MABON, THE CREATOR - CULLEN PART 10

CHAPTER EIGHT
MABON, THE CREATOR

Cullen and his friends were taken to another room that was square with a large pool of water in the middle. There was a marble bench that surrounded the pool and the room was carved with pictures of sea life, seals and whales, octopus and squid, starfish and sea lions.
Sonia looked in awe of the carving that wound their way around the edges of the room and she held Cullen’s hand tightly. Seithenin had led them in, walking with an unsubtle gate, her hips swinging to either side as she walked.
Cullen remained focused of the task at hand however, despite her flirtations. She had said he needed to take the Bow from the Sea God, Cernunnous’s brother, Manawyddan. How could he take it? Would he have to wrestle the God?
“My Lord Manawyddan, I have brought the Chosen One, sent here by your brother, Lord Cernunnous. Would you like to receive him?” the Selkie Queen asked, directed at the pool of water.
Cullen watched as the pool of water began to bubble and boil and slowly rise up until a massive globe of water was hovering above the pool. The surface of the water rippled and a face appeared in the fluid waters, appearing and disappearing repeatedly.
“STEP FORWARD CHOSEN ONE,” a voice like a thousand waterfalls crashed around the room. Cullen flinched and then scowled at himself. He disengaged from Sonia and took a step forward.
“I am here,” he said with a strong voice.
“YOU HAVE COME FOR SEEKER?” the voice from the watery globe asked, its face scowling back.
“I have my Lord, if it pleases you,” Cullen responded, having bee taught to respect the Gods.
The Dreamweaver and Sonia were open mouthed behind him, listening to a God of the Sea speaking to Cullen. The Dreamweaver pulled out his journal and started writing notes. Sonia just stared.
“THERE ARE RULES TO WHO CAN CARRY THE CREATIONS. ONLY SOMEONE OF ROYAL BLOOD, OR SOMEONE WHO HAS BEEN GIVEN LEAVE BY THE CREATOR. YOU CARRY THE SHIELD?”
“I do,” Cullen said proudly.
“AND WHERE IS PROTECTOR, THE SWORD THAT ACCOMPANIES THE SHIELD?”
Cullen bowed his head. “I lost it my Lord, but I will get it back!” Cullen voice grew louder with his claim.
“IS HE OF ROYAL BLOOD?” Manawyddan asked next. His voice boomed around the room and the face in the globe of water changed again.
“I don’t think so my Lord,” Cullen answered to the best of his knowledge.
“THEN HE HAS BEEN TALKING TO THE CREATOR, MABON. MABON HAS GONE QUITE MAD YOU SEE, AND I FEAR HIM BECOMING INVOLVED. YOU MUST PUT A STOP TO IT YOUNG ONE.”
Cullen looked at the globe in all seriousness and spoke loudly and clearly. “I will do everything in my power to stop him and the Host.”
“LET US TEST YOUR BLOOD THEN AND SEE HOW ROYAL YOU ARE. PRICK YOUR FINGER AND PLACE IT IN THE WATER.”
Cullen, surprised by compliant, drew his knife and cut the tip of his first finger. As he thrust it towards the globe of water, the face in it formed a mouth and accepted the finger as though he were tasting it. Cullen felt the water wrap around his cut finger. It was an odd sensation.
“AS I SUSPECTED YOU ARE OF ROYAL BLOOD. ON BOTH SIDES. BOTH YOUR MOTHER AND YOUR FATHER ARE ROYALTY. DID YOU KNOW?”
“I was adopted my Lord. I don’t know my parents.” Cullen voice carried intrigue and interest in the God’s words.
“ASK MY BROTHER THEN WHE YOU SEE HIM AGAIN. A BOY SHOULD KNOW HIS FAMILY. YOU ARE FROM WORTHY LINES. YOU MAY TAKE THE BOW.”
The water swirled around again, becoming filled with bubbles and foam for a few moments, until it smoothed out again and in the center of the globe was a silver bow. Cullen reached out and took Seeker in his hand.
It was all silver, but made of horn, with a tight string already bound on it, ready for pulling. Cullen touched it lightly with his fingers, plucking at the string.
“IT NEEDS NO ARROWS, AS IT MAKES THEM WHEN YOU PULL THE STRING. IT IS A POWERFUL WEAPON CULLEN, USE IT WELL.”
“I have a question. Can I give it to another to use? I am not a very good shot, but Sonia is and I would like her to carry it,” Cullen explained.
“IT IS POSSIBLE. SONIA, LET ME TEST YOU AS WELL. PLACE YOUR FINGER IN THE WATER,” the voice commanded.
Sonia hesitantly cut her finger and placed it in the water.
“YOU ARE A CHILD OF THE SEA, AREN’T YOU? YOUR PARENTS WERE TAKEN BY THE SEA WHEN YOU WERE SMALL. I AM SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS MY DEAR, THE SEA GIVETH AND TAKETH AWAY. I WILL GIVE YOU AN ENCHANTMENT OF TRUE SIGHT SO YOU MAY USE THE BOW TO THE BEST OF YOUR ABILITY.”
Sonia was standing very still as she listened and she started to cry when the God talked about her parents. Water sprayed out of the globed and splashed her face, right around the eyes. She flinched and pulled back, wiping her face frantically.
“IT IS DONE. SHE MAY WIELD THE BOW.”
Cullen had caught Sonia when she came back from the water and he wiped at her face with her until she was alright again. Then he looked at her with longing and presented her with the Bow.
She took it gingerly and once it was in her hand she smiled at the craftsmanship and feel of it. She also ran her hands along the carvings of the horn of leaping stags and the think leather grip.
“I can’t wait to use it!” she whispered excitedly.
“GO NOW CULLEN. RETRIEVE THE SWORD, AND FIND THE FOURTH CREATION. THEN CALL ON US AND WE SHALL COME FIGHT BY YOUR SIDE. REUNITE FAERY AGAIN, FOR ALL OF US.”
Cullen bowed and turned to leave the room. The Dreamweaver was obviously astounded and Sonia was wrapped up in her Bow. Tris’tan helped the old man walk out of the room and Cullen guided Sonia.
They said farewell to the Selkie Queen who blew them all kisses, and soon they had climbed back up on top of the island. The Merrows had swum away, guarding the island from the water and they climbed back into their rowboat and coasted to the ship.
“Did you get it?” Tik called down as they winched the boat back up the side of the larger ship. Sonia held up the Bow to show him with a smile.
“Oh, it’s beautiful!” Tik cried when he saw it. “Shoot it! We’ve got to see what it can do!”
Everyone agreed a demonstration was required and Sonia went to the edge of the ship and pulled back the string while facing the sea away from the island.
As she pulled the string back a gleaming arrow of purple light appeared between her fingers. It seemed solid and it crackled with energy. She released it once she had pulled back as far as it would go, hoping for a far shot.
The blazing arrow arched through the sky, flying a few hundred yards away and when it hit the water it exploded with a huge flash of water and light. Everyone stood silently for a moment, just amazed at the sight, until Tik whooped for joy and broke the spell.
Everyone cheered after that except for Grimm of course and they all felt very excited indeed. The Baron who was directing the ship looked in wonder and bewilderment and the feat, and he hurried to get them back to shore.
Cullen felt good about getting the Bow and having Sonia carry it. He wondered at the enchantment that the Sea God had cast on her and what form it would take.
Sonia, carrying the Bow reverently, watched Cullen interact with the others. As she watched him she could see a second form overlapping his own. The second form was that of a Wolfman, furred and tattooed just like the Asrai.
She shut her eyes and shook her head and when she looked again the apparition was gone. Just her imagination she thought, nothing to worry about. It was just the excitement of receiving the Bow and thinking about what comes next.
The ship sailed back towards land over the next couple hours, slowly making its way back. As they pulled up to the dock, Cullen was surprised to see a contingent of soldiers waiting for them. The Kingsguard was out in force, occupying the entire dock and most of the seafront on shore.
Cullen noticed Dragos right away of course and he shook his head in disappointment. Arthur spotted him soon after and he grunted in exclamation. Grimm was the first to step off the ship and he greeted the Captain politely.
“Captain Dinu, what a surprise to see you here on the coast! What can we do for you?” Grimm asked, his voice carrying for Cullen benefit.
“We have come from the High King. He asks that you and Cullen, and anybody else in your party, come back to Castle Holdfast to meet with him,” the young Captain said evenly.
Grimm turned back to look at Cullen, who nodded once.
“Of course we will come back with you!” Grimm said. “I see you found a lost member of our group as well.”
“I’m not a member of your group!” Dragos shouted.
“Mind your place soldier!” Captain Dinu shouted back, glaring at Dragos. “Please come off the ship and we’ll escort you back to Holdfast.”
Grimm and the others came down off the ship and walked through town surrounded by soldiers. There must have been fifty of them. Cullen stayed near Grimm to listen to his conversation with the Captain.
“The King knows about Boulder and Hillside?” he asked.
“Of course,” the Captain replied. “And he knows that your boy there killed Vlad. He’s not well pleased, I can tell you that!”
Grimm scowled. “I don’t count it as much loss really, myself.” The Captain seemed to relax at that point.
“Yes, well Vlad was a hard man to like. But the King liked him and that’s what matters. What are you doing with this group of children Grimm?”
Grimm moved his axe from one shoulder to the other. “That young man is very important to the war effort my friend,” he said quietly, just between them. “He is connected to the Faeries and we may have need of them to defeat this new enemy we have.”
“I have heard about them. Some kind of Dark Fae? Coming out of holes in the ground with black smoke and killing everyone?”
“Whatever they are, they’re evil Dinu, pure evil. We need everything we can to stop them. Has the High King sent more soldiers to the destroyed towns?”
“Yes, two hundred men are guarding the roads between Holdfast and the ruined towns. We hope to stop them there.”
“That’s good. Have you had any more reports of attacks?” Grimm walked alongside the Captain’s horse at a brisk pace.
“Not as yet, no. We sent cavalry in this time as well. That should give the Faeries something to fight. They won’t just be scared villagers this time.”
“They killed fifty trained Kingsguard as well Dinu, you mustn’t forget that.”
Dinu shut his mouth with a snap. He was bold and brave as a Captain should be but Grimm had the right of it. The Host was dangerous and deadly. They walked in silence after that.

***

Anton had reached Ship’s Landing not long after Cullen’s group, but he chose to stay in a smaller tavern, a little hovel on the edge of town. In the morning, having stripped off his armor and tunic that would proudly display who he was, he ventured into town in time to see Cullen, Grimm and the others board the Baron’s ship.
He went into the tavern where they stayed and learned that they were quiet tenants and that the tavern keeper had not problems with them. He reasoned that they were good people, caught up in something beyond most men and he wondered if they were on opposite sides in the long run.
He waited the whole day, milling around the shore and he was one of the first to see the hoard of Kingsguard arrive to escort the group back home to Holdfast. He watched the peaceful communication between Grimm and the young Captain and he hurried to retrieve his horse in time to ride behind them again.
He followed them at a good safe distance again, fully armored this time, but staying well enough away to cause no alarm. He was sure he had been noticed but he kept his distance and no soldiers approached him.

***

Off in the hills in the surrounding country, Vlad watched the group assimilate into the soldiers numbers. This would not be a good time to attack Cullen, his weary mind thought, confused between thoughts of his own and commands in his head from his creator.
Some part of himself was in there, but he couldn’t form full thoughts without much concentration. He wondered if he was dead truly or if he had been saved before he really died. The sword he carried seemed to calm him, and give him the right answers to his confusion.
The sword vibrated with energy and magic and he knew he could kill Cullen with it if he could just get close enough. He walked parallel to the soldiers, hidden in the surrounding forest and hills, watching and waiting to strike.

***

One hundred soldiers and one hundred cavalry knights were camped on the road leading from Hillside and the mountains to Many Farms and the villages beyond. The soldiers were on high alert and the knights at the ready.
Many soldiers had been posted at sections along the road and in the forest to give forewarning if they saw anything unusual. At least fifty men were on watch, patrolling the surrounding area.
Captain Hoeffel was in charge of the entire command. He had a large tent set up where he could eat and sleep. They knew attacks came at night, so he had changed his schedule along with all of his men, so most of them were awake during the night.
Runners came charging into camp to report strange smoke coming down off the mountain and into the trees. The soldiers formed ranks and the knights mounted ready to charge.
What came out of the forest and down the road was unexpected and disturbing. Giant spiders and centipedes came racing across the ground, speeding right at the lines of soldiers. Most men had a moment of panic, but the Captain screamed his command to block the road.
The Kingsguard met the attack as well as they could. Men were dragged down by the giant creatures and torn apart. Swords and crossbows killed them, but there were so many it was hard to stop the rush of them.
The cavalry burst into their advance and broke them, relieving the foot soldiers in time to recollect themselves and fight back. Soon it was everyman for himself however, with even the Captain fighting the hideous creatures as they swept out of the mountains.
None of them saw another large force as it advanced past them, around the battle and down the road into the night. Elf-like creatures, with boney protuberances sticking out of their shoulders and elbows ran past the fighting. They had no eyes that could be seen and exposed bone ran from their upper jaw onto their heads.
They were fast and agile, some kind of crossbred beast that carried long knives in the clawed hands. Nude, their only defense was the exposed bone that ran across their bodies. They were pure killers, used for a surgical strike, sent to kill enemies of the Host.

***

The only warning Cullen got was when the Asrai woke them up saying something was coming. Then the screams of the outer posted guards rang out through the camp. Soldiers leaped to their feet and ran to the edges of camp, to be met by the killer elite of the Host.
The camp was filled in seconds with slashing knife wielding attackers, slaying the unprepared Kingsguard soldiers left and right. Cullen raised his Shield and pushed as hard as he could and a dozen of them went flying back just as they were about to descend on his group.
Sonia, in a panic, started firing the Bow at every dark shape that ran through the camp. Fortunately the light from the blazing arrows gave everyone a better idea of who was an enemy and who was a soldier who needed help. The explosions from the arrows threw everyone into confusion however.
Cullen watched a soldier get slashed repeatedly before he could reach his side and shatter the creature’s face plate with his Shield. It took all of his training to battle the knife wielders as they came at him.
He saw Arthur fighting alongside Dragos and he thought they would be alright. Tik was killing anything that came to close to Sonia and Cullen told the Asrai to surround her and keep her safe.
The Dreamweaver was quite terrified, but Grimm stood before him caving in attackers with his massive axe. And beside him was Captain Dinu working his sword and an smaller axe with proficiency.
Cullen ran through the camp, trying to save as many soldiers as he could. As he reached the edges and started battling a group of attackers, he realized he may have taken on too many.
Five of them were surrounding him and suddenly all the soldiers were gone from where he was. He turned round and round pushing with the Shield but eventually one of them was going to get through.
Then, out of the dark a white horse thundered up, with a fully armored man in the white tunic of the Godsmen. He swung his thick mace, killing one after the other of the attackers. Cullen leaped in behind his Shield and killed three more. He nodded his thanks and then ran off again.
There was more fighting and Cullen saw the Godsman fight magnificently, crushing the bone plates on the Host creature’s heads. Cullen used his Shield and sword in perfect harmony, keeping enemies away or letting them in close whenever he chose.
It was chaos for a while but eventually all Cullen could see was soldiers standing about, looking exhausted and bloody. All of them were wounded, even Cullen had scratches from their talons or knives and he put his hands on his knees and bent over to catch his breath.
He saw the Godsman riding towards Grimm and Captain Dinu. Cullen walked over to hear what he had to say. The Holy Priest turned his face plate up so they could see his face and he smiled warmly at the men before him.
“My name is Anton. I’ve been following you, but when I saw the attack, I thought you could use the help,” he said in a good deep voice.
“You saved my life!” Cullen exclaimed, smiling back. In the heat of battle, men could quickly become friends. “But why were you following us?” he asked guardedly.
“I was sent by Connon to learn more about you,” he said, raising his hands at their protests so he could continue. “But from what I’ve seen, you’re good people and we shouldn’t be opposed to each other. I’d like to learn more about your group if I could.”
Cullen looked at Grimm and the Dreamweaver. They were the closest thing he had to advisors at this point. The others were coming around now.
“He fought well!” Dinu said as he listened to Anton talk.
“Yes, and he did save my life. I suppose we can at laest talk and find out more about you as well then,” Cullen said with a grin. “Peace between us.”
“Good. Let me get down off my horse and we’ll talk, after we make sure everyone is ok.” Anton dismounted and started walking around talking to wounded men seeing who he could help. Dinu left to find out how many men he had left.
“Anton’s a good man boy,” Grimm said, volunteering information for the first time. “I know him from the castle. Connon is power hungry, but Anton is truly a holy man. It would be good to have him on your side.”
Cullen looked at Grimm with surprise but took the advice easily, knowing Grimm wouldn’t steer him wrong at this point. Cullen checked on the Dreamweaver first, to make sure he was well, and then he went to find Sonia.
Tik and the Asrai had her well in hand; she was tired and sore but untouched by the attackers. He gave her a light kiss and went to find Arthur. He found him arguing with Dragos.
“But you could come with me! The King will let us be soldiers and we won’t be punished for escaping!” Dragos was saying as Cullen came up behind him.
“I don’t want to be a soldier! And what does the King plan for Cullen then, if you are safe now?” Arthur asked angrily.
Unfortunately Dragos heard Cullen coming and with a scowl he stormed off to be with the other soldiers.
“I’m sorry Arthur,” Cullen offered, looking over the young man’s wounds to make sure he was well.
“It’s not your fault Cullen. He never wanted to be anything but a soldier but he wouldn’t leave my side so he came with us. He’ll be happier with them, once he realizes I don’t want to be in the army.” Arthur lowered his head and shrugged his shoulders.
“Well, who knows what the King will do with us anyway,” Cullen said with a short laugh. “We may not be as free as we’d like after we meet with him. I’m sorry to drag you into all this.”
“I’m going with you because I want to Cullen. I want to be free, but something has to be done about the Host and I think you’re the one to do whatever needs doing. I’m with you until the end!”
Cullen reached out and clasped Arthur’s arm in a warriors shake. “Thank you my friend,” he said, his voice chocked with emotion.
It began to rain lightly at that moment and Cullen looked up into the sky as the rain fell onto his face. It felt good, cleansing in a way and he closed his eye while it came down.
“Cullen?” a voice he didn’t recognize asked.
He opened his eyes and looked forward again, to see Anton standing before him. The soldiers all around them were gathering each other up and making their way into the tents that had been set up for the night.
“Anton,” he replied, waiting for more.
“Those men with you, they are Faeries?” the Priest asked.
“Yes, elves, they call themselves the Asrai but they a part of the Daoine Sidhe, the high elves of Faery,” Cullen told him, his voice even and sure.
“Do you believe in God Cullen?” the Priest asked next, his own voice sounded weak and troubled.
“I was raised to give thanks to the Forest God Cernunnous as a boy,” Cullen began. “I have since met him and he tells me there are no Gods, but I am sure his powers are beyond me. I guess I don’t know. So many legends have come to life now, I suppose it’s possible.”
Cullen tried to be as clear as he could, but he saw that the High Priest was struggling with something.
“Why do you ask Anton?” he asked in return.
“Connon said he spoke to an angel, from Heaven. That’s who told him to find the Sword. He’s letting you gather the other items and he plans to take them from you. Do you think angels are real as well?”
Cullen looked back up into the sky again and let the rain fall on his face. He thought long and hard about what kind of answer to give this man that was clearly looking for a better understanding. Was it possible that angels were real and Heaven was somehow involved?
“Anton, I don’t know, they could be real, but I sense that something else is working against us. The Faeries have a complex system of interaction between the different races. Could the Host have created an angel for him to see?”
Anton looked suddenly alarmed. “It’s possible, as you say! We just don’t know do we? We need to talk to him, and if we can, see the angel for ourselves! Then you would know wouldn’t you?”
“The Asrai would know, I’m sure of it. Will you come with us? We have to see the High King first, but if he lets us go then we are going after Connon next.”
“I will come with you. I must,” Anton said and he clenched his fists together. “Someone has to stop Connon, and I think that falls to me.”
“We’ll fight with you Anton, you can be sure of that. We’ll figure it out together. We’re happy to have you with us.”
Cullen reached out and clasped the Priest’s shoulder. Anton returned the gesture and realized that Cullen’s group was standing all around them. All of them wore smiles, except Grimm of course, but the Dreamweaver was smiling enough for both of them.
“This is good,” he said in his old weary voice. “This was meant to be. Now we must speak to the King.”

***

The following day, Dinu led them to a crossroads where they found Captain Hoeffel and the remains of his men. Most of the hundred foot soldiers were gone and half of the cavalry was dead too.
The two Captains met with Grimm, who was still the Captain of Captains, and he advised them to all retreat to Holdfast. Grimm was ready to meet with the High King and come up with a plan that involved Cullen and the Creations.
Grimm informed the Captains that no one was under arrest and that they were all going to see the King as emissaries from Cernunnous. It seemed that Cullen was the man chosen by Faery to represent their forces and they needed to combine their might to face the Host.
Cullen was almost eager to meet the King, especially after having an armed escort sent to bring him. He had been working to rescue the Kingdom all this time and he felt it was time he met with the most powerful human in the land.
With the combined soldiers marching, Cullen arrived at Holdfast with much commotion. The gate guards were surprised to see the two weary Captains, followed by Grimm himself, and then Cullen’s group.
All of them were quickly led along the King’s Road, up the earth ramp, through the multiple gates and into the castle Inner Ward. The soldiers made their way into the barracks and Grimm escorted the two Captains and Cullen group inside to wait for the King.
Pages scurried as fast as they could to inform the King of all the people waiting to see him, and quite quickly he arraigned to meet them in the Hall where his most magnificent throne was.
It was wooden with gold gilding, with carving of bees and beehives up the high back. The arms were carved to look like stags leaping and the King sat high on a dais above the floor where people would stand to see him.
He wore a white silk shirt with embroidered bees down the sleeves and black linen breeches with shining black boots that rose to his calf. His hair was finely trimmed and his facial hair oiled. He wore his thinnest cape with fur trim and his biggest crown, with a gold circlet with pearls at the tips.
He looked every inch the regal and royal leader of the known world. He called Grimm and the two Captains in first, leaving Cullen to wait in the other room while he heard their reports.
“Grimm, as always I am glad to have you returned, but I’m puzzled,” the King started. “I sent you to learn about Faeries and you are in the company of a runaway boy.”
Grimm looked up from where he was kneeling. The King nodded and he rose. The other two Captains remained on the floor. Grimm was an imposing man, but the King had known him too long for it to seem that way for him. But Grimm was his friend and he trusted the man.
“Sire, the boy that you mentioned, has deep ties to the Faery community. They call him the Chosen One, and he has been sent to recover four items they call the Creations. I think he can help us win a war against the Dark Fae.” Grimm always spoke plainly with the King and it was no different now.
“Quite a lofty title, the Chosen One,” the King said disbelieving. “These Creations, they are weapons?”
Grimm crossed his arms on his wide chest. “They are, well, a Shield, a Bow, a Sword and something else, no one seems to know what it is.”
“And for this Vlad was killed?” the King asked with a little venom in his voice. He had liked Vlad almost as well.
“Sire, with all due respect, Vlad died because he attacked an unarmed man and wounded him grievously. His son had to answer. It was a fair fight.”
“Did the boy use the Creations in this fair fight?” the King asked, still upset.
“He did. The Shield. But I assure you, it was done properly. Vlad made one mistake too many.” Grimm frowned at the King, eyeing him carefully, but trying to send the message without words that it was done.
“Vlad was chasing these children because they escaped this city during an acceptance ceremony. What should their punishment be then?” the King folded his own arms, showing himself to be stubborn as well and angry.
“I think we are well beyond all that now Sire. We are at war, as these two men can tell you,” he indicated the two Captains. “And this boy and his friends are the help we need. The Faeries will fight for the boy. We have enemies enough without fighting these young people.”
The King was silent for a few minutes and Grimm waited patiently. The two other men still had their heads down while they waited.
“Captains, please rise,” the King commanded. Both men shot up quickly and bowed again at their King.
“Give me a report.”
“Sire, Your Majesty, we went to the crossroads to defend against any more incursions, and we were attacked. It was horrible, nasty beasts from out of the depths of the mountain! We lost over half our men, including cavalry!” Captain Hoeffel said.
“We were attacked also Sire,” Dinu added, “By strange creatures. They were after the boy I think. Grimm is right; he seems to be key to this whole thing!”
“I see,” the King responded, not yet convinced. “I suppose I should meet this boy. Do you have anything else to say Grimm, before we call him in?”
“I do Sire,” Grimm said. He opened his pouch and withdrew the small wooden carving of a wolf and he brought it to the King. The King’s eyes widened.
“The boy, named Cullen, was found as an infant in the forest near his adoptive father’s house. Inside of the basket with him was a honeycomb, an orchid and this little wooden wolf.” Grimm paused for effect. “The orchid is the same as the ones used to make our soldiers sleep in the forest. They tie the Faeries to the boy. I believe the honey comb and the wolf tie the boy to you Sire.”
The King looked down at the little carving and he turned it about in his hands. He had carved the little wolf and given to a woman he had once loved. Then he never saw her again after. He had always wondered what happened to her.
“He does not know either of his parents?” the King asked, somewhat hushed.
“That is correct. But I dare say there is some resemblance your Majesty,” Grimm responded.
Another few minutes passed. “Bring him in,” the King finally said.
Grimm left the room and found Cullen sitting with the others in the second waiting room. Cullen looked hard at Grimm trying to discern why he took the wooden wolf to see the King, but he had come to trust the man so he went forward when Grimm beckoned.
“Is he angry?” Cullen asked as they stepped through the chamber.
“I don’t think so boy, not any more.”
Cullen stepped into the room with the King, and saw him for the first time up close. He had seen him at the circus once, but this was much more intimate. He walked until he stood between the two Captains, and then he bowed deeply, remembering what Grimm had told him.
When he looked up again, he noticed the King was holding the little wooden wolf. Cullen waited for the King to speak to him, since he was unsure of what was happening.
“This wolf, was found with you when you were a boy?” the High King asked, his voice once more even and controlled.
“It was,” Cullen answered just as evenly and self assured.
“I carved this wolf Cullen and gave it to a woman I loved, many years ago.”
Cullen glanced at Grimm, unsure again. Then he looked back at the King, searching his face for some sign, some likeness. They both had dark hair and green eyes. They had a similar skin color, although Cullen was lighter.
“I’m sorry that we ran away from the ceremony. My friend was taken from my village and I couldn’t let him stay. Nor could I leave other there when they wanted to leave. But perhaps I should have spoken to someone.”
The King smiled widely and then laughed. “Very good!” he said. “Very good indeed! There is something else between us boy, that must be spoken.”
Cullen stood very still, holding his shield tightly as if it could save him from this as well.
“I’m sorry for the death of your man Vlad. But he wasn’t a good man and he hurt the man that raised me. I fought him fairly.” Cullen scowled a little at having to apologize.
“Grimm tells me that the Faeries have chosen you for very certain duties, is that right,” the King asked, his voice warmer.
“Yes, and if I can just get back to the forest, I will find Connon and take back the Sword!” Cullen burst out, eager to be gone already. The quest was waiting while he was stuck here.
“What? Connon has an enchanted Sword and he didn’t bring it here?” the King asked, suddenly angry again, looking towards Grimm for explanation.
“That seems to be the case Sire. He sent Anton to learn about Cullen, but when we were attacked, Anton came to assist and now he has joined our party.” Grimm stepped up beside Cullen when he spoke.
“Grimm, answer me truly. Would you follow this boy?” the King asked, without sounding demeaning.
“I would Sire,” Grimm answered.
That seemed to settle something for the King. He tossed the wolf back to Cullen and sat forward in his throne.
“Stay for supper Cullen, and then you can be on your way with as many men as you think you need.”
Cullen’s mouth opened in surprise and he stumbled through what to say. “I, I – We’d be honored your Majesty.”
The King hopped down off his throne and started commanding servants and pages to gather everyone for dinner. Grimm took Cullen back out to where his friends were waiting anxiously and he put their fears to rest.
Grimm gathered them all up to find rooms in which they could wash up and prepare for supper. He led them to a series of guest apartments with full baths. The group soon separated into smaller numbers to divide up and get clean from their long walk.
Cullen took Sonia’s hand and led her into one of the rooms. His face showed her he needed to talk. He seemed torn about something and it clearly weighed on him. His eyes searched hers for understanding and comfort.
She lifted her hands and put them on either side of his face. She pulled his face close to her and kissed him fully for a few moments. When she stopped, and looked up at him, he seemed calmer and more settled.
“Thank you,” he said, staring into her eyes.
“for what?” she asked, looking back at him.
“For always being there for me when I need you. You are an amazing woman and I love you very much,” he voice was just a strong and proud as it ever was. She could tell he was sure about this.
“I love you too Cullen,” she said, quickly, answering him truthfully. “Now tell me what happened in there that’s got you so –“
He took her hands and led her to a bed. The covers and sheets were silk and fur, expensive coverings that he had never seen before. It almost distracted him from what he wanted to say. But her gold flecked green eyes brought him back.
“I think the High King is my father.” He said it as simply as he could, knowing it would surprise her deeply.
“How? How? How is that possible? You were found in the forest, miles from here!”
“I know, but he says he carved the wooden wolf I have. He said he gave it to a woman. And Tris’tan said his mother had it once too. I think maybe Tris’tan’s mother is my mother too.”
“That would make you half Faery!” Sonia exclaimed, suddenly worried about what that could mean for him.
“Yes, it would,” he sighed. “That would explain why Manawyddan said I came from royal blood on both sides. She’s the Queen of the Asrai.”
“So that makes you a Prince!” she giggled, finding the whole thing so impossible all at once.
“Will you stay with me? That’s what I care about, does this change anything between us?” he asked and finally his voice cracked.
“Oh no, no Cullen, nothing would change how I feel about you! You rescued me from a terrible fate and brought me into an adventure! I wouldn’t change anything.”
Cullen looked long and searchingly into her eyes and he found that he believed her. He felt he could face anything with her love, with her beside him. He loved her deeply.
“You know that you’re going to have to shoot Connon, right?” he asked her, his voice softened.
“Yes, I know,” she said just as quietly. “I know it’s necessary. I’ll do it.”
They sat quietly for another minute.
“Cullen, when we left the island, I saw something, that I think must have been true!” she said, her thoughts running back to that day.
“What?” he asked, puzzled.
“Manawyddan said he gave me true sight, you remember?” she stood suddenly, still holding his hands, but standing in front of him.
“I saw you, but it was like a vision of you, transformed, like half wolf! But if your mother is the Queen of the Asrai, do you think you can change too?”
Cullen sat back totally overwhelmed by the idea. He closed his eyes and concentrated on breathing.
“Do you think?” he whispered. “Could I?”
“I don’t know love,” she said. “You need to talk to Cernunnous and Tris’tan’s mother. They should be able to tell you.”
“Yes.” He said, thinking about Tris’tan and the twins. Did he have the same blood they did? Could he do something magical as they could? Could he transform himself into a wolf? So many questions had come up since he saw the King holding the wolf. What would happen next?

***

The meal was even bigger than the dinner they had with the Dwarves. There were two whole roast pigs, turkeys, sides of ribs, small ducks, potatoes, tomatoes, roasted apples, bread, bread pudding, sauces, soups, the table went from one end of the hall to the other, with food on every square inch.
Cullen never ate so well in his life. His friends had never eaten so well either. Arthur had to be told more than once that he could have more than one plate of food. Sonia ate small helpings, but had a little of everything. Tik was the only one that ate without anxiety, he stuffed himself full.
The Dreamweaver spoke to the King, as he had been seated at his left hand, since Grimm had the place on his right. They spoke as if the old man had never been forced to accompany the soldiers, and spent much of their time talking about the King’s youth.
Grimm kept his eyes on Cullen and the Asrai, knowing that the Faeries were uncomfortable being surrounded by humans and soldiers. All of them had left their weapons in their rooms, and they felt a little strange without them.
The meal was long, and the food quite good, leaving everyone full and satisfied. Finally the Captains left, with most of the guards, leaving Cullen’s group and the King.
“Please, all of you, stay the night,” the King announced as he sipped a glass of brandy. His cheeks were red with the warmth of the alcohol and he was smiling. “The rooms are already made up for you, and I’d rather not send you out into the evening. Leave in the morning.”
“That’s very king of you Sire, we would be glad to,” the Dreamweaver said in quick response. Cullen nodded when he made eye contact.
“All of you, go ahead, but Cullen stay a moment, will you? the King asked.
Cullen nodded again and motioned for the others to leave. Tik and Sonia both squeezed his shoulder as they left, giving him some comfort before they went.
“Please, come sit her by me and Grimm,” the King offered, still smiling.
Cullen moved his chair back, scraping the floor loudly and then again as he pushed it back in. He walked slowly to the left hand of the King and sat, heavy with food into the empty chair.
“When I was quite a bit younger,” the King began. “I met a woman that came to the castle. She was striking, tall, pale skin, white hair, much like your Faery friends.”
Cullen folded his arms over each other as he listened, glancing at Grimm once, to which he nodded. Cullen settled in to listen.
“She was so beautiful, I never asked where she came from. I assumed she was the relative of some visiting noble from Vess or Seawatch. I didn’t care where she was from, as I’m sure you don’t care where Sonia is from.”
Cullen grimaced at the mention of his love, but he understood what the King was getting at.
“She often talked about wolves. She knew everything about them and she told me how they built their packs, as families, where the strong rule the rest, and they mate for years and raise strong pups.”
The King’s face started to carry sorrow in it. It went from broad and cheerful, to strained and a little dark.
“So I carved her a little wooden wolf. I professed my love and asked her to stay with me forever. And then she was gone. Out of the castle and out of my life, and I have never loved another woman as I loved her, you understand?”
Cullen nodded again. He could hear pain in the man’s voice, old pain that never quite goes away. It lingers.
“If you find that woman Cullen, and you ask her if this wolf you have is the same, then I believe you are my son.”
The words hung in the air, drifting into something deeper. Cullen didn’t know what to say. He never thought of meeting his parents, and to have them be royalty, but of two separate worlds like this, he just didn’t have the words.
“And if you are my son Cullen, then we need – we need to talk more. If you are my son, I never knew it and I’m sorry.”
Grimm watched his King transform in this one conversation, watched him change into a new man. This man would never let Vlad walk the halls. This man wanted to raise a son, wanted this boy to be his son, because he was bold, and fierce and was fighting for something, just as he had done when he was young. Grimm saw all this and he was glad.
“Your Majesty, after I recover the Sword, and we meet the Host and drive them back, we will be able to talk freely about what the future might hold.” Cullen said the only thing he could think of at that moment. He wasn’t ready to accept this man as his father, not until he talked to Cernunnous again.
“You’re right Cullen. After this fight, then there will be time to talk. As long as you stay alive – you must stay alive Cullen!” The pain almost broke out of his voice then, but he held it back with effort.
Cullen knew it was time to go, and he stood quietly this time and walked out of the room without looking back. He knew Grimm would watch over him the rest of the night and he was in safe hands.
Cullen found his way back into his rooms and he fell into Sonia’s arms gratefully. She always smelled like lavender and earth, and once he smelled that, he knew he was safe and well.

***

Dragos had volunteered to guard the apartments that Cullen and his friends had taken. The Captain understood his desire and like his initiative and granted his request. He stood in the stone hall, where just a limited few torches burned so he could see down the length of the hall.
The entrance to the apartments was fifty feet away from him, since he guarded the only approach from outside. Other rooms were beyond the apartments but none that and outsider could get to, unless he climbed the outside of the building.
Dragos walked up and down the corridor slowly, keeping himself alert and exercised. He walked from the entrance to the hall down towards the empty apartments and back, thinking all the while about being a soldier and wondering how he could get Arthur away from Cullen’s influence.
That Cullen, he thought to himself, always getting everything he wants. Just given to him. Magical weapons, loyalty, Sonia. And now Dragos had heard a rumor that Cullen might be the King’s son. Now he would have the Kingdom as well.
Dragos became angrier as he walked back and forth. He gripped his sword, wishing he could fight Cullen himself. He wasn’t such a great swordsman. But he had that damn magical Shield. Hopefully Connon would put an end to him once and for all. Then maybe Arthur would turn to him again and need a place to go. Maybe then he would become a soldier with Dragos and they could be best friends again as they once were.
Dragos turned at the end of the hall, opposite of the entrance and he saw a shape duck into the apartments where Cullen was sleeping. For a moment he thought to call out an alarm, but he stopped himself. If someone was sneaking into the apartments they probably meant Cullen harm. Perhaps someone else didn’t want him to become the King heir.
Dragos walked carefully and quietly up to the doorway and slipped inside himself to see if he could spot the dark figure that walked inside. There was another hall inside and Dragos saw nothing. Maybe it was my imagination, he thought, maybe my desire to see Cullen gone tricked my eyes. He stepped back out into the hall and resumed walking.

The dark figure walked into Cullen’s room. He could sense the other two Creations that were so similar to his own. Vlad lifted his sword and it began to glow red from the runes. He could see, across the room, two sleeping figure in the wide bed. A few more moments and he would have them. Then he stumbled on something and he had to step back.
Beneath him, on the floor, a white figure leaped to its feet and brandished his own sword.
“Awake! Awake, there is an attacker!” the figure yelled and suddenly the room bustled with activity. Cullen was up in a half second and grabbed the Shield. Sonia was up a moment after and she grabbed the Bow.
Tris’tan, seeing the glowing sword, backed away towards Cullen and the bed.
“Get behind the Shield Tris’tan!” Cullen yelled. All of them could tell Vlad’s sword was enchanted in some way. Just as the Asrai warrior got past the Shield and Cullen enacted its power, visible in the dark like a shimmering pale wall around them, Vlad swung his sword and an arc of fire blasted the room.
The bed didn’t catch, because of Cullen’s Shield but everyone flinched as the burst of flames hit the wall and swept past. Sonia pulled by the string and another light source made the room glow as the blazing arrow formed.
“It’s Vlad!” Cullen cried. “How?”
Vlad was about to take another step when the doorway behind him was suddenly occupied as Arthur swung hi sword at Vlad. Cullen yelled at Arthur to run but it was too late. Vlad spun on his heel, blocked the sword cut and lashed out with his own sword.
The arc of fire lit Arthur’s face as he screamed and the sword cut through his chest like warm butter. He collapsed in the doorway and Vlad stepped over him and Cullen watched him shoot another arc of fire down the apartment hall, before he ran back into the main hall.
The twins arrived in time to grab Arthur up just as Cullen and Tris’tan were running towards him, but he was already dead when they skidded to the floor to see to him. Cullen cried out and Tris’tan leaped up to head out into the main hallway.
He found Dragos pulling himself to his feet after having been knocked down by the fleeing Vald.
“How could you let him in?” the Asrai shouted. “You were supposed to guard us!”
“I didn’t see –“ Dragos stammered, knowing it was a lie.
“Arthur is dead because you let him in!” Tris’tan blamed, still shouting.
Dragos ran past him into the apartment hall and saw Arthur cradled in Cullen arms as Cullen wept for him. Cullen looked up and saw Dragos standing there with his mouth open.
“You did this,” he said clearly so Dragos would hear him. “You let this happen.”
Dragos cried out himself and ran back into the hall, overwhelmed by his mistake. He crouched in the main hallway, weeping with his shoulders shaking as he comprehended what had happened.
Then he rose up, walked out of the hall, and through the castle. He walked outside into the Inner Ward and towards the gates. The soldiers there recognized him and let him pass. He kept walking until he left Holdfast behind.

***

The High King promised Cullen that Arthur would get a soldier’s burial in the plot outside the city. Cullen was urged to go after the Sword and Connon and he hated to leave without seeing the burial done, but he understood the need for speed.
Soldiers had gone back to the crossroads and been attacked again, pushing them back to the farmlands of Many Farms. They were sorely pressed and need help quickly. The King was calling in reserves from the rest of the Realm.
The High King also gave everyone in Cullen’s party a horse so they would be swifter. Cullen was riding a stallion that was a deep red color. Grimm was riding his massive war horse. The others had bays and sorrels, except for the Asrai who preferred to run ahead or alongside the horses. Cullen was impressed that they could keep pace with a moving horse.
They rose out of the city at midday and kept riding into the night. They reached the Danann Forest quickly, found the river and followed it into the woods. Within three days of hard riding they reached the deeper wood where the trees were much bigger.
The forest was easier to ride through when the trees were that large, because they covered much of the ground. Just massive ferns and mushrooms grew on the clear floor of the forest. Grimm had insisted on bring an extra horse loaded with rations and grain for the horses so they could eat, since there wasn’t much ground cover in the deep wood.
It took two more days to reach the waterfall. They were tired and saddle sore by the time they arrived and they were grateful to finally have a place to rest. The Asrai said they would go looking for Cernunnous while everyone settled into camp near the wide pool of the falls.
There were many boulders that surrounded the clearing of the pool and there was a lot of flat ground between the massive roots of the nearby trees. Grimm and Tik set up a large tent that would hold everyone and Cullen and Sonia made a fire pit.
The twins, Gwydion and Gwaelod returned rather quickly, saying that Tris’tan would find the Forest God while they hunted. They returned by nightfall with rabbits. Sonia and Tik had found herbs and small mushrooms to add to the simple stew they would make for dinner. They had brought cheese and bread with them and water was easily gotten from the waterfall.
It was dark when Tris’tan returned. He entered the camp and went directly to Cullen. He bent down and whispered in his ear and Cullen looked sharply to the forest’s edge where the firelight stopped.
Coming out of the shadows, was a woman, that Cullen felt he recognized immediately. She was tall and fit, with muscled arms and legs. She was as pale as the mountains snow and her hair was shock white like summer clouds. She wore a sword and carried a long spear with a wicked looking tip. Her eyes glowed like twin golden sunsets.
“Well met my son,” she said in a deep warrior’s voice.
“You are Gwyddneu, Queen of the Asrai?” Cullen asked quickly.
“I am. And I am also your mother Cullen,” she said, making it clear for all of the listeners.
“Will you join us?” Sonia asked since Cullen was just staring.
“Yes,” the woman warrior replied gracefully. “And you are Sonia?”
“Yes,” Sonia answered, getting a little red in the cheeks. “Did Tris’tan tell you?”
“Yes,” she answered truthfully. “He has told me much and more about all of you.”
“Good things I hope!” Tik laughed. “Are you hungry my Lady?”
The Queen nodded and accepted a wooden bowl full of stew and some bread. Cullen sat as she did, sitting close to her but not next to her.
“This may seem forward my Lady, but why?” Cullen asked. Sonia gave a sharp intake of breath and grabbed on Cullen’s arm.
“IT WAS MY DOING CULLEN,” boomed the voice of Cernunnous, the Forest God. “I ASKED HER TO AND SHE DID AS I ASKED.”
“You went to the human King and planned to have a baby? Why?” Cullen asked again, maybe too sharply.
“WE KNEW THAT THE HOST WAS RETURNING AND HE NEEDED SOMEONE STRONG THAT HAD TIES IN BOTH WORLDS TO BE OUR CHAMPION. WE KNEW THAT THE HOST WOULD ATTACK HUMANS AND FAERY AND WE NEEDED SOMEONE WHO COULD LEAD BOTH INTO BATTLE. THAT CHOSEN ONE IS YOU.”
“But why leave me in the forest? Why not raise me here, with you?”
“I wanted too dear Cullen,” the Queen answered, the emotion clear in her throaty voice. “But you needed to be raised where our enemies wouldn’t find you. They couldn’t know we had purpose for you.”
“I see,” Cullen said, a little bitter.
“PLEASE UNDERSTAND CULLEN, YOU WERE IN DANGER IF ANYONE KNEW WHO YOU WERE. AND WE PLACE YOU WITH THE DREAMWEAVER, WHO WE THOUGHT WOULD RAISE YOU. BUT THE OUTSIDER WAS A GOOD FATHER, WAS HE NOT? YOU HAD A HAPPY CHILDHOOD?”
“Yes, I did. It’s just hard to understand. I hear you and I’m prepared to do what needs to be done, I just wondered if –“
“Yes Cullen, my boy, it hurt me to give you away, to let you be raised by someone else, to not hold you as I’ve held my other sons, to not teach you all I know. All of that was painful,” Gwyddneu said hoarsely, her voice cracking.
Cullen looked at her and then at the towering giant of Cernunnous, into his small glowing blue points, then back at his mother.
“So can I change?” he finally asked, with a small grin.
The Queen looked startled for a moment and then she looked thoughtful. “Its possible I think, with some training.”
Tris’tan laughed, “I hope so! You need to run with us!” Cullen smiled with the rest of them. Sonia looked a little worried about the transformation part, but she was happy for him that he had found his mother.
“I’m happy you came, Mother, but we are in some trouble and we need to fix it. Cernunnous, do you know Connon has the Sword?” Cullen asked, looking back up at the giant.
“YES CULLEN. HE IS IN THE FOREST, NEARBY. HE HAS BEEN WAITING FOR YOU. HE AND HIS MEN SET UP TRAPS, BUT MY GREENMEN KNOW WHERE THAY ALL ARE. WE CAN GET YOU TO HIS CAMP WITHOUT BEING SEEN. THE REST IS UP TO YOU.”
Cullen looked at Sonia and she nodded. She knew what she had to do. She was as ready as she could be.
“Then tomorrow we attack him and get the Sword back!” Cullen exclaimed, proud and confident.
“We should talk about Vlad too, I’m sure he’s out there somewhere,” Tik reminded him.
“Cernunnous, I killed the man who hurt my father, er, the Outsider, but he’s returned somehow. He attacked us in the castle and killed our friend.”
“THE HOST USES DARK MAGIC CULLEN, TO DO DARK DEEDS. I’M AFRAID THEY HAVE GOTTEN HELP TO MAKE THEIR OWN WEAPONS AS WELL. I DON’T KNOW HOW, BUT I FEAR THEY WILL BE HARD TO BATTLE THIS TIME.”
“Yes, Vlad had a sword that was black with red runes on it. It was glowing and it acted a lot like the Sword Connon has!”
“THE PIXIES AND GREENMEN ARE ALERT. HE WON’T GET CLOSE TO YOU IN THE FOREST CULLEN. YOU CAN REST EASY HERE. THIS SHADOW MAN WON’T FIND YOU NOW.”
Cullen nodded gratefully. They finished eating and made themselves ready to sleep. There was no need for a watch tonight with Cernunnous’s servants keeping an eye on them. The Asrai stripped out of their clothes and transformed into wolves and went running with their mother.
Cullen watched them go and wished he could join them. He was intrigued by the idea that he had Faery blood in him and perhaps he could do what they could do. This was a new idea, and one worth pursuing, he thought excitedly.
But first, the Sword, then the war.

***

Connon walked along the wide perimeter of his camp and the surrounding woods. He was checking the various traps they had made in the forest around them. There were logs set to swing and knock someone down. There were sharpened stakes poised to pierce someone’s leg or foot, and there were nooses and other rope traps set to tangle someone up.
Set all around the camp were strings with bells on them so they could tell someone entered the camp. Connon made a full circuit, checking all the hidden traps once again and then he made his way back into the camp for a meal.
His men had killed a deer and had divided up portions, saving the best steak for their leader, the High Priest. Every night he preached to them about being led by an angel, by the vision that he saw.
Every night, after these preachings, the men got more and more tied to their captain. Connon was a charismatic leader, and strong. He could outfight any of the men, or out wrestle them.
And he ate with them, dueled with them, bled and sweat with them, and in turn they loved him. They were beginning to believe he was the one who should be running the church. They were becoming fanatics, and they were ready for the glory of fighting against Cullen and his band.
Connon told them to expect children, thinking that maybe Grimm would be the hardest to take down, if he was still with them. He knew that the boy had gotten the Shield and the Bow by now, but with the added support of the angel, Connon believed he could wield the Sword and take the boy’s Creations from him easily.
When the bells jangled from outside the camp, Connon leaped up, assuming it was Anton returned just ahead of the boy, ready to tell him all about his weaknesses. He walked confidently towards the Godsmen that seemed to be struggling with someone instead of welcoming the other High Priest back to camp.
Connon was surprised to see his men holding a boy dressed as a Kingsguard. The boy looked haggard and tired, and dirty. He wore a sword and a knife which was quickly taken from him.
“I’m looking for Connon!” he yelled while the Godsmen struggled to keep him between them. “I have information!”
Connon raised his hand to slow the soldiers down as they entered the camp. He looked over the boy, who was nearing manhood and he felt he recognized him somehow.
“Who are you?” he asked, his voice full of certainty.
“My name is Dragos, and I rode with Cullen!” the young man said quickly, breathless from his struggle.
“Cullen? That’s the boy’s name? The same boy who told that blacksmith he didn’t have to build the church?” Connon’s voice was filled with disbelief.
“The same! I was there!”
“Release him!” Connon commanded, “But keep his weapons!”
The two burly Godsmen let go of Dragos and he brushed off his armor. Beneath his tunic he wore better armor than the Kingsguard normally wore, and Connon guessed that he had gotten it from the boy Cullen.
“Why are you here?” Connon asked, also guessing he knew why.
“Because I hate Cullen, and I wish to see him punished,” Dragos said in a firm, cold voice, that was filled with malice.
“I believe you!” Connon laughed, witnessing the boy’s rage and hate. It was written plainly on his face and in his eyes. “What can you tell me about him?”
“He’s on his way here by now, I’m probably only a day ahead of him, maybe less. Your man Anton rides with Cullen now too.”
Connon’s face grew hot with anger. “You know this?” he asked, full of wrath.
“We were attacked by creatures of the Host and Anton came to assist. He rides with Cullen’s group now.”
“Damn him! What is it about this boy?” Connon said loudly, but not really asking.
“I don’t know ser, but people follow him,” Dragos answered.
“How many are with him? Who comes?” Connon asked, his eyes gleaming and focused on the Kingsguard soldier.
“There is Cullen, his friend Tik, who’s a ROM, a girl, Sonia, she carries the Bow, Anton, Grimm,”
“Grimm still rides with him?” Connon interrupted.
“I think so. He may have stayed behind, but I’m betting he came. Then there’s the old man, the Dreamweaver, and the Asrai fighters.”
“Who?” Connon asked, still fuming about Anton and Grimm.
“Faeries, all white, there’s three of them, good fighters. And there’s one more thing. They think he’s the High King’s son.”
Connon’s eyes almost left his head. “WHAT?” he shouted.
“He brought a small carving with him, a wooden wolf. The High King said he carved it years ago and gave it too a woman that he once loved.”
Connon stood and paced in front of Dragos. “Feed him!” he commanded the surrounding men. They quickly made a plate of food and Dragos ate it gratefully.
“Tell me about the Creations. What can they do?” Connon asked after a few minutes of silence.
“The Shield protects Cullen well, and can protect those around him too. The Bow shoots arrows of light and the burst when they hit something. That is the more dangerous of the two.”
“Well I have an ally as well. You finish eating and stay with us tonight and he’ll give you a place tomorrow to fight, if the boy’s brave enough to come.”
Connon walked out of camp again, dodging all the traps and walking a good distance away from where his men were patrolling. He walked towards the same tree he had prayed at before and he kneeled and voiced his prayer, asking the angel to come.
He felt the light and warmth almost immediately and he grinned in pleasure. The angel must have been waiting to see him. He opened his eyes and squinted at the brightness of the winged figure.
“Welcome my Lord,” he said in greeting. “I have news.”
TELL ME,” the angel commanded in a voice of light and music.
“The boy is close and he has the Shield and the Bow. I think he will attack soon. I need you to help us, he has brought friends.”
The angel looked at the High Priest and smiled. “WHAT FRIENDS? WHO DOES THIS BOY HAVE WITH HIM?”
“One of my Priests has joined him, plus the military commander of our human Kingdom. And he has Faeries on his side,” Connon informed, feeling slightly worried when he put it together like that.
“WOULD YOU LIKE ME TO PUNISH YOUR PRIEST?” the angel asked, his voice filled with humor.
“That would be excellent. He’s not a bad man, but clearly confused about who should be chosen. If you will come when I call, then we should be able to take the Creations from them easily.”
“THEN I SHALL COME WHEN YOU CALL. JUST SHOUT FOR ME AND I WILL APPEAR. DO NOT FAIL ME IN THIS CONNON,” the angel warned.
“I won’t my Lord, thank you my Lord!” Connon placated and bowed. This time the angel disappeared before his very eyes, seeming to fold in light and wink out of existence. He was there and then he was gone.
Connon knew that with power like that, the power of Heaven itself, we would succeed and win the Creations. Then he could go to the church, tell the Bishop he was blessed and in command, and then they would burn the Faeries out of their forest homes!
Connon marched back into his camp, swelling with pride and relief. He felt that the attack would come on the morrow, and he prepared to tell his men to be extra vigilant.
Tomorrow, he would become the commander of the world!

***

The Greenmen stood at the edge of the camp, in amongst the trees and ferns. They were made of wood and leaves, with faces that looked like they had been carved into the surface and decorated with leaves and berries.
Tris’tan assured then that since it was summer, they wouldn’t be dangerous to anyone. It was only in the winter, when the leaves fell off and they grew thin, that they could be considered dangerous to travelers.
Cernunnous was sending the Greenmen out first, to disarm all the traps and take down the men that patrolled the border of Connon’s camp. Behind them, the entire clan of the Asrai, including Queen Gwyddneu, some forty members strong, would attack the camp and disarm the Godsmen if they could.
Anton would go in after them to try and calm the soldiers and talk to Connon, but Cullen and the others would be right behind them with the Shield just in case. Sonia would make her way around the perimeter and try for a shot at Connon from a hidden location while all eyes were on Cullen and Anton.
It was early morning and everyone was eager to get started. The Greenmen seemed to vanish into the trees and ferns, melting into the background and going to complete their work.
Cullen walked with the others, leading them along a forest trail, himself following the Asrai. Tris’tan walked with him, keeping close and lending him his confidence. The Queen walked in front, her spear held in two hands, ready to use it.
As they got closer, they could see Godsmen struggling silently under the watch of the quiet Greenmen. Most of the men looked terrified or angry, but they were out of the fight for good. Sonia slipped away, carrying the Bow over her shoulder.
She ran quickly through the undergrowth and ferns, keeping as quiet as she could until she saw the camp ahead of her. She crouched down and looked for her target. There was a tent set up at the edge of some trees and she bet Connon was inside.
She heard the Asrai howl as they ran into the camp, and quickly they overwhelmed the soldiers. They were so quick and fierce; slamming into the unprepared soldiers who thought their traps and guards would warn them.
The tent burst open and the High Priest appeared, red in the face and angry that his men had been caught. Sonia was surprised to see Dragos come out after him. Connon raised his Sword and swept it through the air, and with an arc of fire, several of the Asrai went down.
Anton ran into camp followed by Cullen and the others. Small fights were raging all around while Anton and Connon stared at each other.
“Come away from these fools Anton!” Connon shouted. “Come now before it’s too late!”
“I’m here to save these men!” Anton yelled back. “Be at peace with us and we’ll explain everything!”
Sonia could see Connon getting ready to attack again. She pulled back on the enchanted string of her silver Bow and an arrow of blazing light appeared between her fingers. She held the string back, waiting for the right moment.
“Then it’s too late for you all!” Connon screamed, his voice hitting anew high pitch of madness. “My Lord! Come forth and punish the unbelievers!”
Sonia saw Cullen step ahead of Anton and raise the Shield. The Godsmen had been held down by the Asrai and Tik and Grimm stood behind Cullen and Anton within the guard of the enchanted Shield. Sonia breathed easier knowing they should be safe.
Then light, like a miniature sun appeared over the camp. The air seemed to fold and a figure appeared over head. Everyone looked up and saw the golden figure of a winged man, an angel come to earth, hovering over everyone.
Cullen lowered the Shield in awe, the Asrai stopped fighting and the Godsmen cheered. Connon raised his Sword ready to swing after the angel did whatever he was going to do. The angel’s hands raised up and power seemed to gather around his bright, golden hands. He smiled, cold and deadly.
Sonia saw none of that. Her eyes, enchanted by Manawyddan the God of the Sea, allowed her to see the angel for what he was. There was magic there, and something terrible was about to happen, but all she saw was an old Faery. He smiled that dark smile and gathered some kind of magical force and Sonia let loose her arrow.
The figure turned what the light appeared from out of the bushes but it was too late. They arrow buried itself into the figure’s side and his magic went haywire. Winds and lightening blasted everyone to the ground, even behind the Shield and the air folded again and the figure fell to the ground right in front of Connon.
Connon lifted himself up to shield the angel from more harm and he saw what was truly laying there. He saw its golden skin, its thin muscular body, its pointed ears and slanted eyes, the almond shape of its face.
And he knew. He had been tricked by a Faery. There was no angel. There was no Heaven, no reward, nothing. He couldn’t fathom why the Faery would trick him but anger swelled in him and he lifted the Sword to strike. The figure beneath him opened his eyes, filled with pain and grabbing the bleeding hole in its side and the air folded around him again and he winked out of existence.
Connon brought the Sword down where the body had been, cursing it for disappearing and the Sword power rent the earth beneath it. The ground shook and people that were rising fell again.
Connon turned and ran into the forest, screaming in anger and rage. Sonia, at the edge of the effects, saw Dragos leap to his feet and run off after the High Priest.
The Asrai held onto the Godsmen so they couldn’t go too and the others gathered themselves back up. Anton started talking to the Godsmen, telling them they would be safe if they held no animosity towards Cullen and the others. Most of them seemed defeated already.
Sonia got to her feet and ran to Cullen. “Did you see?” she asked breathlessly.
“It was an angel, and then an elf, one of the Daoine Sidhe!” Cullen exclaimed.
“It wasn’t just any elf Cullen,” the Queen said as she walked to his side. “That was Mabon, the Creator of the Creations. That’s why Connon can wield the Sword. He has the Creator’s permission.”
“We have to follow him!” Cullen said, looking into the forest.
“Please Cullen, help me with these men first!” Anton asked, pleading with Cullen. Cullen looked towards the forest again, then sighed. He turned back to face the Priest.
“Gather them up, we’ll explain what’s happened and you can bring them home again.” Cullen motioned to the Asrai to begin the process, each of them pulling the soldiers into a group in the center of camp.
Cullen didn’t yet understand why an elf would help Connon to fight them, but after this was settled he was certainly going to ask some questions. Maybe it was time to meet with the Daoine Sidhe and ask them.

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