From the rock he stood on, Utgar could see the whole of the Volcarren force, laid out before him in a disorganized line. He had called a halt, and the Volcarrens had stopped mostly where they stood, sitting down on the sandy ground, pulling some meager rations from their packs, or sharpening their weapons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was these Utgar watched. He had been in a fighting force before; he could recognize the tension before a battle. Those kyrie who sat, running stones over their blades or swinging axes experimentally \u2013 they expected a fight. Most of them probably even wanted one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But Utgar couldn\u2019t afford a fight. There were several reasons why, not the least of which was Runa\u2019s safety. But now, looking out over those who had followed him, he realized another: he couldn\u2019t afford to lose any Volcarrens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He might be a Valkyrie, but he wasn\u2019t invincible. He could probably slay an army in a matter of minutes, but a single assassin could just as easily come up behind him, and knife him in the back. If things turned to open battle \u2013 which Utgar knew was a very real possibility \u2013 then he would need as many men guarding him as possible. And right now he had less than a thousand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There had been more, of course. Over a thousand Volcarren raiders and barbarians, well trained in combat. But they were dead, along with Vraen, slain by Ahnvad. Taelord had caused that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Taelord. Utgar didn\u2019t quite know what to do with him. He believed him, he had decided that much. The boy hadn\u2019t meant to get Vraen and his army killed. And neither had he meant to put Runa in danger. But he had still done both.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There had been a time \u2013 long ago \u2013 when Utgar would have killed Taelord just to simplify things. He wasn\u2019t that person any longer. Taelord had shown that he could be useful, even if Utgar couldn\u2019t trust him. Besides, Runa had insisted that he had done everything he could to keep her safe, even if most of his plan had failed. She trusted him. Utgar doubted the soundness of his daughter\u2019s judgement in the matter, but still\u2026 no, Taelord could remain alive. He would keep an eye on him, however.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The scout Utgar had sent on ahead returned, landing before him. He was a soldier from Srung. Utgar would have preferred to use a Volcarren, but only the soldiers could fly. \u201cI met with one of their scouts, Lord Utgar,\u201d he said, kneeling and bowing his head. \u201cThey wish to meet. The delegation is on its way.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDo not bow to me,\u201d Utgar said. He shaded his eyes and looked across the Red Flats as the scout got slowly to his feet. Yes\u2026 Yes, he could see them. Across the perfectly flat ground, he could make out a faint black speck, just on the horizon. He could almost discern its movement, the dark smudge growing closer as he watched, its shape distorted by the heat of the ground. They would be here soon. Under an hour, if he was correct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cVery well,\u201d he said, lowering his gaze back to the scout. \u201cTell them that I will await them here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The scout nodded and leapt back to the air, clearly only too glad to escape from him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Vydar approached, the loose black clothing he wore rippling softly in the breeze. \u201cYou think their intentions are peaceable?\u201d he asked, watching the scout retreat back to the Imperial delegation. His voice was slightly muffled by the black cloth wound loosely around his head, covering everything except his eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI doubt they are hostile,\u201d Utgar said. \u201cThey wouldn\u2019t be coming to talk if they were.\u201d He turned to the Vel. \u201cI want it clear, Vydar: I want peace. I don\u2019t want anyone attacking the Imperials the moment they show up.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cOf course,\u201d Vydar said, inclining his head briefly. \u201cMy Vel will not attack.\u201d He turned and retreated towards the column of black-clad warriors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Utgar watched him go with a frown. He wanted war just like the others. He was only willing to forgo it because Utgar had the Wellspring. They were allies, but it had been clear from the beginning: were their positions reversed, and Vydar Valkyrie, they would be preparing for war, not peace. Still, they were in this together. They were both Volcarrens, they had both fought the Empire, and in a way, Utgar trusted him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He turned to another scout standing just behind him. \u201cSpread the word,\u201d he said. \u201cTell everyone that the Empire approaches. I will speak with their delegation. Make it clear that no action is to be taken against them.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cYes, Lord Utgar,\u201d the scout said, saluting. Then he leapt away, spreading the word down the line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Utgar watched as the whispers spread through the Volcarrens, rippling away from his location like a gentle breeze. He knew full well most of those with him wanted to fight the Empire, generations of hate fueling their anger. But if there was to be any chance of handling this peaceably, Utgar would take it. He had the Wellspring. That was something the Empire couldn\u2019t ignore, the one inescapable advantage he had. The Imperials might have armies at their command, but they couldn\u2019t afford to fight him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That gave Utgar hope.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The delegation arrived later that day, consisting of a handful of Imperial soldiers in gleaming armor, and several kyrie in close-fitted leather doublets. Although the clothing looked simple, it was etched with many intricate designs. It still seemed like an odd choice of apparel for the representatives of the Empire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The soldiers eyed the Volcarrens through visored helmets. Utgar had seen plenty of soldiers in the Volcarren, but none like these. They wore armor on practically every inch. Even their wings were armored, two spikes jutting upwards at the bend, where the wings folded. They each carried a single spear, somewhere between a lance and a short-spear. Utgar imagined they had to be hot in all that armor under the desert sun, but they didn\u2019t show it. They stood straight and powerful, the sun gleaming off their armor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The delegation erected a pavilion a short ways away, two kyrie having carried the poles and canvas necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Utgar leaned to the side, where Kirav stood. \u201cStay here with Runa,\u201d he said, keeping an eye on the delegation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kirav nodded once, hand on his axe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Utgar glanced at Runa, who stood nearby, silent, watching the delegation like everyone else. He turned, nodded to a Volcarren behind him who had been a commander under Vraen, and they stepped forward. Vydar detached himself from the column of Vel nearby, a single guard with him as well. Together, they approached the Imperials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There were only four soldiers. They stood at each of the four corners of the pavilion, erect and silent. They didn\u2019t turn their heads as Utgar and Vydar approached, but remained motionless, standing straight as the spears they held rigidly before them. The only sign of life was an almost inaudible clinking, as their plated hands tightened slightly on their spears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Utgar and Vydar walked under the pavilion, the canvas top blocking the glare of the sun, allowing Utgar to see the delegation. None of them wore weapons that he could see. Their skin was light, varying between faint yellowish to deep blue, and their hair was white, yellow, or light brown. The feathers of their wings were several shades lighter than their skin. They couldn\u2019t have been more different from the Volcarrens, all of whom had dark red skin, black or dark brown hair, and leathery wings, thanks to the Wasteland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cGreetings,\u201d one of them said, stepping forward and offering a hand. \u201cI am Yiven, ruler of Helsng and regent of Kinsland. I speak for the Empire.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Utgar took the offered hand briefly. Before he let go, he noted that Yiven\u2019s skin felt soft. These were no warriors. Nor were they hard-working kyrie. He doubted Yiven had ever lifted anything heavier than a goblet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI am Utgar,\u201d he said. \u201cI lead the Volcarrens. And this is Vydar, leader of the Vel.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cY-Yes\u2026\u201d Yiven said, glancing at Vydar. He seemed frightened of the Vel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Utgar couldn\u2019t blame him \u2013 Vydar was taller than he was, the black shroud adding to his imposing appearance. His guard stood behind him, silent, his hands hidden within dark folds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cUtgar,\u201d Yiven said, returning his focus to him, \u201cwe know what has happened in the Volcarren. We know of your dealings with Ahnvad, and of the existence of the Wellspring. You can understand our\u2026 concern upon hearing that you had entered Kinsland. May I ask your intentions?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Utgar regarded Yiven silently. The man spoke with hesitation, as if afraid that Utgar might lash out at any moment. Utgar had met men like him before: cowards, easily swayed to the will of others. This<\/em> was the regent of Kinsland?<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cMy intentions are simple,\u201d Utgar said. \u201cI seek peace. I and those with me seek only a new life in Valhalla. Let us have this, and there is no need for further conflict.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven bowed his head as one of the other members of the delegation \u2013 all of whom had stayed at the back of the pavilion \u2013 leaned forward to whisper to him. Yiven whispered something back, and the other kyrie nodded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI am relieved to hear that you seek peace,\u201d Yiven said, straightening. \u201cWe will be happy to let you settle anywhere you wish, once the Wellspring is sealed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cSealed?\u201d Utgar repeated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven seemed to pale at the single word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar frowned. \u201cWhy would I seal the Wellspring?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n The kyrie stepped forward again and whispered urgently to Yiven. Utgar\u2019s frown deepened as Yiven whispered back. The kyrie shook his head, and Yiven looked worried. He straightened once more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe\u2026 The Wellsprings are all sealed,\u201d he said, with what Utgar guessed was an attempt at composure. \u201cThey have been for centuries. Ever since the days of the archkyrie. Why,\u201d he said with a tense laugh, \u201cif they hadn\u2019t been sealed, we would probably still be at war, fighting amongst ourselves over their power. Only by sealing them was the war ended. Having one open now would only restart that conflict. Surely you wish that no more than we do?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar watched Yiven silently for a moment. The regent seemed to shrink under his gaze. \u201cI have no desire for conflict,\u201d Utgar said. \u201cBut neither do I plan to seal the Wellspring.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cBut Utgar\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cLet us not pretend. Without the Wellspring, your armies could force me back into the Volcarren. I will not allow that to happen.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n A different delegate approached, and whispered urgently with Yiven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven glanced at Utgar. \u201cWith the Wellspring,\u201d he said carefully, \u201cyou could destroy the peace we\u2019ve enjoyed since the Uprising. You can understand our request, surely.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAnd you can understand my position,\u201d Utgar said evenly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI c-can,\u201d Yiven stammered, \u201cbut your fears are unfounded. We don\u2019t want conflict. Seal the Wellspring, and we will let you live anywhere you want. In peace.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar regarded Yiven. He couldn\u2019t seriously think Utgar would accept that. Trust the Empire? After they had spent the last century keeping the Volcarrens imprisoned? \u201cI have no guarantee you will keep your word,\u201d Utgar said, frowning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another kyrie stepped forward to whisper with the regent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cCan you not speak for yourself, Yiven?\u201d Vydar said unexpectedly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven blanched further, glancing at Vydar. He turned back to Utgar. \u201cWe have money,\u201d he said, whetting his lips. \u201cRiches. Take all you want; go to any corner of Valhalla you wish. We\u2019ll let you go in peace. We\u2019ll give you safe passage. You have my word. But the Wellspring\u2026 it must be sealed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar\u2019s frown had turned to a scowl as Yiven spoke. \u201cYou seek to bribe me?\u201d he said. \u201cI have no need for your wealth. What I ask is simple.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhat you ask is impossible,\u201d Yiven whispered. \u201cWe\u2026 We cannot allow the Wellspring to remain open. We can\u2019t. P-Please understand.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar frowned, tightening his grip on his axe without thinking. The slight motion was noticed by all four Imperial guards. To the untrained eye, they didn\u2019t move, but Utgar could tell they had shifted their balance towards him. They remained still, tense, waiting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Peace, <\/em>Utgar thought. We must have peace. <\/em>He relaxed his grip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cSurely we can reach an agreement,\u201d he said. \u201cWhat if we left Valhalla, settled elsewhere? The Volcarren is isolated, the Wellspring could be easily guarded.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cPerhaps,\u201d Yiven said slowly, glancing at the other delegates behind him. One of them shook his head. \u201cBut the Wellspring?\u201d Yiven said. \u201cYou would leave it open?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cOf course,\u201d Utgar said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven shook his head, grimacing at the ground. \u201cI\u2019m afraid that an unsealed Wellspring, guarded or not, would be a threat. Even now, Utgar, there are rumors of rebels massing in our remote towns, thinking your arrival marks the beginning of some sort of revolution. You see, Ugar? The mere idea<\/em> of a Wellspring is dangerous.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThen we have a difficulty,\u201d Utgar said, mentally noting Yiven\u2019s words about rebels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven glanced at him, then back at his advisors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar watched him calmly. He wasn\u2019t afraid of the Empire, not with the power of the Wellspring in his veins. But they must<\/em> have peace. How could Utgar accomplish that without sealing the Wellspring, the one guarantee they had?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven and one of the advisors seemed to be communicating non-verbally. She nodded, looking grim, and Yiven turned back to Utgar. \u201cHaukeland,\u201d Yiven said. \u201cHaukeland will solve our difficulties.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhat is Haukeland?\u201d Vydar asked, sounding suspicious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAn island,\u201d Yiven said. \u201cA large island, east and north of here. It is far from Valhalla, so far that it hasn\u2019t been mapped since the days of the archkyrie. It is said that it is fertile, forested\u2026 You could go there, start a new life for yourselves.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAnd the Wellspring?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt\u2026 would need to be sealed,\u201d Yiven said delicately. \u201cBut,\u201d he added as Utgar frowned, \u201cHaukeland is so far that you could take Wellspring water with you. As much as you wanted. Your powers would remain intact well after your departure. You would have your guarantee of safety, and we would be able to seal the Wellspring.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar considered for a moment. He was loathe to give up the Wellspring \u2013 every instinct told him not to \u2013 but he was also wary about pushing the Empire too far. He wanted peace, not war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhy has no one settled on this Haukeland?\u201d Vydar asked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven glanced at him. \u201cMyths,\u201d he said dismissively. \u201cChildren\u2019s stories.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhat stories?\u201d Vydar said, his eyes narrowing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt\u2026 It\u2019s said that\u2026 that the island is cursed. That some\u2026 evil force lives there. But it is just a tale. It\u2019s not true. Just a myth created because the island is so far. Because it\u2019s unknown. They are pure fabrications. Haukeland would be perfect for you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI will speak with Vydar,\u201d Utgar said, cutting off the Vel\u2019s reply. He turned, and Vydar reluctantly followed him back out into the glaring sun. They walked a short distance away from the pavilion, their guards remaining behind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When they were out of earshot of the soldiers, Utgar turned to face Vydar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cYou mean to consider this Haukeland?\u201d the Vel guessed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI feel we must.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt is the Empire who must consider our<\/em> wants,\u201d Vydar said. \u201cWe have a Wellspring. State your terms, Utgar. Demand to live here, in Kinsland, close to the Wellspring. They dare not refuse us.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cPerhaps,\u201d Utgar said. \u201cBut I feel such a demand would lead to war eventually, Wellspring or no.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThen let us fight them. What can they do? We have a Wellspring. You could destroy them, Utgar. You could overthrow the Empire.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n And he could. Utgar knew that. But that wouldn\u2019t lead to peace. He would live out his days in fear, surrounded by guards, watching every shadow. Maybe he could live like that, but could Runa? He didn\u2019t want to find out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cNo,\u201d he said. \u201cIf we destroy the Empire, we\u2019ll still have no end of enemies. And if I force them into a deal they don\u2019t like, all we\u2019ll do is sow the seeds of war. I want to do this right, Vydar. If I can make a deal with the Empire, here and now, which we can both live with, we could have peace forever.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cEven at the cost of the Wellspring?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar frowned. \u201cI never wanted that Wellspring,\u201d he said. \u201cAll I wanted \u2013 all I still want \u2013 is peace. If the Empire insists the Wellspring be sealed, then perhaps this Haukeland is the best compromise. Some water can always be set aside, preserved, in case we need to open a Wellspring again.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vydar nodded slowly. \u201cThat is true,\u201d he said. Then, \u201cBut that is <\/em>true. Utgar, surely the Empire has seen that. And letting you keep your powers, going to Haukeland with unlimited water? Why would they suggest such a thing? It benefits you alone. Sealing the Wellspring means nothing when you could easily just open it again.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar paused. Vydar had a point. \u201cYou think they are planning something?\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Vydar admitted. \u201cBut the Empire tried to make its fair share of deals when I commanded the Vel, and this one feels wrong. There\u2019s nothing preventing us from setting up on Haukeland, then sailing back here and annihilating them. That\u2019s not a deal. It\u2019s a ploy.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar nodded, thinking fast. \u201cWe\u2019ll need to agree to something,\u201d he said, \u201cor our men will eventually grow restless enough to start a war on their own.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cYou think we should play along?\u201d Vydar said. \u201cAccept but delay, see what the Empire is planning?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar nodded. \u201cAnd perhaps, during that time, an opportunity for a real agreement will present itself.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vydar nodded, and they returned to the pavilion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI will accept your offer,\u201d Utgar said, stopping before Yiven, who looked as though he might faint from relief at the words. \u201cWe will go to Haukeland, taking Wellspring water with us, and you can seal the Wellspring behind us. However,\u201d he added as Yiven opened his mouth, \u201cI wish to send a party of scouts first.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cScouts?\u201d Yiven repeated blankly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cOf course,\u201d Utgar said. \u201cYou said Haukeland was cursed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt is a myth,\u201d Yiven protested. \u201cA fable. Just an old story.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAll the same,\u201d Utgar said, \u201cI will want to know that Haukeland is safe before I send my people there. I suggest we both select three scouts. They can travel to Haukeland, search it for whatever dangers might be there, and then return. If their reports are favorable, then I and those with me will depart immediately.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven stammered incoherently for a moment, until one of his advisors leaned forward and whispered to him. He regained his composure as she spoke.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThis is suitable,\u201d he said, facing Utgar once more. \u201cHowever, Haukeland is a week\u2019s journey away by boat. It will take the scouts two weeks to get there and back, not including however long it takes them to determine the safety of the island.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar had expected this. \u201cThen we\u2019ll have to stay somewhere,\u201d he said calmly. \u201cHelsng, perhaps.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cHelsng?\u201d Yiven squeaked. \u201cUtgar\u2026 There\u2019s a Wellspring there\u2026 Surely you can understand\u2026 Appearances\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cHelsng will be convenient,\u201d Utgar said, stepping forwards. Yiven stumbled back. \u201cWhen the scouts return, you will doubtless want to hear their report as well. Besides, Helsng is closest. My men are hungry, and tired of sleeping on the ground. The least you can do, after keeping them imprisoned in the Volcarren for the last century, is give them a bed and a good meal.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n All four guards had shifted to face Utgar, spears held tightly. He ignored them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven spluttered in Utgar\u2019s shadow. \u201cI \u2013 But \u2013 Helsng, Utgar! The \u2013 The Wellspring! You realize how that will look, you staying there? Remember the rebels I told you about? They\u2019ll think you\u2019re going to open it. Start a war.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI have no intention of starting a war,\u201d Utgar said, \u201cand I will be happy to say so to any who ask me.\u201d He looked down at Yiven. \u201cBut we will await the scouts at Helsng.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yiven seemed to wither before him. \u201cYes\u2026 Yes, of course. It\u2019s just\u2026 Very well. We will await your arrival.\u201d He stumbled backwards, and his aides surrounded him, whispering urgently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar and Vydar retreated back to the column of Volcarrens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe Wellspring?\u201d Vydar whispered once they were out of earshot. \u201cIs that why you insisted on Helsng?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Utgar nodded. \u201cI\u2019m sure that even now the Empire has scouts in the Volcarren, searching for my Wellspring. Should they find it and seal it while we\u2019re waiting, I\u2019ll need to open another. Helsng is closest. But Vydar,\u201d he added, stopping the Vel, \u201ctell this to no one. I mean to avoid war if I can. This is merely a precaution.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cOf course,\u201d Vydar said. \u201cI will tell my Vel where we are going, and nothing more.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n He left, and Utgar watched him go. Had he made a mistake by insisting on going to Helsng? Certainly there were any number of villages they could stay at while they waited. But no. The Empire couldn\u2019t be trusted. Utgar needed <\/em>to be near that Wellspring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n He only hoped he wouldn\u2019t have to use it.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" From the rock he stood on, Utgar could see the whole of the Volcarren force, laid out before him in a disorganized line. He had called a halt, and the Volcarrens had stopped mostly where they stood, sitting down on the sandy ground, pulling some meager rations from their packs, or sharpening their weapons. It … Continue reading Chapter Four<\/span>