Stranger In My Inn

She thought, “I can’t believe this is true, that all this is happening. That this is what my present and future will be.” She drifted off to sleep, not long after closing her eyes. It seemed like she had only begun to enjoy the thought of her new life when she felt a gentle kiss on her forehead. She heard her father’s voice call to her. “Georgia, it’s time to wake up. We have much to do today so we can free ourselves to continue with our story time of preparing your education to ensure you have the proper training for a royal in the court of the kingdom.”

The sunlight was warm and spread its golden filtered light through the delicate curtains of her bedroom. She woke up, slowly coming out of the tight embrace of a dream, a dream that wove together the fragments of her imagination and the echoes of stories her father had shared with her during the play acting.

Georgia responded, “Okay father, I know I must get ready to take on the mantle of being the queen. That I must take on the responsibilities of our royal lineage. I promise I will be a good one for our
people, all the people too, not just those of the royal court. Please, give me a moment and I will be up soon and join you for the day’s activities, I promise.”

Her father paused, smiled down at her and asked, “Have you been dreaming about our role playing again?” “You do remember we are just role-playing during our story time together as royals in the court preparing you for your future role.” Georgia, laid there with her eyes closed. She thought about what he had just said and then answered him, “Father, that was so long ago, I was only twelve then.” He stood up then and went to the window of her bedroom.

There he gazed out into the gardens and thought, “It could not be, could it be her insight is that strong? That it had the power to reach into a possible future that might or may not ever be?” He finally shrugged his shoulders then tapped her shoulder and said, “Why don’t you come down and see me. You know, once you’re up and about, we’ll … talk about this a bit more.”

He left the room then, closed the door, and begun the descent to the kitchen. Georgia began to wake up more now and gain a little bit more of sense of where she was.

She pushed the covers off and sat up thinking while looking around the room. She then looked at herself, and realized something was off, she was young again, a girl of only twelve years of age. She began pondering, “It was so real, so vivid as if it had been the truth all along.” She giggled as a girl of twelve should and thought. “It could not be so; I mean who would believe that such a thing would happen.”

“It’s something I must have cobbled together in my dreams from reading all those books recently. Also, all that role playing with her father. They played out a story of being the royals hiding away from some evil sister of her mother. That must have been the answer. Her dreams were spinning parts of her role-playing with her father into a wonderful future self. Of course, it was only a dream, not the truth as they lived here at the inn”

She got dressed and skipped her way to the kitchen, opened the door and began to tell her father about her dreams. When she completed her story, she said to her father, “Don’t you think that was an amazing dream to have?” He looked at her while tying on her apron to get her ready to help with the work in the kitchen. He pondered over her words and considered whether there could be any significance to Georgia’s strength of foresight and maybe it was stronger than he had originally thought. Then said, “What have we discussed about truth in the past, what were the lessons you learned?”

She thought and then said, “Truth is an absolute fact or principle. It’s accepted as being non-negotiable. There is no disregarding its existence. Yet, it also has a subjective quality or concept. Thus, can differ from person to person. In the end, it is up to everyone to decide what they believe is true.” She paused a moment and then continued, “Yet, that leaves the question. On considering whether truth is ever real or is always subjective. A creation based on what we hold to be true at this place and time?”

Her father then said, “So, what do you believe is true about the dreams you had? Are they perceived or real?” She thought a moment recalling some of the wonderful things she had dreams about that night. She then responded, “They’re dreams though, how could any of that be anything but subjective? Then again, there’s something that keeps nagging me as if there’s some memory at play here.” “Something from a time before I could even speak. Something about my mother that she said, but it’s all lost to me somehow.”

Her father mused to himself, “She’s latched on to something, something like a sort of divination of sort.” But then he responded, “Well in that case, only time will tell. Speaking of time, we have a lot to get ready before our morning guest arrive at the inn.” “Will you help me to get ready?” She then asked, “Are we going to play some more when were done for the day? Oh, please say yes, father. I so love our make believe of being royals in the court of the queen.”

He thought to himself, looking out the window to see the gardener, the Druid tending the flowers. He then mused, “I need to speak with him in private about this and see what he might think concerning her…sudden insight.” He turned then, came over to Georgia and said, “Of course we will, I wouldn’t deny you something you enjoy so much.” She laughed then, hugged her father, and went to begin her duties assigned to her. It was necessary to assist her father out each day in the kitchen. She was an important member of the staff at the inn she thought.

Then she thought, “The dreams seemed so real though, it couldn’t be, what a funny thought.” She chuckled and then went about another day at the inn with her father. Nothing could be better with her then that truth.

She loved being here with her father. She couldn’t think of anywhere else could ever be a better then to being here, living out her life with him as her father here at the inn where wonderful stories were told everyday by the guests and patrons that enjoyed their time together at the inn.”

Epilogue

“Whose finger sits on the scale of fate, is it choice, is it whether you are born rich or poor, or does a god push the levers of life to influence how our day will be? Of course, if could be none of these at all, but simply a rolling of the dice that provide a multitude of chances of which only one of many provide an outcome called truth.”

The next morning began with a roar as Georgia had awoken fully recovered, she asks that they setup shop in the quarters where they were staying. She wanted to have a working breakfast as she had a dream last night that provided a possible way to get her into the city, without anyone ever knowing that anything was taking place and expediting her reunion with her father.

They were all intrigued and anticipating what she would reveal to them during breakfast. Silviano had worked with the cooks again to ensure they knew how to prepare something that would be acceptable to their guests. The kitchen happily went to work on it as they all loved to learn new things and different
approaches to preparing food and drinks.

They had set up in a smaller room that could be closed and guarded. Stonefist had surveyed the area and found this room to be suitable for their needs. She requested that the planning be done by a minimal group of her, of course Elysian, Silviano, the first counselor and Stonefist. She realized that many might be offended by her refusal to allow anyone else to attend this plan but said her plan needed secrecy and she would have it or leave and take her chances without their help. That had put a stop to most of the protest that she knew would come.

Her experience with controlling rowdy crowds at the inn all those years had given her great insight as to how to interact with people regardless of their station in society. Once they were all gathered, and the food and drink had been brought into the room she nodded at Stonefist who stood up and spoke to the guard he had posted. They pulled the doors shut. He knew nothing would disturb them until he had given the word for them to allow access again.

Once everyone had a chance to get some breakfast and coffee in them, she began by saying. “I would like to avoid a long and difficult journey through your kingdom and its secret paths. There are multiple reasons for this including the saving of lives which matter a great deal to me.

Secondly, I believe I have a way to keep our opposition guessing and off center concerning how we will move forward to allow the reunion with my father. Elysian finally spoke up and said, “Okay your lady, I am certainly open to hearing these ideas. You are amongst friends here so let’s begin in earnest.”

Georgia steadied herself, then responded by saying, “I believe that our opposition will expect us to take the secret ways of this nation. My experience is no secret is unknown once it is known by even one person. Given that thought though I don’t believe we should disappoint them but instead provide a series of faints for them to stay occupied with.”Georgia steadied herself, then responded by saying, “I believe that our opposition will expect us to take the secret ways of this nation. My experience is no secret is unknown once it is known by even one person. Given that thought though I don’t believe we should disappoint them but instead provide a series of faints for them to stay occupied with.”

Stonefist spoke up next, “My lady if not the way of our people, then how do you propose we safely get you back to your much needed reunion with your father?” “I believe we can simply walk right in the front gate without them ever being the wiser.” She waited for a wave of protest, but none said anything other than Silviano who asked her to please continue with her idea.”

“My instinct on this is that they do not want me dead, they just don’t want me to achieve my goal of having this reunion with my father. In fact, I would say they have been aware of me for some time and if I was busy taking care of the inn and living a life of happy ignorance, they were perfectly content to not do anything at all.”

Elysian smiled and said, “Please continue as I agree with your assessment so far.” If there are enough faints provided both below ground and above, we will weaken their ability and resources to be able to consider all possibilities or to ensure they have it all covered. I don’t believe they will expect this, yes, they are likely expecting some type of faint at least but multiples happening on many fronts all at once will force them to divide their forces and therefore leave an opening for us to achieve our goal.”

Stonefist then asked, “Okay, so if not for any of the first or secondary possible ways we might have chosen not having your insight, how are we going to enter the city without anyone noticing?” Georgia looked at them and asked, are we sure this room is private and that there is no way for anyone to hear this conversation let’s say through a vent or some other means?” Stonefist replied, “I spoke with the architect and builder of this home. He assured me that this was the one place where it could be guaranteed.”

Georgia then did something unexpected; she took up a book and writing instrument she had brought with her and began writing out the plan. As she did so she began to tell another plan to the group as if they were discussing the actual plans for reaching her father. She encouraged participation in the vocal planning as it was critical that it appear sincere and well thought out. It did not take her long to describe
her idea of entering the city without none be the wiser.

Each read it and passed it on to the next until all four had read it. Elysian smiled and then began to argue this point or that and to encourage the others present to do so as well. By late morning, the planning was complete, and she handed the book to Elysian and asked him in writing, “Can you destroy this and such a way to ensure no amount of work or magic could restore it?” He nodded he could, and she handed it to him.

They continued talking as if wrapping up the conversation and then Georgia said, “I have grown tired, it’s time for me to retire to rest before the afternoon meal and whatever else is planned for us at this time. She smiled and Stonefist rose and gave a very specific knocking pattern on the door. She heard a response and then he responded to the challenge. The doors were opened the party got up with the attendants arriving to usher Georgia towards a fresh bath and rest.

Elysian took the book which he held in a secret pocket and wove a spell of hiding around him. Once it was complete, he used another spell and when the book was brought out before him it simply dissolved as if it never existed. The spell of hiding was removed, and he smiled at the depth of Georgia’s now formidable insight.

The first counselor knew that he needed to send out some false trails to the council before they began to plan for his demise in a vote to remove him due to an uneasy state set in motion by all the amount of change that had taken place in their carefully planned out society. He asked for a lunchtime meeting to update the council. He would act to ensure her real plans came through without a hitch and worry about the political rebound later.

Georgia had taken her bath, enjoying the refreshing waters and oils that helped to restore her health. She then had them prepare the room for a short nap before they came for her to meet with whomever needed to meet with her during and after lunch. She knew her plan still had its dangers but felt it was the best choice out of all the different ones she had considered.

Georgia had spent years managing constant dynamics in crowd control, food management, servicing her patrons and guests at the inn. That had now paid off in spades and she wondered now how much her father knew about what was needed to prepare her for her journey, of which she was now sure, he had anticipated this possibility.

Georgia felt she had not rested long before the servants where there needing to prepare her the afternoon activities. Silviano was there of course while Elysian was elsewhere preparing for their plan. Stonefist had returned home briefly so he could ask for help from his most trusted assistant, his wife. He needed to keep this closed to others as
to what was really going on so he enlisted her aid knowing she would want to do the right thing for him and for Georgia.

After being readied Stonefist came with a company of closely trusted guards to escort Georgia and Silviano to the afternoon’s activities. She had been outfitted again with traditional dress and robes worn by those of some of the older royal families from their history. They were elegantly done with beautiful stitching made of threads embedded with gold and silver from the earth. The robes collar had some beautiful small gems embellished into it which with her beautiful wavy auburn red hair and green eyes made everything stand out even more.

When they arrived the room was setup in a different configuration with rounded tables set in a circle around a pit area where musicians played beautifully traditional dwarven music that had a sad but haunting sound to them and spoke of stories that had been woven throughout their history. Her table had the most influential and intellectually engaging members of their current society at it.

The conversation flowed around possible future trade agreements, working relationships and cultural exchanges already if some future state of a new kingdom would occur where she would somehow be a pivotal part of it. She played along and did so well as she had years of role playing as a successful inn owner where it was necessary to be well-educated across a broad range of subject areas to help the guest and patrons feel important and even special at times while dining or staying at her inn.

None were disappointed by the breadth and depth of her perception to seem to understand how to respond to any question that may have been posed. All that attended her table knew their language and were fluent in it since they were all merchants and had secret deals already with some outsiders where they managed to trade goods with them without revealing who and what they were.

Once they were done her quarters were prepared for an early dinner at the residence as the core group knew they would act on the execution of the plan soon. During the dinner she asked lots of questions concerning the vocal plans of what had been discussed. It appeared as if all was in place and ready for its execution. She wrote down a single word and passed it around to the core players. They all read it knowing what it meant and once done she put the note into a candle nearby and let it burn into ash.

They all retired early that evening but that was a faint itself as their real plan was being executed that evening. They were all up and dressed in common travel and merchant clothes for a journey on the outside towards the city. They made their way through secret areas known only to Stonefist who had controlled security in that city for a long time now and knew of ways no others had discovered. He guided them and the small company along pathways full of strange carvings and etchings that went back far into their history. These ways were of the old nations that were the first among their people.

When they arrived at their destination, one of the people who had dined with her came to them and said everything was ready and in place. My most trusted people will be traveling with you and none no anything other than the story made up to help satisfy their curiosity. They have all been guaranteed additional payment with proof of delivery to the capital city and its market area.

She came over and bent down to kiss him on the forehead thanking him for his assistance and letting him know it would never be forgotten what he had done to assist them on this most important mission. He beamed with her praise and thanks and told her he looked forward to visiting with her in better times. She assured him that she did as well. With that they joined the merchant caravan and it started for its location full of goods for the market.

As the journey continued, they found one of the common camp locations for merchants where gathered to offer each other company and protection from rogue and bandit groups that roamed the countryside. Everyone, including her jumped into their roles and carried on as if they had been doing this for years. No one ever questioned them or thought there was anything amiss. All her time as a merchant at the inn paid off in spades as she was able to have easy conversations and joke around with others like she had always been doing it.

When morning came the groups, all prepared together and complete the final leg of the trip to the capital markets as one large caravan with all their guards riding in the forefront, rear and spread alongside the long parade of merchants and goods, there would be no attempt at harassing them. All the bandits and rogue groups knew they were well armed, and it would be suicide to attempt anything with this band of traveling merchants who together formed a small army.

Back at the capital the rest of the plans were put into play during the early morning as well. With multiple groups attempting different routes in their secret underground pathways and finding skirmishes off and on along the way but it was well planned out and once a skirmish began an alternate path had been planned where that group would disappear for a while.

It was well orchestrated too as each group had dwarves who were wearing false legs under them that were used in mining to reach higher load areas. They were dressed in such a way to emulate the three humans who had come into their kingdom.

So, unless captured no one would know any better. On the surface various bands had been sent out as well with different plans for how they would try and approach the city. Each being made up of a different disguise and set up to keep the opposition guessing at which one was the actual group of humans they needed to capture and keep from obtaining their goal.

The intent was never to harm them, just to keep them from reaching their goal while others played out a desperate plan there in the royal courts to take control of power and prevent her from ever being able to take what was hers. Of course, she was unaware of the exact nature of what they knew but was not lost in the fact her role had changed from an innkeeper to something much more as these events played out and they got ever nearer to their goal.

They could not have asked for a better outcome. They knew there would be guards at the city gates who were paid extra to try and pick her out entering the city since they knew of only one public way into the city, and they had all other paths covered with plenty of people paid good money to capture them should there be an attempt to enter by those more unknown ways.

However, this was market day. The city gates would be overflowing with masses of people, goods and services arriving all day long. The merchants would be first coming in early to get to their stalls and shop in the market area of the city. Even then the gates would be overwhelmed with the large market caravans as well as the much smaller highly
specialized ones.

There would be a limit to what could be done with so many to enter and leave and the small group of guards manning the gates. Also, the guards never told the others that the wealthier merchants paid them much higher to turn their heads and allow them unfettered access to the markets. Their view was they were making the wages they should be making to ensure they had a comfortable retirement someday. Most knew not to live extravagant lifestyles now as it would be questioned by those who had the power to lock them up for a long time.

They arrived at the capital city of the kingdom on the third morning, right on schedule for market day, and the city gates were already booming with activity. The caravan masters all had their captains approach the guard and discreetly pass them the payment for an expedited entry into the gates so they could reach the markets and get the wagons unloaded and the stalls and shops setup and ready for a full day of sales and trading.

As the last of the caravan entered the city, they all went to work setting up for the day. Nothing was to deviate from their normal work and appearances as to what they were doing. There was to be no special treatment for her sake, and she would help along with everyone else. The merchants were most impressed with this young lady and the skills she
showed in managing the flow of work.

Once the day came into play and the markets were at their peak with a hub of activity flowing throughout the area. The small company played out the rest of their plan. They spoke to the market master and went as if to take a break for lunch and drink at one of the local establishments.

This establishment, however, was used by the royal families at times to pass unnoticed from the market area to the inner city where they were better protected and expected to be seen on a regular basis. Once they arrived, they placed their order which was a keyword for what was to happen next. The company sat themselves at an open table and servers began to bring both food and drink to them. At some point she first excused herself to use the facilities, the barkeeper pointed his finger to a door. Four others all men also got up to use their access to the facility.

The table was still busy with regulars from the caravan who continued with their meal and drink. Once Georgia had entered the room, a women was washing her face at one of the wash basins setup the customers. She looked and said to Georgia, “I love the market day, don’t you? It is the perfect opportunity to find some rare treasures for your hope chests.” Georgia’s response, “yes, if we could only find ourselves a trustworthy man to share those hope chest with, the market would be the perfect place.” They both laughed at the conversation and then Georgia approached the wash basin next to her. She said, “the water is clean is it not for such an establishment?”

With that the lady reached into the wash basin and turned the drain, there was soft sound of a wall opening in one of the privacy stalls. Georgia never said another word but went into the stall and passed through the open doorway. Once she was inside the hallway, the door closed, and a lamp hood was raised to reveal the others were already there waiting for her. Silviano now took the lead having used this path many times for the Duchess and her company.

Off they went and they finally came to a dead end. Silviano reached out and pulled on a hook that was on the wall. The wall opened and they all passed into a home. It was a wealthy merchants home whose family had been servicing the royals with their needs for generations.

The coach and its guard arrived. Elysian reached out to probe the carriage and the minds of the guards. Nothing was amiss so he returned to them and said, “we need to go, the carriage is ready.” All got up and ready to go into motion. Elysian then reached out and pulled Georgia briefly aside. He then said to her, “If I may advise, please use that amazing depth of sensory ability you now have and probe the carriage, the guard, and expand your need to the surrounding area.” He paused, then said, “We need to be sure nothing is not as it should be on this final leg of the trip.”

She nodded to him and began to dig down to utilize that now formidable power of sense she owned and sent it in waves around her and the gathered company. She was not picking up anything at first but then she sensed something in one of the guards and asked Elysian if he could assist in dealing with it. He smiled and said to her, “When we get to the coach take a moment to look at the one who needs to be attended to and I will assure he goes no further.” She smiled and they continued to the coach. Silviano was there with the door held open for her.

He bowed slightly as would have been done with any that used this coach anyway, “If you would my lady, we will return home now that the shopping is done for the day. She paused briefly and turned to
look at one of the guards. She then took the offered hand that Silviano extended to her and stepped up into the interior of the coach and sat down.

She overheard Silviano whispering something to the driver. Then he entered the coach to sit on the seat opposite of Georgia with a smile on his face that said patience please. As they pulled away, one of the guard’s horses reared up and knocked him off to the ground. The coach continued to pull away immediately, and then she asked. “Okay, Silviano what can you tell me about where we are going and why is my father here within the court of the royals?”

Silviano responded, “You will know all soon enough Georgia, but it is for your father to inform you, not me. Also, before you protest, if you use your instincts, I am sure you can gather some of the truth before arriving.” Georgia probed Silviano gently by looking directly at him making eye contact. She decided that there was nothing to be done but to wait and ask her father once they arrived.

The rest of the journey passed without incident, and it was not long before she heard horns announce their arrival. A series of orders were barked out by someone. The carriage had stopped but then continued for another few minutes then came to a final stop. Georgia had no idea where they had travel to since the curtains to the carriage stayed
drawn for the whole trip. Silviano then said, “Georgia, please wait but a moment. She nodded but did not appear to be happy about the delay. It had been a while since she last saw her father and she was anxious to see him again. Despite all the secrecy surrounding this trip she missed her father a great deal.

Georgia had been quietly listening to this exchange between them, she knew that there was nothing to be gained by asking either of them anything concerning this vague reference that escape their lips concerning her ordained destiny and so held her tongue and instead asked a different question. “Gentlemen, if I may so loosely use that word concerning you both. I have a question first for you Elysian.” She paused for effect and let the silence grow in the room. “What if I decided to take your offer and study with you vs. pursuing this so-called ordained destiny that you so loosely let fly from your lips?”

Elysian caught the game she was playing immediately. He responded, “I of course would be honored by having such a gifted, intelligent, and beautiful student. However, I believe once you meet with your father your choice will be made clear.” She smiled and replied, “Touché Elysian, well played and of course I expected no less from you, but I did notice Silviano appearance begin to take on the veneer of a sick child getting ready to lose its stomach from some illness.”

She then said with a more serious tone, “I do not know yet what gamesmanship is in play here, but once I find out the truth from my father, you had better hope that I maintain my normal cool composure and don’t decide to use those unique skills as you both have so often spoken about on the two of you.” Silviano did something unexpected then, he knelt on one knee and asked forgiveness for his being unable to provide her with the answers she so deserved. He said in a most formal manner, “My lady, I am of course in your service if you determine I have wronged you in any way, I will except whatever judgement you determine for me.”

Georgia was touched by this and moved to him, took his free hand that he had placed on his heart while he bowed and said, “Silviano, my dearest friend, I would never wish any harm on you. I understand that you are both bound by some promise you made to my father, but it grieves me that he put you both in such a position.” She then motioned for him to stand and said to them both, “So what now, how do we gain access to my father without running into new danger since we are all three now aware that someone is less than happy with my near arrival to him?”

Elysian spoke first, “There is a way to gain access to the city possibly without being noticed, at least by those who hunt for you above.” Silviano then asked, “This way you speak of, I take it, is not without its own dangers. Just ones of a different sort?” Elysian replied, “Yes, you are correct, however it may be an opportunity as well for us to establish a new friendship for the kingdom if our young lady here is able to look beyond their appearance and see what is in their hearts.”

Georgia then responded, “Why would it be to the kingdom’s advantage to negotiate with these, well whatever or whoever they are?” She had sensed in Elysian reply that what he was referring to might not be human. Elysian responded, “Because, they are one of the old races of the kingdom, long forgotten except in myth and thought to have traveled on beyond the sphere of our life. To have evolved, let’s say that is only a half truth. There are those that remained behind, they were younger and did not want to give up this existence here.”

Silviano asked in turn, “I know quite a deal of the history of this world and its races, if you’re referring to what I think you might be, then you are correct in believing they would be of great benefit to a blossoming kingdom.” Georgia had listened and then asked, “Do we have
any other choice short of trying to outrun every band of ruffian’s sent out to keep us from this meeting between myself and my father?” Elysian glanced at Silviano, he then replied, “No, not really, but this decision is yours to make, Silviano and I will of course do our best to protect you should you require it regardless of your choice.”

She glanced over at Silviano who bowed slightly and said, “It is as Elysian states, we are both bound to you and whatever decision you make my lady.” Georgia responded, “Please, would the both of you just call me Georgia and stop with all of this my lady stuff, it makes me nervous.” They both bowed and said to her, “As you so command!” She threw up her hands then and with a frustrated exhale, “Okay you two I see no way into this other place, how do we get there without exposing ourselves to the dangers above?”

Elysian said, “If you would allow me, I will begin the incantations to open the way to the old world below.” Georgia nodded and he began to speak to his staff, much like he did the night at the inn when he called upon something that raised those thorny vines from between the floorboards to wrap up the annoying patron. Even though Georgia had not witnessed the actual event of him calling upon his staff, there were those that recounted the story to her later. She watched and listened as he touched a pattern of runes on his staff. As he continued the crystal on top of the staff began to glow more brightly and the runes he touched lit up with a warm yellow and red light. His voice sounded softer, more asking then what she had been told about the gravelly sounding tone of the words he had used the night at the inn.

He appeared to be reaching some special point as the crystal on the staff gave off an almost blinding light which spread out towards the rear of the room, they were in. She noticed that a lit glow of light began to trace out a doorway in the rear wall. He continued then threw his hands wide and the staff exploded with energy that hit the rear wall. There a doorway appeared and began to open to reveal a large pathway beyond that sloped downward. Elysian paused for a moment resting on the staff and apparently catching his breath allowing himself to recover from this effort. Georgia walked up to him and placed a hand on his shoulder with a soft touch.

She asked him, “Does that effort of using the staff take something away from you when you use it in such a way?” Elysian paused then responded, “Yes, but not always in such a big way. Most times it is a measured exchange of my life’s energies for those energies of the earth that I call upon.” He paused again, “However, efforts such as this exact a larger cost to me, and I need time to recover some before continuing. That is why it is not safe to do this type of magic except when times are desperate enough such as now.” He stood up straight again, turned to her said, “Thank you Georgia for your concern and show of compassion. It will serve you well as we continue our journey to your father.”

They all gathered up their stuff, he then said, “leave the horses here, the door will open after this one closes long enough for them to escape up to the surface before closing again. They will know where to go on their own as most horses of the royal stables have been trained well on how to return home again.” Georgia turned and spoke softly to her horse thanking him for his being willing to carry her to safety. She said goodbye to him and told him she would see him again someday.

With that she joined the others, and they began to follow Elysian who led them now down into the depths of the earth. She and Silviano were both amazed at how there were rocks, crystals that glowed as they approached them and lit the way ahead for them. After they traveled downward for thirty minutes or so the floor leveled off and she began to see the signs of civilization here, there were pillars with some unknown runes carved in them and it was lighter here. It was almost like being on the surface as if somehow the light was being funneled from above into this area below.

Elysian stopped and turned to speak to them briefly, “We are being watched now, don’t ask just follow my lead, and prepare yourself for a meeting soon. We are no longer alone.” Elysian continued and then suddenly there was a squad sized group of something forming ahead. One of them called out to Elysian and said, “You bring company with you this time. I don’t recall you asking if this was okay.” Elysian replied, “Understood but I bring with me someone who was foretold in your histories of the races. I would hope that you would offer us food, drink, and rest while we assess the best way to continue to the meeting.”

They waited and when Georgia appeared behind Elysian with Silviano in attendance they all bowed to their knee and brought their fist to their heart proclaiming something in their own language. She sensed that they were waiting for something from her. She didn’t know why but knew it was
important for her to act upon her insight. She walked up to the leader of the group, placed a hand on his hand that he had placed on his heart and said, “I do not know you, but I am grateful for your respect and acknowledgement of our need. Please rise and know you are most welcomed and appreciated.”

He gazed up at her now, deep bluish gray eyes and a long beard tied into fancy braids. They were short but stocky in build and looked incredibly strong. She thought about the lessons of her father and then said with amazement, “You are dwarves! It was said that you all went to beyond this sphere to somewhere else long ago before the history of humans began to be written in earnest.” He rose then and said, “I know your language well my lady, and welcome you to our home, Stone Heart, capital city although somewhat empty these days as what you stated is true, many of us did travel beyond but some of us remained here being younger and not ready to give up on the races here as so many others of our kind.”

He then said, “My name is Stonefist, first among our squad here. If you would please come with us so we may learn more about what has transpired to force Elysian to bring you to us at this time.” The rest of his squad stood, and they began to travel forward deeper into the city to a place of rest and relaxation so they could speak about their needs. As they arrived at a large hall that was bustling with many of their kind, children, ladies, and men alike all busy in some activity it appeared. Heads began to turn, and whispers were heard in the air around them as the three of them came into their domain. Many were pointing at Georgia though and speaking in hushed tones to each other. She did not know their language so whatever was being said was lost to her.

They at last arrived and were ushered to a table to sit while Stonefist barked some orders. Elysian turned to Georgia and Silviano and told them they were going to bring food and drink for them. He also said there would be others that would join them while they gathered the counselors together to meet with them. They didn’t have to wait long before others arrived and sat down at the table. It was soon after that food and drink was brought in. It was a great feast of meats, vegetables, and fruits. There were flat bread loafs with smell of multiple herbs rising from the steaming dough.

Georgia asked Stonefist if there were any possibilities of getting the recipe for the bread as she wanted to give it a try herself once she returned to her inn. Stonefist responded by telling her he thought that it might be possible but then he got up and spoke quietly to Elysian. Georgia had noticed the exchange and wondered what was going on. She knew nothing about their culture here and had privately hoped she had not broken any taboos. He returned and spoke to her, “My lady your request will be relayed to the bakers, but it is their decision as to whether to share the baking of the bread with you or not. I have spoken to Elysian to ask for his assistance in navigating that conversation.”

He then continued, “In the meantime, we need to complete our meal here so we can retire to a private area where we can discuss your needs without too many ears hearing of your plans and what is decided as to how to resolve your need to get to your father.” She nodded and thanked him for his assistance with her request. She then turned her attention to the food and drink as he had requested. She surveyed the table looking for a glimpse of Silviano. She wanted him close to her so she could ask him questions when they rose in her mind. She had not seen him for a while and was getting ready to rise to look for him when he returned from wherever he had been.

He came directly to her and asked that she follow him. She rose and excused herself to Stonefist the surrounding company. He took her on a winding path between buildings where they came to a door that was guarded by two well armored and weaponized men. Silviano didn’t say a word, once they saw her both bowed slightly and then opened the doors allow Silviano and Georgia to enter the room. The guards both returned to their stations when they closed the doors behind them.

As she entered the room, she saw she was in a consul chamber and there men and women both were seated in a room that was designed to surround what appeared to be an audience room. It was very stately with each chair having carved decorations in them that she guessed represented some sort of family crest for those seated there. It wasn’t long before the doors they had come through were opened again and Elysian entered the chamber and came to stand on the other side of Georgia. Silence penetrated the chamber as they waited. Not a word was spoken by those of the consul or Silviano or Elysian.

Finally, a hammer was struck on the stone and an old gentlemen dressed in fine robes entered the chamber and took up his seat at the center of the counselors who were all now seated on either side of him. He then spoke with a clear voice that penetrated every corner of the chamber. He began, “We who have guided our families for years beyond counting are now faced with possibly the most important decision to come before us. Before us stands one who has been spoken of in our books of lore, one who could change the course of civilization not just for our families but all those of the kingdom.” He paused briefly as he turned to each of those seated for effect. He then continued, “They are not here on official business but one of trying to unite this young lady standing before us with her father. You all know of who I am speaking, we who have named him Dwarvenkind.

An honor given out to very few in our long history but one that was certainly earned by him we are referring to. It is critical to him that this lady be returned to his side. As it is through that reunion that the oracles may finally come to fruition. For that to take place we must allow them access to our deepest secrets as the way above is full of danger for her and this company.”

There was an immediate explosion of chatter amongst those in attendance, and the older man allowed it to continue for a short time before hammering down on great stone that rang its sound through the chamber. That brought order and he then said, “I of first consul am not going to ask this young lady to defend this need, we know who she is to meet and should not question that need and so there will be no debate. You must decide on past merit alone.”

He finally said, “I recommend that we extend this honor to her and her small company as a way of establishing trust and doing all we can to ensure her safe passage back to the city. It will be up to them once she surfaces again to make her way safely to his side. How do you vote?” Right before the vote was to take place, suddenly a ball of light exploded in the chamber, and something began to take shape in front of Georgia. Both Silviano and Elysian became alarmed. Elysian raised his staff which began to glow and Silviano had pulled forth his sword in a smooth motion to protect her, but Georgia had sensed this was not necessary and grabbed their arms to quietly command them to lower their weapons.

They could hear the guards at the doors alarmed by the commotion trying to enter the doors but unable to do so. They heard the command of one go out and footsteps running off to fade in the distance. She stepped forward to the front beyond both of her guardians and lowered her head in an act of respect and trust. The being that took form was recognized by all those of their kind in the chamber. They all called out her name and lowered their faces so as not look upon the face of the mother of Dwarvenkind.

She came to Georgia who then bowed to one knee and lowered her head. She signaled her two companions to follow in kind. The senior leader of the counsel commanded all his brothers and sisters to do the same. They all rose and stepped down into the main chamber and went to one knee as Georgia had done. Then she spoke, “All who is in this chamber, know that I Berronar mother of all dwarves tell those that are gathered here in this chamber, this girl is blessed by me and will save you all, but she must reach her father who you have already named as Dwarvenkind.

There is to be no decent in this. He or she that goes against my command set themselves against this nation and those of the future kingdom. Your names and those of your future generation will be cursed amongst us should you raise a finger against her. Go now Georgia and find your destiny as it stands before you. It is waiting for your heart and your special touch. We are now pledged to your need and to your will. Let it be so I command it.”

With that the room grew brighter than daylight and then went dark except for a warm glow of light that surrounded Georgia. There she stayed knelt before them all. As each of them came out the spell of what had just happened, they each stood. One by one they came before Georgia and bent down to kiss her head acknowledging her right as that which was ordained by the oracles of old.

Georgia sensed when the last one had completed this task and rose a changed person. Somehow inside her she felt that her ability to foresee had been increased tenfold as she now felt an invasion of emotions and thoughts of all of those that stood there in that chamber. It was beginning to overwhelm her.

The chamber doors exploded and the guard, including Stonefist, and several squads of armored men ran to defend the consuls. When they saw Georgia though with the warm glow of light shining from within her they all stopped and waited as Stonefist came before her. He asked her, forgive me my lady but I sense the presence of the all-mother pulsing from you. What has happened here in this chamber? The first of them came and spoke aloud to all who were now in attendance.

“All who are now in this chamber have been witness to an event that will happen only once in all the long history of our people. She had been blessed directly by Berronar who came to stand before us all in this chamber and pledged our nation to her need.” With that the squads who had followed Stonefist into the chamber all knelt and placed their free hand to their hearts.

Georgia slowly turned to take in what was happening and this pledge of allegiance to her and their need. The room began to spin as she tried to comprehend it all. Then Georgia overwhelmed by everything that had just took place simply collapsed in place and crumbled to the floor. Silviano and Elysian were immediately at her side. Silviano gave deference to Elysian who he knew had great skills and knowledge around the healing arts. Stonefist barked some orders to the guard who surrounded her to form a ring of iron and steel not knowing yet what had happened here.

The consul members were all gathered around them standing within the circle formed by Stonefist and his platoon of men. The older one was watching Elysian as he applied his art to her. Elysian looked up and asked them if there was somewhere they could take her for comfort and privacy. She would need time as he sensed she had collapsed due to the emotional strain of having been confronted with so much so quickly. He said that her unique abilities of sensory had also left her open to this and we were still not sure what changes had taken place because of her being touched directly by Berronar, mother of all dwarves.

The eldest and first of them said softly to Elysian and Stonefist, “bring her to my chambers. She can recover there. You will have the room you require, and I will take up residence elsewhere so she may recover privately.” He paused briefly thinking then spoke again, “I will have my servants attend to her needs as you see fit Elysian and Silviano.” He then looked at Stonefist and asked, “can you gently take our lady to my quarters? Please be sure to provide whatever she needs.”

Stonefist replied, “It will be done as you have asked. You are welcome to stay with me and my family if you need temporary accommodation until she’s better.” The first counselor responded, “thank you, my friend.” With that Stonefist ordered that they bring something to transport her to his quarters. Several of them responded at once and left the room to gather what was needed.

It did not take long for them to return and gently place Georgia upon a stretcher that had been softened with soft warm furs. They carefully picked her up and laid her upon it gently wrapping her in the warm fur. They carried her to the first consul’s bed chamber and transferred her to the bed. The servants had already prepared things for their arrival with her. There Elysian and Silviano went into action to make her comfortable and then Silviano offered to take up the first watch over her. Elysian thanked him as he was still worn from the earlier efforts and needed more time to recover.

The lady servants of his house stayed close by and attended the needs of both Elysian and Silviano. They whispered to each other in soft tones and would glance over at Georgia when the chance was there as they had already heard the wondrous story of the blessing of the one that had taken place in their consul chambers.

As Georgia laid there, she fell into a deep state of dreams where there were many confusing events of the past days. They were played out in front of her as if she had hit a time loop where all the events that had recently occurred stood there for her review. She sensed there was something there, they were all trying to show her. The one thing she picked up through this was that for some reason there was some unknown importance place on her. Something that others were aware of, but she was not. In fact, what she had believed was just kindness being shown to her in the beginning was something altogether different.

It was a reverence of sort as if she were someone very special in a way that demanded their instant respect and deference to her needs. She needed to get to her father and have him tell her the truth of what was really going on. There was new urgency concerning it especially after this other being, some deity of some type had come upon the chamber and reached directly into her and touched her heart. She knew that to be true as a connection to her was established in such as way to allow her a knowledge that what was happening had the attention of the deities
themselves.

She sensed that something had changed but was unsure of what it was but had not lost her understanding that she was related to some future yet to play out that was important for the outcome of the races here in the kingdom. She seemed to have reached a point in her assessment to understand there were things taking place around and to her that were being hidden for a purpose. One that would become known once she and her father were reunited.

With that knowledge she began to settle down finally and to rest now in earnest. She drifted into a dreamless state where she would have time to recover without being bothered by all this emotional upheaval. Silviano sensed the change in her breathing and noticed she was sleeping better now. He grabbed her hand and held it keeping watch over her as she slept. Elysian had come back to the bed chamber and spoke to Silviano, “something had been accepted by her, she is now resting and no longer struggles against the stream of events that has played out over these last couple of days.”

Silviano nodded and asked, “have we done the right thing, have we made the right decisions to withhold so much from her?” Elysian never hesitated, “It is not for us to say, we are but the supporting cast in a play that has been scripted by the gods themselves. We, including her father, all play our parts and try our best to be there for her. So, when she arrives at her destination, she will know there are those who will always be there for her if she needs us.”

With that he turned and returned to his own sleeping quarters as the last days had taken it tole on him and he also needed to rest so he could replenish that which he had given up of himself while assisting them in this journey to protect her, to ensure her safe return to her father.

The evening had passed without further incident, and all rested in the capital of this once great kingdom thriving below the surface world for time beyond recorded history by man. It was here that a spark was lit that would change not just a nation, but a kingdom and set the course of the future of races throughout this land.

Once morning came Georgia began to stir and to come out of her much-needed recovery. She slowly opened her eyes to find Silviano tentatively watching her waiting for her to wake up completely before speaking. She raised her hand to reach out to him, he took it and squeezed it gently to let her know he was there. She softly asked him, “Can you get me some water please, I am quite thirsty.” He signaled to someone at the edge of her viewing. A female dwarf came over and said to Georgia, what is it you need my lady?” Silviano told her she needed some water if she would.

Before leaving though Georgia reached out to her and ask her to lean closer. She did so and Georgia said, “You are beautiful, I have never seen any of your kind before and didn’t realize how beautiful the females were.” She quietly blushed and said, “Thank you my lady, let me go and get you your water.”

She returned with the water and Silviano had helped her to sit up in the bed now propped up by some large pillows behind her leaning against the ornate stone headboard of the bed. She took a few sips and then cleared her throat. She asked Silviano, “How long have I been out?” He replied, “A solid day my lady. You had us quite worried for a while.”

Georgia then asked, “Where am I? Whose home is this?” Silviano replied, “The first counselor has allowed us to use his home while you recover.” Georgia took a few more sips of the water and then asked, “Where is he staying?” He stays at the home of Stonefist with his family. They appear to be close friends.

She smiled at that and then asked, “Silviano could you send for Stonefist and the first counselor? I wish to say something to them.” Silviano responded, let me get Elysian first, I believe he will want to examine you to make sure you are okay before allowing a visit to occur.” She smiled and said, “What are you waiting for, go and get him. It’s important that I speak to Stonefist and the first counselor.”

He called out again and asked the young lady to go and fetch Elysian. Tell him she is awake and asking to speak with others.” She said, “At once, sir” She then left the room. Georgia continued to sip the water then looked at Silviano and said, “Thank you my friend for staying with me. I am sure you have not left my side knowing you.” He smiled and responded, “I am here always for you, my lady.”

Elysian then entered the room and came to her bedside. He asked Georgia if he might examine her a bit, it would not hurt but he needed to communicate with her through sense to understand where she stood in her recovery. She smiled and nodded yes. She then closed her eyes waiting for him to reach out and touch her mind. It did not take long. He responded immediately, “My lady, something has changed, there is a new depth and breadth I sense beyond anything I have known as it applies to our sensory abilities.”

She forced the closure then and spoke to him plainly, “Yes, Elysian you are correct. She, the mother, reached into me and touched my heart of hearts. Not the physical but the spiritual version of it.” He pondered for a minute thinking about what she had just conveyed. He then said, “I will allow you the visit, but you must keep it short until you have had more time to recover your complete strength. I would suggest you eat something too once you feel up to it.” She looked at Silviano and asked, “Can you see if they will allow you access to their kitchens? I would like what you served me the first time the morning after I came down for breakfast after our first meeting.”

He smiled at this and said, “I will return soon with your food, please try and rest in the meantime. Elysian will stay here until I return should you need anything. Elysian took up residence in the seat Silviano occupied. He asked for her cup and filled it with more water for her to drink. She took it and drank a few more sips then set it down.

She closed her eyes and began to retrace some of what occurred in the audience chamber, it was not what was seen by others but what she had felt when in close contact with the mother deity of the dwarven nation. She remembered feeling an unending love from her and a knowledge that she and others of her kind were watching over her and those accompanying her.

She knew what had happened to her was necessary for some future yet to unfold and she would not know what it was until that day came when it would be needed. A tear formed and dripped from her eye to roll down her cheek. Elysian reached out and caught it as it fell and said to her. “I know this has been hard for you, but know we are here, Silviano and I as well as others too I sense to help you reach your journey’s end.”

He handed her a silk hanky that she accepted and gently wiped her cheek and eyes with it. It wasn’t long before Silviano returned to servants trailing behind him and a complete set of meals for all of them in attendance. She said thank you Silviano, it smells bring back such happy memories from the morning of that day.

After they finished breakfast, Georgia asked the one servant she had befriended if there was somewhere she could bathe and refresh herself. She turned to Silviano and Elysian and asked, “Sirs, is it okay if I draw the water for her to prepare the bath?” Georgia was surprised by this deference to them vs. acting on what her request had been. They both nodded their approval and asked if there was also some change of clothing that they could find to fit her. She replied, “Of course sirs, I believe we can accommodate that.”

She then turned to Georgia and replied at last to her, “If you would follow me my lady, we shall prepare your bath and measure you quickly for some new attire.” Georgia stood slowly, allow herself to test her recovery and then followed.

Once they were in private, Georgia asked her as she measured her, and the bath was prepared by some other ladies of the house. “Why is that you deferred to the two gentlemen with me when I asked you a question.” She responded, “Oh, I forgot that you are not familiar with our customs. We always are bound to the men of authority here in our society. We can of course do many things during our daily business but as it relates to anything or anyone of importance, we must ask permission first.” She thought briefly and then added, “It has always been this way in our culture for thousands of years.”

Georgia replied, “Thank you for helping me to understand your life here. It is important that I do so I can better understand how to work within it while I am here.” She curtsies to Georgia, “I am honored that you find my help of assistance to you, my lady.” If you would follow me, I believe your bath is ready now.” They walked a short distance to a doorway where two ladies waited, they drew open the doors and there beyond was the largest bath Georgia had ever seen. It was quite ornate with water flowing into it hot and steamy and wonderful scents of perfumed flowers rising from the steamy waters.

One of the ladies then said, if you would my lady disrobe and enter the bath shall attend you and clean your hair for you and prepare you for a relaxing stay in the tub. She was not sure of this as she was quite modest, but she didn’t want to offend them or their culture in any way. One of the ladies raised a large towel to hide her modesty as she disrobed and followed her into the bath. She kept her hidden until she had sat down amongst the bubbles and water that came up almost to her shoulders. They said to her, “If you would my lady, please lean your head over the cleaning pool over in that corner.” They followed her to the corner and Georgia laid back and let her hair flow over the side into another pool of clean running water.

The ladies never took their clothes off but worked in the tub without being concerned about how wet they were getting. They began pouring some type of perfumed warm soap over her head and then used their hands to massage and clean her hair and scalp. Once they were done, they turned on a separate faucet that they used to get clean water and rinse her air. This was done one more time and they said to her. “We are going to leave you to relax now. If we may suggest that corner is lower and has a curved seat that will allow you to lean back and rest while the water and oils soak and relax you.”

They paused a moment and then one of them continued, “There is a pull located over there. Just pull it when you are done, and we will come back to help attend you to get you dressed in your new attire. Once the ladies were gone and door shut to the room, Georgia got up and moved to the seat they had suggested she use. She eased herself down and laid her head back to relax.

It was not long before she had fallen sound asleep again. In time there was a light tap on the door. A voice called out, “My lady, are you okay, the gentlemen are concerned about your welfare.” She awoke and realized she had fallen asleep again. She responded, “Tell them I am okay, I had fallen asleep it seems. I shall be ready shortly to get dressed. Just give me a moment to prepare.”

Georgia rose and stepped up and out of the bath water. She found a soft robe that once she had dried herself, she wrapped herself in it and tied the ties shut to keep it close. Then she pulled the rope and they ladies came back in with some clothes for her to wear. She waited and they came over and laid out some undergarments first for her. They said, “We will wait while you prepare yourself in these. You can use that dressing wall to stand behind them until you are clothed again in them.” Georgia thanked them and took the garments to the space behind the divider. She found a table and some hooks for her to lay out the garments as she fitted them on. She then hung the robe on the hook and told them she was ready for the rest of the clothes.

They came to her and asked her to raise her hands above her head. They stood on a stool since Georgia stood quite a bit taller than them although she realized the women were taller than the men were. They slipped a silky soft garment over her head and pulled her arms down through the sleeves. Once they were done the asked her to position her hands out front and they slipped another very elegant dress of some type onto her and the brought it around to the rear where they began to weave an elegant set of ties from her lower back to the middle. The shoulder area was left open.Afterwards they approached her with a long robe that was worn like a mantel but had a long flowing cape attached to it that flowed to her ankles. When they were done, they said, “if you would follow us into the dressing room, Silviano is ready to prepare your hair for the evening since he is more familiar with your traditions then we are.”

She acknowledged them and followed them into the next room. There Silviano was waiting with brushes and combs in hand and an elegant nightstand with full mirrors amongst a brightly lit area ready for her. He smiled at her and said, “Please Georgia, sit here and I will prepare your hair for the evening. They have prepared a special night to celebrate tonight.”

She sat down and Silviano went to work on her hair. He was using his magic as a hairdresser to prepare her for the evening. When she was done, he handed her a large hand mirror and slowly rotated her around to allow her to view herself. She gasped and said, “Silviano, where did these clothes come from, they are as beautiful as those you had given me the night, I first met the Duchess?”

He smiled and told her, “They made them for you while you were bathing and sleeping.” She replied, “The made all of this in that little bit of time?” He responded, “Yes, my lady, they are an industrious people and have learned ways of doing things from living here for so long. It is part of who they are, you likely noticed evidence of it and how busy they all appear to be all the time.”

She took out her hand, he took it and assisted her up. And escorted her to where they were to dine that evening. He told her along the way that those of their society that had influence would there tonight so be prepared for questions and look to me or Elysian should you feel you need assistance to respond to anything.

As they neared a set of doors, where the two guards that had been guarding the council chambers stood, she noticed their eyes lit up when they saw her dressed in traditional dwarven royal clothing. They bowed and opened the door for her and the room beyond was a hub of flowing people with tables, food, drink, and music.

As she entered Silviano whispered to her wait with me here for a moment. There was the sound of horns blowing a sweet announcement to the chamber and all turned their heads towards where Silviano and Georgia stood. He of the first counsel then came and stood in the center of the room announcing the following. “My honored guest, she who has been blessed by the all mother is here to join us for dining, song, and dance. Please show her the honor she most certainly deserves.

Silviano leaned towards her and said follow my lead please. She acknowledged him with a slight nod of her head. They began to walk forward the musicians began to play something that sounded like it would be played for visiting royal dignitaries. As she walked down towards the central seating area. The crowd began to bow as she approached each group and passed them. Her emotions were beginning to spin from all that was going on before her and Silviano reached over to her said, “steady now. We shall be seated soon so you can be more comfortable and less noticed.”

She continued to smile and focused on some inner place of calmness within her. She began to recenter herself and was able to make her way to the seating without incident. Silviano brought her around to a seat that had plush pillows set up to make her comfortable and said please, I will be sitting right beside you.

As she sat down the rest of those in attendance found their places and sat down as well. A bell was rung, and the food and drink began to be brought before them. Silviano, had spoken to the chefs beforehand and so when they came to serve her the food was all something Georgia felt she could handle. After all, she was still recovering from the events leading up to this moment. The music and entertainment continued through the meal, and she found herself at last able to relax again and find her calm center. It was a wonderful evening of new experiences for her. When all was done and the food cleaned up from the tables, many were given an opportunity to come and say a few words of encouragement to Georgia.

When the last of them filed by the first counselor stood up and asked that everyone outside of the inner counsel and Stonefist say their good nights to the lady. He said, “we have important business to discuss with her and she is still tired from the ordeal of the last couple of days.” After they had left, the small company of council members and Stonefist came and sat down close to her. The tables had been quickly arranged in a circle where all could be said comfortably without having to raise their voices.

Silviano had a pot of coffee brought and poured a cup for Georgia. “It’s your favorite”, she nodded her appreciation and then calmed her inner self before speaking. “First counselor, council members and Stonefist. I appreciate all that you have done for me since my arrival. It shall always be remembered with the dearest affection.” There appeared to be quite approval of her statement amongst those there.

She now moved toward the hard part. “First let me say I will keep this as short as possible and ask that you respect my wishes by doing the same this evening as I tire quickly after the event of this past day since arriving here.” There was a slight murmur amongst some of them, but she said, “I assure you I will be fine once I have time to recover from a full night’s rest. “This is important so please listen closely. When she, the mother of all had come upon the chamber she did something to me, it was nothing you could see but something I felt.” She had their attention now and not a sound could be heard outside of their breathing.

She then continued, “She touched my heart of hearts, and something changed in me, but with it she left this message for not only you but for all nations that will be part of the coming kingdom. “She had noticed that Elysian was now listening closely, hanging on to every word she said. She then said here is the message, “Here the oracle of truth has arrived, that which our nation has waited for beyond time measure has now been fulfilled. The hearts of the true shall stand beside her, the paths that are before us are no longer hidden but burn brightly with that which she carries with her.”

Georgia paused again, looking briefly around the tables. She then continued, “She is the circle complete, the gem untarnished. Within her is the future of a nation that shall rise for all people and all races, it shall be one heart, one truth and with it will come peace, compassion for all, and honor to bind us to each other.” She paused a moment, closing her eyes and tears began to flow from both her eyes but they were all held spellbound by her words and did not move to interrupt or act. She then said, “There are those that would not have this truth be fulfilled and they are arrayed against her and any who stand with her.”

“Depending on the choices that are made, there might be much loss and sadness for this omen to come to fruition. You who are the first race must be prepared for what is to come, but if you stand in honor with her, you will see the dreams of this nation and all others come into the light.” Her banner will be the ring, an unbroken circle known to us all and when it is placed at last upon her head, a beautiful future for all will be in place for a long time beyond remembering.”

When she completed the last of this, there was warm light that shown from her again as it had that day in the chamber and all those who had not been there that day then knew what had been said was true, she had been blessed by the all mother and they all lowered the heads in reference to her.

She turned to Silviano and asked please, return me to my chambers. He rose immediately and Stonefist was by her side at once. She turned for all to hear, “I name Stonefist here and now, my first commander, as I read his heart to be true and would have him at my side for the coming journey. “He bowed to her and lowered his head and she place her hand upon him and said, “No truer heart will be found in the coming strife that stands before us.” She then turned her gaze to Stonefist and said, “please come and setup whatever guard is required of those you trust.”

She then turned back to the audience in the dining area and “said there will be much ahead to be done, we will continue tomorrow once I have had time to recover more. Please forgive me as I must retire.” She turned and looked at each one in attendance and connected directly to their hearts so they would know what was said was true. She then rotated on her heels and began to walk out of the chamber with Stonefist and a contingent of guards both leading and behind her and her small company of Elysian and Silviano.

When she arrived back at the chamber, she said please have the ladies come and help me prepare for bed. I hate to ask it my old friend, but would you stay by my side this night and help to watch over me?” Silviano nodded yes. The ladies streamed in and began to lead her to the bed chamber where they quickly prepared her and made sure she was resting comfortably before allowing others in the chamber. Stonefist came and stood guard in her chamber off to the side close to where Elysian sat.

There in the room with her sat the small group who pondered that they now knew they were caught up in some grand adventure. One unique to their lifetimes. One that none of those present in the room with her had foreseen. Silviano wondered to himself, “How much of this had her father known, it was not a secret that her gift had in part come from him.” He then thought, “only time will tell once we reunite her with him to see how the rest of this plays out.

Her surprise at seeing the guard posted when she opened the door at the bottom of the stairs was not unfounded. He stood there wide awake and said, “Good morning my lady, I had someone tell me you were an early riser. My apologies if I startled you.” She smiled, responded with a quiet voice. “Good morning, would you like a cup of hot coffee or is that against protocol?” He responded, “Thank you my lady, I would appreciate it very much.” She began a light version of her morning routine, as she had planned on getting an early start to the day.

As she worked on a fresh pot of coffee, fixing it with the same ingredients, Silviano had taught her. She then began cooking a small breakfast. The smells of breakfast began to fill the room with the same tantalizing hints of something wonderful being made up that Silviano always had in his meal preparation. Georgia had learned well the lessons Silviano taught her about his cooking. As she had everything in motion, she prepared her travel bag that she kept hanging in the storage room. This was a small room located off the kitchen for convenient access. Most often it was used to store fresh ingredients she purchased from the local farmers and stored in this room in preparation of the meals.

This morning though, it was to be used for a different purpose as she prepared to journey to her father’s location to discover what this was all about. She used it to prepare her travel bag with some key ingredients that would travel well with her without spoiling. These could be used for preparing light but tasty meals each evening during the trip. It would keep her from having to forage for them wasting time after a long day’s journey on the road. When she returned from the storage room with the bag slung around her shoulder, she was not surprised to see Silviano already checking on breakfast and coffee. She nodded to him and continued her work towards preparing for her journey.

Silviano, poured three cups of coffee. Completed the work on breakfast. He took one of the cups to the guard, and then set it and two plates of breakfast for himself and Georgia. He hadn’t said much to her yet as he was waiting for her to begin the conversation. After they both sat down, Georgia took a few bites of the breakfast, several small sips of the coffee then asked. “I see you’re planning on traveling somewhere today by your ware. Are you planning on accompanying the Duchess on her return trip home?”

He responded, “I see you too have made your decision and have prepared to travel to your father.” She continued with her breakfast, took some more sips of her coffee then said, “Yes! I made my decision minutes after returning to my room last night.” He said, “I assumed you had, so I am prepared to go with you.” She was not surprised by this but asked, but what about my inn, who will attend to its needs and those of my guests and patrons if both of us are gone?” Silviano responded, “The Duchess, captain and I spoke last night before retiring to bed.

She insisted that I travel with you to ensure you reach your father without incident. She also said that the staff in attendance last night would stay to manage the inn in both our absences.” She waited a moment, spoke to him, and said, “I appreciate the offer. But I can assure you I am more than capable of defending myself if that is something that needed to be done.” He responded, “The Duchess put it in a non-negotiable statement to me. I know when not to argue with her on something she’s made up her mind to.”

Her response was to exhale, take a few more bites, finish her coffee, stand up, grab her bag. She then turned as she neared the door to the common room. She said to him, “Okay Silviano, are you coming, I want to get started early. I have a lot of questions for my father once we reach him. I hope you’re prepared to travel at a fast pace?” He responded, “Yes, Georgia, you set the pace, I’ll be there right alongside of you.”

With that they exited the kitchen. She took a moment to take in the common room where she had spent so much of her life growing up. It was in this inn that she had been educated, learned to work, and manage the inn, and some of her most important lessons, being of service to others. She had her father to thank for these lessons and the careful choices he made to help her learn the lessons she needed before he announced his departure.

She then walked to the front door and was not surprised to find the captain waiting with two horses for them. The captain bowed to her then said. “My lady, Silviano, all is ready, may your travels go well and my lady, may your reunion be joyful with your father.” She thanked the captain, mounted up, then said to the captain. “Please extend my gratitude to the Duchess for all that she’s done for me. I will not forget her kindness. “

The captain said, “Be assured I will let her know.” He looked at Silviano then and she noticed that something passed unsaid between them. A message of concern but also one of confidence. She thought to herself, “I’ll asked him about this after our first stop for the evening.” They headed out of the town where she had grown up. She had spent much of her adult life here too and knew every road and trail in town and the surrounding area.

With that and a quick final glance at the town, she set a fast pace with her picking a road rarely traveled by others. This was to ensure no one would see them leaving. Off they went and as they rode further away, the landscape began to change. The familiar houses and streets of the town disappeared behind them, replaced by the untouched beauty of nature.

The road they were on was narrower, its path twisting and turning as it moved through a dense forest. Sunlight filtered through the lush canopy overhead, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadows. Birds sang in the trees and the scent of flowers filled the air. This was a part of the land that Georgia had always found breathtaking.

Silviano rode close behind her, keeping an eye out for any potential dangers. Though they had both traveled these types of paths before, countless stories had been told of people encountering mysterious creatures in the woods. It was essential to be prepared for anything. As the day wore on and the sun began to dip below the horizon, they decided to set up camp in a small clearing they found beside a creek. Silviano built a fire while Georgia collected water to refill their canteens. With their campsite ready, they sat together and enjoyed a modest meal they had prepared beforehand.

As the night settled in, surrounded by flickering firelight, Georgia finally turned to Silviano and asked, “So, what was that exchange between you and the captain before we left? It seemed like there was something unspoken.” Silviano hesitated for a moment before answering. He met her gaze with a serious expression. “The captain wanted me to keep a close eye on you, not just for your protection, but to prevent anyone from following or reaching out to you.

There are rumors of people who may not be happy about your departure or your father’s identity. The captain trusts me to handle any such encounters.” Georgia thought quietly about the words Silviano had selected and then asked something not immediately realized. “What is it about my father’s identity that concerns the captain? My father is just a property owner and traveler out to fulfill some held over boyhood dream to travel the lands and learn more about her people. Why would anyone be concerned about someone like that? There is nothing to be gained.”

Silviano immediately realized that he had given this very insightful lady more than he had intended. He recovered quickly though by responding to Georgia with the following: “Your father in the past, before you were born had become very good friends and close to the Duchess and others of the court. There are those that are jealous of his relationship with them and might use it to gain some advantage over the Duchess or others within the royal court.”

Georgia had listened closely to Silviano response trying to perceive any hint of deception. She had not but wanted to know more about this as her father had never spoken about it to her. “My father had never said a word concerning any of this to me, why is it that he would not want to share with his daughter something as wonderful as a relationship with royals?” Georgia paused to consider something briefly, “I mean we were just simple townsfolk working an inn and helping to provide a good night’s stay and a hot meal to our guests and patrons.”

Silviano reached out to touch Georgia’s hands and said, “The courts of the royals have long been an area of concern for those who are trying to do the right thing. There are many who would use that power to their own advantage, both of monetary value and of gaining political power.” He paused briefly and then finished his thoughts by stating, “Without people who are willing to take up the guard of what is good and right, many innocents might suffer without ever knowing why by those whose only concern are their position in society and how they are perceived by others.”

Georgia appeared to be ready to ask more but Silviano stopped her questioning further by saying, “Any more than what I’ve told you is not for me to say, only your father can provide you with the answers you seek. I ask you with all sincerity to reserve them for once we bring you and him together for your reunion.” Georgia had picked up the conversation might reach this point of an impasse. She nodded her redundant agreement and ended the questioning with, “My father has a lot to explain once we are reunited.” Silviano simply acknowledged her statement and began to steer the conversation away from the questioning of stories of his life growing up as a child of a servant to the royal court.

They both spent the rest of the night in deep conversation, swapping stories and recounting past experiences. Georgia reminisced about her time spent at the inn, the laughter and friendships, and the struggles they faced together. Silviano shared tales of his adventures during the years he spent away from the court as well but always returned to the service of the Duchess in her court.

Georgia reached out to him before retiring and said to Silviano, “Thank you for being honest with me. Together, we will face whatever challenges come our way until we reach my father.” Silviano thoughtfully responded, “I am here for you and committed to your welfare as we journey to your reunion with your father.” With that they knew it was late and time to retire, Silviano stepped into the shadows taking up a place beyond the bright light of the fire to better see into the night around them just in case.

Georgia grabbed her night bedding off the horse, spread it out in front of the fire and fell asleep exhausted from the days ride. The emotional turmoil resulting from the answers she was receiving to the questions she had asked of Silviano that evening had added to her exhaustion. Those responses were beginning to weave a puzzle of a life beyond what she knew growing up.

The next day, they rose early and set out once more on their journey. Their path took them through rolling hills and vast fields, as the shadows of distant mountains fell ever closer. They pressed on with determination, Georgia eager to uncover the secrets of her past, and Silviano devoted to protecting his cherished friend.

With every step they took, the mysteries of Georgia’s heritage unfolded before them, and the two friends marveled at how their lives had become entwined by destiny. As they traveled further into the unknown, they knew deep in their hearts that whatever awaited them, they would face it side by side. It was on the last day of their journey to the capital city where the Duchess, Silviano, and the Captain had all three confirmed that her father would be waiting for her that trouble had arrived at this uneventful journey thus far.

They neared a bend in a heavily wood section before the road straightened out to open to the first of the pastoral lands surrounding the capital city of the kingdom. There was a band of harden looking men who appeared to be waiting for them. There was no attempt to harm them at this point, but it was clear that they could go no further as the woodland surrounding the road, they traveled in was dense and hard to travel through, especially with horses.

A well-built man of about six foot in height, two hundred and ten pounds or so and armed with both long sword and bow held out his hand for them to stop. He called out to them, and said, “Stop, your journey towards the capital ends here!” He then waited and Silviano who had caught Georgia’s look of surprise responded, “I see, and what do you propose happen at this point?”

The man laughed and said, “Well Silviano, you have two choices, the first is the easier one and less hazardous to your health. The second one would be an unwise decision for you and your traveling companion.” Silviano replied, “I assume the least hazardous choice is for us to turn around and return to the town we came from?” The man responded, “Yes, that is correct and to ensure your safety, we will accompany you back to offer our protection and make sure you arrive back there unharmed.”

He then laughed with a booming ruckus from those who were apparently surrounding them in the wooded area directly in front and beside them. Georgia had been quietly accessing her surroundings and looking for an opportunity to change the game afoot if she could. Silviano then responded to the man, “I see, well it appears we are undone then; we will take you up on your offer of protection and return home.”

The man who had been speaking to them whistled and two more men appeared along the roadside, he spoke to them and told them to let the others know we were preparing to escort these two back from where they came. Georgia saw her opportunity and had been given the time to sense the others of the company were further down the road towards the open lands beyond waiting with their horses and possibly at the camp they had settled into waiting for her and Silviano to appear.

She raised her hands as if adjusting her hair, with a flash of precision she flicked the two sharp hair pins at the two who had shown themselves beside the other man’s position. The pins flew at blinding speed and penetrated the necks of both men hurting them enough to grab their neck and stumble. At that same moment before Silviano or the man blocking the road could react, she drove her horse full speed at the ruffian and left one of her long knives buried in his shoulder. She knew this would prevent him from using his long bow against them as they began the chase towards the open lands and beyond.

It did not take long for Silviano to pick up the pulse of her actions and they both spun past the three men who had tried to block their forward motion knocking the main man and one of the side men over with the weight of their horses. The man with the bow knew he could not use it with that darn long knife buried in his shoulder and called out ahead sending out the alarm that something was not right, and his men should prepare for a break from these two.

Georgia had taken the lead and Silviano who was coming up the from the rear was trying to get the lead to protect her, but Georgia was using her sense to guide her now and had it turned on one hundred percent living on pure instinct and the foresight her ability gave her. She had sensed a doe and her fawn running quickly away on a small trail that veered off a hundred yards from the opening to the land beyond the woods where his other men had gathered to block their way.

They saw them coming and prepared to stop them with weapons drawn, but before they could do anything she jumped the horse over a small creek and found the trail the deer had used. She was using her senses now to follow the direction the deer were running in as she knew by instinct, they would be running towards protection away from all of this. Silviano was amazed at how graceful of a rider she was and how fast and accurate her ability had been with those pin knives she threw at the two on the side of the road. He smiled to himself thinking, “No wonder the towns people felt she could hold her own against any trouble that came up at the inn.”

Georgia had lost all sense of anything beyond the deer and the trail they ran down allowing her sense of everything else fade temporarily. Silviano, who was adept at riding, had given up trying to get the lead and determined to let her continue to protect her from the rear since that was the most likely direction that any danger would come from. As they rode on, Georgia sensed something ahead, a formation of stones located and forgotten about long ago deep in the heavily wooded areas. She sensed something else too ahead. Something familiar to her.

“Hmm, was it him she began to think”, but before the thought could be finished, they arrived and a man with a covered hood appeared and waved them towards the circle of stones. She knew then it was Elysian, “what and how did he know where to be”, she thought to herself. He threw back his hood so they would both recognize him and then waved an intricate weave of runic symbols in the air around the circle of stones. The stones began to glow, and a large doorway of stone and earth opened in the floor of the forest where the stones stood.

He waved them into the opening and as they entered the downward sloping path with their horses, the stones around them lit up to light the way. Once all three were within the underground area. He said something and the opening closed again as if it had never been there. He whispered to them to hold their questions. He asked, “Please be quiet until I sense the party has gone beyond this area and we are safe to speak freely again. Georgia and Silviano both nodded their agreement. Georgia then absently began to gently caress the horse to communicate calmness and thankfulness for his willingness to obey her commands during the daring escape.

Elysian finally spoke softly, “I believe it is safe to speak now. Your pursuers have passed beyond this location for now. It will amuse me for a while to know they are not exactly sure of how they lost you. I am sure they understand the price would be high for their failure from whoever it was that hired them.”

There was silence in the room under the earth momentarily. Elysian then continued, “Georgia my dear, you would make a formidable Druid indeed, if it were not for your already ordained destiny I would try and persuade you to come study alongside of me. I am impressed by your skills.” Silviano spoke up then, “They shall be worried about us if we don’t continue our journey soon. Is there a way to get a message to them to inform them of our difficulties delaying our arrival?”

Elysian replied, “It is already done, I knew of the danger and came quickly. I had just arrived when I sensed Georgia reaching out with her insight and probing for an opportunity to escape your untimely predicament.” Silviano replied, “I see, thank you once again Elysian for your assistance in helping to get our lady to her much-needed meeting with her father.” Elysian responded, “I like you, are committed to her welfare Silviano; you know that.”

They left her room and went towards the stairway. Upon descending the creaking wooden stairs Georgia’s heart pounded in anticipation. Her fingers delicately pushed open the heavy oak door, revealing the magnificent common room, a room transformed by the magic of the evening. The sight that greeted her was delightful; another man and women had joined the festivities. He was playing the lute and a lady accompanied him with a flute. It’s melodies harmonize with the song into a captivating duet.

The room was full of light and smells. The last of the sun’s golden rays poured through the windows, illuminating the room in a warm embrace. The air was full of the delightful aroma of sweet berries and wildflowers and the glittering candles near the roaring fireplace mesmerized Georgia like an enchanted scene from a forgotten fairy tale.

As she stepped out, the front door creaked open, and a group of disciplined guardsmen came in walking with measured steps. One man, adorned in the proud colors of his authority, surveyed the room with a keen eye. He then called out with a clear voice and proclaimed, “Ah, Silviano, I see you have everything ready in superb fashion. We so miss your talents back at the court.”

The man adorned in his prestigious regalia, approached Georgia and with a respectful bow, he took her hand and gently raised it to kiss it. He then proclaimed, “I take it you must be lady Georgia, he said with a smooth but respectful tone.” Blushing, Georgia shook her head, politely correcting him, “Thank you, captain, I am presuming, but please, call me Georgia if you would. I cannot claim to have always been a lady.”

His laughter rang through the room like a silver bell before he replied, “By your command Georgia, it shall be as you ask.” He said please, the Duchess will be in shortly.” With a courteous gesture, he guided both Silviano and Georgia to the plush sitting area that had been arrange for the Duchess and her company near the fireplace. It wasn’t long before the first of her company entered the room. The ladies of the court, all dressed in elegant gowns came into the room with their silk caps rustling with grace behind them.

After the others came in finally the Duchess appeared. She looked as if she had arrived at the court freshly from her home. There was not a trace of her journey marred upon her perfectly attired figure. She walked directly over to where Georgia stood and with a warm smile, she gathered her hands into hers and looked deeply into her eyes and said softly, “My dear, you resemble your mother so much.” Turning to Silviano.

The Duchess expressed her gratitude for his care of Georgia. “I see you have taken good care of her since your arrival. We appreciate it my dear. We will ensure you receive an extra good word with the court when the right time appears.” Silviano bowed deeply, a smile lighting his face and said, “Thank you Duchess, it has been a real pleasure getting to know her since my arrival here. Her father has taken excellent care of her and prepared her as well. Of course, we expected nothing less.”

As the sounds of music and laughter filled the enchanted common room, this extraordinary evening was only just beginning. For Georgia, it felt as if a wondrous new world was opening before her very eyes. Silviano noticing Georgia was captivated by the evening took advantage of the opportunity to whisper to the Duchess, “If I may be so bold to ask for a word in privacy with you before the evening festivities begin in full?” She nodded, held out her hand to him. Silviano took it and said, “if you please let’s speak outside in the garden for a moment.”

The gardens were Georgia most prize possession. They were immaculately maintained and provided a sanctuary of serenity for her and her guest at the inn. It was a masterpiece indeed and had been decorated with illuminated lamps that the town lamplighter would come maintain and ensure they were lit each evening. As Silviano left with the Duchess, he turned and winked at Georgia. Then said to the captain and ladies, “Please entertain and keep our lady in good company. I need some time to address some business with the Duchess.” The captain responded, “It will be our delight to get to know, Georgia better.”

With that Silviano turned and walked the Duchess out the front door. They both walked over into the side gardens. Silviano guided the Duchess to the secluded gazebo enshrouded in blossoming flowers, where they engaged in a hushed conversation, the import of which was known only to them. Meanwhile back inside the inn. Georgia watched them walk out the door. But her internal alarms were beginning to break up the fairy tale atmosphere of the evening. She had allowed herself to be enchanted with the evening thus far but had a growing concern over what required Silviano and the Duchess to speak with such privacy.

Her thoughts got interrupted by the captain. He asked, “We have heard all the way back at the royal courts about this establishment. The famous proprietor who could fix the most wondrous meals. Kept the best and most comfortable inn for a hundred miles in any direction and maintained a garden that could match the beauty of those in the royal palace.”Georgia curtsied and said, “Nonsense, captain, I am sure there are others who can outdo what we in our modest way do here. This is just one of many sleepy little towns found throughout the kingdom, I am sure.”

The captain responded, “Ah, but I disagree with your exposé of this place and its reputation amongst those at the court. You see your father used to send the Duchess care packages with treats that you baked up yourself here in this very kitchen. They were always received with some expectations. All of those held in regard by the Duchess delighted in them.”

He then said, “Please do sit down and let’s have them bring us a glass of wine or your best ale if you would please.” She took his hand, and he led her to a table, pulled the chair out waiting for her to sit. The ladies jumped into action immediately arranging her gown. They were ensuring it did not get caught under the legs of the chair.

She was observing all this behavior and did not feel comfortable with treatment reserved for those of the royal courts. She decided there was nothing she could do at this time without causing a scene, so she let it go for now. Yet she thought there would be many questions with Mr. Tibbs later in the evening once everyone else had retired.

The captain distracted her by asking her. “Georgia, please tell us about some of your memories from when you were a child growing up with your father here?” The ladies all said, “Yes, please do, we would all love to hear them if you care to share them with us.” Despite her uneasiness, Georgia graciously entertained her newfound acquaintances, regaling them with vivid tales of her childhood escapades and the lessons her father had lovingly imparted to her. Engrossed in the conversation and surrounded by the soft melodies of the bards, time seemed to stand still as the evening progressed.

It was forty minutes after Silviano and the Duchess had retreated to the garden, they returned to join the others, their whispered conversation now a mystery known only to them. The patrons and guests, initially awestruck by the evening’s transformation, soon returned to their discussions and indulgence in the sumptuous meal. Normally they would have thought that only Georgia’s deftly skilled hand could prepare such a meal, but they wondered where she found the time considering how transformed she herself had become dressed in the most elegant gown with hair professionally prepared.

They observed that the inn had never witnessed such grandeur, let alone the town. It had come alive with laughter, music, and the spirit of trust and goodwill was present everywhere on this enchanted evening. Many of the towns people had mistaken Georgia as the Duchess on first glance. None of them had ever seen her in anything other than the grubs she wore each evening to work at the inn. She was transformed and as she intertwined with the world of the Duchess and her entourage, the evening took on the air of a fairy tale such as the mothers would read to their children at times.

All the patrons and guests received extra service tonight. There appeared to be some staff from the Duchess manor working at the inn tonight. They all saw how Georgia was kept busy with the handsome captain and the ladies in waiting.

The food was incredible along with the wine, but the day had worn Georgia down and she began to tire early in the evening. She finally asked, “Duchess, ladies, and captain, I hate to end this evening, but it is getting late, and I have some important decisions to make by tomorrow morning.

If I may excuse myself, I must get some rest before the morning begins and the inn demands my attention again.” The Duchess leaned over and whispered, “You do what you need to do. I’ll make sure the captain ensures no one disturbs your rest until the morning. Consider it an offering of thanks for the warm company and conversations tonight. “ She paused and then lowered her voice some to say, “It’s rare that the court finds such well-educated people to keep them company. It is especially so while traveling throughout the kingdom.”

Georgia quietly thought to herself, “the evening had begun as a fairy tale, but only time would tell what secrets and underlying motives lay beneath the polished veneer she sensed.” She then gracefully stood up and bowed to the Duchess saying, “Thank you Duchess. I will remember this evening and its company always with fond memory.”

With that she looked over to Silviano and offered her hand. He took it, stood, and said, “Please, let’s get you prepared for a good night’s rest.” Once Silviano and Georgia had left the area and were ascending the stairs. The Duchess said to the captain, “ensure there are guards posted tonight. Nothing is to disturb her rest, as she said, there are important decisions she must make by the morning.”

The captain barked out some orders. Some of the men took up positions near both stairways that led to the upper floors. He then turned back to the Duchess and quietly asked, “Does she know at all?” The Duchess hesitated before answering, her voice soft and thoughtful, “I sense she suspects something. Silviano, and her father are correct, her insight is working on a level all together beyond our own.”

She paused her eyes glancing over the townspeople before continuing, “I don’t believe she’s put all the pieces of the puzzle together yet. Her father will be able to provide her with that knowledge with the care it will need.” The captain agreed with a solemn nod, “Yes, we will all be resting better once that takes place.” He helped the Duchess up and said, “Come, the mayor should have vacated his home to us by now. Everything should be ready for your arrival.”

He took her hand, helped her to stand. Then escorted her out the door. Arrangements were in place for them to take over the town mayor’s home for the evening.” A negotiated agreement had been reached to assist the town with some much-needed repairs. It would help all the citizens of this place, so it was not considered a poor request to help the town with. They thought well of the mayor as he was asking that the compensation come in the form of assisting the town and not himself. He insisted that all who lived in it deserved the improvement. They thought it was only fair that they agree with his terms and were happy to oblige.

Georgia had a restless night full of dreams. Her dreams were vivid and unsettling, their murky shadows keeping her restless throughout the night. When morning finally broke, she felt exhausted and disoriented. Rising from the bed, she washed up a bit in the wash basin kept in her room. She got dressed in her traveling clothes. She then grabbed the trusty sword her father had made for her on her eighteenth birthday. She then slid her long knife in the gaiter, a sheath worn on the calf area of the leg.

Afterwards, she brushed out her hair. Georgia pinned it up finishing with hat pins that she had the blacksmith make for her. She remembered the conversation with him. “Are you asking me to do this to help manage the rare evenings when some of your guests drink a bit too much?” She had responded, “Let’s just say, protecting myself, while being discreet because she was a lady who manages an inn with a bar that serves drink as well as food can be hazardous to anyone’s health at times.”

She chuckled, moved to the door, cracked it a bit, saw no one and went stealthily to the back stairway. That stairway dropped down to the kitchen area. It had become a habit for her to use it in the mornings and avoid unwanted attention. Little did Georgia know that her path would soon cross with the Duchess and Captain Remington, entwining their fates amid a captivating story of intrigue, danger, and adventure.

Finally, the clock struck noon and the whirlwind of guests began to dissipate, Georgia found herself alone in the kitchen with Silviano, the lingering echoes of laughter and music filling the room like echoes of the moments of the entrancing morning caught up in memories. There would be many who might never forget this magical morning of food, drink, and song at the inn.

She headed back to the kitchen to begin the cleanup and start to think about the evening’s meals. There was a mountain of dishes from breakfast that she needed to begin working on before the lunch crowd rolled in later that afternoon. There were also rooms that still needed cleaning. But she would get to that after she spent some time speaking with Silviano.

As she began to round up dishes from each of the tables and brought them in for processing the left-over food that she fed to the wildlife that visited her gardens, Silviano came in and asked, “What are you doing? Don’t do that. I have help coming in today to perform those duties. They should be here any moment now.” She looked at him stunned for a moment but then said, “Help, I can’t afford help, I can’t afford you. How am I to have any hope of keeping this inn open along with the repairs that are sometimes needed?

There are of course my own needs, plus adding on your salary plus paying extra staff?” She brushed away a lock of hair from her face and waited for his response. Silviano responded, his eyes twinkling with an unspoken secret, simply reassured her that he would handle these matters from his own pockets. Her skeptical gaze was met with his unwavering confidence. He responded, “I have absolute trust in both your ability to continue running the inn and manage the expenses of maintaining its needs. You need not worry about these things; I am here to help.”

She began to protest but he quickly replied, “Please my lady, you do not need to concern yourself with taking on that burden.” She sat down on the stool close to the washing area where they cleaned the dishes. She then said, “I haven’t decided to take you on yet, have I? You and that Elysian are pushing me faster than I wish to go.” Silviano did not hesitate to respond, “If that is what you wish my lady, I will leave with the Duchess tomorrow. What message would you like for me to tell your father about his needs?”

She was stung by that, she paused a moment before she responded, “Is he in trouble Silviano?” He came over and sat down with her then and said, “You need to think broader than him, hmm, a little more worldly.” She responded, “Why can’t I get a clear answer from you or Elysian, always vague references?” He responded, “Because in this matter, it is for your father to tell you, not any of us. The most I can say is this is a family matter, not something either Elysian or I can or should interfere in.”

He paused, then continued. “We are trying to assist both of you, not make decisions and not force anything to happen either way.” She thought for a moment. “Okay, let me think it over tonight. I will give you my response in the morning.” He responded, “That should do fine, in the meantime we have a Duchess and her company to prepare for. We will have to rope off part of the common room for safety. Not that I am proposing that we should concern ourselves with the behavior of the locals. But appearances are important in this case.”

She said, “Don’t think the locals will be too happy with it but I can understand the concern and need. The easiest area would be close to the fireplace since that area is already isolated a bit from the rest of the room.” He responded, “I agree, let’s get started. We don’t have to worry about the lunch crowd as the pots are already full of the food to serve for that meal.” She replied, “Okay, I will let you have your way today, especially since the Duchess and her company are already on their way here. But tomorrow will be a new day and with it I will begin to make the decisions concerning this inn.”

Silviano accepted her position, “My lady that is a fair judgement, shall we continue to prepare as there is much to do before this evening and the arrival of our royal guests.” Georgia sat there for a while and stared off into empty air. She then stood up and went out to assist him with preparing the area for the Duchess. She and Silviano carefully re-positioned the tables and chairs and brought in some more from a storage building where extra tables, chairs and other items were stored for special occasions such as wedding celebrations.

Silviano came to her and interrupted her thoughts by saying, “My lady. Why don’t you go take some time for yourself. I have prepared a nice warm bath. Everything is ready for you. I will also leave you a surprise sitting in your room for when you’re done. Call me, once you’re dressed so we can get you ready before our special guest arrive.”

She reluctantly turned with a tear in her eye, “She said, “Thank you Silviano, I will take you up on your offer. I need some alone time.” He smiled, took her hand, and kissed it. She stood up, walked away towards the private bathing area. Then disappeared up the back stairway. She had this private stairway to the bathing area put in some time ago. There was a private hallway that led to her room once you were done bathing.

After climbing the stairs. She turned the knob to the bathing room and had a surprise waiting for her. The room was lit with the warm glow of scented candles. There were bubbles in the steamy bath water and a wonderful scent of rose petals was rising from them. She took off her dirty clothes. Let them stay where they dropped. Stepped up the stairs to the tub. Stepped down and immersed herself in the warm embracing steamy waters of the bath.

The water was full of different oils that both cleaned and softened her skin and her mood. She laid her head back against the slope of the tub, her thoughts began to swirl around to resemble the tendrils of steam rising from the warm waters. Time stretched and danced around her, and her anxieties melted away, leaving her with a newfound sense of courage, determination, and perhaps, a sliver of hope. With that thought she drifted off for a short while.

It didn’t seem that long, but she awoke to a gentle knock on the door. “Georgia, a reminder that you still need to get dressed. We also need to finish getting ready before the evening guest arrive.” She hadn’t realized she had rested that long, and the waters were only a little cooler now. She called out, “I’ll be there soon.”

She finished up by washing and rinsing her hair. Then she stood up, dripping wet stepping out of the tub onto a set of warm towels. They had been set down on a table for her to use and others placed for her to stand on. She noticed a robe hanging on the hook of the door, this was nothing like the simple garb she had owned. She slipped it on and thought, “I can’t remember when I wore something this soft or ornate.

The fabric was as soft as moonlight, and as she slipped it on, she remembered herself as a very young girl, dressed in special clothes her father had gotten her. Somehow, he had found stuff like this for her to use during the playtime sessions.” That sparked the memory that he used to play with me as if we were royals and I was a princess. What a silly man he could be but oh what fond memories they are.” She walked the hall to her bedroom, opened the door to it.

There another surprise waited for her as laid out upon her bed was the most beautiful grand gown she had ever seen. It was made of silk and lace that seemed to belong in dreams rather than in her modest inn. She marveled at the artistry, wondering how Silviano had managed such a feat. She thought, “How could he, where did he get something like this? It couldn’t be the right size. She began to put on the under garments, and slipped on the dress, to her surprise, it fit as if a tailor had made it for her.

She called out, “Silviano, if you are there you can come in now. I need your help on getting this dress finished up on the back.” He, opened the door a crack, and said, “Are you ready for me?” Georgia responded, “Yes, please do come in.” He stepped in and asked her to turn so he could finish tying up the back. After completing that he took the finishing touch, a silken mantle that draped over her shoulders like warm, gentle caresses. Silviano helped her slip her arms through it. It felt soft but warm around the upper part of her body.

He then asked, “Would you sit for me, my lady? I need to prepare your hair. Georgia did so but then
ask, “So you’re a chef, a bard, and now a hairdresser too?” He chuckled, “You’ll find that when working in the royal courts. Having many talents ensures you are well thought of. Of course, it helps that they reciprocate by taking care of you for your knowledge, skills, and service too.”

He worked on her hair and before long, he had arranged it into an elegant up do, intertwining delicate braids adorned with a shimmering hair broach. He held up a mirror for her. He then said look, as he rotated it around for her to let her see the sides and back. He had braided her hair and pinned it with a hair broach that held it all together in the rear. She gasped, “I don’t recognize the person looking back at me in the mirror. I haven’t dressed up like this since my father and I were so much younger.” They were tender memories that Georgia held close to her heart of special times with her father.

She then said, “We used to play like we were both royals at the court.” With that there was a horn that sounded along with the echo of many horses and several carriages. She thought she heard them arriving near the front of the inn. Silviano eyes twinkled as he informed her of the arriving guests, “Our guest is here, will we go and attend them? It’s not good protocol to keep the royals waiting you know.” She responded, “Of course, but how am I to get any work done with all this fancy clothing on?”

Silviano responded, “Ah, the night is full of surprises yet, you’ll see.” He held out his hand in a courtly fashion as if addressing a lady of the court. She accepted his gesture and placed her hand in his and he helped her up. He stepped to the door, opened it and bowed as he extended an arm in the direction of the open door. He said, “After you my lady, I will be right behind you.”

She woke up to the most wonderful smell of something baking in the ovens of the kitchen on the lower floor. The aroma was so captivating that she felt like she was in a dream. She thought to herself, “What’s going on, did I oversleep?” She rose from her bed, went to the window, and pushed back the heavy curtains. She used them during the winter to help keep the cold back. She thought, “No, it seems right” as she noticed the edge of the last of the moon setting behind the horizon. It was still early morning, and she had plenty of time to enjoy the delicious smell wafting from the lower level of the inn.

Then she remembered, Silviano. She thought to herself, “had he awoken early and begun preparing the morning’s meal? It must be as no one else other than her father had access to the inn who had the talent to fix something that smelled that good.” She went to the wash basin to freshen up. She used her homemade perfume soap to wash off the sleepiness from her face and body. The cool water felt refreshing on her skin, and she felt energized for the day ahead. She dried off and put on fresh clothes suitable for working in the kitchen.

She completed her preparations by slipping on her boots and strapping her long knife to her ankle sheath. She pinned up her hair and used a clip this time to keep her long wavy hair pulled back behind her. From there she went to the stairs and went down to see if her new guest needed to wake up or was already up and about. She thought though that she might be wasting her time since it smelled as if someone was already in the kitchen baking some bread.

She noticed that the room she had left Silviano in last evening was still quiet. She tapped on the door but there was no answer. She tapped again and still nothing, she could sense nothing either, so she opened the door to peek in. She was not really surprised to find the room was empty. She looked around, but there was no sign of her guest. The bed had been made neatly, the towels properly set in the dirty laundry basket and fresh towels properly prepared and stored on the shelf near the wash basin each guest room had. She felt a pang of disappointment.

She thought, “Maybe I was privately hoping he would have left in the night and not turned out to be who he said he was.” She chuckled and mused, “what kind of person am I to have become so suspicious of everyone. My father would not approve of such wrong thinking.” She thought, “He’s okay let’s go see what he’s up to in the kitchen as her stomach was beginning to rumble from all the smells her senses were picking up floating on the morning air.” She closed the door and walked to the kitchen.

She thought before entering, “there were so many different flavors caught up in the air swirling around the lower levels of the inn close to the kitchen. It must be something good to eat.” As she walked into the kitchen, she was greeted by a sight that made her heart sing. The kitchen was alive with the activity of something baking in the oven. The pots were beginning to steam, and the surface used for cooking eggs and meat were full of food simmering away layered on top of a treatment of special oils and spices. Her guest had woken up early and prepared a feast for her and the guests. She felt grateful and touched by his kindness.

She then saw him coming around the corner from the stores with his arms full of vegetables he was preparing to use. He smiled at her and said, “Good morning, Georgia. Please, come and sit for a moment and enjoy some breakfast and coffee.” Feeling grateful for the unexpected gesture, Georgia sat down at a stool that she kept for taking a break while preparing meals for the guests. Silviano set a plate in front of her with some fresh twisted bread, some type of steaming muffin, and freshly cooked vegetables sitting alongside it. He then brought over a cup of hot steaming coffee.

Georgia looked at the muffin and asked, “Silviano, what is in this?” as she pointed her fork to the muffin on her plate. He responded, “Ah, please taste it, you will find it something not found in these parts. I promise you’ll like it.” She took her fork and began to cut off a piece. To her surprise her fork glided through the muffin as if it was soft butter. The piece fell to the plate, and she stuck her fork in it, lifted it to her nose, sniffed and then took a bite. It almost melted in her mouth. The flavor of egg, sprinkled garlic, pepper, and spinach exploded on her tongue.

She smiled, and then cut and ate some of the vegetables, took another bite of the muffin and sipped some of the coffee. The coffee had a slight hint of cinnamon and coco in it. Silvano culinary skills had left her spellbound. She smiled, and then asked, “What time did you get up to do all this?” He responded, “I started around three forty-five this morning.

She then took a bite of the twisted bread and the flavors of two different flours and basil lit up her taste buds. “Wow, I never tasted anything like this before. The coffee too, its unusual but very good.” You’re going to spoil my guests with fare this good.” He smiled and said, “I am happy to see it pleases you so. I felt you deserved a good morning since I kept you up late with my arrival.” Georgia smiled and said, “Thank you Silviano, I do appreciate all that you’ve done this morning.”

The unexpected breakfast had left Georgia feeling rejuvenated. She was grateful for Silviano kindness and his culinary skills, he left her spellbound. The guests were in for a treat, and Georgia knew that his breakfast would be the talk of the town. Georgia finished her breakfast and coffee, feeling energized and ready for the day ahead. She grabbed her apron, tied it and said to him, “Hey, I am going to open the doors and prepare the tables for the morning guests. Silviano nodded, his eyes fixed on the pot in front of him. “Okay Georgia,” he replied absentmindedly.

She walked from the kitchen to the front common room taking a moment to survey the room before her. The tables were already prepared. Each was immaculately set and ready for the guests. The bar was clean with steaming pots of coffee sitting in the corner ready to be served.

The fire was roaring, and the room was warm and inviting. The smells coming from the fireplace hinted of cinnamon and nutmeg, making her mouth water. She unlocked the door and went back to the kitchen. She saw Silviano tasting what was in some of the pots that sat steaming on the cooking surfaces. Georgia approached him and asked, “Tell me, are you this good with customers? You know the ones at my inn are not of the same type found at the courts of the royals?”

He smiled and handed her the ladle he had been using to stir something in one of the pots and said, “please taste it. I will see if any of the guests are up and waiting for breakfast.” He grabbed a set of prepared covered baskets. Added some butter set on small plates and began to shuttle them out to the common room.

She smiled at him and said, “okay, I’ll be out in a minute to check on you once I’ve tasted whatever you have cooking in these pots. It all smelled so good.” She grabbed a mitten to protect her hand as she lifted the lid off the first pot. The aroma of spices mixed with meats and vegetables rose into her nose. It was some type of stew he had thrown together from her stores. She never smelled anything like it before.

She lifted the ladle to her lips, took a few sips and then dug her ladle in and stirred up the pot. Afterwards she dipped the ladle deep and poured a small amount into a small bowl. It tasted so good with the vegetables. They had the right consistency and the meats almost melted in her mouth. As she savored the flavor, she couldn’t help but think, “An unusual and talented cook, no I correct myself, more like a chef. He is more than another cook that learned his craft in kitchens of the local towns and small cities.”

She decided to check on things in the front common room. But before she opened the door that separated the kitchen from the common area. She heard laughter and conversation flowing in from the room. On opening the door, Georgia found herself enveloped in a symphony of sights, sounds, and scents. She observed Silviano chatting with some of the earlier risers from the guest rooms, and their laughter filled the air with a contagious melody. The room had transformed into a colorful canvas with the arrival of more people eager to discover the source of the tantalizing smells that tickled their curiosity.

In that moment, Georgia felt a sense of tranquility and reassurance knowing that Silviano culinary skills had cast as spell on those present. She could hardly contain her excitement as she pondered the many succulent dishes he would conjure up from the depths of his boundless creativity.

She thought to herself, “it was no wonder that people were likely waking up with quite the appetite.” The inn was filling up fast with both guests and people from town who were coming in. In fact, it appeared as if the whole town was lining up outside to participate in this new attraction to their humble little town.

This was unusual to see so many this early in the day. Somehow the word about something new at the inn must have gotten out. A wistful smile played on her lips as she glanced around the bustling inn that seemed to roar to life with an unprecedented vigor. Children and adults alike streamed through the doors, their eyes glittering with anticipation of a good meal and entertainment. It was if a mysterious force had whispered in their ears, promising them an experience unlike anything they had ever known.

She started to make her rounds and gracefully guided the guests to tables and chairs ensuring a harmonious flow that danced through the busy room. Georgia noticed an array of delectable treats already waiting for them. Freshly baked bread nestled beneath a light cloth, while shimmering plates of creamy butter stood by in anticipation of the union.

One of the town’s people reached out and tapped her arm asking, “What’s the story with this new guy Georgia? We’ve not heard anything from you about a new person hired to help you. Especially a good-looking male who’s managed to capture the hearts and souls of everyone in town.” She thought on her feet and responded, “He’s an old friend of the family. My father met up with him on his travels and sent him to see if he could help while he’s out adventuring since retiring.”

Norbadione responded, “Oh, and how’s your father doing? Did he say?” Georgia responded, “I heard he’s doing well thank you for asking. Now, I must be going, lots of other people to provide for.” Norbadione said, “Yeah, I don’t believe I’ve ever seen this place so crowded with folks before.” Georgia responded, “Yeah, it’s something isn’t it.” With that she walked over to the next table and began to cycle through the sea of people, weaving a tapestry of transactions and interactions that filled the room with a vibrant glow.

Most wanted whatever was cooking in the kitchen. They said you could smell it all the way to the other side of the town. Both Georgia and Silviano kept busy for quite some time. It was then she saw him take off his apron, grab a stool, reach behind the bar, and grab a lute. He sat down and began to play some soft melodic tunes that swirled around the air in the room. His music was weaving a new dimension to the enchanting atmosphere. The melodic tunes caressing the ears of those entranced by his performing prowess.

Georgia thought to herself, “There’s a lot more to him than meets the eye. A chef of renown from the royal courts. A storyteller as she heard from the parts of conversations she picked up. and now a bard whose fingers danced across the strings, telling a story without words.” She thought to herself, “I have a lot of questions to ask him after this breakfast crowd thins out.” She allowed herself to enjoy the special treat along with her guests and patrons of this talented chef and bard though as the morning moved on towards the noon hour.

She sat down on a stool at the bar and watched the last of the patrons leave the inn’s common room. She thanked them for their business and wished them a good night. With that, she listened and didn’t hear anyone up in about from the sleeping rooms so decided to lock them up for the evening. She would normally wait a while longer but today had been odd and she recognized she was tired and ready to retire.

She realized after locking up The Queen’s Way, that’s what her father named the inn, that she was still a bit wired from the evening’s events, so she decided to pour herself a mug of some of the better ale in the inn. She stared at the ale that filled her cup and began to sip and think about the stranger Elysian.

What did he say during their conversation? He had mentioned something about a mission for her father, something that needed to be protected, and the possibility of powerful enemies that would want to disrupt their attempts at providing that protection.

She didn’t know what to do. It was plain that her father needed her for something. Something important enough to involve this Druid in his business. But she had never met Elysian before, and she didn’t trust him. He had a part of him he kept well hidden. Even from someone with her ability to perceive that which someone desired to keep unknown to others. That made her uneasy and he had left in a hurry, without really saying much of a goodbye.

She thought about the request for her to leave the inn, but help was less than reliable around this town. It was good when it showed up to work, but you couldn’t count on that happening all the time. She had to do most of the chores herself, and she was exhausted by the day’s end too. It was then she heard a soft tap on the door she had recently locked.

She jumped up from her seat, wondering who it could be. Was it Elysian, coming back for some reason? Or was it someone else, someone who had followed him? She unsheathed the long knife she kept strapped to her ankle. She thought to herself as she slid the blade out, “You know it could be dangerous to work at the inn sometimes with rowdier customers once they have had enough drink in them. This was simply insurance that they stayed well behaved.”

She walked to the door and slid open the latch on the small speaking door at face level. It would allow her to talk with whoever it was on the other side. She hoped it wasn’t one of the drunken patrons who had left earlier, or worse, a thief looking for an easy target.

As soon as she opened it a soft-spoken gentle voice asked, “You the proprietor of this inn?” Georgia didn’t say a word at first. She was unsure why someone would ask that this late at night. She peered through the opening and saw a man about her age with brown hair and blue eyes, wearing a traveler’s cloak and a friendly smile.

She responded, “Couldn’t this wait until tomorrow, you know it’s a bit late right now and I am not far from going to bed myself.” The man on the other side responded, “I heard you might need someone to look after the inn for you. At least while you were traveling.

It was said that the trip was urgent, and you might need to leave soon.” He paused a moment to see if she would respond. But when she didn’t respond he continued. “That you needed someone who knew their way around the business and could rely on them.” He sounded sincere and eager, but Georgia felt a twinge of suspicion because of the late hour. She paused a moment and thought, “Elysian, this had to be him meddling in my affairs.” She then thought, “but how could he have gotten this fellow so fast?”

“Unless he already knew that she wouldn’t go without someone being there to look over things.” She then responded, “who sent you to me and how’d you figure out I would even be considering a trip?” The voice said, couldn’t we speak about this inside where it’s a bit warmer. Your exhausted right? I promise not to take up much of your time but at least hear me out.”

She opened the door more so she could see him more and noticed the satchel with an instrument attached to it as well. He then said, “I have some references which I believe will calm your fears. Besides, it’s getting cold out here so won’t you please let me in?”

She thought then responded, “How do I know you don’t have other motives on your mind.” He shot a response back immediately, “You don’t, so I would tell you to use your instincts. You seem like a smart and brave woman, who can handle herself in any given situation. “

There was a pause, then he continued. “You have the insight so let it guide you on how to respond to my request. But please don’t take too long, I’ve been traveling for the last three days and its getting awfully cold out here.” He rubbed his hands together and blew on them, trying to warm them up for emphasis. She could see the condensation floating from his warm breath hitting the cool air.

She closed her eyes and let her inner self probe outward. She felt comfortable, safe, not alarmed at all with the person on the other side of the door. He had a calm and honest energy about him, and she sensed no malice or deception in his words. She responded, “Okay, give me a moment but I am warning you I am armed. I am also quite capable of defending myself.” She hoped he would take her seriously and not try anything funny.

He chuckled, “I’ve heard that from some of the locals I met here walking around the town earlier. They told me you could be feisty and independent. That you didn’t take nonsense from anyone. He then added they additionally told me you had the best ale around and could fix a most satisfying meal.

She asked, “Why were you doing that?” He answered, “I was trying to familiarize myself with it earlier today so I would know something about your town and the inn.” He shrugged and added, “I like to learn about new places and people. It makes me better able to serve them if I end up being employed by someone locally.”

She slipped back the latches, lifted the final latch on the lock and opened the door. A man about ten years older than her stepped through the doorway. He was well dressed, clean shaven with a well-cut head of hair. He looked to be in good shape too. He wore a dark green travel cloak over his shoulders and a silver brooch on his chest. His eyes were a piercing blue, and his smile was charming.

He came in then said, “can we take a seat over there by the fire?” She liked that. He wasn’t trying to hide anything either. The large fireplace was still blazing away throwing light everywhere nearby. She nodded and led him to a cozy corner of the inn, where a wooden table and two chairs were waiting for them. She noticed he was carrying a leather bag with him, which he placed on the floor next to his chair.

“Okay Mr., Oh, I didn’t catch your name.” He responded, my pleasure to meet you face-to-face Georgia, my name is Mr. Tibbs, or you can call me Silviano if you like.” He extended his hand, and she shook it firmly. His grip was warm and confident. She felt a slight tingle in her palm as she let go of his hand.

She chuckled, “Okay Silviano, let’s sit down. Can I get you a cold one.” He responded, “Thank you, but no, I prefer some hot tea after being in the cold so long.” He removed his cloak and draped it over the back of his chair. She saw he wore a fine shirt and trousers underneath, with a leather belt and boots. He looked like a gentleman, but also like someone who could handle himself in a fight.He then walked over to sit down and said, “let’s not get distracted now though, we need to talk.” Let me show you my letters of recommendations or credentials if you prefer a more formal title for them.”

He pulled out a roll of parchment letters from his leather shoulder bag and handed them to her. She took them and unrolled them carefully. They were written in elegant script and sealed with wax stamps. They looked authentic and impressive. She began to read over them. She then asks, “You worked for a Duchess and managed the queen’s kitchen and guest quarters?” He responded, “Yes, I can assure you there’s nothing counterfeit about them.” He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest. He looked at her with a calm and confident expression. He seemed to know what he was doing and what he wanted.

In fact, to assure you I am the real deal, the Duchess and the crowned servants should be here by tomorrow. She wants to experience your inn for herself. He lowered his voice and leaned forward slightly. He said, “She’s very interested in your inn, Georgia. She heard about your reputation as the best innkeeper in the land. She wants to see if you can live up to it.”

You can ask her whatever you like when she arrives.” He said this with a reassuring tone and a gentle smile. He seemed to sense her nervousness and wanted to calm her down. She stood up then and said, “She what? She’s coming here! But why, what on earth would prompt her to want to come here to our sleepy little town and visit my inn?” She said this with a mix of shock and disbelief. She couldn’t imagine why a Duchess would be interested in her humble establishment. She wondered if there was a hidden motive behind her visit.

He responded, “please Georgia, sit down, everything will be fine. Don’t forget I am here. It is my way of demonstrating my abilities. Providing you with proof that if you decide to journey away for a while, your Inn will be in good hands.” He used a calm tone with her to prevent her from falling off the edge of the emotional cliff she was hanging onto after receiving this news.

He reached out his hand and touched her arm gently. He wanted her to know he was trustworthy and capable. He hoped she would accept his offer to manage her inn while she pursued her father’s request. She sat back down and looked into his eyes this time. She didn’t say anything but probed with all the insight she could muster. He accepted the probe. She looked at him intently and tried to read his thoughts and feelings. She used her intuition and experience to gauge his sincerity and honesty. He met her gaze and opened his mind to her. He had nothing to hide and wanted her to know him better.

He then said, “Elysian was right, your instincts for reading people are strong. Very strong indeed!” He then asked, “So, what did you perceive, truth or lie?” He asked this with a hint of admiration and curiosity. She knew Elysian had told him about her special gift of insight. He wondered what she had learned from him. He asked her a direct question and waited for her to answer.

She exhaled a bit and said, “Truth, no deceit at all. Very rare these days to find it in anyone.” He laughed now and said, “I am glad to hear it.” She said this with a sigh of relief and a smile of appreciation. She was impressed by his honesty and integrity. She felt a connection with him that she hadn’t felt in a long time. He laughed now and said this was genuine happiness and warmth. He was pleased by her verdict and felt closer to her than before.

Then he said, “Look its’ late, your tired and so am I. Why don’t I rent a room from you. I’ll meet you out here bright and early and I can jump right in to help you get things ready for the morning customers. Oh, and no charge, this one’s on the house.” He said this with a friendly and generous tone. He wanted to show her that he was serious about helping her and not just looking for a free stay. He also wanted to spend more time with her and get to know her better.

She paused, then nodded okay and said let me show you to your room. I’ll be starting at five tomorrow morning, so I hope you’re a good sleeper.” She said this with a hesitant but grateful tone. She agreed to his offer, but she was still unsure about him and his motives. She also felt a bit awkward about having him stay in her inn. She hoped he wouldn’t cause any trouble or make any noise.

He responded, “I can sleep anywhere on anything and in any position. Years of service to the royals can provide one with unique opportunities to learn how to rest.” He said this with a humorous tone. He wanted to reassure her that he wouldn’t be a bother or a burden to her. He also wanted to make her laugh and lighten the mood. He shared a bit of his experience with her and hinted at some of the challenges he had faced.

She smiled and said, “Come along, I have a room open near the kitchen. It’s made up and cleaned, so you should be able to retire whenever you’re ready. I’ll be knocking on your door at four forty-five tomorrow morning. We can eat as we prepare for the morning customers.” She said this with a polite and professional tone.

She smiled at his joke and appreciated his kindness. She took him to the room near the kitchen, which was convenient for both. She repeated to him when she would wake him up and what they would do in the morning. She tried to act like a normal innkeeper and not like someone who was intrigued by him.

He stood up and waved his hand in the direction of the kitchen then said after you my dear.” He said this with a gallant and playful tone. He stood up and followed her to the room, showing respect and courtesy. He called her my dear, which was a term of endearment and affection. He wanted to flirt with her and make her feel special.

She showed him to the room, opened it up and lit the lamps for him. Checked to make sure everything was in order and then turned to him and said, goodnight, I’ll see you in the morning.” She said this with a cordial and brief tone. She showed him the room, which was cozy and comfortable.

She lit the lamps for him, which was a gesture of hospitality and care. She checked everything was in order, which was a demonstration of her attention to diligence and detail. She then turned to him and said goodnight, which was a way of ending the conversation and leaving him alone. She didn’t linger or say anything more than necessary. She wanted to keep things simple and avoid any complications.

Georgia, who had all the rooms on the upper floor
of the inn, retired to her bedroom. Her bedroom was spacious and elegant. This arrangement gave her privacy and security after the long day spent managing and taking care of the inn and its guests and patrons.

She prepared for sleep by slipping into a warm nightgown her father had purchased for her once when traveling to the kingdom’s capital to take care of some business with other inn owners that he had an association with. During the cold nights she appreciated his thoughtfulness at having gotten this for her. Her room had a fireplace that was kept warm throughout the evening with hot coals she brought up each evening from the large fireplace downstairs.

They kept the worst of the cold away without making a lot of noise that fresh wood would do as it spit and hissed as it burned down to transform into coal. She pulled down the warm layers of blankets, slipped into the soft sheets and fell fast asleep despite everything that had happened that day.

In fact, it was possible that it was because of everything that transpired during the day that she fell fast asleep. This implied that she had experienced a bit more emotion than normal concerning the events of the evening.

With the arrival of the Druid and then his partner in crime, Silviano. Her mind needed to process and release the tumultuous effect something like this would have on her. Her rest would allow her to recover for the coming day.

Georgia was returning to the bar when the door opened and a gust of wind blew in, making the candles flicker and the fire crackle. All heads in the inn turned to see a shadow walking through. The atmosphere of the inn had shifted in an instant from its usual rowdy and jovial mood to an uneasy quiet filled with tension.

A hooded figure stepped into the inn, wearing flowing robes, holding a staff in one hand, and with his other hand over the strap on his shoulder bag. He was not an elder considering his stance was standing up straight and tall, his gait steady as he walked in. His staff was carved with strange
symbols along its length and topped with a crystal that glowed faintly.

He walked towards the counter where she was working. Georgia thought, he looks mysterious. With his fur lined hood surrounding most of his face and hiding any hint of who he might be. He came to her and said in a deep and raspy voice, “I hear you have the best food in town in this inn. Can you serve me something hot, give me your best ale.” He placed a gold coin on the counter, more than enough for a meal and a drink. He looked at her with piercing eyes that seemed to see through her soul.

He turned then and surveyed the room, his eyes scanning the faces of the other patrons. He appeared to find what he was looking for and said to her, “I’ll be sitting there at the corner table over by the fire.” He pointed to a secluded spot where a lone candle illuminated a wooden table and two chairs. He seemed to prefer some privacy and quiet, a ways from the noise and chatter of the inn.

She said, “give me a few to get you what you’re asking for. I must return to the kitchen to get the food for you, and I am working here alone tonight.” He responded, “Time is free, whatever you need. I’ll be over there.” He had pointed his free hand towards the corner spot. He then slid his hand further up the staff and walked towards the table he had pointed out to her, his robes trailing behind
him.

She went to work right away as he walked over to sit down. As she walked into the kitchen, she thought that this event was not normal, and he was not the common type of patron who might wander into the inn. He had to pass the table of the rowdy regulars. They were a group of men of different ages who lived off in the hunter camps mostly where they spent time when they began to wear out their welcome in town.

They would come into the inn every night to drink and gamble. As he passed the youngest of them, a blond-haired young man with dark brown eyes and a crooked nose that looked like it had been broken too many times during some fight with someone held out his arm to stop the strangers forward motion.

He said to him with a mocking grin, “where you going in such a hurry? Why don’t you sit with us and tell us some stories of the lands far away. You smell like you been on the road a while so you must have a lot of stories to tell.” He turned and winked at his friends at the table who all began to laugh out loud, expecting the stranger to be intimidated or amused by their jest they were surprised by the stranger’s reaction.

The stranger began to whisper some arcane words to his staff. His voice was low and resembled the
sound of gravel being crushed. As he did so the runes in his staff began to glow with a bright blue-green light that contrasted with the dimness of the inn. The whole room went quiet holding its breath to see what would happen next.

The arm the young man had held out to stop the stranger dropped to his side as if he had lost all control over the strength in it. Then a group of vines began to wrap itself around him, emerging from the cracks between the floorboards. They were thick and thorny, and they tightened around him until he couldn’t move at all.

His friends at the table all shoved their chairs back not wanting to be any part of what was happening to him. They looked at the stranger with fear and anger, but none of them dared to intervene. The stranger then said, “I’d tell you to practice some manners. Especially to those who are new to your community. However, I doubt that you would hear a word I said.”

The young man began to say something, but then the staff began to glow again, and he went silent. A vine had wrapped around his mouth, preventing him from speaking or breathing through his mouth.

“That’s better, I wouldn’t want to have to silence you as well.” He then continued to the corner and sat down with his back to the wall facing out to view the room around him. He placed his staff in the corner near him while appearing to be calmly waiting for his food and drink to be served.

Everyone else in the room were busy watching the young man to see what would happen next. They were too afraid to move or speak, wondering if the stranger would do something else to them. The exception was the little girl whose father was watching this show with intense interest. She exclaimed to her father, “Papa, he used magic on the man. Magic, like the ones you’ve told me about in your stories. So, it’s real, I mean you know the magic.” The father looked down at his daughter and smiled and said “yes, it was indeed real.”

Meanwhile, the young man’s friends tried to pull the vines off. They were as hard as iron and as sharp as knives. They couldn’t cut them with their knives or axes, they wouldn’t budge. One of them called out to the stranger, “What are we supposed to do?” The stranger looked back and said, in a bored and dismissive voice, “They will take care of themselves in a few minutes. In the meantime, please be quiet while I eat my dinner.”

There was nothing to be done so the group turned their attention back to the table and continued their conversations. But at a much lower tone then they would have shown or practiced normally. In the meantime, Georgia who had been back in the kitchen the whole time came out with the hot meal and cold fresh ale. She headed towards the table where the hooded stranger was sitting.

She immediately noticed how quiet the room had grown in her absence. She could hear the crackling of the fire and ticking of the clock, but nothing else. Then she looked at the table where the regulars sat. She watched with fascination and a tint of horror as she saw the youngest of them wrapped up in thorny vines.

They began to dissolve and fade as if they never existed as she passed by the table where they sat. as she saw the youngest of them wrapped up in vines. She felt a pang of pity for him, but also a sense of relief that he wouldn’t bother her anymore that evening. She thought briefly about the group and how being the youngest was also the hardest to deal with as he was always trying to impress the elders of the group.

She continued to the table where the stranger sat and placed the tray with its hot meal, fresh bread, fruit, and a cold mug of ale in front of him. He watched her set the food and drink down with a curious and appreciative expression. He then looked up to her and asked, “Would you please take a moment to sit with me, I have some news to discuss with you. It’s for your ears only.” He gestured to the empty chair across from him.

She said, “what about my business? I am working here alone tonight?” She took a moment to glance around the room and saw that everyone else was still frozen in the seats, staring at them, or looking away nervously. He responded, “You’ll find that no one will request more services until we’re done. I have cast a spell containing whispers of silence and stillness over the inn. They will stay content until we are finished.

Please, I would not ask you if it wasn’t important.” She looked around the room. She noticed everyone appeared to be content. She nodded okay and took up the seat that he had pointed to earlier. She sat with her attention turned towards him and looked at his hooded face for a moment. She started to ask something but before she could begin, he pulled his hood back to reveal his face. He was young, looked to be about her age, and was quite handsome. He looked at her and smiled. Then he spoke to her, “Excuse me a minute, while I take a few bites and rinse it down with some of this wonderful cold ale.”

He continued without interruption. He picked up a piece of bread and dipped it in the hot stew. He ate it with relish and then took a sip of the ale. He made a sound of satisfaction and then wiped his mouth with a napkin.

She then asked, “So, what’s so important and who are you anyway?” She was curious and impatient. She wanted to know why he had come to her inn and what he wanted from her. He responded, “that’s two questions and so it requires two answers. I’ll answer the last first and the first last.” He paused a moment, took another swallow of the cold ale, and then began whispering so that only they could hear.

He leaned in closer to her and said, “I am Elysian Salvador, better known as the mysterious wondering druid.” She gasped, but then responded, “It’s said that those were only tall tales. Stories told around the inns or local towns. You know that type mothers tell their kids at bedtime to scare them into falling asleep.” He chuckled and then said, “I assure you; I am very real as you can see. Although I heard you say earlier that the truth was not something told. Let’s see it went something like this. Truth is something you must earn through an assembly of facts that supported it’s premise.”

She responded, “You weren’t here then. How could you know that? I didn’t say exactly that at all but something different from what I recall.” She said this with a touch of confusion and curiosity. She wondered how he had heard her conversation with the regulars before he arrived. She had only mentioned her father in passing, as a way of explaining why she was running the inn by herself. She didn’t think anyone would pay much attention to her story, let alone this mysterious stranger who had just walked in.

He smiled and said, “Yes, but you implied it by what you said to that table of rowdy locals over there. She watched him glance as he looked towards the regulars. They were still content and spoke quietly to each other but glanced around briefly with a look of fear and awe as if expecting something to happen soon but not sure of what it was. He had a confident and charismatic aura about him, as if he knew something that others didn’t. She had a sixth sense of being able to read people far beyond what normal people could. At least that is what her father used to tell her when she was younger. It seemed to hold some truth too as the patrons and guest at the inn would often say, she knew what they needed before ever asking for it.

She senses he enjoyed playing with her curiosity, making her wonder what he was up to. She decided to throw something unusual at him. She looked at him directly, and said uninterested, “Hmm, I’m not sure I believe you or any of what you are telling me. Did I tell you I have an inn to run.” She begun to rise from the table as if she was about to walk away when he burst out laughing. She turned then to look back at him and he held up his hand as if to say, “wait a moment while I recover.” She didn’t find any of this amusing and so turned again to walk away.

He reached out and grabbed her hand and said, “Please Georgia, forgive my bad manners. Your father warned me about your ability. I found it curious but did not realize the depth of its reach before now.” She turned then and walked back to the seat to sit down. She had a smile on her face as his laughter was infectious. He waited a moment then said, “It is what you believe is it not?” He then said, “The importance has to do with your father and his adventures since leaving the inn to you.”

Georgia was now alarmed. “My father, what does this have to do with him? Is he okay, did something happen to him? You need to come clear with me before I lose my patience and do something I am sure I would be sorry for.” She clenched her fists and glared at Elysian, who looked calm and composed. He reached out and touched her hand, a pulse of energy passed between them. She said, “Ouch, what was that?”, he responded, “it was exactly as I expected, you’re gifted as your father has told me.” She asked, “what’s this to do with him, please tell me he’s okay that no harm has befallen him.”

She pulled her hand away and rubbed it, feeling a tingling sensation spreading throughout her hand and to the tips of her fingers. Elysian responded to Georgia, “What does your insight tell you about him?” Georgia paused, not expecting this question. She then responded, “My sense is that he is alive, healthy not ill, but concerned about something.” Elysian then said, “Go on, you’re getting close, finish the exploration with your insight.” He smiled encouragingly and took her hand again, this time more gently. He said, “Close your eyes and focus on your father’s voice. What is he trying to tell you?”

Georgia closed her emerald-colored eyes. She breathed in, and then said, “Illusion, something about illusions and people. Something he’s learned since traveling.” She felt a surge of curiosity and wonder, mixed with fear and confusion. She wondered what her father had discovered and why he had left her behind. Elysian then said, “What will you do Georgia?” She spat her words back at him, “What do you mean what will I do? What can I do? I have this inn to take care of, this is his legacy to me, I can’t get up and walk away.” She felt a pang of resentment and anger, thinking that Elysian was trying to lure her away from her home and her duty. She didn’t trust him or his motives.

Elysian responded, “Why not? What’s keeping you here.” Georgia said, “I have a responsibility to the town. It’s the only inn for miles around. There’s a lot of people both locals and travelers who count on it being here to service them.” She had a sense of pride and loyalty, believing that she was doing the right thing by staying and running the inn. She didn’t want to abandon her friends and customers who depended on her hospitality and kindness.

She paused, “I happen to know there are those that rely on my cooking to get a good meal every day.” Elysian then asked, “But what will you do about him? Do you not sense his need? Do you think I am here only by chance?” He briefly filled in some more details about the possible dangers involving other people. He looked at her with a serious expression, hoping to persuade her to listen to her intuition rather than her logic.

Georgia responded to him, “I have no idea why you’re here. My sense of it is you choose where you want to be and for your own reasons.” She sounded defensive and distrustful, not wanting to admit that she felt a connection with him and that he might have something important to tell her. Elysian then said, “Georgia, these are your decisions to make. I came to get you to follow through with insights you had already been considering about your father.” He spoke softly and gently, trying to reassure her that he was not forcing her to do anything she didn’t want to do already.

He paused, patted her hand, and let it go. He then said, “I’ll be around for a while longer. Consider your choices, let your insight serve you and once you decide I’ll know.” He smiled warmly and leaned back, giving her some space and time to think about all she had just learned. He hoped that she would make the right decision and go to join her father. Elysian finished his meal, drank the rest of his ale, stood up and walked out of the inn. He didn’t say a word to anyone, not even to Georgia who had served him and kept him company during his meal. Georgia sat there a bit longer than stood up.

She grabbed the dishes and walked back to the kitchen to drop them off. She returned to the area where they had sat, wiping the table and the chair with a damp cloth. She noticed he had left a generous tip on the table, which she pocketed with a smile. She returned to the bar where she began to wonder about everything that had transpired there that night. She hadn’t even noticed that once Elysian had left the inn the whole area returned to normal. All the chatter and calls for more drink or food returned to normal as if nothing had happened. The other customers seemed oblivious to the presence of the stranger who had just left.

Georgia felt a pang of disappointment, as if she had missed an opportunity to learn more about him. She shrugged it off and continue to complete her work there for the night. Georgia finished with her kitchen clean-up duties. Then got the bar straightened out for the next day’s customers. Checked the stocks and thought about what to prepare for meals tomorrow. She decided to make a stew with some leftover meat and vegetables and bake some fresh bread in the morning. She also thought about making a pie with some of the apples she had bought from a farmer earlier that day. She loved to bake and took pride in the skills she had developed over time in meal preparation.