Free Possessing the Grimstone by John Grover Page B

farmers.”
    “I know… that’s where you come in.” Jorrel smiled and walked away.
    Tolan sighed and watched the others depart: the mysterious people of Gwythroth, the twins of the South, Olani and her consort, Nachin.
    I hope Thet cares enough to watch the battle, or we are all doomed. Tolan followed the rest of them out of the palace and into the courtyard with its flowing fountains and bountiful gardens.
    Olani turned back and walked past Tolan, returning to the meeting chamber.
    “M’lady,” Nachin called, “the meeting is over.”
    “I know, Nachin. I follow my own path. Please, see to the council. They need you more than I.”
    He gave her a disagreeable look before continuing on.
    Olani watched Sooth-Malesh call the crystal back to his hands, and went to him. “Your king was gracious to take my people in. He must see you as indispensable.”
    “The King sees what he wishes.”
    “I have always been fascinated by magic. Your scrying skills are impressive. When battle comes, the men will be glad to have you on their side. I can only imagine the hell you will rain upon the enemy.”
    “I’m afraid you think too much of me, young lady. My magic is weak, and not fit for battle. I have been assigned to spying and foretelling our fates.”
    “Who has assigned you?”
    “The men, themselves. They are right. I have not fought anything in many years. I am no match for their mages.”
    “Magic never grows weak; it is eternal. Only the user loses his faith. You have the power inside you, I can feel it. You broke through their defenses to see their plans.”
    “Only because their focus is in many areas… they can’t block me and fight on all sides of the land.”
    “You need to believe in yourself, again. You’re the only one who can do that.”
    “I might say the same to you, my young leader. You did not fail your people. You saved them. Had you not sought the help of Cardoon, you would all be dead now.”
    “How did you…”
    “I have impressive scrying skills.” He winked at her before vanishing through the nearest wall.
    Olani stood in the silent room, pondering. I did do the right thing. I did. We will get our land back, and return stronger than ever. A shiver rippled over her shoulders; she held herself and walked from the room. Dull pain filled her stomach.
    ###
    Pim and his friends circled one another in jest when they saw the steeds approaching in the distance. It was two men in full battle armor. The boys stopped, and watched the soldiers approach their village.
    Dogs barked. Wivering left the fields to greet the strangers entering their land.
    Thousands of Wivering gathered as the horses galloped into the village center. The order of Thet made its way from their temple. The Warrior Guild filed from their training ground, swords in hand.
    Pim’s heart thumped in his chest, adrenaline pumping through him. He felt his eyes tingle. His feet itched.
    The clouds above stirred as the soldiers came to a halt.
    “Greetings! I am Tolan of Cardoon. This is my friend and comrade, Geyess.” He gestured to his old friend. “We honor and respect the Wivering of Gonnish.” Both men bowed their heads. “May we speak to your leader?”
    Pim’s parents came from their home and made their way to Pim, his younger brother, Tal, with them.
    “Pim, what is happening?” His father put his arm on Pim’s shoulder.
    “Soldiers from Cardoon,” Pim replied. “They wish to meet with us all.”
    An older Wivering, his blond hair mostly white now, wearing a headband of feathers and multi-colored beads, made his way to the head of the crowd. Many of the Wivering’s faces were filled with fear, confusion, and wonder. It had been many years since anyone from Cardoon had been in Gonnish.
    “Greetings, sirs,” the Wivering leader, Bru, said. “What brings you to our quiet lands?”
    Tolan dismounted, holding the reins of his horse. “We’ve come to ask for your help, by order of my King.”
    “What sort of help?