Red Skies: Fiona Meets Her Peers

Fiona sat up in bed as the morning bell rang somewhere outside. The door opened and River, her Leurna handmaiden, entered the room and walked over to lamp by the bed and lit it. “Good morning, my lady, she said as she bowed slightly. “Morning exercises will begin soon. You have time for a bath if you hurry. The other young ladies are already in the pools.” 

Fiona paused as her feet hit the floor. Her heart seemed to both race and stop at the same time. She was going to meet the other girls! But what if one of them recognized her? She hadn’t been seen too often by visitors to the palace and rarely did she accompany her parents when they went around the country visiting towns. River saw the hesitation on the young girl’s face. “We could wash you off slightly here. You had your bath last night and you could bathe tonight once the pools are empty.” Shaking her head in determination, Fiona tried to push her fear away with a smile. She stood tall and walked to where River was standing holding fresh towels and a new white tunic. “That is not necessary. I can bathe with the other girls. Please lead the way.”

They walked down the hall toward the sound of light laughter, a soft sound as if the other girls were enjoying themselves in the pools. Putting on the bravest face she could muster, she followed River into the room. All eyes turned in their direction and the giggles stopped. River cleared her throat and said, “Everyone, this is our newest student Fiona. Please accept her with kindness.” Not waiting for anyone to say anything, River helped Fiona undress and slip into the pool of cool water. Fiona gasped under her breath, as the water felt crisp and clean on her warm skin. Slowly she sank down near another girl about her age who seemed to be enjoying herself as another Leurna brushed her hair.

No one seemed to recognize her, so for the moment Fiona’s secret was safe from the other students. The girls in the other pools went back to their laughing and such as River stepped back to the front of the room and clapped her hands, the sound muffled by the scales on her skin. “Morning exercises will begin in 10 minutes. Please finish up and make your way to the main hall.”

Some splashing started happening in the other pools as the girls giggled their way out of the water. Fiona and her companion in the cold pool stayed still, softly splashing water on themselves to revive their sleepiness. Her courage worked up as high as it would go, Fiona finally spoke: “Hello. I’m Fiona. What is your name?”

Red Skies - Saber Starts A New Day

The sound of a bell ringing somewhere in the school edged against the dream Saber was having.  Groaning, she rolled over onto her side and peaked an eye open.  Her room mate Dia was already sitting up albeit with a yawn.  Dia stood and sleepily headed for the door.  It opened before she reached it.  Angel glanced in and grinned at her two charges.  "If you are going to bath before morning exercises, you better hurry."

Saber clamored out of bed, her feet hitting the stone floor.  She had forgotten they only had 30 minutes.  Running after Dia, she caught up and they entered the wash room together.  Angel followed, towels in her arms.  In the washroom, Saber was surprised to see changes of tunic dresses already laid out.  The soft color calming and enticing.  Undressing, she slid into the cold pool.  She wanted to be as alert as possible.  Dia laughed at her from the hot pool.  The twins were in the lukewarm pool braiding their hair.  Saber shook her head.  But things were done differently here.  More practical.

Remembering the messy bun Angel had put her hair in the previous evening, she reached up and hesitantly let it down.  Angel came over with a brush and started brushing it out.  "You just relax a moment while I straighten this out.  How would you like it arranged?"

Looking up at Angel shyly, Saber asked, "Partially up with curls down the back?"

Laughing, Angel responded, "Yes, or I'll try.  The curls on the back side might not happen unless that is your natural hair.  More than likely it will just be wavy."

Red Skies - Graff Starts A New Day

Graff awake feeling light.  The weight of Thorn was gone from his chest.  Rolling over, and sitting up, Graff looked around.  Thorn was nowhere to be seen.  Sighing, he rose and quietly packed his gear.  Then strolling out onto the balcony and going down to the main floor of the old wooden structure, he banked the fire.  It was almost sunrise.  Where could that dragon have gotten off to?  And how long had he been gone?  There wasn't much use for it.  Starting an easy breakfast over the fire as it got going, Graff eyed the map on the wall and mentally began planning the route out of the forest.

Red Skies - Winter Starts A New Day

Winter woke up, surprised to find herself in a bed.  Didn't she fall asleep in the wings of her beloved Companion?  In confusion, she frantically cried out to her.  The response was immediate.  The feeling of alarm as her Companion mind-touched hers.  The sense of relief as her Companion realized it was merely waking up in a new surrounding.  "Easy there dear heart.  I'm here."  Hearing the words in her mind, Winter's heart slowed.  "There.  It is just almost sunrise.  Go bath now and you will beat other guests to the wash room.  By the time you return, the cook will have food ready.  We can break our fast together out in the courtyard."  Winter jumped out of the creaky bed and raced for the door in eager anticipation.

Red Skies - Randy Starts A New Day

Randy was up before dawn, had wood stacked and ready for the day by the kitchen doors, and was walking down the street towards one of the larger inns.  Errand boy.  Not a bad job.  Inns liked to have little boys sitting outside to run messages for their clients.  It was a shame you grew up because it did sound like the life.  At least unlike other boys his age, the healer had plans for him to move on once he was too big.

Reaching the inn, he settled down on a bench and looked curiously at the couple of other boys there as early as him.  They were playing marbles in the dirt beside the street.  As the sun rose, more boys came along.  As the patrons woke up, they started asking errands and messages delivered.  Every one Randy got, he raced to be the quickest.  Right away he might not be fast as he wasn't used to the routes.  But in time he would learn short cuts.

On one particular route, he noticed another boy clamor to the roof tops and sprint ahead.  Tucking in that for later, he kept going.  It must take certain skills to clamor up like that, using arms likes legs.  He would have to see if there was a way to incorporate it himself.

Red Skies - Graff Sleep

It was well dark out by the time they reached the Hunter's Lodge.  They made quick work of the deer and split it.  Tom headed to bed right away leaving Graff to his own planning.  Looking at the wall of the main room, Graff studied a map of the area.  Thorn  moved up his neck so he could see as well.  Graff muttered, "a day's hike is all that is left between us and Valia."

Thorn whispered, "But from what we learned from Tom, the chances of catching anyone there is slim.  Most likely they will regroup and head on the Gryphon's Rest"

Graff shook his head, "Those that planned this won't know I know of them.  If anyone did live and manage to leave this area with our stolen things, then they did so before our counterattack began.  No one survived from that.  So they should still be in Valia."

Thorn suggested, "We can play it by ear.  If we see any small villages or mercenary villages along the way, let's stop in and see if we can buy you different clothes.  Those who know of Elias Estorage will recognize your attire and if they committed wrong against us then they will disappear before we know they are there."

Nodding in approval, Graff turned and headed upstairs to pack and ready himself for bed.

Red Skies - Winter Learns to Shield

Winter settled into the hot bath.  It was so incredibly nice.  Inns were a good place to stay.  Herald Sophie sat beside her, resting in the hot water as well.  Winter asked, "Did you have a hard day?" 

Laughing Sophie replied, "I spent today solving mysteries.  And the answers I need are elsewhere.  A fellow Herald, who has the Gift of Fetching.  Not the traditional sense of picking up something with your mind and moving it here and there.  I mean the rare one, that can take something and send it to another place completely.  Several Heralds and their Companions lended this Herald their strength so he could send me here."  Glancing over, she added, "This morning I was in Gryphon's Rest watching a smithy burn.  Now I am in cute little village in the lands of the Silt Hold talking to you.  Completely impossible distance I assure you."

Winter stared in awe.  She didn't know geography but she grasped that the distance was far away.  "Will I be able to do amazing stuff with my Gifts too?"

Sophie turned serious.  "Yes but first you must learn to shield.  Before any other women come in here to bath, let's do that.  Now."

Winter gulped but nodded her small head.  Okay.  Following Sophie's lead she closed her eyes.  "First picture into yourself.  Find that small bright center that makes up your inner you.  Picture it.  Look at it.  Imagine it's soft radiance."  A moment's pause and she continued, "now do you see anything else?"

After a moment's pause, Winter nodded, "There are two other bright lights.  Off to the sides."

"Those are your two Gifts.  In your mind, take one of them.  Gently tug it until you have it settled into the bright light that is your core."

Winter focused on one of the two, brushing it with her mind.  Upon contact, she recognized it as the Animal Mindspeech.  Giving it a gentle tug, she carefully maneuvered it slowly and gently towards the middle.  The closer to the middle she got, the easier it slid off to the sides.  It was like trying to send a ball uphill in the exact direct you wanted it to go.  Taking her time, she slowed down and nudged it until it was over the core.  It settled into place and stayed solid.  Grinning, she turned her attention to the other Gift.  It was more passionate to the feel.  More intense.  Winter paused, not sure she wanted to mess with it.  Then she remembered the panic she had felt when they neared the village.  Determinedly she reached out with her mind and started nudging this one as well.  It went faster now that she knew what to do and as it settled in, she felt everything stabilize.  

Opening her eyes, she saw Sophie grinning at her, "And now your Gifts are stabilized.  Excellent job.  Now close your eyes again and look at the core with the two Gifts resting inside.  Focus on the outside edges.  Focus on wrapping that core in something.  Something strong."

Winter obeyed and soon she had felt a something to pull around the core.  She wrapped it carefully.  When she was done, she opened her eyes and tiredly sank against the pool wall.  Sophie smiled gently and picked the girl up in her arms.  Wrapping them both in towels, she left the washroom and went to their room.  Getting them dressed, she asked, "I know you are tired, but would you like to visit your Companion before bed?"

With a sleepy nod, Winter allowed herself to be led back into the hall and down the stairs.  The main inn room was filled with laughter as travelers and day laborers ate and relaxed.  By the fireplace was a Bard, wearing the Bardic Reds.  Sophie nodded to him, his music physically draining away any discontent and causing them to feel peaceful and relaxed.  Once they reached outside, Winter asked, "Does he have a Gift?  He took away my sleepiness."

Laughing Sophie agreed, "Yes he has a Gift.  When you go to train to be a Herald, there is a building for you.  A building for Bards.  And a building for Healers.  And you interact often since your building is the one with the dininghall."

They walked around the corner and entered the stables.  Passed the stalls was a large room.  Entering it's open door, Winter saw her Companion and ran straight to her.  Susan was settled in a large round and soft bed.  Winter scrambled up and settled into her side.  Susan lifted a wing and pulled her in close.  Her feathers soft and her body warm, Winter grinned.  Nothing compared to being with Susan.

Red Skies - Randy "Red" Settles In

Randy chomped wood, the evening birds filling the air with song as dusk faded away. The temple compound had lanterns and fire posts all around it so there was plenty of light to see by.  The food he had eaten had been plain.  Simple unleavened bread with soup.  Still it had been filling.  And from the kitchen he had seen the poor come into the courtyard to pray and eat.  To support even a few extras must be hard on this place.  Foreign temples wouldn't receive a lot of donations.  The few faithful who hadn't eaten were not many in number.

Feeling obligated, Randy had joined them in the courtyard and knelt in the back.  The services were short but fervent.  Normal.  That was what bothered Randy.  He took the worry and uncertainty out on the wood.  Chopping.  Splitting.  Growing the pile of wood.

"What bothers you?"  The priest from earlier approached slowly.  Calmly.  His eyes shadowed and unreadable.  At Randy's shrug, he pointed out, "You have enough wood split for not only tonight but also morn and still yet continue."

Randy paused, his breathing heavily than he had realized it would be.  The question weighing down on him.  How to put into words what he felt?  "It's hard to explain."  He was a kid.  There was so much he didn't know.  He didn't want to offend this kind priest so quickly.

"Perhaps I can guess.  Tell me if I am correct."  The priest waited for the nod and then continued, "The Sun Temple is foreign.  Not bad except that we are a religion of the kingdom in the east.  The one of nightmares and demons.  The one no one wants to speak about."  Glancing at Randy, he asked, "Am I close?"

Randy nodded, "I thought you guys summoned demons from other realms to eat souls."  Seeing the priest look down instead of denying it, Randy felt his heart stop.  "Is it... true?" He hated how his voice quivered.  

The priest gave a long sigh, "Only half true.  There is an order than handles that, yes.  Originally they were priests who learned how to summon and send back creatures from other dimensions, er, worlds stacked above or below ours."  The priest visibly grew tired before Randy's eyes.  "Though they were protectors of the night, dispelling the horrors that threatened one's very soul.  They themselves changed.  No one knows why or how.  Some suspect they tried blood magic and ended up losing their soul in the process."  With a shuddering sigh he ended, "Now they are masters of the night.  Not dispelling, but summoning the very creatures they were to fight."

Randy stood stock still in silence.  His young mind trying to wrap around such betrayal.  Yet unable.  There was only one thing that made sense now.  "You fled here?  Where it's safe."

"Yes, my entire homeland is held captive."  Suddenly the priest regained his former strength and calm.  Straightening he looked Randy right in the eye, "When you learn to use your Mana, be happy with that and want no more.  Stay away from the dark contracts and blood magics."

With a solemn nod, Randy swore, "Yes sir."

Red Skies - Saber Settles In

Saber had sank gratefully into the middle of the three main pools.  It’s temperature a constant warmth around her small body.  For the past few moments, she dropped the “proper” attitude and allowed herself to giggle softly as the pool’s constant current tugged at her hair.  Angel had taken her clothes to wash and pack away.  Now she returned, a sparkle in her eye at seeing the unmasked girl.  In her arms she carried soft white tunics that were knee length and a white cape for the evening chill.  “As much as I know you want to rest in there, let’s get you dry quickly so I can show you outside before it gets dark.  The sun just set.”  

Quickly rising, Saber tried gracefully to make her way to the edge.  However there is no graceful way out of a pool and she instead clamored out, careful to not slip on the tile floor.  Angel handed her a soft towel to dry off with, then pulled the tunic dress over her head.  “These are what the students wear.  Similar in cut and style to my own wardrobe though I have multiple colors to choose from.”  She winked at Saber and turned the child around so she could wrap her hair into a messy bun.  “Ready?”

Falling into step beside her, Saber grinned.  The atmosphere seemed more relaxed here than home.  And Angel reminded her a lot of her friend Misty.  Trustingly placing her hand into the Leurna’s hand, they left the wash room.  The first two rooms outside the washroom was slightly different from the other rooms.  Doorknobs slightly fancier.  So subtle one almost wouldn’t have noticed.  Saber paused, “Why are these rooms different?”

Angel glanced at them as they passed, “Oh those rooms are single occupancy and have inside only a single bed, single desk, and single shelf unit instead of the double your room has.  In addition it has a wash basin on a magic nightstand that keeps the water constantly warm and fresh.  If we have visitors or circumstances where a student needs privacy then they are given one of the two rooms.  Come along now,” she ended as they continued to follow the hall around to the entrance.

Reaching the entrance, Angel paused.  “Miss Trena mentioned this area is for morning exercise.  When you hear the bell in the morning, you have 30 minutes to arrive here.  Students are required to do the Beginners 24, a series of 24 slow and deliberate movements.  It is a group bonding moment.  Then you do whatever your morning chore is, go break the fast, and prepare for classes.”

“I saw the learning room.  There was a lot of stuff in there.”  Saber said with a hint of curiosity.

Laughing, Angel turned to the doors leading outside.  “Yes and you will be more acquainted with them tomorrow.”  Leading her outside, Angel began walking her around the smooth circular building.  As they passed out of sight of the front courtyard, Saber gasped in surprise.  Angel grinned, “My herb garden.  I grow it against the building and main garden.”  Sure enough, on the far side was the main garden.  Continuing to the backside, Saber quietly noted the outhouses their flowers that grew over them.  Angel supplied, “Even in winter those outhouses are warm and smell of flowers.  Miss Trena’s magic.”

As they started around the other side, Saber grinned in delight.  There was a decent, small stable and across from it a rock formation that could only be a gryphon dwelling.  “Can we meet them?”  She was excited at the thought of meeting real gryphons, even if they weren’t Companions.  “I saw some in Gryphon Heights but never got to talk to any of them.”

Angel gave a small smile.  “Not today, it is getting past dusk.  Give the family a few days though.  It is only been a couple days since she lost most her family.  Myra has a gryphlet still, but some bandits killed her husband and other gryphlets while they were traveling back here after a vacation.”  At Saber’s wide eyes, Angel explained, “Not near here.  It is a good weeks journey to the wild areas that the borderholds protect.  They couldn’t fly because of the gryphlets.  They were almost to the first hold with some semblance of civilization when they were attacked.”  Angel stopped.  It was enough of an explanation.  Walking slowly, it was but a moment before the graves on the other side of the gryphon’s cave came into view.  Saber turned her head in sadness, and saw the forge on the opposite side against the school.  It probably was the biggest reason her scrub down in the hot pool had been so - hot.  She kinda felt like taking another bath just because she felt so sad for Myra the Gryphon.

Coming back around to the front, Angel gently opened the main entrance doors.  Saber, out of habit, resumed the poise and posture of a proper lady making an entrance, and stepped inside.  The sight that greeted her was beautiful.  Magic lights hovered along the walls, their glow creating a warmth that eased away the sadness.  Angel saw her relax and felt relieved.  Steering the young child to the right, she suggested, “Let’s go to the dining hall.  I’m sure there is plenty of food you will like.”

Walking around until they came to an open door, Saber glanced in.  Inside was three students and another Leura.  Angel whispered, “Follow my example,” and led the way to the kitchen window where the cook had placed platters and bowls of food.  Angel took a wooden plate and bowl, Saber copying her.  Angel ladled soup into her bowl and placed bread and pastries on her plate.  Saber dutifully copied her.  Then Angel led Saber to the table next to the occupied table and sat down.  Saber sat beside her.

Talking ceased as the others looked over curiously.  One of them piped up, “Are you my new roommate?  I’m Dia,” she got up and came over to hug Saber.  Saber, surprised, returned the embrace and looked at Angel flustered.  Angel winked, then saved her, “Yes, you and her both are my charges so I will be looking after you both.”  Turning to gesture to the others, she introduced them, “The other two students are Jena and Jewel.  Bree is their caretaker.”  They nodded politely, before returning to their discussion.

Dia went and grabbed her food and came to sit with Saber and Angel.  “I’m so glad you are here.  What’s your age?”

“Seven?” Saber answered curiously.

“Great!  I’m seven too!  And now I am not the youngest!  Well, at least not alone in being the youngest.  Jena and Jewel are twins and they are 14 years old.  And they are so amazing.  You will love watching their lessons.  Are you excited to start lessons here?”

“Yes.  Though I don’t know what my lessons will be on.  I’m not Gifted nor do I have the ability to produce/use Mana.”

“Oh we will find something.”  Dia looked at her with a odd look.  “Are you always so prim and proper?  You will never eat your food at this rate.  Here, watch.” Dia broke off some bread and soaked it in the soup, then popped it in her mouth.  “It’s good and we don’t have to worry about proper placement for the table.”

Saber kept a polite face but inside she felt a spark of irritation.  Proper placement of silverware and dishes was important and she was very good at it.  To know how to do something perfect and precise was a good reason to feel accomplished.  Angel reached over and rubbed her back.  Saber glanced at her politely and saw that look in Angel’s eyes.  She knew!  Fighting down the feelings and striving to feel something more genuinely kind, she turned back to Dia, “Is that why we were these simple white tunics?”

Dia clapped her hands, “Yes!  No more struggling with all those extra clothes.  And it is so much easier to ride a horse in these too.”  Saber gaped at her in astonishment.

Red Skies: Tavon's Lesson

“Tavon! Could you go fetch me some water from the well?” A small woman asked Tavon as he ran past her dwelling. Tavon stopped in front of his neighbor and nodded. “Sure!” he answered her, “I can carry both jugs!” He grabbed the empty ceramic jug she held out to him and continued his way to the well nearby. Once there, he ran into his friend Jayson who was busy repairing a ripped tarp. “Hey Jayson! Wanta go to the marketplace today?” Jayson looked up and smiled slyly. “Sure, kid. There are new deliveries coming in today from the caravans. Should be a good haul!”

Every few months, caravans from all over the Kingdom arrived in Gryphon Heights to do business in the capital’s marketplace. Wagons would come one or two at a time throughout the months, but this was the biggest inflow of new merchandise for half of the year. Security was too tight while unloading, so the any would-be thieves and conmen waited until the goods were placed in the stalls and ready for sale.

Down in the marketplace, the boys wandered through the crowds of customers, careful to avoid the constables and any other enforcement officers.  Jayson picked up a few gold pieces here and there, while Tavon swiped a piece of fruit and a couple candies. Though the blood-rushing high when lifting items from someone’s pocket or stand was exhilarating to the boys, they were very careful not to take too much or otherwise more would join their village by their actions. That said, there were some who went too far. These people were either in prison or had been kicked out of the city by the citizens. They boys also stayed away from the stalls of those operated by their impoverished neighbors, a silent law that all tried to obey who wanted to live in the village within the city.

As they made their way through the market, Jayson showed Tavon a few tricks for picking pockets. By afternoon, the two had stolen enough to pay for at least one meal each. This was better than usual and Tavon was ecstatic. He and his father were going to be able to eat well tonight! Suddenly, there was movement at the opening of the alley in which the boys had stopped to count their bounty. Enforcement officers were moving people aside, making way for someone behind them. A very well dressed man, surrounded by guards, walked proudly through the market and taking in the sights of the economic hub of the Capital. He seemed enraptured by what he was seeing, as if he had never seen such diversity before today. Obviously older than the boys but younger than their parents, the young man must have been very important him to be guarded by six men!

A coy grin spread over Jayson’s face as an idea popped into his head, his eyes shining with excitement. He leaned down and whispered to Tavon, “Imagine what that man could be carrying on him! He is stopping at some of the stalls, so he must have money with him. All we need to do is get close enough…” Tavon swallowed hard. That seemed like a bad idea. The image from before of the man yelling at him when Tavon had tried to swipe the man’s coin purse played before his eyes. “But what if one of the guards sees us? Or what if we can’t even get near him?” he asked his teacher, hoping to be told that there was some magical way of getting around the guards. “It’s okay,” Jayson answered reassuringly. “It’ll be a piece of cake. Come on, I’ll show you how it’s done.” As Jayson moved forward into the crowd, Tavon held back. Fear gripped him as he focused on the sword sitting on the hip of one of the guards. He couldn’t move. Jayson looked back and saw the frightened boy, but just shrugged it off. The boy would probably get them caught anyway.

Jayson maneuvered through the crowd until he was only a few feet from the rich young man. The guards held a close formation around him until he approached one of the stalls with silver and bronze jewelry. “…. could possibly happen to me if you are standing around the stall? Can’t you give me just a few feet of room to myself?!” The rich man exasperated to the guard closest to him. At this outburst, the guards backed off a little and gave him some personal space as he shopped. This is my chance, thought Jayson. He slipped between two onlookers and finally made it past a guard. He reached over toward the young man’s pocket and extended his two fingers for the lift. An accidental bump should do the trick. Seeming to not be paying attention to where he was going, Jayson “bumped” into the young man and lifted a piece of paper from his pocket.

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” Jayson mumbled as he hurried away, not noticing the shock on the face of the young man’s face or the alarmed expressions of the guards. One of them stopped Jayson before he got away. “Halt! State your name and reason for being here.” “I’m Jayson and I just came here to shop? Is that a crime?” the young thief answered, his voice quivering a little. Another guard came up behind him. “No, but stealing is!” He reached into Jayson’s sleeve and pulled out the paper he had lifted from the young man. As Jayson tried to protest that the paper was his, the guard opened the paper and one look from his icy glare silenced Jayson. He got a glance of the paper as the first guard grabbed his arms and pinned them behind his back. His heart stopped – it was a note from the king saying something about the market. He had really stepped in it this time! He squeaked as the air cuffs were placed over his wrists, an invisible rope that was cast by a mage. Who would have mages as guards?!

Tavon stood rooted to the spot as he saw Jayson being dragged way, tears streaming down the 14-year-old’s eyes as he weakly tried to break free from the guard’s grasp. Murmurs rippled through the market crowd as they watched the young thief being taken away. Then a few people had apparently checked their own pockets and discovered things missing. The murmurs began turning into angry shouts as people demanded to get their money back from the thief. Finally waking from his stupor, Tavon turned and ran down the alley. He didn’t stop running until he reached the village, tears streaming down the child’s face. What had begun as a normal day had just turned into a disaster.

Red Skies: Introduction of Fiona

The carriage finally stopped. Fiona quickly sat back in her seat and straightened her dress. One of her stature was to sit still and not be seen by the public while riding – even when you were six years old. But the new sites and smells had been too hard to resist, and as soon as her traveling companion had fallen asleep, Fiona lifted the corner of the window curtain and watched the world as it they traveled. It had been filled with people, and then slowly became more green and wet with the morning dew. 

The jolt of the stop woke Ms. Lumpins and a frown creased her wrinkled face as she watched the child straighten her garments from their obvious disarray. One might have thought that the woman was old, yet she was barely a quarter of a century old. Fiona and her cousins assumed that the governess looked ancient from all the worrying and scolding she practiced daily on the children.

A knock on the carriage door signaled that their servant was about to open the door. As he swung it open, he looked down at the ground and stood at attention. Fiona sighed inwardly. This was the custom when any of the servants were around her, for they were to never look her in the eye. She hated that rule.

“Come your hi–… my lady. We mustn’t tarry.” Ms. Lumpins accepted the servant’s hand and stepped down from the carriage. Trying hard not to bite her lip out of sheer nervousness, Fiona followed her outside. The servant offered his hand, eyes still on the ground, and gently held it as she stepped down. Forgetting her place for only a moment, her jaw dropped at the vastness of space around the buildings. Having been born and raised in the middle of the city all of her short life, she had never experienced such…. freedom. The main school building itself was rather unimpressive, being plain and shaped like a ring. The buildings were much more grand and awe-inspiring back home. At least that’s how many had described her home to her. For a second, sadness threatened to overtake her.

Snapping back to reality, she turned and saw Ms. Lumpins glaring at her and motioning her to follow. Even the governess couldn’t touch Fiona unless the child permitted it, so the woman had stood there fuming silently while her charge had stood there gaping at their surroundings. So what if the child had never been away from home? She could still act her title! Giving curt nod as Fiona fell into place behind her, Ms. Lumpins proceeded to the gate outside of the school.

Miss Trena's School of White Magic was renowned institution and catered to only the highest children of nobility and royalty. Since Fiona did not have any Gifts, she was expected to learn how to use the basics of magic. It was such an important duty that the six-year-old had been sent away from home to this strange, spacious place. A woman approached them, having wise features and hair as yellow as the sun. Her posture was perfect and her pace graceful – signs of noble upbringing. She stopped a few feet from them and bowed deeply, her eyes also to the ground. 

“I am Miss Trena. It is a great honor for you to grace our school with your presence, your…Grace.” She faltered a bit at that last part but otherwise had seemed sincere with her greeting. Taking her cue, Fiona stepped in front of Ms. Lumpins and nodded to the head mistress. “It is an honor to make your acquaintance, Miss Trena. I was told you were informed as to my instructions?” Inwardly, she smirked at Ms. Lumpins as she spoke the last sentence, knowing full well that the woman hated having to go along with such a “childish” idea. Miss Trena raised her head, as Fiona’s acknowledgement of her had made it acceptable to look at the child. “Yes, the letter stated clearly your instructions on how I was to address you while you are here at the school. I will endeavor to obey your wishes to the best of my ability.” Rising to her full height, Miss Trena extended her arm toward the school behind her. “Perhaps you would like a tour before you are settled?” The offer was to Ms. Lumpins as much as to Fiona, but Ms. Lumpins shook her head. “I cannot, I’m afraid. I am expected back right away as soon as…Fiona is settled,” she answered, looking down at Fiona for confirmation that she might depart immediately. “It was a long ride, Miss Trena. If I might be shown to my room I would like to rest a bit before your tour.” “Of course! Right this way.” 

Fiona turned back to Ms. Lumpins, her emotions mixed about seeing her governess leave. The woman was strict and sometimes mean, but she was a part of home. “You may return home, Ms. Lumpins. Thank you for your accompaniment on my journey. Please extend my love to my parents.” Ms. Lumpins bowed and quickly turned around, but not before Fiona saw the tears in the woman’s eyes. So, the governess had a soft side? That made Fiona have to choke back her own tears and homesickness. Putting on a brave face, she gracefully followed Miss Trena into the school building.

As they neared the dormitory hall, Miss Trena spoke: “Your room is farthest from the entrance and for the moment, you will be alone. Your room will have it's own wash room and a single bed." Fiona nodded, slightly saddened. She was going to be isolated just like she was at home. Well, at least she will have her books. As soon as she could read better, she could go to other places and see other sights...maybe even escape her loneliness if just for a little while. 

They reached her room and her bags were already inside next to her bed. A Leurna appeared behind Miss Trena and glided into the room. “This is River. She will be your exclusive servant while you are here.” Sensing the child’s next question, she continued, “She has been apprised of your nobility and will treat you accordingly.” Fiona breathed a sigh of relief, forgetting the air she was supposed to portray around others. Recovering quickly, she turned and nodded toward River. “Nice to meet you.” The Leurna bowed as deeply as she could. “It is an honor, Miss Fiona.” Miss Trena bowed slightly as she backed up out of the room. “If you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask.” Fiona nodded and the head mistress left the room. 

The child looked around her room and just felt tired. The journey had been long and she was weary from the excitement. River stepped closer. “Dinner is to being served, but if you wish to remain here and rest, I can bring you something to eat later.” Feeling the grumble in her stomach, food suddenly sounded like a good idea. “I will prepare for bed and then eat.” “Of course, my lady. If you wish, I will unpack for you while you wash. The wash room is empty at the moment,” River answered as she moved toward Fiona's bags. “That will be acceptable.” River found sleep garments from the child's luggage and then turned to lead the way to wash room. “Right this way.” Fiona allowed herself to relax a bit. She wanted a bit more time before she met the other students, her "peers." As long as they didn’t know the whole truth about her they might just be nice to her because they thought she was like them. At least, that’s what she hoped….

Red Skies: Ruby Heals

“How are you feeling today, dear?”

Ruby looked up from her picture book and smiled at the older woman as she entered the room. “I am better. Look!” She reached over and touched a piece of tree bark beside her. “I can feel it and my fingers don’t hurt! It’s rough and dry,” she exclaimed excitedly. Levara smiled down at the child, her heart full of joy at the little one’s progress. She leaned over to kiss Ruby’s forehead, a test to be sure that no fever was present. Her dark brown braids streaked with gray fell over the child’s face, causing them both to laugh as the girl pushed them away, exclaiming as she giggling, “That tickles!” The old woman sat down on the chair next to Ruby’s bed. “Are you ready for your treatment?” Levara asked as she reached into her satchel for the needed medicine. Ruby nodded eagerly. “Oh, yes please! My arms hurt when I woke up today, and my legs don’t like to move.” 

Levara smiled and helped Ruby lie down flat on the bed. The girl could move some on her own, but someone still needed to lift the seven-year-old child if a change of placement was needed, such as sitting up or laying down. She reached down and took the plant she had brought with her in her hands. Slowly she opened up the stiff leaves and squeezed what Ruby called “goop” out of the Burn plant. This spiky plant was very useful in healing any burns, especially when mixed with other ingredients. But this morning, Levara was only going to use the Burn plant on its own to wake up Ruby’s skin and muscles. Being as gentle as possible, she took Ruby’s hand in both of hers and began the massage routine. Ruby grimaced at first because of the coolness and the pain when Levara touched certain places of her skin. After a few minutes, Ruby relaxed and began to enjoy the sensations.

Levara had been doing a variation of this her whole life, but never had she seen someone with as much fire illness as Ruby. The girl had been found outside of a burning cave lying next to the dead body of a man. Flames were shooting out of the cave’s mouth, making it too dangerous for the hunters of the village to attempt any rescue. Some stayed to try and put out the fire while one hunter carried Ruby back to the village. The child was barely alive, so Levara had been sent for to heal her. Being from a family of healers and herbalists, Levara was very knowledgeable and had seen many sicknesses and injuries. But upon seeing Ruby, her heart almost stopped. The child’s arms and legs were completely red from fire contact, her face also red but only in places. Her hair was gone and pink patches were all over her scalp. Where she had worn clothes, her skin was pink with heat exposure and was already starting to peel. The child was barely breathing and her eyes were closed as if in sleep.

Levara had worked diligently day and night with the girl, using every herb and natural remedy she knew of that might help heal the burns. This was one of the times she and everyone in the mercenary village wished one of them had a Healing Gift. Sadly, no one did and it was weeks to the capital where one was certain to be found. Levara’s herbalist and healing knowledge were Ruby’s last hope. It had taken weeks before Ruby had woken up and many more before she could open her eyes and speak. Now almost eight months later, she was sitting up in bed reading any book she could and looking at the pictures of the ones she couldn’t. She even had a chair made especially for her by one of the men that could be pushed so she could go outside without having to be carried. Her skin was looking more human, with white patches forming where the reddest places had been.

Presently, Levara had worked down to Ruby’s feet and was massaging the left foot when someone knocked on the door. “May I enter?” A rough voice asked from behind the closed door. “One moment!” answered Levara as she finished. Then she pulled the girl’s dress down over her body and covered her with a special blanket made out of leaves. The leaf blanket was used with people who had sensitive skin, and Ruby’s was definitely still sensitive. She glanced at Ruby’s face and the child looked like she might be asleep. Moving quietly, Levara walked to the door and opened it. Thomas, the leader of the mercenary village, was standing there, looking very tired. He had a few small cuts on his face, but looked to be unharmed overall. “You may enter now. Did the trip go as planned?” she asked. He sighed before he answered, “We were paid. That’s about the only thing that happened as expected. But we all safe, though Allec broke hurt his shoulder again. How is Ruby?”

Before Levara could answer, Ruby’s sleepy voice carried through the room. “Uncle, is that you?” Thomas stepped inside the room and Ruby’s face lit up. “You’re back! Did you bring me anything? Did you beat the bad guys? How long are you staying?” Thomas laughed as she fired questions at him. “First, yes I did bring you something. And yes, we beat the bad guys, and I don’t know how long until I will need to leave again.” Hopefully not for awhile, he thought. He was tired and hoped to spend some time with Ruby and his family. Levara left the room and closed the door as Thomas told of his adventures to the enraptured young girl.