fully engaged as she spoke.

"Fine, Fine just turn those off." His eyes sparkled as he smiled at her. "I have a question for you Nedira, how would you like to become a Blackwolf?" he gave a serious tone to his voice as he waited for her response.

"No! I want to be a Kir." Her words were full of confidence and her brown eyes had a glare that would do his mother proud. Madrin was completely shocked by her words and couldn't speak for several seconds. Nedira crossed her arms with purpose and waited.

"Very well child. However, you better be prepared for strenuous combat training as soon as you are able." The authority in his voice would make any soldier stand at attention without a thought.

"Yes sir!" The smile on her face shone with joy. The next day Madrin and Nedira sought Wish so they could ask her if she would like to come with them to The Spring of the Four.

The same night after Wish healed Nedira...

Rest, as much as Wish wanted it, would not come easy for the Fae. At first, the quietness of the room in the hospital consumed Wish and lulled her into a much needed sleep. A few hours into slumber, Wish found herself awoken, but not by any one person. Instead, pain lingered in her body, particularly her back and lower half forcing her to open heavy, sleep-laden eyelids. Wish pushed herself up from the bed slowly and as soon as she did, she hugged her arms around her stomach and doubled over, wincing at the cramping in her abdomen.

What's wrong with me?

It was then as she leaned over herself did Wish inhale the scent of blood. The light from the fireplace revealed no blood on the outside of the blankets. Shaking and hesitant hands pushed back the blankets; upon seeing the amount of red that was previously hidden, Wish choked out a sob, one of her hands now covering her mouth. The inside of her thighs and most of her legs were covered with blood, as well as a good portion of the bed where she slept. Though no wounds were visibly shown, Wish was immediately aware of the cause of all the blood.

She urged herself to get out of bed and once she did, Wish grabbed one of the robes that were hung up and draped it out her body, closing it tightly to hide the mess that she was currently. Pulling the covers back over the bed and up to the pillows, Wish hid any evidence of blood from wandering eyes that might enter the room. Slipping on her boots, Wish grabbed her pack which contained new clothing and headed out of the room and away from the hospital.

Outside, the air surrounding Chaliceton was cold and the snow fell over the ground more persistently during night. This didn't seem to bother Wish and in fact, every step she took, everything she felt, was a dull numbness in comparison to the ache in her heart right now. Wish left Chaliceton's gates and walked a few miles southeast to The Spring of the Four which was cradled between two large hills.

The spring was usually monitored by a few attendants, but during the very early hours of the morning when it was still dark out, it was quiet and practically abandoned. Wish circled around to the baths that were meant for women and shed her clothing, submerging herself in the spring and letting the hot water consume her. The blood washed away from her body, completely fading and disintegrating from the heat of the spring.

Normally, a visit to the springs would have been a relaxing moment for anyone, a time to soothe away their troubles. For Wish, as she looked out into the darkness of the trees and hills that surrounded The Spring of the Four, it was anything but. As if suddenly, the gravity of her mistake weighed down onto her shoulders and she sunk a little bit more beneath the water in response, her knees weakened. She should have known. With everything that had transpired though - the Undead War, healing victims in the aftermath, Victor abandoning her and then having to cure Nedira of her inflicted legs - Wish had little time to think of herself. She was never able to realize that she was indeed pregnant with Victor Sage's child and she had given up that life to save Nedira's. So that explained those persistent warnings she felt while healing the young Chaliceton native.

Wish sunk completely beneath the surface of the water and once covered, she let herself scream, this anguished cry smothered and drowned out by the hot springs. After this sound ceased, Wish drew herself back up above the water and moved towards the edge of the bath's stone wall. Folding her arms across the rock, Wish leaned forward and rested her head against her arms almost as if a pillow. It was only then did she allow tears to flow from her olive colored eyes. She tried to shut them behind tightly, clenched eyelids, but there was no denying their eventual escape. Wish hid most of her sobs away from biting down hard her lower lip, but there were just some that could not be silenced. When she was finally able to calm herself and speak, she laced her hands together and bowed her head against the stone wall of the hot spring.

"Aurora, please forgive me," Wish said softly. She hadn't prayed to any deity in quite sometime, but Wish knew that at this moment she needed someone to talk to more than anything, regardless of whether the goddess was listening or not. Aurora seemed the most obvious choice, as she embodied the concept of life. "Not only did I lose my own child, but I lost one of your own to save another. I don't know if this was the right choice, but if it will eventually help Nedira live a much fuller life, then I accept that this sacrifice was not for nothing, as much as it pains me now. All I ask from you is for a little more strength in the upcoming to days to help me keep moving."

Wish lifted her head after speaking with Aurora and then pulled herself out of the hot spring. She dried herself off quickly with a towel as to not get a chill from the cold Arthuran air and then dressed in the extra clothing she had brought with her. Grabbing the rest of her things, Wish headed away from the springs and returned to Chaliceton. Her journey back to the snowy town was met with the slow rising of the sun. Rushing to the hospital now, Wish climbed the stairs back to her room and saw not a thing had been disturbed.

With the fire still flickering, Wish threw her clothes and the robe she wore to the springs into the hearth and watched them transform into ash. After there was nothing left, Wish pulled off any of the sheets and blankets that had been ruined and also deposited them into the fire. Thankfully, none of the blood had soaked through and stained the mattress. While the fire ate away at the sheets and blankets, Wish went to the closet and pulled out fresh linens, setting the bed again. Once done, Wish lay back down and watched as the fire snuffed out any evidence that something had happened.

About three days later...

Lingering on in Chaliceton, Wish was able to avoid casual talk with Nedira and Madrin for the next few days. She busied herself with helping the other healers, instructing them and adding her magic into the mix where she could. Subconsciously, Wish was trying to keep herself busy no matter how simple or daunting the task felt. The last thing she wanted to do was to have someone ask her how she was doing. On the other hand, because of this, the Chaliceton hospital was clearing out the wounded and sick faster than most of the townsfolk expected.

By way of Elizabeth, Wish did hear the Nedira was doing a lot better. Possibly by force or threat, the little girl had managed to make Madrin stick by her side. He had even brought in a cot so he could sleep next to her. Throughout these three days, Nedira was able to hobble around the room with Madrin's help, though her movements were still shaky since she had not used her legs in quite some time. Over all though, Nedira had a determination unlike many young girls her age and was trying to get back up and running as soon as possible. Wish had even heard that Nedira was trying to become a Kir and that Madrin was setting up a "rigorous" combat training for her already. Wish guessed that soon enough Nedira was going to be proposing to Madrin and trying to marry him.

As usual, Wish was tending to one of the few remaining people in the hospital when Madrin and Nedira found her. She was startled by their presence, to hear Madrin's voice behind her asking if she wanted to come to The Spring of the Four with them. Wish paused in turning around to face them, contemplating if she really wanted to go back to that place where she had been a few nights ago. After a few silent seconds of thought, Wish faced them with a smile.

"Of course," Wish said. "After all, Madrin is not allowed to go into the girl's bathing springs, right Nedira? Just let me finish up here and I'll meet you two outside."

After they were gone, Wish let out a deep breath and pushed her brown hair back behind her pointed ears. She finished with her patient in the hospital and then grabbed her things, heading out to where a small sled and a group of huskies were waiting. By the sled, Madrin and Nedira stood patiently for her to join them. Wish got onto the sled with the unlikely duo and almost immediately after she sat down, they were off through the snow fields to The Spring of the Four. At least this time, it would be faster than her walking to the spring.

After they left Wish to finish her work Nedira and Madrin went to the kennel master's building to rent a sled and team. Nedira's brown hair had been braided by Elizabeth before they went looking for the fae woman so that it was no longer flying everywhere. Madrin had made sure to get her a walking staff that would serve as a quarterstaff if she needed it for the trip. While they waited outside with the sled team for Wish Sedric approached the duo.

He had been appointed captain of the Chaliceton guard. Madrin gave him a proper bow as soon as he was told. Nedira however, spoke as he bowed. "Hey Sedric congrats." She gave a playful smile as she shook his hand with enthusiastic strength.

"Thank you Nedira I'm glad you're better now I'll have to thank miss Star when I can." His charming smile made many people warm to him almost immediately. Madrin knew he was a great choice as captain thanks to his natural leadership abilities. He still wasn't so sure that long blond hair of Sedric's didn't have magical powers.

"Sedric I want to use this opportunity to turn in my resignation from the Chaliceton guard. I was offered the position of captain of the Alerian guard in Grand city. I intend to accept once I'm thru with my current business." His tone was very respectful as he spoke.

Sedric gave Madrin an even deeper bow of respect than he had received. "Well captain it will be an honor working with you." He couldn't resist smiling as their eyes met.

"Please, no titles between us we are brothers in arms that protect the people of Aleris." the two men shook hands with purpose. "I would like to recommend Richard for the guard, he came with me on The Bright Dove. He will do well a guarantee it." Madrin waited with respect for the man's answer.

"Okay Madrin, I formally accept your resignation and, I will take your advice into consideration. I need to be on my way good luck you two." Sedric walked away with a lighter step than he had approached, thanks to some of his worries being put to rest.

A few minutes later Wish approached ready for the journey. The team took off with a quick snap to the reins from Madrin, while the two ladies were sitting securely. He focused on the snowy fields and, followed the directions Elizabeth gave him. The snowfall was light and quite beautiful as he silently navigated.

The trip took forty minutes by sled instead of the usual two hour walk. The Spring of the Four was even more impressive than Madrin had expected. The swepping walls that separated the spring into the male and female halves were made of white stone that held enchantments to prevent weathering. The trees seemed to greet them as a gentle wind blew thru the hills, their fresh scent was very welcoming. He was amazed that it was free to all but, the caretakers had no problem accepting donations. It was tended by four people two women and two men. They all wore robes of wool clearly made by skilled hands that had emblems reflecting the four elements adorning them. He untied the reins from the huskies and gave them the stay command that they were trained to abide. They wouldn't go more than a short distance from where they received the command. The dogs all laid down together and went to sleep it was rather cute actually.

The trio parted company as Madrin was led away by the male attendants to the men's side of the spring. He put his equipment in the room set aside for storage, and entered the soothing waters as bare as a newborn. Madrin was always surprised when he noticed the hundreds of scars his body had accumulated. Each one was a memory of battle that gave him a sense of nostalgia. His rage was a great help in combat but, Madrin's lack of focus always led to numerous injuries. A more controlled warrior would never be hurt so often. His fighting style was all muscle memory so intense training was a requirement to be effective.

He spent ten minutes shaving his stubble and trimming his dark brown hair while it was down. When finished he completely submerged his body for several minutes as he let the warmth sooth his aches. Next he prayed to the four deities. "Elysia, Aurora, Tempesturo, and Galenous thank you all for protecting your people in their time of need." It was a simple prayer but, the sentiment came from his genuine gratitude. Now Madrin needed to finish planning Nedira's training regiment since she would be able soon. His mind wandered a little however, as he wondered what Wish would ask of him as her payment for aiding Nedira. She had an open promise for anything within his ability to do for her, he knew she wouldn't abuse that privilege. Madrin hoped the two ladies were getting along well.

As Wish departed from the sled after it docked at The Spring of the Four, she let out a sigh, her breath frosting in the air. She wasn't quite sure if she was feeling up to being here, but as Nedira tugged her along, Wish obliged to the little girl's desires. Nedira almost went in the same direction as Madrin who was walking to the men's bathing area, but Wish pulled Nedira away who gave a little bit of a disappointed pout. The girl sure was attached to Madrin's hip.

"Not that way Nedira," Wish said with what could be considered half of a smile. "You might give some of the older men heart attacks."

Once the two ladies circled around to the baths meant for women, Wish helped Nedira undress and get into the spring carefully, Wish avoiding using the one she had been in secretly three nights ago. The youthful sprite was still not without her limp, but the healing process was coming along successfully. Wish guessed it was mostly due to Madrin's constant guidance. After Nedira was safely into the soothing waters, Wish followed suit, undressing and slipping into the warmth of the spring.

As the waters enveloped Wish, Nedira and she enjoyed a few minutes of silence basking in the beauty and natural comfort of The Spring of the Four. In her state a few nights ago, Wish hadn't noticed how this seemingly utopian spa in the midst of Arthuran's harsh artic wilderness was blessed by the gods. For some reason, at this moment, Wish was able to enjoy a certain sense peace and serenity and wondered if it was due to Aurora's lingering presence. Had the Goddess of Spring indeed heard her prayers the other night?

Wish hadn't realized that her face was twisting into a frown until Nedira broke the silence. "You look so sad, Miss Star."

"Huh?" Wish said opening her olive colored eyes. At the inquisitive look on Nedira's face, Wish only offered a light smile. "Oh, I'm fine Nedira. I was just thinking how I will miss you after this is all over."

"You're leaving?"

"Oh, yes. There are things I need to... explore. Besides, other people need my help, wouldn't you agree?"

"I suppose..."

"In the meantime, let me show you some exercises you can do in the springs when you come back here with Elizabeth. Sooner than you'll realize, you'll be beating all the boys in races."

For the next hour or so, Wish demonstrated exercises and stretches that Nedira could do to improve the strength in her legs faster. She seemed to absorb every little detail and was quite the pupil, nodding eagerly with each direction Wish provided. Nedira let slip that she was excited to become Madrin's student in the ways of combat and couldn't wait to defend Chaliceton as he had.

Eventually the two women had left the springs, dried off with towels and dressed themselves. Once their hair was properly dried by some of the spring's attendants to avoid freezing on the way back, Wish and Nedira left to meet Madrin. He was waiting for them by the sled and huskies that were up from their nap and anxious to take off through the snow drifts once more. After they helped Nedira onto the sled and got ready to depart, Wish turned around and placed a hand on Madrin's forearm, stopping him.

"Madrin, I just want to let you know after we get to Chaliceton I will be leaving. Hopefully this does not sound selfish of me, but I think I've done enough for Nedira and the city," Wish said. "There are other matters I must attend to, namely visiting an old friend. And please understand that no payment is needed for helping Nedira. I am happy enough knowing one day she will be up and running again."

"If that is what you want Wish I will not argue but, whenever you need help feel free to seek me out you have my eternal friendship." He gave her a strong handshake and kept his sadness to himself, no use in giving her unneeded worries. They took off shortly after that after spending half the day at the spring. The snow fell harder as if the sky wept for the coming parting of the trio at Chaliceton. Nedira gave Wish a mighty hug as she gave her a fond farewell. Madrin and Nedira headed to the hospital so that the girl could say goodbye to Elizabeth after she was checked out. Madrin signed for her release as her new guardian, he felt odd putting his name under Nedira Kir. She seemed almost too giddy as she watched the document with awe.

"Madrin I want to get started with light training for the rest of the day." she was practically hopping in place with excitement.

"Now is as good a time as any I suppose." He was proud that Nedira was so eager to get started she would be a Kir yet. Whenever he considers the possibility of having children his genetic curse worries him. He was glad that his first child would never have to deal with that terrible burden.

They spent a few hours testing her aptitude for different weapons. Her father had taught her how to use a bow. Madrin had to have a local fletcher make her a special one to use which would be ready tomorrow. In the meantime she used one with a stronger pull than she was use to. He only had to give her some refinement tips, Nedira's father taught her well. They moved on to sword work with her using a practice weapon weighted like a short sword for her aid. He was using a weighted practice long sword as they sparred. Madrin took it easy at first but, when she got better he would gradually up the difficulty.

The pair's trip back to Eiler was on The Bright Dove and, mercifully peaceful. Apart from the constant training sessions between the Kir's. Kara and Fimor assisted in Nedira's training adding multiple opponents to the regiment. They docked in Hinewai harbor a week later in high spirits. Nedira wore a blue blouse, leather pants, a short bow made special for her, a belt knife, and her short sword. She looked like a little warrior of the Blackwolf clan. Her brown eyes were as big as saucers when she saw the biggest city of Aleris for the first time. Nedira after all had lived in Chaliceton her whole life.

Madrin mentioned the Aleris soldiers were recruiting skilled warriors for all kinds of positions to Fimor and Kara while they toured Grand city at Nedira's request. Seeing the place thru the eyes of a child made everything shine with a new light. The people had made tremendous progress in the two weeks and four days since he left. They could accomplish amazing things with proper motivation he was proud of them. The group separated at the inn they choose to stay at. Kara and Fimor had taken a one bedroom room because, they had fallen in love on their journey. Madrin could tell the couple was passionate about each other and were glad they met. Love is a mysterious thing that can catch you off guard but, the world was better with it. He had told Nedira they would be leaving three hours before sunrise for Angeasor her new home was at the base of the Hyborean mountains beside a beautiful river. It was only a few hours walk from the Blackwolf village.

Nedira was fully capable of a long journey now thanks to Wish. However, she could not keep up with Madrin's full pace anytime soon. She would begin her running training with two miles a day to build stamina. However, that won't be for several more days yet since they were getting it in walking to Angeasor. Her pace meant they stayed in the new house instead of the village.

It was twice the size of what he expected made of gray stone. The building resembled a small fortress with two towers stretching one floor above the two story house. The whole village must have worked on it to have gone so far in a few weeks. The Blackwolves had gained some more land while he was away that joined his so that they could build a bigger outpost. They had done a great job designing a full twelve bedrooms. There is a full kitchen with an attached feast hall that seated fifty. The Blackwolf banner hung on the wall and flew from the two towers outside as well.

In addition to Nedira and himself ten masons were staying at the house called Shield Hall by the Blackwolves. Madrin thought the name was fitting enough and fairly humble. The workers were still adding buildings and finishing the main house so no furniture yet but, bedrolls served. Nedira and the female masons bathed in the river while the men did their morning exercise. They bathed when they returned after the women were done. Morning weapons practice was next which was done together. After that they had an early lunch and the Kir's headed to Angeasor, once they gave their goodbyes.

Nedira met her grandmother with great enthusiasm. "Hi Ranisa I'm Nedira Kir thanks for accepting me."

"No problem dear Madrin is a bit harsh but, he knows sense once you teach him." The two ladies hugged with great joy.

"Mother I need to return to Grand city and accept my new position as Captain of the Alerian guard. Those soft soldiers will learn the meaning of training when I'm done." He used a commanding tone as he made his statement.

"I know you will do well my son I will take care of Nedira at Shield Hall, so make sure to visit as often as possible." Ranisa hugged her son and Nedira joined in. Madrin wondered why must women hug so much it was too personal it always bothered him. However, for his family he would tolerate many things.

"Madrin you better visit often or I will hunt you down." Nedira's smile was infectious as she threatened him. They spent the rest of the day at Shield Hall after returning. The next morning Madrin left four hours before sunrise for Grand city with a light heart.